“I purchased a 2006 FORD explorer, eddie bauer. I needed the transmission rebuilt and paid aamco almost $4,000. Not even a year later the transmission failed and had to be re-built again but it was under warranty. Back in march 2019, I took it back to aamco and was told nothing wrong with the transmission. August 2019, I went back to aamco and they replaced the solenoid pack is what I was told.”
Owner complaint, filed Sep 18, 2019
“When the car is put in reverse and you give it gas, it shifts really hard and jerks and slips. I think that something is wrong with the transmission. This happened while I was leaving work and put the car into reverse to leave the parking lot.”
Owner complaint, filed Oct 11, 2018 at 165,000 miles
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the transmissionRecall (red: the transmission)
Complaints about the 2006 Explorer peaked in 2010, with 99 filed that year. No recall on file covers the transmission, the subject of 42% of the complaints. In 2025 owners filed 1 so far.
Filed Sep 3, 2010294 vehiclesMarathon Seat Covers, Inc.
Defect. MARATHON IS RECALLING CERTAIN SEAT COVERS, BRAND SUPERHIDES WITH PART NUMBERS 593, 594, 578, 960, 228, 228-09, 267-08, 333, 625, AND 630, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE SEAT COVERS ARE MADE OF HEAVIER THREAD AND ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH SEATS CONTAINING SIDE AIRBAGS. THE HEAVIER SEAT COVER COULD INTERFERE WITH FULL DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
Risk. AN IMPROPERLY DEPLOYED AIRBAG COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
Remedy. MARATHON WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE SEAT COVER FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 14, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MARATHON AT 1-800-735-2769.
Filed Dec 11, 20071,657 vehiclesSafelite Fulfillment, Inc.
Defect. CERTAIN CURVED TEMPERED REPLACEMENT GLASS MANUFACTURED BY HANGZHOU SAFETY GLASS LTD AND SUPPLIED TO SAFELITE BY AUTO TEMP INC., IDENTIFIED AS DOT-430, AND SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN VEHICLES MAY NOT BREAK INTO SMALL PIECES AS EXPECTED OF TEMPERED GLASS AND FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, "GLAZING MATERIALS."
Risk. IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT(S) MAY BE SERIOUSLY INJURED BY SHATTERED GLASS.
Remedy. SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS RETAIL CUSTOMERS AND REPLACE THE GLASS FREE OF CHARGE. RETAIL CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE TOLL FREE AT 1-888-843-2906. SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS AND REIMBURSE WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS FOR CURRENT INVENTORY AND AT A SPECIFIED RATE FOR REPLACING THEIR CUSTOMER'S GLASS. WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE'S WHOLESALE DIVISION, SERVICE AUTOGLASS TOLL FREE AT 1-888-246-6298. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 15, 2008.
Filed May 24, 200627,176 vehiclesCk Motorsport, Inc.
Defect. CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy. CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
Filed Nov 9, 2005199,942 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. ON CERTAIN TRUCKS, PASSENGER CARS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR MAY HAVE BEEN PRODUCED WITHOUT GREASE BEING APPLIED TO THE OUTPUT SHAFT GEAR.
Risk. AFTER A PERIOD OF CONTINUOUS USE ON THE HIGH SPEED SETTING, LACK OF GREASE ON THE OUTPUT SHAFT GEAR MAY CAUSE THE GEAR TO DISTORT OR FRACTURE DURING OPERATION RESULTING IN A LOSS OF WIPER FUNCTION. INOPERATIVE WIPERS UNDER INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS COULD CAUSE A CRASH DUE TO IMPAIRED VISIBILITY.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WIPER MOTOR FOR THE PRESENCE OF GREASE AND GREASE THE WIPER MOTOR GEARS IF NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 22, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673 OR LINCOLN/MERCURY AT 1-800-521-4140.
All 4 campaigns on file, newest first.
Technical service bulletins
40 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2006 Explorer. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
engine 8transmission 7brakes 5fuel system 4electrical system 4equipment 2steering 2visibility 2
0638Service campaignApr 13, 2006engine
THE LOWER RADIATOR HOSE CLAMPS MAY DEVELOP CRACKS OR BREAK DUE TO A CONCERN WITH THE CLAMP COATING. CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAM 06B38 - LOWER RADIATOR HOSE CLAMP REPLACEMENT. *TT SUPPLEMENT I. *TT
When performing any transmission fluid changes or topoffs involving MERCON SP, MERCON LV has replaced all versions of MERCON SP and can be used going forward. Mixing MERCON LV and MERCON SP in the same transmission is acceptable. After 30-Jun-2023, MERCON SP ATF will no longer be manufactured and will only be available until inventory depletes.
