2006 Ford Explorer Review: A Bad Year With Costly Mechanical Problems

Alex Showalter
Apr 28, 2022

The 2006 Explorer only lasts around 150,000 miles due to expensive transmission and engine failures. At $4,650 – $6,200 it’s cheap, but you’ll spend a lot of money on repairs.

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likeFilled The Good
Interior materials are well made for the price, the suspension is smooth and the infotainment system is very easy to use.
dislikeFilled The Bad
There are a lot of mechanical weak spots, fuel economy is worse than most rivals and the third row is cramped.

Is the 2006 Ford Explorer a Good Used SUV?

  • No, 2006 is a bad year. Owners complain about fuel costs, spending a lot of time in the shop, and outdated electronics.
  • Reliability ratings are terrible. Avoid models from 20022007 and go with a 2008 or newer model where there are significantly fewer problems.
  • Performance is poor from the base V6, but the V8 offers good power.
  • The Explorer is reasonably safe getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
  • Fuel economy is bad, at up to 16 MPG combined.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Teresa J
This vehicle rides very rough.
Lots of wheel bearing issues. Lots of miles have been put on the vehicle so I consider it to still be reliable. It rides very rough more than any truck I have ever owned. With the proper regular required maintenance it appears this vehicle will last a long time.
accountCircle Diana R
That it is a family car and there will be stuff inside my car, my kids play sports and other things and we leave a lot of stuff in the car so it's already there.
I love my Ford Explorer, has been very dependable and it never lets me down, interior and exterior are great. And is easy on gas.
accountCircle Stephanie S
The Only Vehicle For Me!!
I absolutely love my Ford Explorer. It's an incredibly reliable vehicle that's both attractive and practical for everyday life. It's easy to drive and maintain also, though I wish some of the parts weren't so expensive. I bought my Explorer used in 2011, (it's a 2006) but it has taken good care of me and come in very handy for several long distance moves. If I ever get another vehicle it will definitely be another Explorer!
accountCircle Karen S
Best SUV for a family of four.
My 2006 ford explorer is very roomy for my family of 3 tall boys. Everyone has their own space they are not on top of each other. I like that I can or they can control their own temperature in the back without interfering with my temperature. The DVD player is a plus to keep the little one entertained on long errands. I would recommend for a mid size family.
accountCircle Andrea P
Great vehicle, lots of room.
I really love my Explorer. Lots of room and absolutely great having three rows of seats. The only problems I have really had is with the transmission sensors.
accountCircle Faye W
Others should know that I get good gas mileage.
I love the fact that it is a high profile vehicle and it has 3 rows. I also love that it has automatic driver seat positioning.
accountCircle Jodi B
My vehicle has four wheel drive, third row seating, and side airbags.
I have had hardly any problems with my ford. This car has been in my family for going on 13 years. It runs great and is so comfortable. The four wheel drive is awesome and it drives like a dream in icy conditions. It will keep you safe in the event of an accident. I have been (minorly) rear-ended twice and it kept me safe both times. Aside from routine maintenance, I have spent less than $200 on repairs for the car. It is also a great family car with seven seats. All in all, a fantastic SUV.
accountCircle Jaye C
My vehicle is a reliable vehicle that has plenty of room for larger items in the cargo area.
It is a heavy safe vehicle. It is reliable. Gets good gas mileage for the vehicle type.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Karen I
That it do not have very good gas mileage.
The vehicle I own is a 2006 Ford explorer. It's actually been a really good vehicle. I do not really hate the make or model of the vehicle. It has actually been pretty reliable over the years. I just hate it because its getting old and I need a new vehicle. It's just old and beginning to have problems, I have had to replace the alternator twice in the last 3 yrs. And it's starting to have a oil leak. Not sure what is all wrong with it other than its old. My boyfriend has been driving it to work for the last five yrs. A hour there and a hour back home. So I thinks its been a pretty good vehicle and reliable. So I would have to say I would own a newer model of one. The only reason I hate it is that its getting old and even though it still drives, I do not feel that it is all that reliable anymore I would just like to upgrade.
accountCircle Christina L
It has a lot of room. We like the looks of it.
Has transmission issues and starting to rust. We are the 2nd owners and have all service records but are now wasting money on repairs it is not worth it anymore, we are looking to trade it in soon. The rust is getting bad and we keep it clean. We are not happy anymore with it.
accountCircle Rebecca S
2006 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer.
My vehicle has great features like navigation, DVD player, quad seating, etc. However the engine has a lag in it when taking off. Gas mileage is similar to a truck so it is costly. There's no trunk space if the two rear seats are being used. On a positive note, it is a sturdy vehicle. I hit a deer with it and still drive it as my daily driver without any work being done to it.
accountCircle Chase W
People should be well aware of the issues regarding the transmission slipping.
All of the door handles are having issues pulling open. The transmission is slowly going out as well. When I researched this issue I found out it is common with the fords.
accountCircle Bella D
Has a brand new Bluetooth radio installed.
Power steering fluid pump is busted. Has a Cracked windshield, and is not the easiest on gas. It's a roomy car, with nice 4 wheel drive, and very reliable.
accountCircle Katie T
06 Ford Explorer is outdated. Recommend 2010 and up.
2006 Explorer is outdated. No AUX spot for phone, no phone Charger. It is a good teen car. As far as a family SUV the newer explores are so much better. 2010 and up. Better gas mileage. I get 18 an average of 18 miles to the gallon. Mostly interstate driving.
accountCircle Angie A
It's A tough, durable truck that is very strong.
My truck is very strong. I can tow other vehicles as big as a full size motorhome! It does not get great gas mileage but it had done me justice in all that it does do. It's a tough truck and fairly cheap on maintenance.
accountCircle Christina L
Lots of transmission problems reported but no recalls.
I like sunroof and storage. It has a lot of room. I hate gas. Its is a gas guzzler. It also is having transmission problems.

