Hey guys! Let's dive into everything you need to know about the 2016 Ford Explorer fuel tank size. Understanding your vehicle’s fuel capacity is super important for planning road trips, managing your fuel costs, and just generally knowing your ride. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Understanding the Fuel Tank Capacity of the 2016 Ford Explorer

First off, knowing the fuel tank capacity of your 2016 Ford Explorer is essential for several reasons. It helps you estimate how far you can travel on a full tank, which is crucial for long drives. It also helps in budgeting your fuel expenses. Plus, if you ever need to add fuel additives or calculate your fuel efficiency, you’ll need this information.

The 2016 Ford Explorer comes with a fuel tank that holds approximately 18.6 gallons (70.4 liters). This capacity is pretty standard for a mid-size SUV and is designed to provide a good balance between fuel range and vehicle weight. However, remember that the actual usable capacity might be slightly less due to the fuel pump assembly and other components inside the tank. It's always a good idea not to run your tank completely dry, as this can damage your fuel pump.

To put this into perspective, an 18.6-gallon tank means you can potentially drive quite a distance before needing to refuel. The exact range will depend on your Explorer's fuel efficiency, your driving habits, and the conditions you're driving in. City driving, with its frequent stops and starts, will typically reduce your range compared to highway driving, where you can maintain a consistent speed.

Factors Affecting Your 2016 Ford Explorer's Fuel Range

Okay, so you know your tank holds 18.6 gallons, but how far can you actually go on that? Several factors come into play:

• Driving Habits: Aggressive driving, like rapid acceleration and hard braking, can significantly reduce your fuel efficiency. Smooth and steady driving will always get you more miles per gallon.
• Road Conditions: Hilly terrain and stop-and-go traffic eat up more fuel compared to flat, open highways. Keep this in mind when planning your routes.
• Vehicle Maintenance: A well-maintained Explorer will run more efficiently. Regular tune-ups, tire pressure checks, and clean air filters can all improve your gas mileage.
• Cargo and Passengers: The more weight you're carrying, the harder your engine has to work, which means burning more fuel. Try to keep your cargo to a minimum for better efficiency.
• Weather Conditions: Extreme temperatures can affect fuel efficiency. Cold weather can reduce tire pressure and make the engine work harder, while hot weather can increase the use of air conditioning, which also consumes fuel.

Given these factors, let's look at how to optimize your fuel usage.

Maximizing Fuel Efficiency in Your 2016 Ford Explorer

Want to get the most out of that 18.6-gallon tank? Here are some tips to boost your fuel efficiency:

1. Drive Smoothly: Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking. Maintain a steady speed and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary stops.
2. Maintain Proper Tire Pressure: Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended level. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency.
3. Regular Maintenance: Keep your Explorer in good condition with regular maintenance. This includes changing the oil, replacing air filters, and tuning up the engine as needed. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently.
4. Reduce Weight: Remove unnecessary items from your vehicle to reduce weight. The lighter your vehicle, the less fuel it will consume.
5. Use Cruise Control: On the highway, use cruise control to maintain a consistent speed. This can help you avoid unintentional acceleration and improve fuel efficiency.
6. Avoid Idling: Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you're stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine.
7. Plan Your Trips: Combine errands into a single trip to reduce the number of cold starts. Cold starts consume more fuel than warm starts.
8. Use the Right Fuel: Use the fuel grade recommended by Ford for your Explorer. Using a higher octane fuel than necessary won't improve performance and can be a waste of money.

By following these tips, you can significantly improve your fuel efficiency and extend the range of your 2016 Ford Explorer.

Comparing the 2016 Ford Explorer's Fuel Tank to Other SUVs

So, how does the 2016 Ford Explorer's fuel tank size stack up against other SUVs in its class? Well, most mid-size SUVs have fuel tanks in the range of 17 to 22 gallons. The Explorer's 18.6-gallon tank is pretty much in the middle, offering a decent balance between size and range.

For example, the Toyota Highlander, another popular mid-size SUV, has a fuel tank capacity of around 19.2 gallons. The Honda Pilot's fuel tank is about 19.5 gallons. These differences are relatively minor and won't significantly impact your driving experience.

However, some larger SUVs, like the Chevrolet Tahoe or the Ford Expedition, have much larger fuel tanks, often exceeding 25 gallons. These vehicles are designed for towing and hauling and need the extra fuel capacity to support those activities.

