2016 Ford Explorer Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick reference

Adjustability

On the 2016 Ford Explorer, the front toe is the primary factory-adjustable angle. This is typically adjusted via tie-rod ends. Front camber and caster are not directly adjustable from the factory. If these angles are out of specification, it often indicates worn or bent suspension components. Aftermarket solutions, such as camber/caster eccentric bolts or adjustable control arms, are available to correct these angles if necessary.

For the rear axle, rear total toe and rear individual toe are adjustable through eccentric bolts located on the lower control arms. Rear camber is generally non-adjustable from the factory on the 2016 Ford Explorer. Similar to the front, if rear camber is out of specification, it usually points to worn or damaged suspension parts. Aftermarket camber kits can be installed for adjustment if needed.

Recommended adjustment hardware

Since front camber and caster are not factory adjustable, diagnosing the root cause of an out-of-spec reading is crucial. If merely due to settling or minor variances, aftermarket camber/caster eccentric bolts (e.g., those from SPC Performance or Moog) can be installed in the strut clevis mounts to allow for adjustment. For significant deviations, replacement of worn control arms or bushings may be necessary.

For the rear toe adjustment, the factory eccentric bolts are usually sufficient. If these are seized or damaged, OEM replacements or quality aftermarket equivalents should be used.

Symptoms of bad alignment

An improperly aligned 2016 Ford Explorer can manifest in several noticeable ways, severely impacting tire life, fuel economy, and driving safety:

• Uneven Tire Wear: This is the most common and telling sign. Common patterns include:
  • Feathering: Sawtooth-like wear across the tread. Often indicates excessive toe-in or toe-out.
  • Inner or Outer Shoulder Wear: Excessive wear on one edge of the tire. This typically points to incorrect camber (too much negative or positive respectively).
  • Cupping/Scalloping: Pitted or scooped-out areas on the tire tread. While sometimes indicative of worn shocks or struts, it can also be exacerbated by alignment issues.
• Vehicle Pulling or Drifting: If your Explorer consistently pulls to one side when driving on a flat road, it's a strong indicator of an alignment problem, especially with caster or camber differences between the front wheels.
• Crooked Steering Wheel: If your steering wheel is not centered when driving straight, but the vehicle doesn't pull, it often means the toe adjustment is off, but the vehicle's overall direction is still straight.
• Loose or Wandering Steering: The vehicle feels unstable and requires constant steering corrections to stay in a straight line. This can be caused by too little positive caster or excessive toe-out.
• Squealing Tires: Tires that squeal, especially during turns or at lower speeds, can indicate excessive toe or incorrect camber causing the tires to drag or scrub.

When to align

Regular wheel alignments are crucial for maintaining your 2016 Ford Explorer's performance and safety. Here are key situations when an alignment is highly recommended:

• After Suspension or Steering Component Replacement: Any time components such as tie rods, control arms, ball joints, struts, or springs are replaced, an alignment is essential as these parts directly affect wheel angles.
• After Installing New Tires: To ensure maximum tire life and even wear, always get an alignment when installing a new set of tires.
• After an Accident or Hitting a Large Pothole/Curb: Even a seemingly minor impact can knock your alignment out of specification. If you’ve experienced a significant jolt to your suspension, get it checked.
• When Noticing Alignment Symptoms: If you observe any of the symptoms of bad alignment described above (uneven tire wear, pulling, crooked steering wheel), don't delay in getting an inspection.
• At Recommended Service Intervals: Many manufacturers recommend an alignment check every 1-2 years or every 15,000-30,000 miles as preventative maintenance, even if no symptoms are present.

Typical alignment cost

The typical cost for a wheel alignment on a 2016 Ford Explorer can vary widely based on your location and the shop. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $75 to $150 for a standard four-wheel alignment. Some shops may offer lifetime alignment packages for a higher upfront cost. Keep in mind that if additional parts are required to facilitate the adjustment (e.g., seized eccentric bolts, worn bushings, or aftermarket camber kits), the total cost will increase.

Find a trusted alignment shop on Repairius.