What Do Critics Say About the Explorer?

  • Consumer Reports says the Explorer is full of annoyances, and has very low owner satisfaction scores.
  • Edmunds gives the Explorer a 4/5 liking the quiet interior, but disliking the low resale value.
  • Kelley Blue Book users rate the Explorer 4.3/5 and enjoy the roominess, but complain about poor reliability.

What Common Problems Does the 2006 Ford Explorer Have?

Problems with the 2006 Explorer are very serious and include transmission problems, leaking radiators, and complete engine failures.

Transmission problems leading to lunging while shifting between gears show up at around 50,000 miles. It’s usually a sign of a problem inside the transmission, which costs around $1,800 to rebuild or $3,000 to replace.

Radiator leaks are extremely common at roughly 65,000 miles. The seals fail as the vehicle ages, and replacing the entire radiator assembly costs about $720.

Engine failures happen on a lot of Explorers in the first 80,000 miles. There are several components which break in the engine including the crank pulley. Replacing the entire engine costs about $3,000.

There are 4 minor recalls covering the wiper motors, reflectors, and glass. None of them are very serious and they don’t address the serious mechanical problems with the 2006 Explorer.

How Long Will the 2006 Ford Explorer Last?

A properly maintained 2006 Explorer will last around 150,000 miles, half as long as top competitors like the Chevy Tahoe. Maintenance costs are significantly higher than rivals, according to Repair Pal, at roughly $550 per year.

Most Explorers will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace the steering rack for $1,300, the timing chain tensioner costing $1,000, and the radiator hoses which cost $450.

accountCircle David C

Right now my ford explorer has two non-structural problems: (1) the gasket at the bottom of the radiator has a minor leak which I have closed by using a half bottle of bar's stop leak so now there is no leakage. (2) there is a small hole on the top of the muffler at the rear of the vehicle which is barely noticeable. I have replaced all four wheel bearings and all 8 coil assemblies for each cylinder right now it is running fine. The mileage is 177,700.

accountCircle Larissa M

I love this vehicle, it is great in the winter time. It has 4x4 features, gas works great for me as well. It is a very reliable and I do not see anything wrong at this time. I have only owned this vehicle for 1 year.

accountCircle Teresha J

I have very few problems with my 2006 ford explorer. I have found this to be true of all the ford products we have owned over the years and why when buying cars for out children we bought fords.