FORD: SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT OIL SEPARATION FROM THE INTERNAL LUBE FOUND IN THE UNITIZED CARTRIDGE SEAL. OIL SEPARATION APPEARS TO BE AND IS OFTEN MISDIAGNOSED, AS AN AXLE LUBE LEAK. *PE
FORD/MERCURY: 4.0L/4.6L HARD START/ROUGH RUNNING; AFTER LONG HOT SOAK/DIP IN RPM WHEN COMING TO A STOP; BUILT ON OR BEFORE 4/2/08. MAY EXHIBIT A DIP IN RPM BELOW NORMAL IDLE LEVEL OF 600 RPM ON DECELERATION. *PE
FORD/MERCURY: SOME VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 6R60 TRANSMISSIONS MAY EXHIBIT VARIOUS TRANSMISSION PERFORMANCE ISSUES. WHEN COMPARED TO OTHER TRANSMISSIONS, SOME OF THE SHIFT CHARACTERISTICS ARE DIFFERENT THAN PREVIOUS MODELS DUE TO THE 100% SYNCHRONOUS DESIGN OF THE 6R60. *PE
CALIBRATION UPDATE 4.0L - VARIOUS SYMPTOMS - SURGE, HESITATION, TORQUE CONVERTER CYCLING, NO UP SHIFT AFTER FORCED DOWNSHIFT, AND POOR A/C PERFORMANCE. *KB
Showing the newest 6 of 7 bulletins about the transmission, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version tested
Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk
2006 Ford Explorer 4-DR. w/SAB
—
—
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★★★★★
22.8%
New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Power Train
Filed May 27, 2025NY
Hi, I purchased my 2006 ford explorer in 2019 from a mechanic lot. Since then I’ve changed the muffler, all 4 of the o2 sensors. Recently, after changing parts like the cylinder, spark plugs and wires as well as another set of o2 sensors and the EGR Valve, Mass Air flow sensor and the EGR sylenoid valve I have been getting check engine light with the emissions code not passing inspection. At this point my registration is at hand and the mechanics that change the parts can’t seem to understand why the check engine light did not go off. However an additional code came on in regards to the heater. As per PEP Boys mechanic shop and Auto Zone the emissions keep failing and may need a new computer- however when a part is removed the computer is able to pick that up issuing out another code. Please assist Thank you, [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine
Filed Nov 5, 2024150,000 milesGA
The contact owns a 2006 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine seized. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road. The contact parked the vehicle and allowed the vehicle to set for a while. The vehicle was started. The contact stated that the vehicle was driven 100 yards before the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
Power Train
Filed Jul 26, 2023MI
THIS TRANSMISSION SHOULD BE RECALLED!!!! THE REVERSE BAND BREAKS AND IS A KNOWN ISSUE FOR THIS TRANSMISSION!! NO WARNING JUST WENT TO REVERSE AND NOTHING! UPON RESEARCH THIS HAS BEEN A KNOWN ISSUE SINCE DAY ONE!!
Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 31, 2023PA
Transmission
Electrical System
Filed Jun 6, 2022TN
Complete failure of the powertrain electrical harness. Heat degradation to wire insulation has exposed all conductors. Several other owner operators have experienced the same issue wherein the Dealer has attempted repair of existing trouble codes, by replacing sensors, modules and components. Problems range from vehicle shut-off at speed, vehicle fires, no-start and failed PCM modules due to short to power or short to ground. Based on my findings, this specifically impacts vehicles ranging from 2006-2010, Ford Explorer or Mercury Mountaineer with the 4.0L SOHC engine.
Power Train
Filed May 1, 2021135,000 milesIL
THE TRANSMISSIONS HAVE A PROBLEM AND HAVE HAD A PROBLEM FOR YEARS. THEY CAN FAIL WITHOUT NOTICE AND CAUSE A VEHICLE TO LOSE MOMENTUM WHILE GOING DOWN THE ROAD. YES THIS IS AN OLDER VEHICLE BUT IF YOU LOOK UP OLDER COMMENTS ON THIS VEHICLE ON OTHER REPORTING SITES THERE ARE MANY REPORTS OF TRANSMISSIONS CAUSING SERIOUS PROBLEMS. WHY HAS THIS NEVER BEEN DEALT WITH IN ANY MANNER? I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AND MY VEHICLE BEGAN TO SLOW DOWN AND WOULD NOT MOVE FORWARD. I WAS ABLE TO GET THE VEHICLE IN GEAR AND GET IT TO THE SHOP. I PAID TO REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION AND IT DID IT AGAIN IN THE NEW TRANSMISSION. I ALMOST DID NOT MAKE IT UP THE HILL NEAR MY HOME AND HAVE BEEN FORCED TO PARK THE VEHICLE AS IT IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE.
Engine
Filed Feb 23, 2021159,000 milesMD
DRIVING ON SPEED LIMIT I STOPPED AT A LIGHT, CAR ENGINE WENT DEAD. I TURNED KEY OFF AND WAITED A FEW MINUTES, TURNED KEY ON, CAR STARTED AS NOTHING WAS WRONG. IT HAS HAPPENED 3 TIMES IN THE PAST YEAR. BATTERY AND ALTERNATOR ARE PRETTY NEW. DECIDED TO TAKE TO AN AUTHORIZED MECHANIC DEALER, COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH THE ENGINE. REALLY? WHAT IF I WAS DRIVING IN A HIGHWAY? CERTAINLY I WOULDN'T BE ALIVE TO REPORT IT!
