2016 Ford F-150 Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2016 Ford F-150, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Powertrain (other)54524.1%
- Engine34215.1%
- Brakes33814.9%
- Body & structure1998.8%
- Electrical1848.1%
- Driver assistance1506.6%
- Visibility1416.2%
- Fuel system944.2%
- Interior & seats703.1%
- Steering622.7%
- Other / unspecified532.3%
- Airbags331.5%
- Suspension170.8%
- Seat belts140.6%
- Exterior lighting140.6%
- Transmission70.3%
- Tires & wheels20.1%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
2016 f150 transmission downshift recall was preformed, didn’t fix the intermittent downshift at highway speeds. A week and a half after it caused a skid on a wet road. Was told at the dealership, they’re not allowed to do anything else without an active engine code
I was at my granddaughters and I went to leave and it was like dead except the wrench came up in the dash panel , I waited before calling my husband and I went back to try and start it again and it started no wrench in the display or anything , this was in February 2026. In March of 2026 I was in the middle turn lane on [XXX] by Tuttle, Ok. And it stalled as I was trying to turn and would not move I put it back into park and then back to drive and it turned . Next incident was in April2026 and I was on [XXX] south of Mustang , Ok. And I was in the passing lane passing a vehicle going 65 mph and it just stalled and went down into 1 st gear I managed to get it to the shoulder of road an then it died it would not start but the radio and lights were still on and there was a wrench popped up in the panel . I waited for about 30 minutes and kept trying to start it after several attempts it started again and I made it home . The next incident my husband drove to doctors office and it did the same thing to him and would not move in the parking lot . About 15 minutes later he got it to start and he made it home . We quit driving it. Then we got a letter from Ford with the recall 26V237 .i waited for 2 nd letter and had not gotten it with a fix for it so I called the Ford Service Repir Center and they got us on the phone connected to a Ford Dealership in Yukon , Ok and they came and got the pickup on August 10 th and took it and brought it back on August 11 th and they did the soft ware update and told us no codes came up and we know better . When I had previously talked to the Ford Repair Center I was told if the wrench came up that they would replace the lead frame at no cost to us and give us a 150000 mile warranty. So it is now our word against the mechanics that the wrench ever came up INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact’s son owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle stalled. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed back to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted. The contact stated that the power train warning light and several other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact was notified that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V237000 (Power Train). The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed; however, the diagnostic result was unknown. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted, and the warning lights were flashing. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that an unknown transmission part and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
There was no incident. Ford announced the recall in May with no remedy until August. I had to rent a truck to pull a trailer to [XXX] from [XXX]. They said there was no compensation as there was no "stop driving" notice on the recall but it stated the the vehicle could abruptly slow down /downshift increasing the risk of a crash. Wanted to go on record that compensation should be covered by Ford as this was a considerable safety issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
I went to start my truck and the brake went all the way to the floor. I had no braking power and it had to be towed back home over an hour away. There is a recall on 2016 Ford F150 with the 3.5 Eco Boost engine which I have. This recall involves a seal in the master cylinder failing and losing braking power and affecting the brake booster. Referencing recall 20S31. I went to Ford and they told me the recall did not apply to this specific truck due to a different batch of parts. This truck is now having the exact problem as the specific ones which have already been recalled. I believe the recall should be expanded. This occurred shortly after driving an hour in the rain with my kid in the back. It could have easily killed us on the highway with no brakes. We had no idea this recall was in effect. It’s the last time I’m buying a Ford. I want to feel safe with my kids in the back and Ford does not seem to care.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
VEHICLE SAFETY COMPLAINT STATEMENT Prepared for NHTSA Submission Regarding Recall 26V237 / 26S28 To: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Subject: Report of Accident and Vehicle Control Loss Due to Defect Specified in Recall 26V237 VEHICLE INFORMATION: Year/Make/Model: 2016 Ford F-150 VIN: [XXX] INCIDENT DESCRIPTION: In March, while driving during a snowstorm, the vehicle experienced a sudden and unexpected loss of traction and stability. Without warning, the rear wheels appeared to lock or drastically reduce speed, causing the truck to slide uncontrollably and strike a roadside barrier. Following the initial impact, while attempting to move the vehicle to a safe location as instructed by insurance/authorities, the engine suddenly stalled and shut down completely while in motion, nearly resulting in a second high-speed collision with the vehicle ahead. CORRELATION WITH RECALL 26V237: In May, I received a Safety Recall Notice (Ford Recall 26S28 / NHTSA Recall 26V237). The description of the defect—an "unexpected downshift to a lower gear causing abrupt wheel speed reduction and rear tire slide"—exactly matches the catastrophic event I experienced in March. The recall also notes that the engine may malfunction or stall, which occurred during my incident. IMPACT & DAMAGES: The insurance company evaluated the damage at approximately $6,000 for structural repairs. However, the vehicle remains unsafe and mechanically compromised. Despite the structural fixes, the core safety defect involving the transmission and engine software remains unresolved as Ford has stated that a remedy will not be available until July 2026. REQUEST: I am filing this formal complaint to document that the defect in Recall 26V237 resulted in a real- world accident and total loss of vehicle utility prior to the notification being sent. I request that NHTSA takes note of this incident as part of its oversight of Ford's recall execution, as the vehicle is currently un-dri INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATIO
Frame is rusted through along the bottom weld. Most likely water, sand and debris entered the frame from side openings and this corrosive mixture sat in the bottom of the frame as there were no drain holes nearby. The problem was discovered by a Ford mechanic and the dealership said they could not repair it, and to try a collision center. An auto body said they could not strengthen the frame as Ford does not allow welding but they could replace the frame for $9,179 plus other cost for draining fluids, etc.
