🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Explorer

Year:

2008

Platform:

U152 (Body-on-frame, rear-wheel drive based)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2008 Ford Explorer was a mid-size SUV, a segment leader for Ford, known for its utility, towing capacity, and availability with V8 engines. This manual caters to owners and technicians needing in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with vehicles like the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota 4Runner, and Nissan Pathfinder. The 2008 model year represented the third generation's facelift, introducing updated styling and powertrains.

Key Features:

Body-on-frame construction for robust towing and off-road capability (though less common for the average owner), available V8 power, comfortable ride, significant interior space.

Target Audience:

DIY car owners, independent repair shops, automotive technicians seeking factory-level repair information.

Vehicle Type:

Mid-size SUV

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All aspects of 2008 Ford Explorer service and repair, including diagnostics, maintenance, troubleshooting, and component replacement.

Page Count:

Estimated 2,000+ pages (typical for comprehensive digital service manuals of this era).

Manual Type:

Digital Service & Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software/Digital (likely .exe or similar executable for installation, potentially containing PDF documents).

Update Status:

Covers the 2008 model year as released by Ford. Does not include later model year updates or technical service bulletins beyond its publication date.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (4.0L V6 SOHC, 4.6L V8 SOHC), Transmission (5-speed automatic 5R55S/W), Drivetrain (RWD, 4WD/AWD), Brakes (ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution), Suspension (Front Twin I-beam independent, Rear Solid Axle), Steering (Rack and Pinion), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Climate Control (HVAC), Electrical System (including wiring diagrams), Body and Chassis, Interior and Exterior Components, Restraint Systems (Airbags).

Procedures Included:

Scheduled maintenance, routine inspections, component diagnostics, troubleshooting fault codes (DTCs), engine repair (timing, cylinder heads, gaskets), transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension and steering alignment, electrical component testing and replacement, HVAC system service, body panel repair, interior trim removal/installation.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers detailed repair procedures, specifications, diagnostic flowcharts, wiring schematics, and torque values necessary for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.

Diagnostic Tools Coverage:

Provides guidance on using OBD-II scan tools for retrieving diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and live data, as well as specific Ford diagnostic procedures.

Troubleshooting Approach:

Systematic approach to diagnosing issues, starting with symptom identification, moving to diagnostic charts and flow diagrams, and culminating in component testing and repair.

Electrical Diagrams Detail:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including power distribution, lighting, engine controls, body electronics, and safety systems, color-coded for clarity.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary software executable with integrated documentation (likely searchable).

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format, print quality dependent on user's printer).

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format).

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format).

Content Scope:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, repair instructions with step-by-step guidance, exploded views of assemblies, torque specifications, special tool requirements, electrical system diagnostics with detailed wiring diagrams.

Searchability:

Likely features a highly searchable interface allowing users to quickly find information by keyword, system, or component.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement 1:

4.0L (3958cc)

Engine Configuration 1:

SOHC V6

Engine Code 1:

395

Horsepower 1:

210 hp @ 5,000 rpm

Torque 1:

254 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm

Engine Displacement 2:

4.6L (4600cc)

Engine Configuration 2:

SOHC V8 (3-valve per cylinder)

Engine Code 2:

99F

Horsepower 2:

292 hp @ 5,500 rpm

Torque 2:

300 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Regular 87 octane recommended, Mid-grade 89 octane for V8 recommended for optimal performance)

Engine Cooling System Type:

Pressurized, liquid-cooled system with engine-driven water pump and electric cooling fan (on some models/conditions).

Engine Codes Identification:

Allows identification of specific engine assemblies via codes stamped on the engine block, crucial for correct parts ordering and repair.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed automatic (5R55S for V6, 5R55W for V8)

Transmission Features:

Electronic control, Selectable Drive Control (OD Off switch), Tow/Haul mode.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MERCON V

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 11.7 quarts (11.1 liters) for 5R55S/W (dry fill).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

113.8 inches (2891 mm)

Length:

191.7 inches (4870 mm)

Width:

73.4 inches (1864 mm)

Height:

70.1 inches (1781 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 8.1 inches (206 mm) for 4WD models.

