Three problems related to power train driveline have been reported for the 2006 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2006 Ford Explorer based on all problems reported for the 2006 Explorer.
Abs light & traction control light came on. Taken to dealer and found left rear axle assembly and tone ring had to be replaced. Was covered under extended drive train warranty at $100. Deductable. After having been in the automotive repair business for over thirty years I know this type of failure should not occur in normal vehicle operation in the mileage on this vehicle.
2006 Ford Explorer limited v8 26,000 mls. . Trans. Slams as if I were hit from behind. Engine revs 2600 rpm at 10-15 mph. Then shifts. Bought vehicle Mar. 2009 noticed possible problem late Aug. 2009. . Slight drift/uncontrollability. Ford wont do anything about my or anyone's complaints. Maybe once somebody gets hurt will Ford finally fix the many problems with their Explorer line.
New 2006 Ford explore vibration at 45 & 60 mph shakes SUV. During test drive dealer thought the problem was a flat spot on a tire from sitting on the lot. After driving the SUV for several days the vibration continued. Returned to dealer for correction. SUV received new drive shaft, and two rear 1/2 shafts. Problem sill exist. After testing couple other Explorer on lot was determined that they all had this same vibration. Ford is aware of the problem but describes it at normal. I hate to tell them that this is not normal. The SUV has problems with this vibration and if you let off the gas then reapply as if you had to break quick then accelerate the SUV struggles to regain power and has a more sever vibration. If I had know that this was typical with this unit I would not have purchased it. I thought it was a flat spot on the tire as the salesman thought. A very concerned and unhappy Ford customer.