CarComplaints.com Notes: The previous generation of Explorer was so awful that the redesign in 2006 was greeted with much optimism. That didn't last long.
The transmission continues to be the Explorer's worst reliability problem. Owners report shifting hard & lunging, typically starting as low as 40k miles with a $1,600 average repair bill. On top of that, the radiator is prone to failure around 60k miles. Repairs for the radiator run $500 to $1,000 & many owners report they've had to replace the radiator multiple times for leaks, indicating a possible design defect in the OEM replacement parts.
Ford did make some significant changes to improve handling and safety. Electronic stability control was added in addition to side impact air bags, but beyond that this is a vehicle that should be avoided at all costs.
The last and final problem I have encountered with my 2006 Ford Explorer within the first year of ownership is the Front Sway Bar Bushings leaking! Again thankfully for the extended warranty this did not cost me anything, but when do the problems stop with this thing? I have ALWAYS driven Fords, but if this is what has become of the FORD Company it will be my LAST! Especially after reading all of the other complaints, sure wish I would have found this website a year ago, but like all of you I didn't. I have had MAJOR problems to include, 4x4 module, coolant problems (radiator, thermostat housing), transmission problems, suspension problems. This afternoon I call Ford Customer Care #800-392-3675 to lodge a formal complain as so many of you have done and was told the same thing,,,not enough complaints to issue a recall, blah, blah, blah...but they sure are sorry for all of my issues...but at least they have mine!
One more thing...sure hope someone files a class action lawsuit...I'M IN!!!
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
The last and final problem I have encountered with my 2006 Ford Explorer within the first year of ownership is the Front Sway Bar Bushings leaking! Again thankfully for the extended warranty this did not cost me anything, but when do the problems stop with this thing? I have ALWAYS driven Fords, but if this is what has become of the FORD Company it will be my LAST! Especially after reading all of the other complaints, sure wish I would have found this website a year ago, but like all of you I didn't. I have had MAJOR problems to include, 4x4 module, coolant problems (radiator, thermostat housing), transmission problems, suspension problems. This afternoon I call Ford Customer Care #800-392-3675 to lodge a formal complain as so many of you have done and was told the same thing,,,not enough complaints to issue a recall, blah, blah, blah...but they sure are sorry for all of my issues...but at least they have mine!
One more thing...sure hope someone files a class action lawsuit...I'M IN!!!
- flip73, Fort Collins, CO, US