The 2016 Ford Explorer uses a cartridge-style oil filter housed in a small housing, rather than a traditional spin-on canister. The exact cartridge depends on the engine option (2.3L EcoBoost I4 or 3.5L Ti-VCT V6), but Ford’s Motorcraft cartridge filters are the recommended OEM choice, with reputable aftermarket cross-references available.
Below is a detailed look at the engines offered that year, how to identify the correct filter, and how to perform a filter change to help keep the SUV running smoothly.
Engine options for the 2016 Explorer
Gasoline engines available
To determine the right filter, start by identifying which engine your Explorer has. The 2016 model year commonly offered two gasoline engines in the Explorer lineup: a 2.3L EcoBoost I4 and a 3.5L Ti-VCT V6. Some markets or trims may have variations, but these two are the core options.
- 2.3L EcoBoost I4
- 3.5L Ti-VCT V6
Conclusion: Both engines use a cartridge-style oil filter housed in a dedicated filter assembly. The exact cartridge part will vary by engine, but the replacement approach is similar across options.
Oil filter type and OEM options
What kind of filter to use
For the 2016 Explorer, the oil filter is a cartridge-type filter designed to fit into a housing on the engine. Ford’s recommended OEM choice is Motorcraft cartridge filters, with cross-reference options from major aftermarket brands that fit the Ford engine housing. Always verify the part against your engine code or VIN to ensure a correct fit.
- Use an OEM-style cartridge filter (Motorcraft or equivalent) that matches your engine code (2.3L EcoBoost or 3.5L Ti-VCT).
- Cross-reference options from reputable brands (e.g., Wix, Bosch, Purolator, Mann) that specify fitment for Ford EcoBoost or Ti-VCT engines in the Explorer.
Conclusion: The essential point is to choose a cartridge-type filter designed for Ford engines and verify the exact part number by engine code or VIN before purchasing.
How to replace the oil filter on a 2016 Explorer
Before starting this list, note that you should have the correct cartridge filter kit (filter cartridge plus new O-ring) and the appropriate tools. The steps below describe a typical cartridge-filter replacement process for a 2016 Explorer.
- Warm up the engine briefly, then park on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
- Place a drain pan underneath the oil pan and carefully remove the oil drain plug to drain used oil.
- Raise the vehicle as needed and remove the lower access panel or any shielding to access the filter housing, then unscrew the filter housing cap.
- Carefully remove the old cartridge from the housing, noting its orientation for reference.
- Replace the housing O-ring with a new one from the filter kit, then install the new cartridge into the housing and reseat the cap securely.
- Refill the engine with the correct amount and grade of oil as specified in the owner's manual, then start the engine and check for leaks. Recheck oil level after a short run and top off if necessary.
Conclusion: After replacing the cartridge and resealing the housing, it's important to verify there are no leaks and to reset any oil-change indicator as needed.
Summary
In summary, the 2016 Ford Explorer uses a cartridge-type oil filter housed in a dedicated filter assembly. Engine options for that year include the 2.3L EcoBoost I4 and the 3.5L Ti-VCT V6. Use a Motorcraft cartridge filter or a reputable aftermarket cross-reference, and confirm the correct part number by engine code or VIN. Replacement involves removing the old cartridge, replacing the O-ring, installing a new cartridge, and refilling with the proper oil, followed by a leak check and oil-level verification.