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
I was at my granddaughters and I went to leave and it was like dead except the wrench came up in the dash panel , I waited before calling my husband and I went back to try and start it again and it started no wrench in the display or anything , this was in February 2026. In March of 2026 I was in the middle turn lane on [XXX] by Tuttle, Ok. And it stalled as I was trying to turn and would not move I put it back into park and then back to drive and it turned . Next incident was in April2026 and I was on [XXX] south of Mustang , Ok. And I was in the passing lane passing a vehicle going 65 mph and it just stalled and went down into 1 st gear I managed to get it to the shoulder of road an then it died it would not start but the radio and lights were still on and there was a wrench popped up in the panel . I waited for about 30 minutes and kept trying to start it after several attempts it started again and I made it home . The next incident my husband drove to doctors office and it did the same thing to him and would not move in the parking lot . About 15 minutes later he got it to start and he made it home . We quit driving it. Then we got a letter from Ford with the recall 26V237 .i waited for 2 nd letter and had not gotten it with a fix for it so I called the Ford Service Repir Center and they got us on the phone connected to a Ford Dealership in Yukon , Ok and they came and got the pickup on August 10 th and took it and brought it back on August 11 th and they did the soft ware update and told us no codes came up and we know better . When I had previously talked to the Ford Repair Center I was told if the wrench came up that they would replace the lead frame at no cost to us and give us a 150000 mile warranty. So it is now our word against the mechanics that the wrench ever came up INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Back up camera malfunctioned, not showing there was a smaller car behind me in my own driveway. Backing up into my driveway at night, it did not pick up or show the smaller car which I back up into, causing $2890 in damages which I had to pay for.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
I was at my granddaughters and I went to leave and it was like dead except the wrench came up in the dash panel , I waited before calling my husband and I went back to try and start it again and it started no wrench in the display or anything , this was in February 2026. In March of 2026 I was in the middle turn lane on [XXX] by Tuttle, Ok. And it stalled as I was trying to turn and would not move I put it back into park and then back to drive and it turned . Next incident was in April2026 and I was on [XXX] south of Mustang , Ok. And I was in the passing lane passing a vehicle going 65 mph and it just stalled and went down into 1 st gear I managed to get it to the shoulder of road an then it died it would not start but the radio and lights were still on and there was a wrench popped up in the panel . I waited for about 30 minutes and kept trying to start it after several attempts it started again and I made it home . The next incident my husband drove to doctors office and it did the same thing to him and would not move in the parking lot . About 15 minutes later he got it to start and he made it home . We quit driving it. Then we got a letter from Ford with the recall 26V237 .i waited for 2 nd letter and had not gotten it with a fix for it so I called the Ford Service Repir Center and they got us on the phone connected to a Ford Dealership in Yukon , Ok and they came and got the pickup on August 10 th and took it and brought it back on August 11 th and they did the soft ware update and told us no codes came up and we know better . When I had previously talked to the Ford Repair Center I was told if the wrench came up that they would replace the lead frame at no cost to us and give us a 150000 mile warranty. So it is now our word against the mechanics that the wrench ever came up INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Vehicle suddenly seemed to shift while driving causing a loud sound, jerk and caused a loss of control suddenly.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
The rearview camera blacks out constantly when backing up. Forums are full of people with issues and no help from Ford. Wires corrode. Safety issue.
