6.9
fairly significantTypical Repair Cost:
$546.00
Average Mileage:
46,009 miles
Total Complaints:
38 complaints
Most common solutions:
- replace radiator (27 reports)
- not sure (6 reports)
- have to replace because of bad seal (5 reports)
cooling system problem
This problem may be covered under warranty. Ask your Ford dealer.
Helpful Websites About 2006 Ford Explorer radiator leak
2008Jul 08
Explorer Eddie Bauer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 42,000 miles
I have racked my brain over the constant problem with my explorer! I finally found this website. I have the same problem that everyone else has mentioned. This vehicle is a piece of crap! I have replaced the water pump three times in less than a year and just now had to replace the radiator last month and I still have the same problem with it over heating and the fan running all the time. Now I'm being told maybe it needs a head gasket ($920.00). I can't kieep putting more money into a vehicle that is less than 4 years old! The fan stared running all the time over a year and a half ago and the dealership told me that was normal for this ford vehicle that there wasn't a problem. Also the gear shift keep getting stuck when I first bought the vehicle in 2006. Ford needs to do something about these defects. I will not buy another Ford ever!!!!!!
2009Oct 21
Explorer Eddie Bauer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 37,000 miles
This vehicle is used to transport the Kids and gets used for local trips only, never mistreated, garaged in any bad or cold weather... This radiator leak was inside the radiator, and could not be caused by rock or damage.. Even the ford dealer who replaced it told me that this problem is a know issue on 2006 explorers but ford refuse to do a recall on this problem.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2007Oct 20
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 43,278 miles
The radiator began to leak. I took it to the dealer and they blamed it on a rock busting the radiator and said they replaced it. I have recently 10/28/09 have had the same problem. I took it to another dealer and they said that it is obvious that a radiator sealer was used and that my radiator is now filled with gunk.
2009Oct 28
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 71,234 miles
I had this problem while the vehicle was under warranty and the dealer claimed to have fixed it. The radiator is not only leaking, but is clogged with gunk because they used some type of radiator sealent. I have to replace the entire radiator ad have the system flushed. THANKS FORD! I should have brought a f-in Honda
2009Oct 01
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L 6 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 21,624 miles
It's comforting to know that I'm not alone. On the other hand, this is a big problem! After owning a 1999 Ford F150 for 10 years and putting 350000 kilometres on it, I have to say that it's true. Ford is built tough. That is... until I bought a slightly used 2006 Explorer Eddie Bauer with only 34000 kilometres on it. I have owned this vehicle for exactly 1 month and the radiator has already started leaking and I'm told, after getting it pressure tested, that it has to be replaced. I don't think bitching to Ford about this is going to do much since no one has been killed as a result of this obviously poorly constructed radiator. So no recall. I am wondering if anyone is aware of a better after market product that can be used to replace this piece of crap that Ford is installing? I believe in supporting North American made products, but if this is how Ford is going to stand behind their products, I will be buying foreign next time sad to say.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Oct 18
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 58,323 miles
Just purchased the Explorer from my daughter. It has 58,323 miles on it and is in great shape. I know the vehicle and maintenance history and I know that it was never abused roadwise. The radiator has a leak high up on the passenger side and the dummy lights never warned us of failure or low coolant levels. Only indication of problem was the fan sound coming on when we would accelerate from a stop position.
After reading similar complaints I now realize this is common problem with the 2006 Explorer and Fords is not addressing the issue.
I'm a 31 year Ford retiree but seriously thinking of switching to GM. (or God forbid...foreign make that offers longer warranty time.)
2009Sep 14
Explorer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 49,369 miles
I had an extended warranty that covered my vehicle up to 50,000 miles. The issue of going through coolant surfaced a month or two before I took the vehicle in. I took it into Freeway Ford in Denver, CO on September 14,2009 for two things. One was to repair the stick shift and the other was that the coolant was leaking issue. The dealer was more focused on selling me filters, replacing my battery cables and redoing all my fluids like brake and transmission. I pick up my vehicle and I am told that the cooling system is fine. A month later, I am getting my oil changed and my mechanic informs me that the radiator was leaking and at 50,000 miles it shouldn't be. I call Ford and now I am told my warranty is expired as I exceeded 50,000 miles. They make excuses as to why they feel the leak wasn't there in September and make it clear, the cost to replace it would not be covered.
When I pick up my vehicle from my mechanic after they fix the radiator for a lot less than Ford was willing to, I am shown a document that identifies my year, make and model vehicle as having a defective radiator. Freeway Ford never once informed me of this in all my discussions and with me taking my vehicle in.
