Segment:
Mid-size Sport Utility Truck (SUT)
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, home mechanics, and professional technicians seeking comprehensive repair information.
Competitors:
Honda Ridgeline, Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon (though different segment), Nissan Frontier, Toyota Tacoma (smaller segment).
Vehicle Design:
Unique combination of SUV comfort and utility with an open cargo bed, built on the proven Explorer platform.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides expert-level repair and maintenance knowledge, enabling cost savings on servicing and empowering owners with in-depth understanding of their vehicle.
Engine:
4.0L V6 SOHC (205 hp @ 5300 rpm, 237 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm) and 4.6L V8 SOHC (292 hp @ 5500 rpm, 300 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm) - includes diagnostics, disassembly, assembly, and overhaul.
Transmission:
5R55W (5-speed automatic) and potentially 4R75E (4-speed automatic) depending on specific engine/drivetrain configuration. Includes diagnostics, service, overhaul, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, including differentials, drive shafts, and CV joints.
Suspension:
Independent front suspension (double wishbone) and solid rear axle with leaf springs. Includes shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, and alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs (potentially drum on some earlier models or specific configurations, though discs are common for this era). Includes ABS system diagnostics and repair, brake fluid specifications, and component replacement.
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion steering. Includes steering column, power steering pump, fluid, and linkages.
Electrical System:
Full coverage of battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, ignition system, instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors, climate control blower, and accessory circuits. Includes wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Control System:
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) diagnostics, sensors (MAF, MAP, TPS, O2, Crankshaft Position, Camshaft Position), actuators (fuel injectors, ignition coils), and emissions control systems (catalytic converter, EGR).
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, doors, tailgate, bedliner, frame and structural components.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, refrigerant servicing, A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core, blower motor, and controls.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS) diagnostics and service, seat belts, and related components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, pinpoint tests, common fault isolation, and diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all covered systems.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences.
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic procedures utilizing scan tools, multimeters, oscilloscopes, and specialized testing equipment. Includes PCM relearn procedures.
Alignment:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures for caster, camber, and toe adjustments.
Lubrication:
Lubrication points and schedules for chassis components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and wiring schematics.
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3 Star Rating (2007 model year specific, refer to NHTSA for details)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) standard on rear-wheel-drive models, Advance Trac (electronic stability control) standard on 4WD models.
Electronic Stability:
Advance Trac with Roll Stability Control (RSC) likely standard or optional, particularly on AWD models.
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, and available side-curtain airbags for front and rear occupants.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles or 6 months, or as indicated by the Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor system. Refer to manual for exact intervals based on driving conditions.
Tire Rotation:
Recommended every 5,000-7,500 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual; typically around 60,000-100,000 miles depending on severe usage.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20 (API Certified) for both V6 and V8 engines. Capacity: 4.0L V6 ~5.7 quarts (5.4L), 4.6L V8 ~6.0 quarts (5.7L). Refer to manual for exact capacities.
Coolant:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Yellow) or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSS-M97B51-A1. Mixture: 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Potential for spark plug blow-out on 4.6L V8 (requiring Heli-Coil inserts), transmission solenoid issues in the 5R55W, minor rust on the frame or bed, HVAC blend door actuator failures, and sometimes battery drain issues.