🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Explorer

Year:

2006

Platform:

U152 (Ford Everest Platform basis for some markets, but primarily North American Explorer platform)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Mid-size SUV, a popular choice for families and light off-roading.

Key Competitors:

Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder.

Vehicle Highlights:

Available V8 engine, optional third-row seating (though less common in early 2006 models, more prevalent in later revisions), robust body-on-frame construction (prior to unibody redesign in 2011), available AWD system.

Benefit To Owner:

Empowers owners and independent mechanics with factory-level diagnostic and repair information, reducing reliance on dealerships and aftermarket specialists. Enables accurate maintenance and efficient troubleshooting.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Variants Covered:

4.0L SOHC V6 (207 hp @ 5000 rpm, 238 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm), 4.6L Modular V8 (239 hp @ 4900 rpm, 282 lb-ft @ 3450 rpm)

Transmission Variants Covered:

5R55W (5-speed automatic), 5R55S (5-speed automatic with SelectShift)

Drivetrain Options Covered:

RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive), 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) with ADTR (Advance Trac and Roll Stability Control)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+ pages (Software-based, comprehensive)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely PDF or proprietary application)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control.

Transmission:

Automatic transmission diagnosis, repair, fluid service, torque converter, valve body, electronic controls.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle, front axle (4WD), differentials, transfer case (4WD), CV joints.

Suspension:

Front independent suspension (short/long arm), rear solid axle, springs, shock absorbers, bushings, wheel bearings, steering linkage.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes (vented), rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), traction control, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, component location, charging system, starting system, lighting, power accessories, body control modules (BCM), instrument cluster, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).

HVAC:

Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control system operation, refrigerant handling, component replacement.

Body:

Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, interior trim, rust prevention, paint codes.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and resolution.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension repair, brake caliper replacement, etc.

Installation:

Installation guides for common aftermarket accessories and factory options, though primary focus is on OEM repair.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications, diagnostic procedures, and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Likely a searchable PDF or a proprietary software application with indexed content for quick access. Designed for digital use.

Print Quality Notes:

As software, print quality is dependent on the user's printer. Digital format ensures high resolution of diagrams and images.

Binding Type Notes:

Not applicable as it is software.

Paper Type Notes:

Not applicable as it is software.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 4.0L:

Eddie Bauer, XLT, Limited trims often featured the 4.0L SOHC V6. Also known as the 'Vulcan' engine family derivative.

Engine Code 4.6L:

Premium trims and specific packages often included the 4.6L 'Triton' Modular V8, offering increased power and towing capacity.

Horsepower 4.0L:

207 hp @ 5000 rpm

Torque 4.0L:

238 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Horsepower 4.6L:

239 hp @ 4900 rpm

Torque 4.6L:

282 lb-ft @ 3450 rpm

Fuel Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential port injection.

Fuel Requirement:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended (91 octane may provide slight performance benefit).

ECU Type:

PCM (Powertrain Control Module) controlling engine and transmission functions.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5R55W (5-speed automatic transmission with electronically controlled overdrive and torque converter lock-up).

Optional Transmission Type:

5R55S (5-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift allowing manual gear selection, available on some higher trims).

Transmission Features 5R55W:

Adaptive shift logic, Tow/Haul mode for improved towing performance.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid.

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 10.7 quarts (10.1 liters) for refill; 13.6 quarts (12.9 liters) for complete overhaul.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

113.7 inches (2888 mm)

Overall Length:

188.5 inches (4788 mm)

Overall Width:

73.4 inches (1864 mm)

Overall Height:

70.2 inches (1783 mm) (with roof rails)

Seating Capacity:

5 or 7 passengers (optional third row)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

40.0 cubic feet (1.13 cubic meters)

Cargo Volume With 2Nd Row Folded:

81.6 cubic feet (2.31 cubic meters)

Curb Weight Approx:

4400 - 4700 lbs (2000 - 2130 kg) depending on configuration.

Max Towing Capacity:

Up to 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg) with optional towing package and 4.6L V8 engine.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating 2006:

4 out of 5 stars (for 4x2 and 4x4 models)

Standard Safety Features:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Front and rear stabilizer bars.

Optional Safety Features:

AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control (RSC), integrated trailer brake controller preparation.

Airbags:

Front driver and passenger airbags, available side-impact airbags for front occupants.

Seat Belts:

Three-point safety belts for all seating positions, pretensioners for front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Offered:

Ford's Abt (Audiovisual Technology) system, with available CD player, AM/FM stereo, and premium audio options like a subwoofer and amplifier.

Navigation System:

Optional factory-installed navigation system available on higher trim levels.

Advance Trac Rsc:

Available stability and traction control system designed to help prevent skids and rollovers. Crucial for an SUV of this height and capability.

Parking Assist:

Available rear parking sensors (Reverse Sensing System) on select models.

Audio Input:

Auxiliary audio input jack often available on premium sound systems.

Remote Start:

Available factory remote start system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil. Check owner's manual for specific conditions.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Service:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), recommended change every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific interval.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-20 motor oil meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C153-G.

Engine Coolant Specification:

Ford Premium All Season Engine Coolant (Orange), a 50/50 mixture of coolant and distilled water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Common Issues 4.0L V6:

Spark plug blow-out (especially on earlier models, addressed with updated plugs/inserts), potential for intake manifold gasket leaks, variable intake manifold (VIM) actuator failures.

Common Issues 4.6L V8:

Less prone to spark plug issues than the 4.0L. Occasional reports of ignition coil failures, thermostat housing leaks.

Transmission Issues:

5R55W/S transmissions can experience solenoid issues leading to harsh shifting or failure to engage gears. Overheating can also be a factor if transmission cooler is compromised.

Suspension Issues:

Front ball joint wear, worn control arm bushings, and rear leaf spring fatigue can occur over time, especially with heavy use or towing.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford SUV History:

Ford has a long history of producing capable SUVs, dating back to the Bronco. The Explorer, introduced in 1990, quickly became a best-seller and helped define the modern SUV market.

Explorer Generation 2006:

This represents the second year of the third generation (2002-2005), which saw a major redesign including a move to unibody construction for some global variants but retained body-on-frame for North American models initially, before the unibody shift for the fourth generation starting in 2006. Correction: 2006 is the *first* year of the fourth generation (2006-2010), which introduced a significant redesign, new engine options, and the unibody platform across all markets.

Fourth Generation Updates 2006:

Major updates included a new chassis, revised styling, the introduction of the 4.6L V8 engine option, and enhanced safety features like AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control.

Manufacturing Locations:

Principal assembly plants included Chicago, Illinois, USA, and St. Louis, Missouri, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards 2006:

Typically received good safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA for its class, with the introduction of RSC significantly boosting its safety credentials.

Model Popularity:

The Ford Explorer consistently ranked among the best-selling SUVs in North America during this period, reflecting its market appeal.