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CarComplaints.com Notes: The previous generation of Explorer was so awful that the redesign in 2006 was greeted with much optimism. That didn't last long.

The transmission continues to be the Explorer's worst reliability problem. Owners report shifting hard & lunging, typically starting as low as 40k miles with a $1,600 average repair bill. On top of that, the radiator is prone to failure around 60k miles. Repairs for the radiator run $500 to $1,000 & many owners report they've had to replace the radiator multiple times for leaks, indicating a possible design defect in the OEM replacement parts.

Ford did make some significant changes to improve handling and safety. Electronic stability control was added in addition to side impact air bags, but beyond that this is a vehicle that should be avoided at all costs.

8.0

pretty bad
Typical Repair Cost:
No data
Average Mileage:
75,000 miles
Total Complaints:
2 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. replace water pump (2 reports)
2006 Ford Explorer cooling system problems

cooling system problem

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2006 Ford Explorer Owner Comments

problem #2

Nov 242010

Explorer 6 cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 108,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

i replaced my waterpump in my 2006 explorer with 62000 miles. again at 108000 miles my waterpump is bad again.Now i have no warrenty and I am screwed with the cost. Are these pumps only good for 50000 miles/

- Leon H., Galloway, NJ, US

problem #1

Apr 252008

Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 42,000 miles

Water pump failed the day I picked it up from the dealer. Good thing they repaired it at no cost. It was still a pain having to drive back to the dealer and sit there for a half day while they fixed it (time is money, right?). I've owned 6 other vehicles, I've NEVER had to replace a water pump below 100,000 miles. Keep up the good work FORD! First and the last Ford I'll ever buy.

- vanderj3, Allendale, MI, US

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