2009Aug 01
Explorer XLS 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 45,000 miles
I paid $28,000 for a new 2006 Ford Explorer, at 44000 miles the radiator developed a leak near the top on the passenger side. Talking to several Ford mechanics they all say this is a defect in the radiators on the 2006 models. Fords official line is they have never heard of any problems like this with the 2006's and they don't plan on fixing the problem.
2009Sep 11
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.6L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 73,943 miles
I am just another bad luck bad leak guy who will not be buying another ford ford should recall this radiator. My 2006 Explorer radiator is leaking.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Sep 10
Explorer Limited 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 74,000 miles
i too have had my radiator leak in my '06 explorer(77000 miles). luckily, i bought it wholesale for $140, and i replaced it myself. you would think for a $38000 car, ford would use better products. but then again, every ford truck i've bought has had radiator problems. ford should recall this problem, so customers like myself, keep buying fords
2009Feb 10
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 25,000 miles
I bought my Explorer back in Jan. 2009, the next month I heard a noise under the hood. Took it back to the dealership to find out the radiator was leaking. They said that they replaced it. The noise never really went away but just in the last week it has gotten worse. The noise is a squealing noise. I took it back to the dealer today and had said the radiator is leaking again!!! I will find out tomorrow what is going on with this. Of course it didnt make the noise when i was at the Ford Dealer.
2009Sep 16
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 34,750 miles
I forgot to put the miles. The first radiator was put in with 25000 miles, the second one with 34750
2009Aug 13
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 56,000 miles
I just purchased a 2006 Explorer with only 56000 miles and after a few days of use I noticed a small coolant leak on the ground. Upon further inspection I see it is leaking from the bottom seal near the drain plug. I am very disappointed that the radiator is leaking with such low mileage. After reading all the complaints on this site I see this is a common problem. I also have a 2003 Explorer with the same mileage and has given me no problems yet. The 2006 is improved a lot, the ride and comfort is much better which is why I bought it.
Although the radiator can be expensive to replace it is minor compared to other more serious repairs. I would recommend for a minor leak you can use Bars Leak sealant which you can buy at any auto parts store. It does work, if you have a crack in the plastic tank or the neck where the hose connects you can you JB weld which is also available at a auto parts store and works great and permanent when done correctly of course.
Good luck to all.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Jul 20
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 50,000 miles
There definitely needs to be a recall on this problem!! The radiator was leaking at the seams. So many other people have had the same problem, this has to be a faulty design of the radiator. What can be done to get a recall, so we can get our money back. It cost us $750.00 to replace. Maybe a class action lawsuit?
2009Aug 01
Explorer XLS 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 71,000 miles
I previously owned a ford mercury and was very happy with it.Read good reviews about Ford Explorer on MSN Auto and bought a 2006 Explorer with 70000 miles on it.Within the first month discovered something strange i.e. on slowing down it would make much noise engine would rev up but the move forward is insignificant.Once I was on the highway going at 80m/hr but when slowed down at a check point the engine stalled the check engine sign came up but the temperature was still showing ok.checks with mechanics showed nothing.Cold start has good engine power but once engine is warm it loses power and temperature shoots up on slowing down.dealer in Saudi Arabia Riyadh has discovered a leaky radiator and will replace it.I only hope and pray that it lasts 40000K .god help me as Ford will not I know.Can anyone advise if any other make of radiator will fix the problem
2009Mar 04
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 45,000 miles
I've owned 6 vehicles, put over 150,000 on all of them (one had over 300,000) and I've NEVER replaced a radiator. The Explorer is the newest vehicle I've ever owned. The radiator had a pn hole leak and needed to be replaced. Go FORD! Yea, I love FORD! Stupid Ford. First and the last Ford I'll ever buy.
Belle Tire gave me a great deal and did a great job. They didn't know what caused the pin hole leak. But they did mention it was a crappy Ford part and that they've seen several of the 2006 Explorers with this problem.
2009Jul 01
Explorer ES V6
- Automatic transmission
- 42,089 miles
This is an ongoing problem with this model and year vehicle. I didn't realize at the time of repair that Ford is aware of this problem and have done nothing about it. This is a repair problem that should not be at the expense of the owner, since it is due to a faulty part. I used to like the ford explorer, but due to this I can safely say this will be the last one I purchase.
2009Jul 21
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
Well I finally joined the radiator leak group. Bought this car used at 50000 Miles, I've put 30000 on it since I owned it, and I found the puddle of antifreeze sitting in the driveway last week. Ordered a new radiator and did the work myself. Still a pain. And when I took the old one out it was already a replacement, so whoever owned this before me had obviously had the same problem.