The linkage on the passenger side windshield wiper is known to seize from rust. Canada has a recall on this particular issue, but not America. I have had failing blades in heavy rain as a result.
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
My 2016 Ford F-150 (VIN [XXX]) experienced an intermittent failure involving the transmission range sensor system. While driving, the vehicle displayed a check engine light and a “See Service Manual” message. The truck became noticeably underpowered. When shifted into Reverse, the transmission engaged harshly and the PRNDL (gear position indicator) disappeared from the instrument cluster. The backup camera also became inoperative. After shutting the vehicle off, it would not restart. Electrical accessories and the instrument cluster remained functional, but the engine would not crank. After sitting for a period of time, the vehicle eventually restarted and the PRNDL display returned. The same failure occurred on three separate occasions within approximately 24 hours, including while arriving at a Ford dealership for service. The failure creates a safety concern because the vehicle can unexpectedly become unable to start, loses indication of the selected gear, and may experience transmission-related issues while being operated. The vehicle is currently unreliable for transportation and could leave occupants stranded. An independent repair facility scanned the vehicle and documented DTCs P0706 (Transmission Range Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance), P0707 (Transmission Range Sensor A Circuit Low), P1702 (Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Intermittent), and P1921 (Transmission Range Signal). The vehicle is included in Ford Safety Recall 26S28 involving 2015-2017 F-150 vehicles equipped with the 6R80 transmission. A Ford dealership inspected the vehicle and advised that the concern appears related to the transmission range sensor/lead frame issue associated with the pending recall. However, the dealership advised that a repair cannot currently be submitted because the recall remedy has not yet been activated. The vehicle had approximately 124,000 miles at the time of failure. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Both turbos, spark plugs, catalytic converters, O2 sensors. If turbos blow up while drive it will shoot vanes in the motor. Yes JD automotive replaced all the above mentioned parts. will include copy of the invoice, not the only ford owner that has had issues out of the ford twin turbos failing. not sure if dealer inspected turbos, but they replaced the spark plugs 3x in less then 3 months (lemon) and the throttle bottle. Didnt share this information with me when vehicle was purchased. Issue started with a P0430 codes which falsely say its a cat code. I used cataclean due to the low miles and would still get code every once in while. less the 2 years from purchasing it used had both turbos fail. not sure if it was a mis diagnosis from mclarty daniel in Bentonville Arkansas or if ford knowing made motors with bad turbos.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed and went to the floorboard, and the vehicle lost braking functionality. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the roadway. The contact referenced notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 22V150000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic), and 17V652000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages); however, the vehicle was not repaired because the parts for the recall repairs were not yet available. The vehicle was towed to dealer and was diagnosed with catastrophic brake master failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 140,000.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the door latch failed to lock securely. While driving at undisclosed speeds, the contact's son almost fell out of the vehicle, but the contact was able to grab him by the coat. The door ajar message was displayed. Additionally, the TPMS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V652000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages). However, the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to another local dealer for assistance. The vehicle was taken to another dealer, Ourisman Ford of Alexandria Service (6129 Richmond Hwy, Alexandria, VA 22303); but was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
My 2016 Ford F-150 is currently subject to Recall 26S28 / NHTSA Recall 26V237. Prior to the recall remedy becoming available, the vehicle began experiencing erratic transmission shifting and illuminated the check engine light, wrench symbol, and codes P0720 and P0722 were present. I brought the vehicle to an authorized Ford dealership for diagnosis. The dealership documented that the vehicle was experiencing erratic shifting and was considered not drivable. The technician determined that the erratic shifting condition was related to DTCs P0720 and P0722 and recommended replacement of the transmission lead frame/conductor plate. The technician also noted the need for additional diagnostics involving the Output Speed Sensor (OSS) circuit within the transmission. The vehicle remains available for inspection at the dealership. This condition created a safety concern because the transmission was shifting erratically and the vehicle could not be relied upon for normal operation. Unpredictable transmission behavior creates a risk during acceleration, merging, highway travel, and other driving situations where consistent vehicle response is required. At the time, I was preparing for a cross-country military PCS move and did not believe the vehicle was safe or reliable to drive long distance. The problem was confirmed by an authorized Ford dealership who documented the condition, diagnostic codes, and repair recommendation. The findings were provided to Ford Motor Company through Corporate Case Number CXH-08096574-L9M6T4. Ford representatives advised that the Automotive Safety Office was notified regarding the technician findings and the open recall. My concern is that the vehicle developed transmission-related symptoms involving P0720, P0722, erratic shifting, and a recommended lead frame/conductor plate replacement while subject to an active safety recall affecting related transmission systems. Ford has stated that the recall remedy is not available until July 2026.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel seized, and the vehicle lost the power steering assist feature. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who replaced the electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while attempting to rotate the tires, the service mechanic discovered that the lug nuts had swollen, and the wheel could not be immediately removed from the vehicle. The contact was advised that the lug nuts on all four wheels were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 68,000.
