2016 Ford Explorer Car Seat Safety: A Comprehensive Family Review
Three-Row Family SUV: What Parents Need to Know
The 2016 Ford Explorer received significant updates including refreshed styling and the introduction of a premium Platinum trim. As one of America's most popular three-row SUVs, the Explorer offers flexible seating for six (with captain's chairs) or seven passengers (with bench seating). MotorVero's certified child safety technicians rigorously evaluated the Platinum trim's car seat compatibility to help families make informed decisions.
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Car Seat Capacity Breakdown
- Second Row: Accommodates 2 car seats comfortably in captain's chair configuration
- Third Row: Fits 2 car seats with some installation challenges
- Total Capacity: 4 child safety seats possible with strategic configuration
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Notable Safety Features for Families
What Works Well:
- Third Row Accessibility: Dedicated Latch anchors in the third row simplify installation compared to many competitors
- Booster Seat Compatibility: High-back boosters fit exceptionally well in all seating positions with stable seat belt bases
- Flexible Second Row: Captain's chairs slide and recline for better child access without compromising front passenger space
- Entry Options: Walkway between second-row seats provides alternative third-row access
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Installation Challenges to Consider
Potential Pain Points:
- Latch Anchor Access: Stiff leather upholstery makes connecting rigid connectors difficult in second-row positions
- Tether Anchor Visibility: Poorly marked anchors located unusually low on seatbacks
- Third Row Entry: Lack of running boards creates challenging step-in height for younger children
- Front Seat Compromise: Rear-facing configurations require significant front passenger seat adjustment
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MotorVero Safety Grading System
Our standardized evaluation criteria assess multiple factors affecting real-world usability:
- A: Optimal fit with no space or installation compromises
- B: Minor connection issues with good overall space
- C: Marginal space with multiple installation challenges
- D: Insufficient room creating safety concerns
- F: Unsafe configuration or impossible installation
2016 Explorer Platinum Score: B (Strong performance with some accessibility issues)
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Detailed Installation Notes by Seat Type
Rear-Facing Configurations
While the Explorer accommodated our rear-facing infant seat without requiring front seat adjustment in some positions, taller passengers (5'8" and above) will find legroom significantly compromised when installed behind the front passenger seat. The rigid Latch connectors proved challenging to secure properly due to the thick seat cushion material.
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Forward-Facing Convertibles
Once installed, forward-facing seats fit securely in both second and third rows. However, technicians noted unusual difficulty connecting tether hooks in the third row due to the anchor's placement near the cargo floor. The second row's outboard positions required considerable force to achieve proper Latch connections.
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Booster Seat Performance
The Explorer excelled in booster compatibility with well-positioned seat belt buckles on stable bases that children can easily operate independently. The contoured seats provided excellent support for high-back boosters in all test positions.