Seat Belts
Filed Dec 18, 2020PR
THE UNIT HAS ISSUES WITH THE SEAT BELTS. I CALLED THE DEALER BUT THEY SAID THAT THEY DON'T HAVE ANY RECALL CAMPAIGN REGARDING THIS ISSUE, AND NO GUARANTY CAN BE APPLY.
Power Train
Filed Oct 28, 2020166,000 milesTX
I WAS TURNING FROM TURNING LANE INTO WAL-MART AND WHEN I GAVE IT GAS THE TRANSMISSION SLIPPED AND WOULDN'T MOVE. LUCKILY NO CARS WERE COMING AND IT FINALLY KICKED IN AND LET ME PULL INTO THE PARKING LOT. I JUST BOUGHT THIS AND WAS LOOKING UP THE ISSUE AND FOUND OUT THIS IS A PROBLEM WITH FORD EXPLORER 2002 - 2006. WHY ISN'T THERE A RECALL ON THESE TRANSMISSIONS? THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS!
Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 26, 2020AZ
I TOO HAD THE SAME PROBLEM AS I WAS COMING TO A FOUR WAY INTERSECTION. AS I WAS DRIVING ALL OF A SUDDEN A WRENCH TOOL CAME UP AND I COULD NOT ACCELERATE SO I HAD TO PULL OFF IN A PARKING LOT BEFORE I GOT TO THE INTERSECTION. I DID NOT WANT MY VEHICLE TO STALL AND I TURNED THE VEHICLE OFF AND PUT IT INTO NEUTRAL AND LET IT SIT THERE. I THEN TOOK IT OUT OF NEUTRAL AND STARTED IT BACK UP. I COULD FEEL THE JERKING AND FELT LIKE I GOT REAR ENDED IN THE BACK. MY HEAD JERKED FORWARD AS I WAS DRIVING WHILE IT KEPT JERKING.
Engine
Filed Jun 9, 202036,300 milesCA
RADIATOR FLUID EXPLODED ALL OVER ENGINE AND FLOOR MASSIVE LEAK . SEARCHED IT UP ON INTERNET AND SEEMS THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE . I STARTED VEHICLE AND FLUID STARTED GOING EVERYWHERE .I DROVE MAYBE 10 FEET AND SHUT THE CAR OFF IMMEDIATELY . *TR
Unknown or OtherCrash
Filed Jun 8, 202080,000 milesMD
STATIONARY-TURNED KEY ON,EXPLORER STARTED-PUT IN REVERSE- LIGHTLY TAPPED ACCELERATOR-EXPLORER WENT FULL THROTTLE.I APPLIED BRAKE WHITE TURNING KEY OFF. RESTARTED 3 TIMES WITH THE SAME RESULTS-THEN THE EXPLORER STARTED AND OPERATED IN A NORMAL WAY. 2 ACCIDENTS ONE WITH15,000 & ONE 5,000 PROPERTY DAMAGE. *TR
Service Brakes
Filed Nov 22, 2019131,000 milesTX
I HAVE NOW HAD 2 PROBLEMS WITH THIS DEALERSHIP, AND PERSONALLY I BELIEVE EVERYONE DESERVES SECOND CHANCES, THE FIRST VEHICLE THE SELLER SOLD ME HAD MAJOR ISSUES WITH GAS TANK HAD A HOLE IN IT AND EXPOSED WIRES RIGHT NEXT TO IT SO THAT TRUCK WAS A TICKING TIME BOMB, NOW I HAVE A 2006 FORD EXPLORER WITH MORE ISSUES BUT AGAIN THE SELLER MAKES ITS SEEM LIKE A PRETTY RELIABLE CAR AND LIES ABOUT THE ISSUES, COVERS UP THE STORIES AND THANK GOD MY BUDDY IS A MECHANIC AND I TAKE EVERYTHING I BUY TO HIM, WHEN I FIRST RECEIVED THE CAR, (AS MANY PEOPLE NOT MANY PEOPLE KNOW ANYTHING AS SOON AS THEY HEAR A WEIRD NOISE) I TOOK IT TO HIM AND HE RIDES WITH ME AND NOTICES SOME MAJOR ISSUES, I TOOK IT FOR A DRIVE AND THE BACK SUSPENSION WAS GOING OUT (GOT THAT REPLACED) THEN THE TRANSMISSION SLIPPING , LIKE NOT ONLY WAS LIED TO BUT NOW HAVING TO PAY 2000$ JUST TO KEEP THE CAR RUNNING, NOT SUITABLE FOR ME NOR ANYONE, I FEEL BAD FOR WHOEVER THIS SELLER ALSO LIES TO. AND I AM FULLY AWARE THAT SOMEONE COULD GET THEIR LICENSE REVOKED FOR STUFF LIKE THIS, IF ANYONE WITH CLEAR EYES CAN SEE THIS SELLER SCREWS PEOPLE OVER. I TEXTED THE GUY ABOUT RETURNING THE VEHICLE AND JUST TO GET MY MONEY BACK BUT YET AGAIN NO ANSWER.
