🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Explorer

Year:

2001

Vehicle Platform:

UN171

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Class:

Mid-size SUV

Target Audience:

Families, outdoor enthusiasts, towing applications

Key Competitors:

Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota 4Runner, Dodge Durango, Nissan Pathfinder

Vehicle Highlights 2001:

Available V8 engine, optional third-row seating, robust chassis, popular for its utility and versatility.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and technicians with detailed, factory-level information for accurate diagnosis and repair, reducing reliance on costly dealer services.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely CD-ROM or downloadable)

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive mechanical and electrical repair, maintenance, and diagnostics

Estimated Page Count:

Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine overhaul, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery, ignition system, emission control, timing systems

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 5R55E), manual transmission (if applicable), transfer case (4WD/AWD)

Drivetrain Systems:

Front axle, rear axle, driveshafts, CV joints, propeller shafts

Suspension Systems:

Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (solid axle or independent depending on configuration), springs, shock absorbers, ball joints, control arms

Steering Systems:

Power steering system, steering column, steering linkage, steering gear

Brake Systems:

Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II)

HVAC Systems:

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, blower motor, refrigerant system

Body And Trim:

Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, exterior trim, glass, doors, tailgate

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seat belts

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement, tire rotation

Repair Procedures:

Engine component repair/replacement (e.g., head gaskets, water pump), transmission overhaul/replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and resolution, use of diagnostic scan tools

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque specifications for fasteners, alignment specifications, engine build specifications, electrical resistance values

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical system schematics for all major components and circuits

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including complex electrical diagnostics and bodywork.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Details:

Searchable text, hyperlinked sections, printable pages, potentially interactive diagrams.

Print Quality Simulated:

High-resolution graphics and text, suitable for professional printing if user desires.

Binding Type Simulated:

N/A (Software format)

Paper Type Simulated:

N/A (Software format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

4.0L SOHC V6, 4.6L Triton V8 (and potentially 5.4L Triton V8 for certain late models or specific markets, though less common for 2001)

Engine Code V6:

OHC V6 (Specify specific engine code if known, e.g., Cologne V6)

Engine Displacement V6:

3958 cc (241.5 cubic inches)

Engine Horsepower V6:

Approx. 205-210 HP @ 5000 RPM (varies slightly by specific calibration)

Engine Torque V6:

Approx. 235-240 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM (varies slightly)

Engine Code V8:

4.6L Triton V8 (Romeo or Windsor variant)

Engine Displacement V8:

4606 cc (281.1 cubic inches)

Engine Horsepower V8:

Approx. 232-240 HP @ 4750-5000 RPM (varies slightly)

Engine Torque V8:

Approx. 280-285 lb-ft @ 3400-3500 RPM (varies slightly)

Aspiration:

Naturally Aspirated

Fuel Delivery System:

Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, 91+ for optimal performance in V8)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (4R55E or similar)

Optional Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (less common in this generation, primarily for specific markets or base models)

Transmission Features:

Electronic control, overdrive, potentially SelectShift (manual mode on some automatics)

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Part-Time 4WD

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 113.7 inches (2888 mm)

Length:

Approx. 183.7 inches (4666 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Height:

Approx. 67.2 - 68.2 inches (1707 - 1732 mm) depending on 2WD/4WD

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 40.0 - 46.0 cubic feet (varies by configuration, especially with third row)

Cargo Volume Max:

Approx. 79.0 - 85.0 cubic feet (with second and third rows folded)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,000 - 4,500 lbs (1814 - 2041 kg) depending on configuration

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) when properly equipped with towing package

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars (for 2001 model year)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (for 2001 model year)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

5 Stars (for 2001 model year)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

4 Stars (for 2001 model year)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (on some models)

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags (optional), 3-point seat belts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System 2001:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium sound system, cassette player often standard or optional.

Driver Assistance Features 2001:

ABS, Traction Control (optional/standard on higher trims).

Connectivity Features 2001:

Limited by 2001 standards. May include power outlets. No integrated Bluetooth or USB.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, with synthetic blend or conventional oil. Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months with full synthetic oil.

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval V6:

Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for original equipment (OE) Platinum tipped plugs.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval V8:

Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for original equipment (OE) Platinum tipped plugs.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), or as recommended by severity of use. Check manual for specific fluid type (Mercon V often required).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or 2-3 years, depending on coolant type.

Engine Oil Specification V6:

SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG, SH, SJ, or SL)

Engine Oil Specification V8:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (API Service SG, SH, SJ, or SL) - Check manual for precise V8 specification

Transmission Fluid Specification:

Mercon V ATF is generally required for automatics of this era. Check manual for confirmation.

Coolant Specification:

Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent (often a 50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid

Common Issues V6 Engine:

Spark plug blow-out (design flaw in early models), intake manifold gasket leaks, rear main seal leaks, timing chain/tensioner wear (on some earlier V6s, less so on SOHC 2001).

Common Issues V8 Engine:

Timing chain guide wear/breakage (requires early replacement), spark plug breakages during removal (on earlier 2V Triton variants, improved in later versions).

Common Issues Transmission:

Overheating, delayed shifting, torque converter shudder (particularly with Mercon ATF degradation).

Common Issues Suspension Steering:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings; premature wear of steering rack components.

Common Issues Electrical:

Window regulators, power lock actuators, alternator failure, fuel pump failure, HVAC blower motor resistor failure.

Common Issues Body:

Rust on body panels (especially rear wheel wells and rocker panels), tailgate issues, door handle failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford SUV History:

Ford has a long history in the SUV market, with the Explorer being a foundational model in establishing its presence in the segment. The Explorer's success paved the way for future Ford SUVs.

Explorer Generation 2001:

This represents the second generation (UN171) of the Ford Explorer, introduced for the 1995 model year and significantly updated for 2001. Key changes for 2001 included a redesigned exterior, improved interior, a new independent rear suspension (IRS) on some models replacing the solid rear axle, and availability of the V8 engine.

Production Locations:

Assembled in St. Louis, Missouri, and Louisville, Kentucky.

Production Years Model:

1991-2001 (First Generation), 2002-2005 (Third Generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Vehicle Awards Historical:

The Ford Explorer has historically been a best-selling SUV, often lauded for its utility and family-friendly features. While specific 'awards' for the 2001 model year might be less prominent than its market share, it was a highly competitive vehicle in its segment.

IIHS Crash Test Ratings:

Good (Frontal Offset) and Acceptable/Good (Side Impact, depending on specific configuration and year of testing) by IIHS for this generation.