What are the most common problems with a 2016 Ford Edge?
The most frequent issues reported about the 2016 Ford Edge center on the transmission, the MyFord Touch infotainment system, and engine performance, with electrical, climate control, and steering/brake concerns appearing in owner feedback. These problems are not universal, but they come up repeatedly in consumer reports, owner forums, and safety data for this model year. This article pulls together the common observations and what to watch for.
In detail, the 2016 Edge has a mix of powertrain, electrical, and comfort-related complaints. While some owners experience trouble-free service, others report failures that can affect daily usability and resale value. The discussion below analyzes typical trouble spots, how they manifest, and general guidance on verification and maintenance.
Mechanical and driveline problems
Below are the most frequently reported mechanical and driveline problems for the 2016 Edge, drawn from owner reports and official safety data. These items tend to appear across multiple trims and usage patterns, though not every vehicle experiences them.
- Transmission issues such as shuddering, slipping, or harsh/delayed shifting, particularly in certain driving conditions or after extended use.
- Engine performance concerns including occasional stalling, rough idle, or misfires, which can trigger the check engine light.
- Brake-related problems such as pulsation, premature wear of pads/rotors, or ABS warning indicators in some vehicles.
- Loss of power steering assist or heavy steering, noted occasionally by drivers, especially at lower speeds or during turning.
- Oil consumption or high oil usage reported by some owners, particularly with turbocharged EcoBoost variants; regular oil level checks and proper service intervals are advised.
These mechanical issues can vary in severity and frequency. If you own or are considering a 2016 Edge, a thorough pre-purchase inspection or detailed service history can help identify these problems early and guide maintenance decisions.
Electrical and infotainment problems
Before this list, it’s helpful to know that many electrical and infotainment complaints center on the vehicle’s computer and wiring systems, which can affect usability and comfort. The following issues are among the most commonly reported in the 2016 Edge family.
- MyFord Touch/Sync infotainment glitches, including unresponsive or laggy touchscreen behavior, freezes, Bluetooth pairing problems, and occasional navigation inaccuracies.
- Electrical faults such as battery drain, intermittent electrical faults, or charging system concerns (sometimes tied to wiring harnesses or components around the instrument cluster).
- Air conditioning and climate-control problems, including inadequate cooling, inconsistent blower performance, or mode selection failures.
- Power window and door latch faults, such as sluggish window operation or doors failing to lock/unlock reliably.
Electrical and infotainment problems can be intermittent and sometimes resolved with software updates or component replacements. If symptoms appear, timing a software update and a diagnostic check can prevent recurring nuisance issues and help pinpoint the underlying cause.
What to do if you own a 2016 Edge
If you own a 2016 Ford Edge or are considering one, check for open recalls on your VIN, review service history for transmission and electrical work, and schedule a dealer or independent mechanic diagnostic to verify any observed symptoms. Ask about software updates for the infotainment system, and confirm that all active safety systems (brakes, stability control, etc.) function correctly. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes, transmission fluid changes (if recommended by Ford for your engine), and climate-control system service, can help mitigate some of these common issues.
Summary
The 2016 Ford Edge commonly exhibits transmission-related concerns, infotainment and electrical glitches, engine performance issues, and some climate-control or braking faults. While not every vehicle experiences these problems, understanding and monitoring these areas, along with routine maintenance and timely software updates, can help owners manage risk and sustain reliability. Always verify recalls via the VIN and seek professional inspection if symptoms arise.
What is the major problem with Ford Edge?
Common Reliability Issues with the Ford Edge
- Faulty A/C Systems.
- Faulty Brake Boosters.
- Defective Fuel Tanks.
- Persistent Door Ajar Light.
- Clicking Noises from the Wheel Area.
- Transmission Issues.
- Faulty Airbags.
- Door Ajar Light for 2013 Ford Edge.
Is the 2016 Ford Edge a good year?
As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's comfort and styling to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest. 118 out of 179 of owners (66% of them) rank the 2016 Edge five out of five stars. Overall, consumers seem aligned in their opinions of the 2016 Ford Edge.
What is the most common problem with a 2016 Ford Edge?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Engine Major. Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.
- Brakes.
- Exhaust.
- Climate System.
- Fuel System/Emissions.
- Transmission Minor.
- Noises/Leaks.
- Engine Cooling.
What year to avoid Ford Edge?
You should avoid Ford Edge years 2007-2008, 2011-2013, 2015-2017, and 2018 due to common engine, transmission, electrical, and structural problems. The first generation (2007-2014) and specific EcoBoost engines from the second generation (2015-2019) are generally considered less reliable.
Specific years to avoid
- 2007-2008: Experienced significant engine, transmission, and brake issues.
- 2011-2013: Plagued by electrical problems like the "door ajar" light, engine stalling, and transmission issues.
- 2015-2017: Known for cracking roof glass (Vista Roof) and other electrical problems.
- 2015-2018: Specifically, early 2.0L EcoBoost engines in these years can suffer from coolant intrusion that ruins the engine.
- 2016-2017: Had a recall for malfunctioning airbags.
- 2018: Had issues with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine.
What to consider
- Engine and transmission: The 3.5L V6 engine is often cited as being more reliable than the EcoBoost, but the water pump is integrated with the timing chain on these engines, which can be an expensive fix if it fails.
- Maintenance: Regardless of the year, a poorly maintained turbo engine (like an EcoBoost) can lead to expensive repairs.
More reliable alternatives
- If your budget allows, aim for a more recent model year, such as the 2020, which is considered more reliable.
- Alternatively, consider rivals like the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V, which are often more cost-effective and reliable, especially if you can find a normally aspirated engine without a CVT transmission, advises Facebook users.