accountCircle Rachel R

It is reliable. It is needed some maintenance for wear and tear but other than that I cannot complain about it.

accountCircle C O

No it's not reliable. Ever since I have had the car it has had problems. I have put a fortune in the car.

accountCircle Joyce G

The explorer is a very reliable SUV and considering it is 13 years old, there are no problems with it.

accountCircle Wendy P

My car is very reliable. The only problems have been basic maintenance. This car is definitely worth the money I paid.

accountCircle Brittany P

I think it’s very reliable. I have never been left stranded on the side of the road. It feel safe driving it

How Much Is the 2006 Ford Explorer Worth?

Blue book values range from $4,650 – $6,200, making the Explorer around $2,000 cheaper than other large SUVs like the GMC Yukon or Nissan Armada. When new, the price range was $26,530 to $35,940. Depreciation is worse than average, at 15% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Explorer?

There are four models of the Explorer available. The Explorer was just updated for 2006, with a new stereo system added in 2007.

XLS is the entry-level model with:

  • 16-Inch Steel Wheels
  • Cloth Seating
  • Keyless Entry
  • Power Windows & Mirrors
  • AM/FM/CD Stereo System With MP3 Playback

XLT is a popular step up adding:

  • 16-Inch Alloy Wheels
  • 6-Way Power Driver’s Seat
  • Leather Steering Wheel
  • Rear Air Conditioning

Eddie Bauer is a unique version and has:

  • 17-Inch Painted Alloy Wheels
  • Two-Tone Paint Job
  • Leather Seating
  • Heated Front Seats
  • Running Boards

Limited is the flagship luxury model with:

  • 17-Inch Chrome Wheels
  • Premium Leather Seating
  • Dual-Zone Climate Control
  • In Dash CD Changer
car
car
car
Eddie Bauer
292 HP 17-17 MPG
car
Limited
292 HP 17-17 MPG

What Engines Come In the Explorer?

  • The base engine is a relatively weak 4L V6 with 210 horsepower that gets up to 16 MPG combined.
  • An available upgrade is the more powerful 4.6L V8, which makes 292 horsepower and gets up to 15 MPG combined. Performance is weak, taking 8.9 seconds to reach 60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Explorer Come In?

How Big Is the Explorer?

The 2006 Explorer is slightly smaller than some competitors like the Dodge Durango and Chevy Suburban. Passenger room is good in the first and second row, but the optional third row is cramped for adult passengers.

Cargo space is good with 44.9 cubic feet of room behind the second row and up to 84.7 with the seats folded flat.

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How Does the Explorer Compare to the Competition?

The Ford Expedition is another SUV from Ford in the same price range. Reliability ratings and passenger room are both better on the Expedition, but the Explorer has newer technology. We recommend the Expedition since they break down less often.

The Toyota Sequoia is another competitor costing about $4,000 more. Where the Sequoia stands out is with the longest lasting engines, but the Explorer is more luxurious. We recommend the Sequoia since it’s more affordable to own.

Ranks #5 Full Size SUV by Owners

1
car
4.55
2
car
4.37
5
Tie
car
4.18

Do Owners Recommend the Ford Explorer?

accountCircle David C

Yes, my 2006 ford explorer is a good vehicle. It has been reliable, which is my main criteria. I can take long trips without concern and it is an excellent highway cruiser. Although it has the 4.6l v8 engine I get 20 - 22 mpg on trips. It has a large cargo capacity when the rear tier of seats is down.

accountCircle Larissa M

Yes it is very good and reliable family vehicle. It is perfect for my family of 6, plenty of legroom for everyone. 3rd row seating goes down to make extra trunk space for groceries.

accountCircle Teresha J

Yes- it has been very reliable and met all my needs in a vehicle. We have had very few maintenance problems and I enjoy driving it. I think it is safe and comfortable to handle.

accountCircle Rachel R

Yes besides some transmission problems it is a great vehicle. It gets great gas mileage and is pretty reliable.

accountCircle C O

My ford explorer can be good sometimes. Ever since I have had it though I have had nothing but trouble with it.

