2016 Ford Explorer Liftgate Won’t Open With Button or Key Fob: Troubleshooting Your Power Liftgate

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re experiencing the frustration of a 2016 Ford Explorer liftgate that refuses to cooperate. You press the button, nothing. You try the key fob, still nothing. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. This is a common issue for 2016 Explorer owners, and we’re here to help you get to the bottom of it.

Let’s dive into the potential culprits behind this frustrating problem and walk through some troubleshooting steps you can take to get your liftgate working again.

Common Causes of a Malfunctioning Liftgate

Before we get our hands dirty with troubleshooting, it’s helpful to understand what might be causing the issue in the first place. Here are some of the usual suspects:

• Faulty Liftgate Button: Just like any button, the one on your Explorer’s liftgate can wear out or malfunction over time. It could be a loose connection, a broken switch, or simply a buildup of dirt and grime preventing it from working properly.
• Key Fob Battery: A dead battery in your key fob can also cause communication issues, preventing it from sending the signal to open the liftgate.
• Blown Fuse: Fuses protect your vehicle’s electrical system from overloads. A blown fuse related to the liftgate system can cut off power completely.
• Liftgate Latch Actuator Problem: The actuator is a small motor that receives the signal from your button or key fob to physically unlock the liftgate. If it’s failing, it won’t be able to release the latch.
• Wiring Issues: Over time, the wiring that connects the various components of your liftgate system can become frayed, corroded, or damaged, disrupting the flow of power and signals.
• Software Glitch: Like any computer system, your Explorer’s onboard computer can sometimes experience glitches that affect various functions, including the liftgate.

Troubleshooting Steps: Getting Your Liftgate Working Again

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get down to business. Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot your 2016 Ford Explorer liftgate issue:

1. Check the Obvious:

   • Is your vehicle locked? It might seem silly, but sometimes the simplest answer is the right one. Make sure your Explorer is unlocked before attempting to open the liftgate.
   • Are you within range of the vehicle? Ensure you’re close enough to the vehicle for the key fob signal to reach the receiver.

2. Test the Key Fob:

   • Replace the battery: Even if you haven’t noticed other Key Fob functions failing, it’s a good idea to start by replacing the battery with a fresh one.

3. Inspect the Liftgate Button:

   • Visual inspection: Check the button for visible damage, debris, or dirt buildup. Clean the button with a soft cloth and a mild cleaner if needed.
   • Test the button’s responsiveness: Press the button firmly and listen for a clicking sound. If you don’t hear anything, the switch might be faulty and need replacement.

4. Check the Fuses:

   • Locate the liftgate fuse: Consult your owner’s manual to find the exact location of the fuse box and the specific fuse related to the liftgate.
   • Inspect the fuse: Remove the fuse and visually check if it’s blown. A blown fuse will have a broken wire inside.
   • Replace if necessary: If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one of the same amperage rating.

5. Inspect the Liftgate Latch and Actuator (Advanced):

   • Disclaimer: Accessing the liftgate latch and actuator may require some mechanical knowledge and tools. If you’re not comfortable with this, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic.
   • Access the latch and actuator: You’ll likely need to remove some interior trim panels to reach these components.
   • Visually inspect the latch: Check for any signs of damage, blockage, or misalignment.
   • Test the actuator: With the help of an assistant, have them press the liftgate button while you listen and feel for the actuator engaging. If you don’t feel or hear anything, the actuator might need replacement.

6. Consider a Software Update: In some cases, a software glitch within the vehicle’s computer system might be causing the issue. Contacting your local Ford dealership to inquire about any available software updates for your vehicle’s specific year and model is a good idea.

Seeking Professional Help

If you’ve gone through the troubleshooting steps and your 2016 Ford Explorer liftgate still refuses to budge, it’s time to call in the pros. A qualified mechanic or your local Ford dealership can diagnose the problem more accurately using specialized diagnostic tools and address the issue with the right expertise.