Target Audience:
Families and owners needing a midsize SUV with available V8 power and towing capability
Segment:
Midsize SUV (body-on-frame)
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota 4Runner, Dodge Durango
Competitive Advantage:
Available V8 engine, strong towing ratings, and six-speed automatic transmission
Drivetrain:
RWD standard; Control Trac four-wheel drive optional
Engine Options:
4.0L SOHC V6 and 4.6L SOHC V8
Seating:
5 to 7 passengers depending on configuration
Manual Type:
Factory workshop service repair manual
Coverage Areas:
Engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical, body, HVAC, and more
Delivery Method:
Instant digital download
Binding:
Digital (no physical binding)
Engine Mechanical:
4.0L SOHC V6 and 4.6L SOHC V8, including cylinder heads and timing
Engine Cooling:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, and fan clutch
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel rail, and tank service
Ignition System:
Coil-on-plug ignition and spark plugs
Transmission:
5R55S 5-speed automatic and 6R60/6R80 6-speed automatic
Transfer Case:
Control Trac 4WD system and shift motor service
Drive Axles:
Front differential, rear differential, and CV axles
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, control arms, and ball joints
Steering:
Power steering gear and pump
Brakes:
Disc brakes, ABS, hydraulic system, and parking brake
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning components
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, fuse and relay locations, charging, and starting systems
Body and Paint:
Panels, doors, trim, and collision repair procedures
Restraints:
Airbags, seat belts, and SRS diagnostics
Instruments:
Cluster, warning indicators, and senders
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts and pinpoint tests
Removal and Installation:
Step-by-step component R&I procedures
Torque Specifications:
Factory torque values throughout
Adjustments:
Belt tension, alignment, and clearance specifications
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete schematic set
Skill Level:
Professional technician to advanced DIY owner
Parts Information:
Part numbers, specifications, and special tool references
File Format:
PDF (searchable, bookmarked, zoomable)
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android — any device with a PDF reader
Requirements:
A PDF reader application (e.g. Adobe Acrobat Reader, free)
Searchability:
Fully text searchable for fast lookup of any topic
Print Quality:
High-resolution digital pages, printable at full clarity
Binding Type:
N/A — digital download, no physical binding
Paper Type:
N/A — digital download, no physical paper
Wheelbase:
Approx. 113.7 in (4-door)
Length:
Approx. 190 in (4-door)
Body Style:
4-door SUV (also available in 2-door Sport Trac variant)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,400-4,800 lb depending on configuration
Towing Capacity:
Up to approx. 7,300 lb with V8 tow package
NHTSA Rating:
N/A - verify current NHTSA database for 2009 ratings
Side Impact:
N/A - not specified in source material
ABS:
4-wheel anti-lock braking system
Traction Control:
Standard
Stability Control:
AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Standard
Airbags:
Dual front, front side, and side curtain airbags
Safety Canopy:
Side curtain with rollover sensor
Seat Belts:
Three-point belts with pretensioners
Audio System:
AM/FM/CD; premium audiophile system available
Available Options:
In-dash navigation and satellite radio ready
Rear Entertainment:
Optional rear-seat DVD entertainment system
Parking Sensors:
Rear parking assist available
Advanced ADAS:
N/A - not offered on this generation
Oil Change:
Per IOLM (Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor), typically every 5,000-7,500 miles
Tire Rotation:
Every oil change interval
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000-30,000 miles
Spark Plugs:
Per severe/normal schedule, approx. 60,000-100,000 miles
Engine Oil:
5W-20 (per owner manual specification)
Coolant:
Motorcraft Gold extended-life coolant
Transmission Fluid:
Mercon V (5R55S); verify spec for 6-speed
Differential Fluid:
Synthetic rear axle lubricant per spec
4.0L V6 Timing:
Timing chain guide wear is a known 4.0L SOHC concern
Rear Suspension:
Rear wheel bearings and bushings are common wear items
5R55S Transmission:
Servo bore wear reported on higher-mileage units
Manufacturer:
Ford Motor Company, Dearborn, Michigan, USA
Model Debut:
Explorer introduced in 1990 as a 1991 model
Model Evolution:
Fourth generation (2006-2010) brought frame stiffening, independent rear suspension refinements, and the 6-speed automatic with the 4.6L V8
Assembly Location:
Louisville, Kentucky, USA (primary assembly plant for this generation)
2009 Notes:
Final years of the fourth generation before the 2011 redesign