accountCircle Joyce G

I love the explorer, we have ha 3 of them and our next vehicle will most likely another explorer... It is a very good vehicle.

accountCircle Th V

I love my Explorer! It has been an excellent vehicle. I have received great gas mileage and had only basic mechanical problems with the car.

accountCircle Shannon M

Yes. At 100,000 miles I did put a new transmission in but apart from that I have only had to do minimal on maintenance.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Sara Ann on February 11, 2023
150,000 transmission replaced, radiator x3,TPS issues and leaking oil
First off let me say when the repairs are done and there is no current issue. I absolutely LOVE my Explorer. It has pep, it handles well, it has a ton of space! Very comfortable for long trips. The bad…I bought mine in 2015 with 93,000 miles on it. No issues and I babies it with regular marine e. Things like tires, battery’s, a/c recharge, brakes, ball joints. Then came 120,000-155,000 miles. First all 4 wheel bearing went out,the alternator, fuel pump had to be replaced x2 and startled having a rough idle and acceleration issues at random. Then the big stuff,I was left stranded one day when reverse went out in the transmission. So that was replaced. Then I started having issues that the traction control would come on at random, deaclerate my car and almost caused multiple accidents.We eventually took a wheel sensor off and it stopped. Then the TPS( throttle positioning sensor) wires weee divorces to have been clinked in manufacturing cause then to wear and touch. Whichwas to blame for the random rough idea and the acceleration pedal not to respond to pressure. Yes that too almost caused an accident as I driving at 40 mph down a two lane highway and it just stopped. Next both engine gaskets were toast, and ford did not make those easy to replace! Lastly the cooling issues….between 120,00-155,000 I’ve replaced 3 radiators and 4 thermostat housings from cracks. Along with a water pump and thermostats. This thing is notorious of over heating issues.
accountCircle C.B. on November 6, 2022
Good Vehicle, Requires a lot of Maintenance
This is my first car, I love it to death, there's some nice features especially the CD player and there's a lot of room. But it's needed a variety of repairs such as new brake pads, an A-Arm fix, new calipers, new fuse for the windshield wipers, new engine (done before I purchased), etc. Maybe the previous owner didn't take the best care of it. But it's held up pretty well after most of the repairs. It can handle some long drives including some rough terrain too. Something else I'd like to mention: the transmission is a little problematic- it has a lag when changing those initial gears. Good first car though I'd definitely say.
accountCircle Rebecca S on May 10, 2021
2006 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer.
My vehicle has great features like navigation, DVD player, quad seating, etc. However the engine has a lag in it when taking off. Gas mileage is similar to a truck so it is costly. There's no trunk space if the two rear seats are being used. On a positive note, it is a sturdy vehicle. I hit a deer with it and still drive it as my daily driver without any work being done to it.
accountCircle Chase W on May 10, 2021
People should be well aware of the issues regarding the transmission slipping.
All of the door handles are having issues pulling open. The transmission is slowly going out as well. When I researched this issue I found out it is common with the fords.
accountCircle CHERYL J on April 4, 2021
2006 ford explorer Eddie Bauer edition.
Best SUV I have ever owned. The Eddie Bauer edition is awesome. Sunroof, heated seats, 6 CD changer, automatic seat adjuster, 3Rd row seat so it seats 7. It is a 2006 but everything is still working fine. I think if it ever dies it will be like losing a best friend for me.
accountCircle Jessica P on April 3, 2021
My car is a true blessing for me and my family. I am so thankful for this car.
The main thing that is wrong with my car is that it is high on miles, but other than that it's a great car for me and my family. I have to get more tires and get my oil changed. It runs like a champ. I wouldn't trade my car for nothing in the world. It took me and my family all the way to Utah and back.
accountCircle Mary H on March 30, 2021
My Ford Explorer seats seven people and is four wheel drive.
It is a great, reliable, vehicle. It is perfect for a family and seats seven people. It is awesome during a snowy winter.
accountCircle Lynn A on March 29, 2021
Ford Explorer great vehicle with few repair costs.