Engine failure at 90,000 miles Services all done at ford dealership yet the engine still didn’t work somehow. Wheel bearing at 100,000 failing causing rattling of wheels
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
The passenger occupancy sensor is not working correctly, giving an airbag indicator on the dashboard. It is not recognizing when a person is in the seat. This causes a huge safety risk if airbags don’t deploy in a collision.
All push button controls on steering wheel are not functioning. Appears the Steering Wheel Clock Spring is going bad. Which in turn affects airbag, steering, cruise control ect.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
The frame is rotting through. It was on a lift for a new starter; this resulted in the frame bending. It will not pass inspection. Ford refuses to repair /replace the frame as it is past their 5 year rust warranty. The vehicle has only 15000 miles. It has never been immersed in fresh or saltwater. The undercarriage has been sprayed off regularly when driven in the winter.
I went for an oil change, tire rotation, etc at the dealer on 6/9/25 and was told that my frame had rust damage/holes and would not pass inspection this coming December. Went to Ziebart on 6/11/25 and they confirmed multiple hole/rust damage on frame which needed repair. They were perplexed as no problem was seen at my last yearly check of the rust protection in July of 2024. Also, no mention of a potential problem was found at my last vehicle inspection in December of 2024. How does this kind of damage occur in 6 months? I'm reading on-line that this is an issue with Ford F-150s, but no recall?
Seat belts
Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.
From owner reports, verbatim
I am writing because I had the 3 recalls on my vehicle repaired 3 years ago but the dealership apparently may not have completed these because I just received a letter from Ford stating a quality audit discovered it may not have been done. Your website states they are incomplete which is beyond frustrating. I had to go through a lot just to get the dealership to work with me to give me a loaner car in order to get them done. Now I may have been driving around for 3 years in a vehicle I thought was fixed which could still injure me.
Unknown
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
Turn Signals stop working Cruise Control stopped working Vehicle Control Stopped working All Buttons on Steering column stopped working Windshield Wiper controls stopped working 4WD Controls stopped working Radio Controls stopped working Lawsuits have been filed and won by people against Ford yet No Recall has been opened !
I NEED TO REPORT FAILURE FIXING MY CAR RECALL NAMED *Faulty door Latch HARVARD FORD TEXTED ME TO RAKE MY CAR TO GET DONE BUT THEY DID A BAD JOB REPAIR INSTEAD OF REPLACE RECALL PART THEY DIDNT THEY DID CUT OUT WIRE HARNESS INSTEAD .Therefore THAT DAMAGED TYE AUTO NOW REVERSE CAM SCREEN IS NOT WORKING .TYE DOORS OPEN ITSELF WHILE IM DRIVING IT .DASH Board IS NOT ALSO WORKING IM FILLING A COMPLAINT AGAINST HARVARD FORD DEALERSHIP THE SOLUTION zI need is the following they need to REPLACE ALL COMPLETE NEW WIRE HARNESS ASAP.ALDI NEW REVERSE CAM AND SCREEN .IM ATTACHED ALL PROOF OF THE DAMAGE ..
Transmission
Reports naming the automatic or manual transmission, including shifting behaviour, shudder, slipping and transmission control modules.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed highway speeds, the vehicle stalled after the transmission shifted to the sixth gear. The contact stated that upon restarting the vehicle, the vehicle operated as needed; however, the failure recurred while accelerating and shifting to the sixth gear. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 79,000.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while attempting to accelerate from a stop, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while the accelerator pedal was depressed. In addition, while accelerating the vehicle jolted forward. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with an output shaft speed sensor fault related to Customer Satisfaction Program: 17E01 and 24E03; however, the VIN was not included. The contact stated that several local dealers were contacted however, the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 168,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the door latch failed to lock securely. While driving at undisclosed speeds, the contact's son almost fell out of the vehicle, but the contact was able to grab him by the coat. The door ajar message was displayed. Additionally, the TPMS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V652000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages). However, the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to another local dealer for assistance. The vehicle was taken to another dealer, Ourisman Ford of Alexandria Service (6129 Richmond Hwy, Alexandria, VA 22303); but was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
See attached document for complaint.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .