- 2006 Ford Explorer Transmission Interchange Guide
- 2006 Ford Explorer 4.0 Transmission
- 2006 Ford Explorer Transmission Fluid Capacity
- 2006 Ford Explorer Transmission Rebuild Kit
2006-2010 Ford Explorer Mountaineer Automatic Transmission Shifter Cable OEM NEW (Fits: 2006 Ford Explorer) 4.5 out of 5 stars (13) 13 product ratings - 2006-2010 Ford Explorer Mountaineer Automatic Transmission Shifter Cable OEM NEW. Transmission Leak: Common causes include cracked fluid lines, leaky seals, a bad gasket, a broken drain plug, damaged torque converter pump or faulty transmission pan. Transmission Fluid Flush. The innovative 5R55E transmission initially proved quite reliable, but common Ford Explorer transmission problems tend to set in as the miles rack up. The same goes for the later 5R55W and 5R55S. V8-powered 2006-2010 Explorers got a new 6-speed automatic called the Ford 6R60.
If you’re considering buying a used Ford Explorer, it’s useful to know what to look for before you drive one off the lot. Here are some of the most common problems encountered by owners, how much they cost to fix, and how to avoid buying a faulty Explorer.
Quick Answer: Avoid 2002-2006 Ford Explorers
Don’t buy Ford Explorers that were made between 2002 and 2006 because their transmissions are prone to problems. Other year models are safe.
If you were considering buying a 2002-2006 Explorer and we just ruined your plans, don’t despair. The CoPilot app is the easiest way to find reliable used vehicles in your area - just tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll create a curated list of the best deals in your area.
To learn more about the most common problems encountered by used Ford Explorer owners, read on.
Most Common Problem With Used Ford Explorers: Transmission Failure, 2002-2006 models
Average Cost to Fix: $2,800
The transmission is key to a vehicle’s operation, so unfortunately this isn’t a problem that Ford Explorer owners can put off or work around. While other year models are much more reliable, the 2002-2006 year models of the Ford Explorer were plagued by transmission failure issues that require full transmission replacements – which usually sets owners back about 3 grand. Check out the list below for some of the most commonly-reported signs of Ford Explorer transmission failure:
- Unable to switch gears
- Burning smell
- Leaking fluid
- Grinding or shaking
- Check engine light comes on
- Slipping transmission
Here’s what one Ford Explorer owner on Reddit has to say about the Ford Explorer:
As a general review of an explorer I’d say take the majority of reviews online to heart… I wish I did and I regret ever buying my 02 about a year ago now, since then it’s needed rear diff work, multiple wheel bearings (600 a pop), and as of right now it needs $1k worth of repair in the front end. Also, transmission shudders into overdrive and auto 4x4 does not work…, paid 4k for it exactly a year ago, haven’t gotten any private offers for even 2000 since I’ve listed it 2 weeks ago. Don’t get me wrong, it is a good handling vehicle, attractive, and aesthetically ages well, but this was ford’s experimental generation of truck and the mandatory full time 4x4 is the worst thing I ever ever had to deal with in any vehicle.
While the Explorer is a fine vehicle overall, the 2002-2006 years were plagued with problems. We recommend steering towards a different year model if you’re considering buying a used Ford Explorer, since a transmission failure will likely set you back a significant amount of your original purchase price.
2006 Ford Explorer Transmission Interchange Guide
How to avoid buying a Ford Explorer with a faulty transmission:
This one’s fairly simple – avoid buying 2002-2006 models, because their transmissions were more prone to failure than other year models. If you are considering a different year model, we recommend taking the vehicle for a thorough test drive. Try to get the vehicle onto a freeway or other high-speed road and accelerate aggressively through the gears. If you feel any slipping or stuttering while the vehicle is shifting, it might be worth finding a different SUV.
How to fix:
Unfortunately, there’s nothing that a non-mechanic can do to fix the transmission problems common to Ford Explorers. Take it to a reputable local mechanic to get it checked out.
KNOW WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Wondering what to look out for when buying a used car? With such a large purchase, it pays to be a cautious shopper. Check out this list of the biggest red flags to look out for when buying a used car.
Other Common Ford Escape Problems: Bubbling Paint & Cracked Body Panels
The second most commonly-reported issue with used Ford Explorers are much less severe – bubbling & warping body paint. While paint issues aren’t attractive and might lead to rust, they’re much less severe than a busted transmission.
Average cost to fix: Varies between $150-$5,000
Bubbling paint and cracked panels are among the most common body issues reported by Ford Explorer owners. Unfortunately, these issues seem to be fairly prevalent across all year models, with newer models (2017-2020) having high numbers of reports of bubbling paint, particularly on the hood and around the engine area. This is caused by the aluminum hoods of these models corroding under the paint, causing frequent bubbling, peeling, and other cosmetic issues.
A user on fordexplorer.org, ethanallen5877, detailed their issue with their 2017 Ford Explorer.
“I found about six small areas on the front edge of my 2017 Explorer with bubbling paint. Took it to the dealership and I guess it’s a known issue.”
That’s because it is a known issue – a class action lawsuit was filed against Ford for this issue back in 2019, which led to a recall on many Explorer models. Owners with bubbling paint should be able to get their hood fixed or replaced at the dealership at no cost with this recall. If you’re considering buying a used Ford Explorer, you should check with the seller to see if the hood has already been replaced under this recall.
2006 Ford Explorer 4.0 Transmission
Many users also report body panelling cracking underneath the rear window – replacement panels can be purchased, painted, and installed at most body/repair shops for $2-300.
SEE ALL FACTORY RECALLS ISSUED FOR FORD EXPLORERS
Factory recalls are issued when a vehicle fails to meet safety or quality standards, such as the bubbling paint above. Before buying a Ford Explorer of any year model, see what factory recalls have been issued.
2006 Ford Explorer Transmission Fluid Capacity
Should you buy a used Ford Explorer?
With the exception of 2002-2006 models, which were plagued with a variety of problems, absolutely. The newer models are much more reliable, and what issues they do have are mostly cosmetic (and covered by a recall).
Looking for a used Ford Explorer? CoPilot makes it easy to search all of the used Ford Explorers in your area – no need to visit dozens of individual dealer sites to see all of the available used SUVs near you.
DOWNLOAD THE APP
The CoPilot app is the smartest way to buy a car. Search all listings in your area, get notified about deals, new listings, and price drops, or chat with one of our copilots for some hands-on advice.
![2006 2006](/uploads/1/1/9/4/119421155/217938841.jpg)
14 problems related to transmission gear slipping have been reported for the 2006 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2006 Ford Explorer based on all problems reported for the 2006 Explorer.
Failure Date: 10/27/2020
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!.
Failure Date: 03/20/2018
2006 Ford Explorer Transmission Rebuild Kit
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.
Failure Date: 08/25/2017
Transmission is slipping bad and car not shifting into drive.
Failure Date: 07/17/2013
2006 eddie bauer Ford Explorer, I was pulling out onto a main highway and my transmission started slipping and causing sputter/non engagement and my children and were so scared cause we almost got hit by a semi from the transmission not engaging while crossing traffic. I was 7 mos pregnant as well. What would I have done if their father lost all of us for this highly reported and ignored issue!? there needs to be a recall before something devastating comes of this. Thank you.
Failure Date: 09/15/2012
Transmission slips. Vehicle lunges when reversing and shifting gears. I'm afraid I may hit another vehicle or pedestrian. . Read more...
Failure Date: 06/21/2012
Tl- the contact owns a 2006 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving 35 mph the transmission began to slip. The transmission fluid was changed but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was notified but offered no assistance. The vehicle had not been repaired. The failure and current mileage was 91,690. Dt.
Failure Date: 04/05/2012
Had complained about a hesitation in 2008, after several times at the shop they did something to the throttle body. Now the transmission slips in 3rd gear. At only 56785 miles this is terrible.
Failure Date: 10/11/2011
I bought my Ford Explorer in 2006 but three years later had to replace the radiator. After that I notice that the transmission would slip every now and then. The problem seems to have escalated since June 2013 with the vehicle jacking or dragging before shifting gears. My wife is actually afraid of driving this vehicle and instead prefers to drive my 2000 Honda accord which has been running with no problems. I took the vehicle to my mechanic who told me this has been a problem with the model and year of my Ford Explorer and that the transmission will need to be replaced and so he told me I should file this complain since this was not our fault but a factory defect which by the look of what I have seen on this site, Ford is aware of. My question is why has Ford not recalled this because after checking this site, I have seen so many complains about the same related issues (mainly radiator and transmission), are customers supposed to suffer and spend money for things that the Ford company has neglected or for their poor workmanship? I believe not. Ford needs to get their act together and solve this problems for their customers. I, just like everyone who bought a Ford Explorer would like to see our automakers doing well and that's why we buy the cars but not at the expense of our families safety or finances.
Failure Date: 10/01/2010
I have had the door blender plastic piece changed on my car three times! each time the season changes. I now have to replace it again. I currently have a radiator leak and will have to replace the radiator and plastic holder as well. I also currently have a transmission slippage problem and I will have to get that fixed as well. This is horrible. I purchased the Ford Explorer because I thought it was dependable. This is depressing and I can not afford it!.
Failure Date: 08/04/2010
2006 Ford Explorer XLT sport utility 4x4 4. 6l automatic transmission. The transmission slips or heitates going int gear. At stops it has a tendency to slam down shift hard. The transmission slips so much between gears it affects the mileage so I get really bad gas mileage less then the 13 low end of the 13/18 mpg suggested. It will take about $2,000. 00 to get another transmission. I still owe $8,000. 00 on this car. I am just about ready to say come get it.
Failure Date: 02/08/2010
Spark plug separates and remains in the engine block when attempting to remove them. Three of eight was changing spark plugs due to the computer making the transmission buck and slip when driving.
Failure Date: 09/14/2009
2006 Ford Explorer automatic transmission that slips and causes a jolt when it downshifts, feels like one is being rear ended. Additionally there is a weird sound as this happens. Ford has unsuccessfully tried to reprogram the car. Took the car back for the Ford mechanic to look at and was told there is nothing he can do.
Failure Date: 10/15/2007
We own a 2006 Ford Explorer, and its transmission slips, gets confused during downshifts, and now has developed a lurch forward when coming to a stop. I had it in the dealership, when the shift lever broke and I was told that this is 'normal' but Ford is working on a program for the computer that they are releasing in mid November. First of all, if this is normal why is this the second attempt at creating a fix for a 'non-existent' problem with a 'normally functioning transmission. ' Ford instructed the dealerships to let it be until the new 'program' comes out in November. Where exactly does that leave the consumer, I have a transmission that had has been slipping in gear and mis-shifting for thousands of miles and a 60,000 mile warranty. If this doesn't become more of a safety concern, which I am afraid it will, I will likely have increased transmission problems down the road because of it. Plus, nevermind this current model Explorer will now have a significantly lower resale value as these types of complaints increase. Please help! this was a large investment to make, and now I will have to pay the consequence for Fords failure.
Failure Date: 09/26/2006
The contact owns a 2006 Ford Explorer. The contact stated the automatic transmission began slipping in 2006 when the vehicle was purchased. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer who stated there was no failure with the transmission and it would not fail; however, over time it became progressively worse. The manufacturer was notified but stated there were no recalls and to contact NHTSA in order to file a complaint. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 7,000 and the current mileage was 62,000.
Other Power Train related problems of the 2006 Ford Explorer
Power Train problems | |
Automatic Transmission problems | 68 |
Transmission Gear Slipping problems | |
Noises During Shifting problems | 10 |
Transmission Fluid Leaking problems | |
Transmission Not Go Into Gear problems | 6 |
Transmission Failure problems | |
Transmission Slip Out Of Gear problems | 5 |
Automatic Transmission Control Module problems | |
Transmission Solenoid problems | 5 |
Transmission Not Engage problems | |
Automatic Transmission Torque Converter problems | 4 |