Ultimately, the best fuel tank size for you depends on your specific needs and driving habits. If you frequently take long road trips, you might prefer a larger tank. But for everyday commuting and errands, the 2016 Ford Explorer's fuel tank should be more than adequate.

Fuel Efficiency Ratings for the 2016 Ford Explorer

Okay, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of fuel efficiency ratings. The 2016 Ford Explorer comes with a few different engine options, and each has its own EPA-estimated fuel economy. Here’s a quick rundown:

• 2.3L EcoBoost I4: This engine offers a good balance of power and efficiency. It's rated at around 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
• 3.5L V6 (Standard): The standard V6 is rated at approximately 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
• 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (Sport/Platinum): The more powerful EcoBoost V6 gets around 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. Keep in mind that these ratings are estimates, and your actual fuel economy may vary based on your driving habits and conditions.

To calculate your approximate driving range, multiply the fuel tank capacity (18.6 gallons) by the EPA-estimated fuel economy for your engine. For example, if you have the 2.3L EcoBoost engine and you primarily drive on the highway, you can expect a range of around 18.6 gallons * 28 mpg = 520.8 miles. Of course, this is just an estimate, but it gives you a good idea of how far you can go on a full tank.

Real-World Fuel Consumption Experiences

While EPA estimates are a good starting point, real-world fuel consumption can vary quite a bit. Many factors can influence your actual mileage, including:

• Traffic Conditions: Stop-and-go traffic can significantly reduce your fuel economy.
• Driving Style: Aggressive driving habits will lower your MPG.
• Weather: Extreme temperatures can affect fuel efficiency.
• Terrain: Hilly areas will decrease fuel economy compared to flat roads.

Some drivers report getting better mileage than the EPA estimates, while others experience lower numbers. Reading online forums and owner reviews can give you a better sense of what to expect in real-world conditions. Many owners share their experiences and offer tips for improving fuel efficiency.

To get a more accurate picture of your own fuel consumption, track your mileage over several tanks of gas. Note the number of gallons you fill up and the distance you drive. Then, divide the distance by the number of gallons to calculate your MPG. Doing this consistently will give you a good understanding of your vehicle's fuel efficiency in your specific driving conditions.

Tips for Planning Long Trips with Your 2016 Ford Explorer

Planning a road trip? Here’s how to make the most of your 2016 Ford Explorer's fuel tank:

1. Map Out Fuel Stops: Use online tools or apps to identify gas stations along your route. Plan your stops in advance to avoid running low on fuel in remote areas.
2. Check Fuel Prices: Gas prices can vary significantly from one location to another. Use apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest gas stations along your route.
3. Monitor Your Fuel Level: Keep an eye on your fuel gauge and fill up before you get too low. Running your tank close to empty can damage your fuel pump.
4. Pack Light: The more weight you carry, the more fuel you'll consume. Pack only what you need and avoid bringing unnecessary items.
5. Drive at a Steady Speed: Maintain a consistent speed on the highway to maximize fuel efficiency. Use cruise control to help you avoid unintentional acceleration.
6. Take Breaks: Stop every few hours to stretch your legs and avoid fatigue. This will also give your engine a chance to cool down, which can improve fuel efficiency.

By planning ahead and following these tips, you can enjoy a smooth and efficient road trip in your 2016 Ford Explorer.

Common Questions About the 2016 Ford Explorer Fuel Tank

Let’s tackle some frequently asked questions about the 2016 Ford Explorer's fuel tank.

• What type of fuel should I use? Ford recommends using regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Using premium fuel won't improve performance and isn't necessary.
• Can I use E85 fuel? The 2016 Ford Explorer is not designed to run on E85 fuel. Using E85 can damage your engine and void your warranty.
• How do I reset the fuel economy display? To reset the fuel economy display, go to the information display in the instrument cluster and navigate to the fuel economy screen. Then, press and hold the OK button until the display resets.
• What does the low fuel light mean? When the low fuel light comes on, it means you have approximately 2-3 gallons of fuel remaining. It's best to fill up as soon as possible to avoid running out of gas.
• Is it bad to run my fuel tank empty? Yes, running your fuel tank empty can damage your fuel pump. The fuel pump relies on the fuel in the tank to keep it cool. When the tank is empty, the fuel pump can overheat and fail.

Conclusion

So there you have it – a comprehensive guide to the 2016 Ford Explorer fuel tank size and everything related to it! Knowing your fuel tank capacity, understanding the factors that affect fuel efficiency, and following tips to maximize your MPG can help you save money and enjoy your Explorer to the fullest. Drive safe and happy exploring!