2009Jul 02
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 34,000 miles
this is my first car here in the us it is a 06 ford explorer i thought ford is built for tough,but i was wrong i take very good care of this vehicle since i got it, i do all the regular and preventive maintenance with the dealer i change everything that is recomended every time i have my scheduled maintenance.thinking that when my warranty expire i will have no more surprise repair.but after months my warranty expire my radiator leaks, after a month of my last scheduled visit with them.I ask the mechanics what had cause it to leak, he said he don't know what caused it.all he knows is that i need to replace it for $997 for the original ford radiator,$750 for after market radiator.sorry but this is my first and last ford vehicle.I will never buy ford again.
2009Apr 09
Explorer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 38,754 miles
radiator cracked lost all fluids endine over heated
second time
2009Jun 10
Explorer Eddie Bauer
- Automatic transmission
- 54,000 miles
I too have a 2006 Explorer. Radiator was leaking so I took it in to the dealership. My extended warranty won't cover the repair because they say it's a seal. Ford refuses to replace only the seal because they say, " it opens up a can of worms". What the hell does that mean? Anyway, $850 is the cost to replace the radiator. Called FORD yesterday, the customer service lady said she had NO COMPLAINTS on file about this problem. SO PLEASE CALL AND REPORT THIS TO FORD if you have the same problem. They, of course, said there was nothing they can do about it. I Can't help but think, this is what I get for trying to buy American made vehicles. FORD does not stand behind their product.
2009Jun 01
Explorer Eddie Bauer
- Automatic transmission
- 39,000 miles
I wrote to ford and was told that this is not a defect. I read at least 15 complaints exactly like mine...my insurance expert said there was not any sign of impact or any damage to any part of my car including the tires and suspension. But my dealership HIRSCH FORD MICHIGAN CITY, INDIANA said I probably hit a POTHOLE that cracked the front end and radiator...REALLY??? WELL, that must of been a very special pothole to crack the radiator and leave the rest of my car in perfect condition...Never will I ever buy from Ford again and sorry for all my fellow complainers I feel your pain
2009May 15
Explorer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
Unbelievable that I had to replace my radiator on a new car. It seems to be happening consistently right after the truck is out of warranty. Not another Ford for me!!!
2009May 14
Explorer LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 50,000 miles
A radiator on a car this new should not be leaking. There is not even a warranty for this problem..
2008Jul 02
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 32,710 miles
My mechanic told me he had to add cooling fluid as it was down. So when I had to take the explorer into ford for it's 50K check and transmission fluid change, I had them check the cooling system for leaks. They did a pressure test and said they couldn't find anything. Recently I called the dealership and they acted surprised and said it was not covered under warranty. After reading the other complaints in the autobeef I am reluctant to put a ford radiator in it and will look for an after market radiator. Ford should stand up to the problem and do a recall.
2009Mar 31
Explorer Limited V6
- Automatic transmission
- 44,000 miles
Unbelievable to have to replace the radiator on a car less than 3 years old. The mechanic said he was shocked as well. How convenient for Ford that the warranty just expired, which ended up costing us $550. The mechanic said it was a P.O.S. radiator made out of aluminum and plastic. No wonder Ford is going bankrupt. Would like to keep buying American for obvious reasons, but won't - ever again! I have a Honda with over 100,000 miles with no problems like this. Ford should step up and recall.
2008May 05
Explorer Eddie Baurer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 33,000 miles
This is the first Radiator that has had to be replaced, the next one would not last a year even.
2009Mar 11
Explorer Eddie Baurer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
This is the second time that I have had to replace the Radiator in less then a year with the same problem.
2008Dec 01
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
I am a bit dismayed b/c I purchased a "certified" explorer.....please-this is basically a truck line of ford it's almost embarrassing to put the proud ford badge on vehicles and have these kind of quality issues. American auto builders need to do like competitors and focus on say 3 or 4 models, dump the rest and keep improving them over time aka Honda civic, Honda accord, Hyundai Sonata, Hyundai Elantra, Toyota corolla, etc, Nissan Altima, Maxima. Remember the first civics? They were junk but the motor ran like hell! Now look at them over how many years of perfection.
