What frame is the 2016 Ford Explorer built on?
The 2016 Ford Explorer is a popular midsize SUV that is built on a truck-based platform, specifically the Ford T1 platform. This platform was first introduced in 2010 and has been used for several Ford and Lincoln models, including the Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, and Ford F-150 pickup truck.
What is the Ford T1 Platform?
The Ford T1 platform is a body-on-frame design, which means the body of the vehicle is mounted on a separate frame, rather than being integrated into a unibody construction. This type of platform is commonly used for larger, more rugged vehicles like SUVs and pickup trucks, as it provides a stronger and more durable foundation.
The T1 platform is based on the same architecture as the Ford F-150 pickup truck, which gives the Explorer a robust and capable underpinning. This platform features a fully boxed frame, independent front suspension, and a solid rear axle, all of which contribute to the Explorer's impressive towing capacity, off-road capability, and overall ride quality.
Benefits of the Truck-Based Platform
- Durability: The body-on-frame construction of the T1 platform is inherently more durable and resistant to damage than a unibody design, making it well-suited for the demands of SUV use.
- Towing and Hauling Capacity: The truck-based platform allows the Explorer to tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is significantly more than many of its unibody-based competitors.
- Off-Road Capability: The solid rear axle and high ground clearance of the T1 platform give the Explorer better off-road performance compared to crossover-style SUVs built on car-based platforms.
- Ride Quality: The separate frame construction and suspension setup of the T1 platform provide a smoother and more composed ride, especially when the vehicle is heavily loaded or towing a trailer.
While the truck-based platform does come with some trade-offs, such as slightly lower fuel economy and a more trucklike driving experience, the benefits it provides make the 2016 Ford Explorer a capable and versatile midsize SUV.
Does the Ford Explorer have aluminum body panels?
“The Explorer is the most use of mixed materials ever by Ford,” Gubing said. “We considered all-aluminium,” he added. Ford looked at cost and practicality and opted for a mixed material body with smart use of aluminium in different components.
Is a Ford Explorer built on a truck frame?
2011-2019 Explorer
In a major change, Ford moved the Explorer from a truck-based, rear-wheel-drive body-on-frame platform to a car-based, unitized front-wheel-drive platform. Though still marketed as an SUV, it was now more accurately a crossover.
What year Explorer to stay away from?
What Are the Least Reliable Ford Explorer Years? No generation in the history of the Ford Explorer was plagued with more problems than the third generation, specifically the 2002-2006 models.
What is the biggest problem with the Ford Explorer?
Transmission issues are among the most frequently reported problems with 2020-2023 Ford Explorers. These issues include harsh and jerky shifting, delayed gear engagement, and transmission slipping out of gear.
What is the Ford Explorer based on?
Volkswagen Group MEB platform
The Ford Explorer is a battery electric compact crossover SUV (C-segment) produced by Ford through its European operations. Produced in the Cologne Body & Assembly in Germany and marketed mainly in Europe, the vehicle is based on the Volkswagen Group MEB platform, and uses Volkswagen supplied batteries.
Is a Ford Explorer an unibody?
Whereas previous Explorers used a truck-based chassis, this new unibody design makes for better handling and a smoother, more car-like drive. And there's much more to love. These sporty crossover SUVs offer proficient power for both speeding onto highways and towing the family boat.
What is the most reliable year of Ford Explorer?
Best Ford Explorer Model Years
In particular, we'd single out the 2009 and 2010 editions as among the more reliable earlier model years. Generally, the fifth generation (2011-2019) is not only more welcoming than previous editions but usually more reliable, too.
What chassis is the Ford Explorer on?
| Ford Explorer | |
|---|---|
| Class | Compact SUV (3-door/Sport) (1991–2003) Mid-size SUV (1991–2010) Mid-size crossover SUV (2011–present) |
| Chassis | Body-on-frame (1991–2010) Unibody (2011–present) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Ford Bronco II |
Is the Ford Expedition built on a truck frame?
Built with body-on-frame construction, the 2022 Ford Expedition has more in common with the Ford F-150 than it does with other Ford SUVs.
Which Ford trucks have aluminum frame?
Since 2015, Ford has made their popular F-150 truck out of aluminum. Then, in 2017, they also started creating their F-Series Super-Duty trucks out of aluminum as well. This trend continues until today, with these two models using aluminum bodies, and all other Ford trucks having the typical steel bodies.
