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.
6.7
fairly significant
Typical Repair Cost:
$590
Average Mileage:
69,650 miles
Total Complaints:
3 complaints
Most Common Solutions:
replace wheel bearings (2 reports)
had to have Ford replace the worst rear wheel bearing (1 reports)
Had to replace front wheel bearings. This was an expense that I could not afford. Was told by mechanic that Fords are notorious for bad wheel bearings. This should be a recalled item.
My 2006 Ford Explorer has to have both front wheel bearing replaced. My car didn't have 60,000 miles on it. Because of the type of wheel assembly it cost me $306.60 per bearing plus labor. My car has too few miles on it to have this kind of problem. Ford should have a better warranty and make this kind of problems right to the consumer.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
Had to replace front wheel bearings. This was an expense that I could not afford. Was told by mechanic that Fords are notorious for bad wheel bearings. This should be a recalled item.
- Devra M., Smyrna, GA, US