Seating Capacity:

5-7 passengers (optional third row)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

40.9 cubic feet (1158 liters)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

13.6 cubic feet (385 liters)

Curb Weight V6 Rwd:

4,400 lbs (1996 kg)

Curb Weight V8 AWD:

4,760 lbs (2160 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 7,230 lbs (3279 kg) with V8 and optional towing package.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5,700 - 6,100 lbs (2585 - 2767 kg) depending on configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating Front:

5 Stars

NHTSA Rollover Rating Side:

4 Stars

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control - standard on some trims), Traction Control System (TCS), Trailer Sway Control.

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, Front side-impact airbags, Safety Canopy (side curtain airbags for all three rows - optional/standard depending on trim), LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system, Side-impact door beams, Three-point seatbelts for all occupants.

Airbag System Description:

Multi-stage front airbags for driver and passenger, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and available Safety Canopy side-curtain airbags with rollover sensing.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Options:

Ford's Mach 460 audio system, optional in-dash 6-disc CD changer, Sirius Satellite Radio, optional DVD Entertainment System.

Driver Assistance Features:

Rear parking assist sensors (optional), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Connectivity Features:

Voice-activated SYNC system (optional on some trims), Bluetooth connectivity (optional with SYNC).

Headlight Type:

Halogen composite headlights, available integrated fog lamps.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or conventional oil), or 7,500 miles/6 months with synthetic oil.

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

Replace with oil change.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Recommended replacement every 30,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Check fluid condition at 30,000 miles. Replace fluid and filter at 100,000 miles under normal driving conditions, or more frequently under severe use (towing, off-roading).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-20 (preferred for fuel economy and emissions) or SAE 5W-30 for all temperatures. API Certified.

Coolant Type:

Ford Premium Engine Coolant (VC-7B) or equivalent, a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and distilled water. Typically a Gold color coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

MERCON V or suitable power steering fluid.

Known Issues Common:

Rear shock absorber leaks, potential for minor oil leaks (e.g., valve cover gaskets), occasional ABS sensor issues, interior trim rattles, front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends) depending on mileage and usage. Some earlier models experienced differential whine under certain conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval V8:

100,000 miles (iridium-tipped plugs)

Spark Plug Replacement Interval V6:

100,000 miles (double platinum plugs)

Engine Oil Capacity V6:

6 quarts (5.7 liters) with filter change for 4.0L V6.

Engine Oil Capacity V8:

7 quarts (6.6 liters) with filter change for 4.6L V8.

Brake Pad Rotor Replacement:

Detailed instructions for front and rear brake pad and rotor replacement, including rotor runout and pad bedding procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Ford Motor Company, established in 1903, is one of the oldest and largest automotive manufacturers globally, known for pioneering mass production techniques and a wide range of vehicles from trucks to performance cars.

Model Evolution Third Generation:

The 2008 model year falls within the third generation (2006-2010) of the Ford Explorer, which saw a significant redesign from the previous generation. It moved to a new chassis, offering improved ride quality and safety, and a choice between the established V6 and the new 4.6L V8. This generation also received a notable refresh for the 2006 model year.

Production Plants:

Primary production for this generation was at the Ford's Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, Kentucky, and the St. Louis Assembly Plant in Fenton, Missouri.

2008 Model Year Updates:

For 2008, Ford introduced standard Sirius Satellite Radio on XLT and Eddie Bauer trims, and made the SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment system optional on XLT Premium and Eddie Bauer. Minor feature packaging adjustments were also made.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Ford Explorer has historically been a strong seller and popular choice, often recognized for its towing capabilities and versatility within the SUV market. Specific awards for the 2008 model year may vary, but it generally maintained a competitive position.