Power Train
Filed Sep 18, 2019FL
I PURCHASED A 2006 FORD EXPLORER, EDDIE BAUER. I NEEDED THE TRANSMISSION REBUILT AND PAID AAMCO ALMOST $4,000. NOT EVEN A YEAR LATER THE TRANSMISSION FAILED AND HAD TO BE RE-BUILT AGAIN BUT IT WAS UNDER WARRANTY. BACK IN MARCH 2019, I TOOK IT BACK TO AAMCO AND WAS TOLD NOTHING WRONG WITH THE TRANSMISSION. AUGUST 2019, I WENT BACK TO AAMCO AND THEY REPLACED THE SOLENOID PACK IS WHAT I WAS TOLD. NOW, NOT EVEN A MONTH LATER THE TRANSMISSION HAS FAILED AGAIN. THE SUV JERKS WHEN PLACED INTO GEAR AND IT FEELS AS THOUGH SOMEONE REAR ENDED ME. THE TRANSMISSION IS FAULTY BY THE MANUFACTURER, FORD! THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS REGARDING THE TRANSMISSION OF THIS YEAR EXPLORER WITH THE SAME ISSUES AND FORD WILL NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY! IT'S NOT RIGHT THAT CONSUMERS HAVE TO SHELL OUT THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS ON THIS PIECE OF JUNK THEY MANUFACTURED WHICH CAN CAUSE ACCIDENTS! SOMETHING HAS TO BE DONE.
Air Bags
Filed Nov 29, 2018175,757 milesPA
MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. I STOPPED TO HAVE THE PARTS STORE GET THE CODES IT WAS THROWING OUT. TWO OF THE CODES HAVE TO DO WITH THE AIR BAG HAVING A MALFUNCTION IN THE SYSTEM. NEED TO KNOW IF THIS IS A MANUFACTURING ISSUE. I HAVE KIDS THAT RIDE IN THE VEHICLE SO TRYING TO TAKE PRECAUTIONS. THE CODES ARE B1884 AND B2290.
Power Train
Filed Oct 11, 2018165,000 milesOR
WHEN THE CAR IS PUT IN REVERSE AND YOU GIVE IT GAS, IT SHIFTS REALLY HARD AND JERKS AND SLIPS. I THINK THAT SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH THE TRANSMISSION. THIS HAPPENED WHILE I WAS LEAVING WORK AND PUT THE CAR INTO REVERSE TO LEAVE THE PARKING LOT.
Power Train
Filed Oct 5, 2018175,800 milesID
1. REAR WIPER QUIT WORKING SEVERAL YEARS AGO. SLUGGISH AND NOW FROZE UP. HASN'T WORKED FOR A LONG TIME. 2. REPLACED RADIATOR SEVERAL YEARS AGO. REPLACED THERMOSTAT SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE YEARS. THEN... 2018, SEPTEMBER,-- DISAPPEARING COOLANT FROM RADIATOR FOR LAST 6 MONTHS WITH NO OBVIOUS LEAK. CAR OVER HEATED IN AUGUST BUT NO OBVIOUS LEAK. KEPT REFILLING... 3 DAYS AGO BOTTOM THERMOSTAT HOUSING SPRUNG A BIG LEAK AND CAR OVERHEATED MAJOR. REPLACED THERMOSTAT, AND FULL THERMOSTAT HOUSING. INTERNET RECOMMENDS UPDATING SOFTWARE BECAUSE OF OVERHEATING, BUT IS PRICED AT ABOUT $110 AT ALL DEALERSHIPS.