2009Feb 02
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
I also had a puddle under the drivers side front bumper. After reading these complaints I decided to take it to Ford in case of a recall so I would have documentation. I knew the problem so I asked that they look at the radiator. I was told that I needed to have a pressure check, which would cost $39.95. Which annoyed me since I already knew the problem. 5 Minutes later, sure enough, you need a new radiator. The seam had come apart. I voiced my annoyance with Fords not recalling this part, but they didn't really have much to say. So I went ahead and had it repaired. I was quoted $600.00. I explained I was quoted $450. He looked and said there was an after market that I could get for $199.00. The next day they said they couldn't get the after market. So they gave me a 15% discount on parts & labor which I appreciated but it still cost me $550.00. I called Ford this morning to complain, and got nowhere. I was told there is no recall and I could try to get reimbursed by the individual dealership. EVERYONE needs to complain to see if we can get this part recalled. At $600 I think it's worth our time. Thanks for the forum, it's how I learned about this problem. Good luck to anyone else with this problem.
2006May 12
Explorer XLT
- Automatic transmission
- 4 miles
I have had my radiator replaced four times, and now it's leaking again. The Ford Dealership refuse to acknowledge that this is a problem. I have filed a complaint
with ford customer service and I was told that my vehicle will not be replaced because the problem is fixable. Well hell, I guess every 4 to 5 months I will have to take my truck back to the service center to get a new radiator. This is very inconvenient for me and I am tired of taking time out of my busy schedule to address the same problem. Can someone please help! Preferably an Attorney..
2008Nov 18
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 45,000 miles
I previously search wheel bearing problems and found many other issues to look out for. After a wheel bearing going out in December 08. Now I have a radiator leak. Judging from the blogs i am not the only victim. Problems with my Chevy 2500 didn't take place until after 80000 miles. Even those were minimal and I beat the hell out of that truck. Now my wife's dainty Explorer has had two major issues before 50k. WTF (^%%^#@$#@%$^##@. My research is more so on how to fix it myself. It's BS to have to beg Ford to fix its cheap manufacturing. No wonder Toyota sales are superseding the American lines.
2008Nov 01
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 48,000 miles
i have an 06 Eddie Bauer explorer with approx 48,000 miles on it and the radiator leaks. asked ford about any recalls and was told no. found many complaints on the internet regarding the same issue. still no recall. found a new radiator on ebay for $87. will replace it myself with a friend. most shops wanted $200 for the radiator plus labor. this is my last ford product. good luck to future explorer buyers.
2008Aug 12
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 54,000 miles
Well i noticed a small puddle under the front right hand side if the radiator and could never tell where it was coming from. After looking it up on the internet, i was surprised to see a blog 3 pages long with people having the same problem! One person had mentioned an after warranty assistance program where ford split the bill. So i called ford and they said that since it was not serviced at the dealership they could not help. I informed the man that this problem was posted all over the internet and asked why it was not recalled, he said they are not aware of a problem! I called bullshit on him and asked him if he ever wondered why alot of people don't buy American cars. All i asked him to do was stand by his product and make it right! I told him that this was the 3rd Ford i had owned and that i would never buy another one, his response was i'm sorry you feel that way! I really feel for the workers in Detroit and what they are going through with the economy and all but i just wish they would take $600 out of their bailout package and fix my damn explorer!!! After all they are not the only ones struggling! To date i have not fixed the radiator due to my wife loosing her job but i will have to do something soon because it is leaking more now! I guess that is where my tax money will go!!
2009Dec 30
Explorer Eddie Baur 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 58,000 miles
The radiator leak is now w well known problem on the 06 Explorer and I can see why Ford is not acting and recalling these vehicles. I am pissed and not very happy with the response that I received from Fords customer services. I will remember when next time I a purchasing a new vehicle. I can't wait to get rid of the Explorer now.
2008Oct 09
Explorer Eddie Bauer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 38,000 miles
I have a 2006 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer and the radiator leaks. I did some research and it seems that this is a common problem with Explorers according to the internet.
Why hasn't this been recalled!
2008May 07
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 44,600 miles
the radiator is on back order, even thru ford and that makes it a hassle to get to your destination and back home without further damaging something else, what do u do?
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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Oct 21
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6
Radiator leak hardly noticed 3,000 miles ago in July but recently the extra fan sound came on if the fluid was low when I accelerated. This sound caused me to notice the small leak. Leak was in the seam so it was not damage but failure of the product. I had the 5 yr/60 mile dealer warrenty BUT this was NOT covered since it was not part of the power train. After showing copy of these listed problems, dealer did reduce radiator list price from $674 to $425 and an additional 10% on parts and labor. Car was manufactured 11/28/05 so I think the issue may be a bad batch of radiators in the production line at that date. No other issues to date with the car. This is my 3rd explorer since 1993 and all were without issues.
quidmaine
Arnold, MD, USA
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