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.
10.0
really awful
Crashes / Fires:
1 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
2 / 0
Average Mileage:
11,386 miles
About These NHTSA Complaints:
This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.
So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.
Vehicle accident two occupants both had seatbelts on, both had airbag deployed and both still struck windshield. Accident occurred in November and as of may one occupant is still removing glass from arms and legs. Ford will not respond to E-mails requesting why seatbelt and airbags did not prevent occupants from striking windshield.
The contact owns a 2006 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the glare from the dashboard reflects onto the windshield, making it very difficult to see the road. The failure was noticed while driving 55 mph. The manufacturer acknowledged the failure and stated that the vehicle was designed in that manner. They also advised the contact to buy an aftermarket mat to place on the dashboard. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer for either a refund or an exchange for another vehicle. The current and failure mileages were 59.
The contact owns a 2006 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the dashboard produces an extreme amount of glare on the windshield. The failure only occurs during the daytime. The dealer stated that nothing could be done. The manufacturer stated that there is a recall and advised the contact to file a complaint. He submitted a complaint to Ford. The current mileage is 18,500 and failure mileage was 18,100.
- Jackson, NJ, USA
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- Rangeley, ME, USA