Power Train
Filed Sep 13, 2018NY
TRANSMISSION BEEN SLIPPING ON 2ND OR 3RD GEAR I BELIEVE I NEVER TOWED OR CARRY HEAVY LOADS AT ALL IT'S BEEN DOING THIS SINCE THE FIRST MONTH I PURCHASE IT AND IT'S BEEN GETTING WORST SINCE
Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 21, 2018140,000 milesMO
ENGINE SHUT DOWN WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10- 15 MILES WITHOUT NOTICE
Seat Belts
Filed Jun 24, 201895,000 milesMO
TAKATA RECALL-2ND ROW PASSENGER SEAT BELT IS LOCKED UP. MY GRANDKIDS RIDE IN THIS AREA AND I DESPERATELY NEED TO GET THIS REPAIRED AND WANTED TO KNOW IF THIS IS AN ISSUE WITH ANYONE ELSE
Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 19, 2018128,000 milesFL
2006 FORD EXPLORER, EDDIE BAUER EDITION. THE ELECTRONIC THROTTLE BODY (ETB) FAILS, BECOMES DEFECTIVE, AND HAS BEEN REPLACED FIVE TIMES IN LESS THAN TWO YEARS. WITHOUT WARNING, THE VEHICLE WILL DISPLAY POOR PERFORMANCE, ERRATIC RPM'S, LOOSE POWER, AND EVEN STALL. ALL INDICATIONS POINT TO THE ETB; CODES AND MECHANIC EXPERIENCE SUGGEST REPLACING ETB, ONLY TO HAVE SAVE ISSUE ARISE AGAIN IN TWO TO THREE MONTHS, IF NOT WEEKS, OR EVEN DAYS, AFTER REPLACEMENT. OFTEN, BUT NOT ALWAYS, THE "WRENCH" ICON (LIMP HOME) TURNS ON, AND, OFTEN, HOWEVER, NOT ALWAYS, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. A RESTART OF VEHICLE, THE "WRENCH" ICON TURNS OFF, AND VEHICLE WILL DRIVE, HOWEVER, CONTINUES TO PERFORM POORLY. THE ABOVE OCCURS IN ALL KINDS OF WEATHER, AND TIMES OF DAY, OR YEAR, WITHOUT WARNING, NO MATTER THE DIVING CONDITIONS. THE PROBLEMS ARE INCONSISTENT AND IRREGULAR. THE SYMPTOMS MAY OCCUR ON FIRST START IN DRIVEWAY, ON BUSY STREET, OR IDLING IN SCHOOL PICK-UP LINE. WHEN THE ETB IS REPLACED, THE VEHICLE DRIVES AS MANUFACTURE INTENDED, DEMONSTRATING THE ISSUE IS WITH THE ETB, AS NUMEROUS MECHANICS HAVE DIAGNOSED, FROM THE FORD DEALERSHIP TO MANY NAME-BRAND AND LOCAL AUTO REPAIR SHOPS. THE REPLACED-ELECTRONIC THROTTLE BODIES PERFORM WELL FOR INCONSISTENT TIME PERIODS NO MATTER OF THE MANUFACTURER. OEM ETB DO NOT SEEM TO LAST ANY LONGER THAN AFTER-MARKET ETB'S.
Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 13, 2018214,000 milesLA
SHIFT STUCK IN PARK AND KEYS STUCK IN IGNITION
Unknown or Other
Filed May 5, 2018181,416 milesTX
AFTER PLACING THE VEHICLE IN PARK, AFTER REMOVING FOOT FROM BRAKE, THE CAR ROLLS FORWARD. THIS HAPPENS EACH TIME IT'S BEING PARKED, MORE NOTICEABLE OVER THE LAST 6 MONTHS. ALSO FREQUENTLY MISFIRES WHEN STARTING; DIAGNOSTICS USUALLY PRODUCE 8 - 13 CODES, NONE OF WHICH PRODUCE A COMPLETE FIX.
Seats
Filed Apr 20, 2018110,000 milesVA
DRIVERS POWER SEAT IS LOOSE. PROBLEM APPEARS TO BE RELATED TO TRACK. SEAT FEELS LOOSE AND MOVES FORWARD OR BACKWARD DEPENDING ON ACCELERATION OR BRAKING. THE BIGGEST PROBLEM IS HOW DISTRACTING THIS IS. THE AMOUNT OF MOVEMENT SEEMS TO BE GETTING GREATER AND GREATER.
Electrical System
Filed Apr 9, 2018150,000 milesFL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT VARIOUS WARNING INDICATORS FLASHED AND THE VEHICLE STALLED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE FLY BY WIRE PEDAL AND THE THROTTLE BODY WERE REPLACED, BUT THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
Power Train
Filed Jan 5, 2018114,000 milesNY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE REVERSING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY, THE VEHICLE MADE A LOUD ABNORMAL NOISE. SUDDENLY, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT SHIFT INTO REVERSE OR DRIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT TRANSMISSION SHOP. THE MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND WAS UNABLE TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 114,000.
Power Train
Filed Sep 8, 2017135,000 milesUT
MY EXPLORER'S TRANSMISSION IS STARTING TO EXHIBIT HARD SHIFTS THAT RATTLE THE ENTIRE CAR. I KNOW THIS IS NOT A NEW PROBLEM AS A FAMILY MEMBER HAD TO REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION IN THEIR 2006 EXPLORER AND CYBER COMMUNITY IS FULL OF EXAMPLES. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE AS THE TRANSMISSION HESITATES WHILE EXCELERATING THROUGH INTERSECTIONS AND SHIFTS HARD ENOUGH TO JOLT THE ENTIRE CAR WHILE SLOWING DOWN.
