Suspension noise, struts or alignment

What got replaced

Owners who name the part that was replaced mention the struts or shocks (5 reports) and the control arm (4 reports).

Recalls and investigations

3 recalls on the suspension system cover the 2016 model year. A recall on the same system isn't always the same failure, so read the defect text.

All 15 recalls on the 2016 Ford Explorer, with the owner complaints on each recalled system

NHTSA investigations into the suspension system on the Explorer

None of these investigations covers the 2016 model year.

What owners paid

6 of the 73 reports quote a price. Each dot is one quote. The middle half runs $2,200 to $12,000.

When it happens

The middle half of failures fell between 49,000 and 100,000 miles, from the 43 reports that gave a mileage.

What owners wrote

“Both an and b pillars are junk and dealer inspected a pillars and said they were fine? And there’s no remedy for the b ones which is annoying. My car shakes bc of a transmission shutter at 100k miles it’s not bad but why is jt going on? And wind noise because of the pillars I’m hoping? Needing help from someone.”

Filed Sep 23, 2025 · 100,000 miles

“Ford Dealer reports 3 toe link recalls are for 2013-2017 Ford Explorer are not on my 2016 Ford Explorer Limited but my toe links are out of spec and unable to be adjusted. Private mechanic (independent service center) reports this condition can lead to a crash. Vehicle was purchased and driven in New Jersey. Vehicle is available for inspection. No warning lights or messages.”

Filed Jul 26, 2023

“Driving to work through mountain passes as I live in northern Montana, warning lights came on in dash. Lost power steering ran off road, regained control, took it to ford dealership they said $2200 to fix, I've only had the car just over a month, I pay $750, and now the car sits”

Filed Apr 16, 2022

“When driving made horrible noises but took into the dealer Purvis Ford, we showed them the recall letter but then stated it was only the control arms which we ended up paying for .”

Filed Apr 15, 2022

Guide Paid for this repair before a recall covered it? How recall reimbursement works

Other problems on this car

• Trim or a body panel comes off while driving 375 reports
• Power steering cuts out or goes heavy 249 reports
• Windshield cracks or distorts 248 reports
• Engine overheats or leaks coolant 160 reports
• Engine stalls or loses power while driving 142 reports
• Steering wheel clicks, clunks or grinds when I turn 140 reports
• A/C blows warm or the compressor fails 110 reports
• Airbag warning light or recall 99 reports
• Check engine light or misfire 81 reports
• Seat belt or seat problems 72 reports
• Wheel bearing, tires or wheels 65 reports
• Transmission shudders, slips or shifts hard 54 reports
• Water leaks into the cabin 53 reports
• Steering sticks, feels notchy or jerks 50 reports
• "Service Transmission" message or wrench light comes on 48 reports
• Engine failure, knocking or rod bearing 45 reports
• Infotainment, screen or backup camera fails 36 reports
• Transmission fails or needs replacement 27 reports