What Spark Plugs Fit a 2016 Ford Explorer?
What decides spark plug fit on the 2016 Ford Explorer, where to find your VIN, and how to replace them.
VinSnap does not have a verified spark plug part number for the 2016 Ford Explorer yet. Which spark plugs fit depends on the engine, the thread size and reach, the heat range and the electrode gap, so compare those on the part you are replacing. The 17-character VIN is on the driver-side dashboard at the base of the windshield and on the sticker in the driver’s door jamb; it identifies the exact engine and trim. Ford’s maintenance schedule for the 2016 Explorer lists the spark plugs every 60,000 mi.
Last updated: · Source: VinSnap
2016 Ford Explorer spark plugs: key facts
| Verified part number | None on file yet |
|---|---|
| Fit is decided by | The engine, the thread size and reach, the heat range and the electrode gap |
| Manufacturer interval | Every 60,000 mi (Ford) |
| NHTSA recalls: engine | 1 of 15 for this model |
| DIY | Moderate DIY (gap matters; harder on V-engines) |
Sources: manufacturer maintenance schedule, NHTSA recalls.
Spark Plugs: what it does & when to replace it
Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture in each cylinder. Worn plugs cause rough idle, misfires, hard starting, hesitation, and reduced fuel economy. Service intervals vary widely by plug type: copper plugs last around 50,000 km, while iridium and platinum plugs can last 100,000–160,000 km. Always match the manufacturer heat range and gap. Replacement is a moderate DIY job — straightforward on inline engines but harder on V-engines where the rear bank is hard to reach. Electric vehicles do not use spark plugs at all.
DIY difficulty: Moderate DIY (gap matters; harder on V-engines). Always confirm the correct part for your exact build by VIN before buying.
2016 Ford Explorer specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Explorer |
| Model Year | 2016 |
| Overall Length (mm) | 5040 |
| Overall Width (mm) | 2000 |
| Overall Height (mm) | 1770 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2870 |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 2146 |
| Front Bumper to Windshield Base (mm) | 1200 |
| Side Glass Height (mm) | 400 |
| Side Glass Base to Rocker Panel (mm) | 950 |
| Roof Width Between Side Rails (mm) | 1270 |
| Front Overhang (mm) | 980 |
| Rear Overhang (mm) | 1190 |
| Front Track Width (mm) | 1700 |
| Rear Track Width (mm) | 1700 |
| Weight Distribution, Front/Rear (%) | 54/46 |
| Models Ford offered in 2016 | 36 |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Canadian Vehicle Specifications database. Linear dimensions in mm; weight in kg. Your exact build may vary by trim and options — decode your VIN to confirm the correct spark plugs.
How to replace the spark plugs on a 2016 Ford Explorer
- 1With the engine cool, remove the engine cover and disconnect one coil pack or plug lead at a time (do them one at a time to keep firing order).
- 2Blow out debris from the plug well, then unscrew the old plug with a spark plug socket.
- 3Check the new plug’s gap against the manufacturer spec and adjust only if needed.
- 4Thread the new plug in by hand to avoid cross-threading, then torque it to spec.
- 5Reconnect the coil/lead (a dab of dielectric grease helps) and repeat for each cylinder.
⚠ Match the exact plug and heat range for your engine; V-engines’ rear bank can be hard to reach.
These are general steps for the ignition category. Exact fastener locations, torque values, and the correct part number depend on your 2016 Ford Explorer’s build — confirm by VIN before you start.
Shop spark plugs for your 2016 Ford Explorer
Browse spark plugs listings from major marketplaces. Confirm fitment by VIN first — use VinSnap above to get the exact part number for your build before purchasing.
Find the exact spark plugs by VIN
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Decode my VIN →Frequently asked questions
What spark plugs fit a 2016 Ford Explorer?
VinSnap has no verified spark plug part number for the 2016 Ford Explorer yet. Match on the engine, the thread size and reach, the heat range and the electrode gap; the 17-character VIN is on the driver-side dashboard at the base of the windshield and on the sticker in the driver’s door jamb, and it pins down the engine and trim.
How often should the spark plugs on a 2016 Ford Explorer be replaced?
Ford’s maintenance schedule for the 2016 Explorer lists the spark plugs every 60,000 mi. Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture in each cylinder. Worn plugs cause rough idle, misfires, hard starting, hesitation, and reduced fuel economy.
Can I replace the spark plugs on a 2016 Ford Explorer myself?
Moderate DIY (gap matters; harder on V-engines). Allow about 1 hour. Tools: spark plug socket, ratchet + extension, torque wrench, gap gauge, dielectric grease. Match the exact plug and heat range for your engine; V-engines’ rear bank can be hard to reach.
Are there recalls on the 2016 Ford Explorer’s engine?
Yes. NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2016 Ford Explorer filed under the engine: 16V183000 (2016-03-31), engine and engine cooling / engine. Recall repairs are free at a franchised Ford dealer.