The only issue I have had with this vehicle is the lighted display on the radio has gone out. If you press on the radio display the light comes on and will stay on for a short while. Repair is costly as the entire dash has to be removed. Other than this issue I have had no other repair costs other than regular maintenance.
accountCircle Christina L on March 27, 2021
Lots of transmission problems reported but no recalls.
I like sunroof and storage. It has a lot of room. I hate gas. Its is a gas guzzler. It also is having transmission problems.
accountCircle Karen I on March 14, 2021
That it do not have very good gas mileage.
The vehicle I own is a 2006 Ford explorer. It's actually been a really good vehicle. I do not really hate the make or model of the vehicle. It has actually been pretty reliable over the years. I just hate it because its getting old and I need a new vehicle. It's just old and beginning to have problems, I have had to replace the alternator twice in the last 3 yrs. And it's starting to have a oil leak. Not sure what is all wrong with it other than its old. My boyfriend has been driving it to work for the last five yrs. A hour there and a hour back home. So I thinks its been a pretty good vehicle and reliable. So I would have to say I would own a newer model of one. The only reason I hate it is that its getting old and even though it still drives, I do not feel that it is all that reliable anymore I would just like to upgrade.
accountCircle Jess G on March 1, 2021
The vehicle is big enough for family.
Great car. Bought it for the fwd. It's great in the snow. It does over heat from time to time. We bought the car used but it's lasted us over 2 years so far.
accountCircle Liv M on February 26, 2021
Ford Explorer- Can get through anything
Ford Explorer is a great family vehicle! It seats up to 7 with a lot of space. The seats in the back can stay up or fold down for more room and storage. Drives really smooth and can get through anything. If you live in the Midwest, or where it snows, it is a great car to get through the snow. It has 4WD and is invisible.
accountCircle IRENE L on February 22, 2021
I never had a Ford before, but I'm glad I bought this one.
I like my Ford explorer. It rides smoothly, runs really well. It has over 200,000 miles, but still is in very good condition. I have had no problems with it. I bought it used. Gas mileage is good I think. Let's me know when my tires are low or when I need to change the oil. I enjoy going on trips, the ride is very comfortable.
accountCircle JoAnna N on February 16, 2021
The review of the Ford Explorer
It's very reliable, comfortable, and roomy. I wish it had a true 3rd row. We never use the 3rd row, because there isn't a real comfortable way to get back there, and it's cramped back there.
accountCircle Billy B on February 14, 2021
I just like my car to work when it's supposed to.
I like the fact that it has a bed but is still easy to drive. Sunroof is a good option.
accountCircle Lisa O on February 14, 2021
Car is very nice and comfortable
The car is in really good condition. The car is six cylinders so I do need to get gas very often but other than that the car is fantastic. The car is very comfortable and have a very good radio. The seats are really nice to sit in and is very nice to relax in while on a road trip
accountCircle Elesea G on February 14, 2021
It's back, from 2006. It's pretty good on gas considering the vehicle.
It's decent on fuel and it gets me where i need to go efficiently. It's still hanging in there pretty well since i first got it. I bought it with about 75k miles on it and haven't gotten it over 200k since.
accountCircle Corey B on February 11, 2021
Overall it is a great car. But it being so large can be difficult at times.
Large, easy to drive, dependable. But old. No up to date with technology.
accountCircle Brian M on February 9, 2021
Overall good solid car to get around town.
It is a good reliable commuter car, however the gas mileage is poor. I would have also liked to have a USB port, it is technology is very old.
accountCircle Dona W on February 5, 2021
To use emergency brake when parked, if not will not be able to go in reverse on an incline
Good size for driving. Has third row seats and drives comfortable
accountCircle Jon C on January 30, 2021
Old Blue the reliable explorer which loves back
I love that my Ford Explorer has been so reliable throughout the past 13 years I have owned this vehicles. I have never doubted the vehicle and I have over 223,000 miles on the vehicles as of today and have a goal of getting to 300,000 if possible. Just keep the oil clean and new tires when needed and everything has been awesome.