Engine
Filed Aug 25, 2017MD
TRANSMISSION IS SLIPPING BAD AND CAR NOT SHIFTING INTO DRIVE
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 28, 2017IL
ON MY 2006 EXPLORER I AM UNABLE TO FILL THE TANK WITH GASOLINE. IT ALMOST IMMEDIATELY BACKS UP THE FILL TUBE AND TURNS THE FUEL PUMP OFF. IT'S BEEN TO MANY MECHANICS WHO HAVE TOLD ME THAT THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE FUEL TANK ITSELF. THEY HAVE SAID THAT IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN A RECALL ON FORD'S PART LONG AGO. BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM I WILL BE UNABLE TO PASS EMISSIONS TEST BECAUSE THE VEHICLE IS SENSING A FUEL VAPOR LEAK. ALSO I HAVE SEARCHED THE INTERNET FAR AND WIDE AND FOUND MANY PEOPLE WHO SAY THEY HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. THEY HAVE BROUGHT THEIR VEHICLES SPECIFICALLY TO FORD DEALERSHIPS WHO HAVE CHARGED THEM MONEY TO REPLACE PARTS THAT DID NOT FIX THE ISSUE WHAT SO EVER. PLEASE LOOK FURTHER INTO THIS PROBLEM. ON BEHALF OF MANY OTHERS AND MYSELF, THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME!
Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 21, 2017195,000 milesAL
POWER TRAIN WARNING LIGHT COMES ON AS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AT 75 MPH. CAR ACTED AS IF IT WOULD STOP AND AS IF TRANSMISSION WAS SLIPPING. WE SLOWED CAR DOWN, AND MOVED IT AT A RATE OF 30 MPH, BUT THEN CAR BEGAN ACTING NORMALLY. WE STOPPED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AND TURNED CAR OFF AND TURNED BACK ON. IT STARTED NORMALLY. THIS IS NOT THE FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED, BUT THIS IS THE WORSE INCIDENT
Engine
Filed Jul 12, 201785,000 milesMD
I OWN A 2006 FORD EXPLORER EDDIE BAUER , BOUGHT USED IN 2011/61000K. SINCE 2012 THE CAR STARTED SHOWING PROBLEMS WITH THE POWER STEERING AND /OR ENGINE. WHEN DRIVING AT 35-40 MPH ON A HIGHWAY THE CAR STARTED TO SURGE FORWARD, THEN BACK, KEEPING SURGING UNTIL THE CAR REACHED A HIGHER SPEED OF 60. IF DRIVING ON A HILL, IT WILL LOOSE ITS SPEED. I TOOK THE CAR TO FORD DEALER AND THEY COULDN'T FIND THE PROBLEM. THE CAR NOW IS 120000K, STILL SAME PROBLEM. VERY DISAPPOINTED WITH FORD THAT WILL NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE PROBLEMAS.
Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 9, 2017249,280 milesNY
REAR WINDOW HINGE FRACTURED, WINDOW FELL. VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Jul 6, 2017120,000 milesCO
THE CAR WAS SOLD WITH LIMITED WARRANTY, USED, BUT HAD WRITTEN COLD START ISSUE. THE VEHICLE GETS WARM IF WARM OUTSIDE AND WILL JUST COMPLETELY SHUT OFF ANYWHERE AT ANYTIME. RIDING DOWN INTERSTATE, WILL LOSE POWER THEN SHUT OFF AND LEAVE YOU WITH NO POWER STEERING TO CONTROL VEHICLE GOING HIGH SPEEDS, WILL SHUT OFF IN TOWN MULTIPLE TIMES UPWARD OF A DOZEN OR MORE TIMES WHILE DRIVING, 1ST SHOP SENT TO SAID COULDN'T FIND ISSUE SECOND THEY SENT ME TOO SAID COMPUTER NEEDED REPLACING. EITHER WAY I NEVER WOULD HAVE PURCHASED IT WITHOUT IT BEING DONE HAD U KNOWN, MY FIANCE IS SMALL AND NO WAY SHE COULD HANDLE THE VEHICLE IF SHUTTING DOWN WHILE DRIVING. ITS VERY DANGEROUS AND IS GOING TO GET SOMEONE KILLED IF NOT REPAIRED AND LOOKED INTO MORE CLOSELY.
Power Train
Filed Jun 29, 2017130,000 milesCT
THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION IS BANGING INTO GEAR. IT JOLTS THE VEHICLE BACK AND FORTH AS IT SHIFTS. TRIED REPLACING TRANSMISSION FLUID BUT CONTINUES TO DO IT. FEELS LIKE I'VE BEEN REAR-ENDED AT TIMES. ITS A CONSISTENT OCCURRENCE.
Engine
Filed Jun 5, 201737,500 milesPA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED TWO MORE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO TRI STAR FORD (930 OLD US HWY 22, BLAIRSVILLE, PA 15717), BUT THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO ANOTHER DEALER. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 37,500. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
Power Train
Filed Jun 2, 2017AR
OVERDRIVE HAS A HARD JOLT " HARD SHIFT" WHEN NORMAL DRIVING. I SEE THIS IS A BIG ISSUE WITH ALL FORD EXPLORERS, TOO BAD I DIDN'T DO SOME RESEARCH BEFORE BUYING A FORD.
Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 29, 2017138,000 milesFL
WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY A WRENCH LIGHT TURNED ON ON MY DASH. I THEN REALIZED THE GAS PEDAL WAS NOT REVING AS USUAL I THEN PULLED OVER AND RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND IT CONTINUED TO WORK JUST FINE OR SO I THOUGHT UNTIL IT HAPPENED A DAY LATER. IT HAPPENS EVERY SO OFTEN SINCE THEN, BUT IT IS DANGEROUS ESPECIALLY WITH MY CHILDREN ARE IN THE VEHICLE.
