Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2016 Ford Explorer S
With an overall Carivo score of 7.1/10, the 2016 Ford Explorer S earns a Good rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.0/10, while Reliability at 6.5/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional suv — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate reliability at 6.5/10 — below the segment average in our scoring. Budget for potentially higher maintenance costs and check the recall record below before buying. On safety it earns 8.0/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance lands mid-pack at 7.1/10: enough power and composure for everyday needs, without the dynamics that distinguish the segment's driver-focused options. Technology comes in at 7.4/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $33,539–$39,202, 16 MPG, seating 7, the Ford Explorer S sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. The value score of 6.9/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 10 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: There's a case for the 2016 Ford Explorer S, but it needs the right buyer. Its value and reliability scores trail the class, and several higher-rated rivals sell for similar money — comparison-shop before committing.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2016 Ford Explorer S ranks #1814 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 26% of the segment. Its 7.1/10 overall score is 0.3 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $33,539 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 7%.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Explorer S Year Should You Buy?
Across the Explorer S model years we've scored, the 2016 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 16 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Common Questions — 2016 Ford Explorer S
Is the 2016 Ford Explorer S reliable?
We rate the 2016 Ford Explorer S's reliability 6.5/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2016 Ford Explorer S worth buying?
It scores 7.1/10 overall, ranking #1814 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 26% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2016 Ford Explorer S cost?
The 2016 Ford Explorer S starts at $33,539 and ranges up to $39,202 across trims (MSRP when new). At 16 MPG, expect roughly $3,281/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Explorer S years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Explorer S years we've rated are 2016 (7.1/10), 2015 (7.1/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (7.6/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Ford Explorer S
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More Ford Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Ford models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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