We're looking at EB and Limited models with 7 passinger seating, mostly 06s with as many options as we can get for around 15-17K and under 50K miles. V8 with 6 speed is all that we want as I found the 4.0 to struggle with just the two of us in the SUV.

The only issues I know about are the transmission update to stop the clunking that I think happens durring the 2-1 downshift and the radiator problems with the 4.0. Is there anything else to watch out for, even with the optional stuff?

Mike

 

I've had issues with the auto tranny shifter in my '06. Starts with the brake interlock solenoid and went downhill from there. I've heard about gear whining from the rear diff, but haven't had that problem yet. You'll like the V8.

 

The 4.0l is a good engine and moves the Explorer pretty well considering the power it puts out. The 4.0l shure seemed to be one of the only things we didn't have a problem with on our explorers.

 

IIRC, there were some comments on here about delayed throttle reponse due to the "drive-by-wire" system; seems like tinkering with the ECM made it better.

Steve

 

I've heard about the drive by wire lag and the 07 we drove didn't feel too bad but I'll probably mess with the ECM anyway.

As far as v6 vs v8, the v8 wins hands down in my book. The 4.0 seemed to struggle with just the two of us in it. When the kid comes, the dog is in there, towing an ATV trailer with our stuff, I don't think I'd be happy with the 4.0. Also there's really no price difference and I want the newer 6 speed tranny.

Any other specific problems, especially stuff I should look for at the dealer?

Mike

 

At the dealer? No, just like every other vehicle, do a thorough test drive. '06's may still have some warranty left, which might be a consideration.

 

Hello
I have had one for about 2 years and will say if you can get a Ford extended warranty off of the internet (some advertise here) you should consider. I am now starting to have small problems with mine but unless the labor rate where you at is lower (100/hr here) I would suggest that for insurance. Mines is used as a daily driver and boat tow during the season and it does fine. The 3 rows of seats are perfect for my family of 5 plus the rear folding seats give seating flexibility. I have towed a 8K trailer no problems and can get up to 26 mpg on the expressway with the cruise set at 60 mph (23-24 at 65 mph).

 

Can you all be a bit more specific? I can fix most small stuff. I'm talking about things like engine, transmission, axles, wheel bearings. Things I either don't want to get into such as major engine/transmission repairs and things that aren't so bad but are expensive like wheel bearings.

I'm all ears though on anything, especially problematic options. We will most likely have this vehicle until it's chronicly unreliable.

Mike

 

Mike -

According to the April issue of Consumer Reports, problem areas were cooling/minor transmission/body hardware in '06. However, it covered only a V6 with 4WD so I'm not sure how helpful that is. IIRC, the '06 was reported as having weird inside handles on the front doors. Also, I think Stability Control was standard by then, so there's no worry about noisy clutch packs in the LS differentials because LS wasn't offered.

Steve

 

Well its only been small stuff with mines. Heated seats went out, some suspension work (just recently) with steering shaft and misc front susp stuff (making thump sounds over bumps) , some brake work incl a master cylinder (rear brakes were weak) and some brackets, The electric 7 pin trailer harness went bad (?). It was all covered under the 7yr/100K bumper to bumper I bought. With an comp controlled engine and trans I wanted to assurance that big bills would be covered when (or if) things went hay wired.

Joe