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 16, 2017180,000 milesNY
HAVE A SEVERE GAS SMELL IN THE CAB HAVE HAD 3 DIFFERENT AUTO MECHANIC SHOPS LOOK AT IT CANT FIND THE SOURCE HAD GAS LINES REPLACED, GAS FILTER AND SMOKED NOTHING THEY ARE STUMPED AND MY PEOPLE ARE GOOD WANT TO KNOW WHAT THE ######## ARE YOU GONNA DO ABOUT THIS PROBLEM FORD. HELP ITS MAKING ME HAVE HEADACHES N FEEL SICK AND IT SMELLS SITTING AND DRIVING. ITS NON STOP N GETTING WORST.
Power Train
Filed Mar 5, 2017MO
TRANSMISSION OCCASIONALLY LURCHES AND MAKES VERY HARD SHIFTS BETWEEN GEARS. ENGINE RACES BETWEEN HARD SHIFTS. HAVE LOSS OF POWER BETWEEN SHIFTS WHICH HAS ALMOST RESULTED IN CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. LURCHING SEEMS TO OCCUR MOSTLY AFTER DRIVING AT 20 TO 30 MILES PER HOUR FOR AT LEAST 20 MINUTES.
Engine
Filed Feb 8, 2017100,100 milesMI
GOT 2006 EDDIE BAUER W/98,000, 1 PREVIOUS OWNER (MOTHER) ALL SERVICING VIA THE SAME FORD DEALER (GENE BUTMAN), EXCEPT FOR A FEW OIL CHANGES FROM UNCLE ED'S. LATE NOV 2016 TOOK IT IN DUE TO THE HEAT WAS FLUCTUATING, WAS TOLD IT NEEDED THE THERMOSTAT AND HOUSING REPLACED (EVEN THOUGH IT HAD THE RADIATOR REPLACED A FEW YEARS EARLIER), ALSO HAD BRAKES & ROTORS DONE, THE 100,000 MILE CHECKUP SAID ALL WAS GOOD. A WEEK LATER THE EXHAUST FLUTE, ETC BROKE LOSE, GOT THAT REPAIRED & $2,000 LATER, FRIDAY 2/03/17 WRENCH LIGHT CAME ON, THEN ENGINE LIGHT, VEHICLE SEEMED TO LUNGE FORWARD, DELAY, DOESN'T ENGAGE..ACCELERATE, FEELS LIKE THE TRANSMISSION IS HANGING AND THEN SLAMS INTO GEAR. A THUD FEELING WAS ALSO REPORTED BY MY MOTHER SEVERAL TIMES IN PREVIOUS YEARS TO THE DEALER, THEY COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG, SO SHE HAD THEN DOCUMENT IT. TODAY I AM TOLD A TRANSMISSION IS NEEDED, WHICH IS A UNEXPECTED HUGE & SADDENING SURPRISE - IN 2012 AND 2013 THERE HAD ALREADY BEEN TRANSMISSION WORK ON THE VEHICLE. CHECKED AND SEE ALL REPORTS ABOUT THIS PARTICULAR MODEL HAS OCCURRED ON THIS ONE, COOLING SYSTEM/RADIATOR/THERMOSTAT AND HOUSING ISSUES, EXHAUST ISSUES AND NOW TRANSMISSION ISSUES -- THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF REPORTS FOR THIS EXACT MODEL AND OTHER EXPLORER AND FORD VEHICLES, ALL KNOWN ISSUES, MANY EXPLANATIONS WHY IT OCCURRED WITH THIS MODEL AND THAT FORD IS AWARE OF THEM AND HAS PROVIDED NO RECALLS FOR ANY OF THESE SERIOUS DEFECTIVE MATTERS, NONE - ESPECIALLY WHEN EACH ARE VERY DANGEROUS MATTE
Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 19, 2016RI
THE VEHICLE'S TRANSMISSION PROPELS FORWARD AT LOW SPEEDS WHILE BRAKING. EVEN THOUGH THE BRAKE IS APPLIED THE VEHICLES TO PROPELS FORWARD AND CAN CAUSE AN ACCIDENT OR WORSE. WHEN TRYING GET TO STOP AT A STOP SIGN OR RED LIGHT YOU HAVE TO TRY AND STOP WELL AHEAD THEN YOU NORMALLY WOULD TO TRY AND GET IT TO PROPEL BEFORE REACHING OUT THE PEDESTRIAN WALK AREA. MY FEAR TRYING GE TO STOP COMING OFF A HIGHWAY OFF RAMP WITH A PEDESTRIAN CROSSING OR TRYING TO STOP ABRUPTLY I. A RESIDENTIAL AREA WITH A CHILD RUNNING ACROSS THE STREET AFTER A BALL.
Service Brakes
Filed Oct 18, 2016129,872 milesCO
DRIVING DOWN THE HWY THE POWERTRAIN MALFUNCTION INDICATOR CAME ON. I LOST ALL USE OF THE FUEL PEDAL AND BRAKE. HAD TO GET TO THE SIDE OF THE HWY WITH OUT DYING. IF I TURN THE CAR OFF AND BACK ON THE INDICATOR IS GONE AND WORKS JUST FINE. THIS SITUATION HAS HAPPENED AT LEAST 5 TIMES IN THE LAST 3 MONTHS. NOTHING SHOWS UP WHEN I PLUG IN A CODE READER. *TR
Air Bags
Filed Sep 22, 2016107,522 milesTX
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG INDICATOR ILLUMINATED, WHICH INDICATED THAT IT WAS DEACTIVATED EVEN WHEN A PASSENGER WAS IN THE FRONT SEAT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 107,522.
Wheels
Filed Sep 12, 2016118,000 milesPA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR DRIVER SIDE TIRE DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE, WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE WHEEL BEARING ASSEMBLY AND THE ROTOR ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. IN ADDITION, THE LUG NUTS WERE LOOSE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 118,000.
Engine
Filed Sep 8, 2016109,000 milesFL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED A COMPLETE LOSS OF POWER. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT NOTICED STEAM COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE COMPRESSOR FAILED AND THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR WAS DISABLED. AS A RESULT, THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO MALFUNCTION. THE COMPRESSOR WAS REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 109,000.
Electrical System
Filed Sep 6, 2016179,000 milesMD
CAR SHUTS OFF WHILE DRIVING. THIS HAS HAPPENED ABOUT 6 TIMES IN THE LAST TWO MONTHS. ALWAYS AT SPEEDS UNDER 40 MPH AND ALWAYS WITHIN 3 MINUTES OF TURNING THE CAR ON. THERE'S NEVER ANY WARNING OR SMELL OR SOUND. DASH GOES BLACK, RADIO CUTS OFF, POWER STEERING FAILS, AND I HAVE TO COAST TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. OBVIOUSLY THIS IS VERY FRIGHTENING AND I'VE BEEN VERY LUCKY THAT IT HAS NOT YET HAPPENED AT LIGHTS OR TURNS. MY CAR GUY IS REALLY GOOD AND HE'S AT A LOSS. HE THINKS MAYBE IT'S A SECURITY SYSTEM MALFUNCTION. I DRIVE WITH CHILDREN IN THE CAR AND I CAN'T AFFORD A TO BUY A NEW CAR. I'M NOT SURE WHAT MY OTHER OPTIONS ARE.
Air Bags
Filed Jul 26, 2016103,000 milesTX
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 FORD EXPLORER. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT WAS OCCUPIED; HOWEVER, THE WARNING LIGHT REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO RETRIEVE A FAULT CODE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 103,000. UPDATED 11/29/16*LJ
Power Train
Filed Jul 14, 201615,000 milesNC
I AM A MILITARY SPOUSE AND DRIVING HOME FROM FT BRAGG AT 50 MILES AN HOUR MY TRUCK STARTED COSTING SO I HAD TO PULL OVER AND HAVE IT TOWED. I HAD A FORD DO A FULL DIAGNOSIS A MONTH BEFORE THIS AND THE TRUCK ONLY NEEDED BARONS. LAFAYETTE FORD FAY NC 28306
Electrical SystemFire
Filed Jul 12, 2016170,000 milesAL
WHILE DRIVING WE TURNED ON THE AC AND WE HERD A BIG POP. THEN THE PASSENGERS LEG GOT WARM. THEN WE FELT AROUND IT KEPT GETTING HOTTER. IT FOLLOWED THE DASH THEN SMOKE ROLLED OFF UNDER THE DASH. I THREW IT IN PARK WE JUMPED OUT THE FLAMES CONSUMED THE VEHICLE. WE WERE ON A ROAD.
Engine
Filed Jul 12, 2016NJ
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THEENGINESTALLED WITHOUTWARNING. THE VEHICLE RESTARTED AFTER NUMEROUS ATTEMPTS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED.THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE.THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE AND VIN WERE NOT AVAILABLE.
Complaints 1-50 of 630, newest first, reproduced as filed.
It is not among the Explorer years to avoid. Owners filed 630 complaints, against about 939 for a typical Explorer year. The most common complaint is about the transmission (42%).
What is the most common problem with the 2006 Ford Explorer?
The transmission: 263 of the 630 complaints (42%) are about it. Owners most often say it jerks, lurches or bucks (31%), slips or will not engage a gear (15%) and shifts hard, late or not at all (12%). The typical report comes at 60,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2006 Ford Explorer have?
4 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Sep 3, 2010. The largest, 05V520000, covered 199,942 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2006 Ford Explorer problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 55,000 miles. For the transmission the midpoint is 60,000 miles.
Are there service bulletins for the 2006 Ford Explorer?
The manufacturer filed 40 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (8), the transmission (7) and the brakes (5). They include a service campaign, 0638, filed Apr 13, 2006. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Sep 3, 2010. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.