accountCircle Amy H on January 28, 2021
It has a lot of room for sitting and transporting.
I like the size of my vehicle. I also like how easy to drive it is. I do not like how much gas it uses however.
accountCircle Jonathan R on January 24, 2021
Hands down the best vehicle ever.
The preference is no question the Ford Explorer hands down the performance of this vehicle is out of this world the v8 engine is a power house no doubts with its four door that seats more than usual with the fold seats the stereo in this vehicle pref.
accountCircle Delores S on January 24, 2021
It's been well cared for. May hold on to it for a bit longer. Don't like all the gadgets on the new models.
It's time to replace. It's been a great vehicle. Love sitting up a little higher
accountCircle Faye D on January 22, 2021
Great performance and plenty of room!
I love the amount of space, the performance and the gas mileage. I also like the sun roof and the dual air.
accountCircle VIRGINIA R on January 22, 2021
IT IS DEPENDABLE. A SAFE VEHICLE.
A DEPENDABLE VEHICLE. DON'T LIKE THE CLOTH SEATS. 4 WHEEL DRIVE.
accountCircle Matt W on January 20, 2021
2006 Ford Explorer with V8
Vehicle is generally reliable, but has heat sensor issue if push engine hard before warmed up. It is comfortable to drive and to ride, and has good handling in snow and ice. V8 and tow package allow for towing medium size/weight camping trailer. Gets about 18 MPG driving 8 miles to work and back 5 days a week.
accountCircle angela o on January 5, 2021
This vehicle has everything I need! I found a great vehicle.
My Ford Explorer is just the right size for me. Easy to get in and out. The seats fit me wonderfully! It has plenty of seating and room for hauling. I love having push button 4-wheel drive for our winters. I would definitely buy another in the future!
accountCircle Jessica on January 5, 2021
Uses twice as much gas as my Expedition! If you can afford to put gas in an Explorer then you can easily afford an Expedition!!!
I traded my Expedition for an Explorer thinking I would save on gas! OMG, this Explorer uses gas like an 18 wheeler!!! I have to fill it up 2-3 times a week!!! My Expedition was so much better on gas! I love a Ford and that is all I would buy forever! But, never an Explorer again!!! Gas is at a good price and I paid cash however I may as well have a monthly payment because of the gas! I have had it one month and I want my Expedition back! Expedition is the best vehicle all the way around!!! I am almost 70 years old and retired not like I am driving to to work 5 days a week. I would get rid of it if I had to use it every day!!! But!!! Ford is the best and wouldn’t buy anything else! Anyone else have problems with rust? Speakers? Screaming Sensors? It still looks new and drives like it’s brand new! I do love it but I could buy another car with what I spend on gas!!! Love your Ford and it will love you back but just go for it and get an Expedition because it never needed anything but an oil change and regular tuneups! Good tires!
accountCircle Crystal D on January 4, 2021
Very dependable great on gas.
Love my truck always been very dependable easy to fix. . . Love taking long trips truck is excellent on gas. Also plenty of space available for storage and seating and if need be able to throw a air mattress for sleeping. . Would purchase same vehicle again.
accountCircle melissa l on December 25, 2020
Roomy luxury SUV with camel leather interior and great sound system!
I like the height of my vehicle. It has great leather interior and is roomy inside. I appreciate the trunk space and 4 doors. My truck rides smoothly. I wish I had 3rd row seating.
accountCircle Stephanie S on December 24, 2020
The Only Vehicle For Me!!
I absolutely love my Ford Explorer. It's an incredibly reliable vehicle that's both attractive and practical for everyday life. It's easy to drive and maintain also, though I wish some of the parts weren't so expensive. I bought my Explorer used in 2011, (it's a 2006) but it has taken good care of me and come in very handy for several long distance moves. If I ever get another vehicle it will definitely be another Explorer!
accountCircle Kyle B on December 21, 2020
I use it for everything and it is d***y
My truck has been dependable for years. I have been able to service most parts on my own without having to take it in for service. The only downside is that it is lacking the technology more modern cars have these days.
accountCircle Annette A on December 21, 2020
I would recommend the ford explorer.
My explorer is very reliable vehicle. Goes great in bad weather. Comfortable and very roomy. I would recommend this type of vehicle for all family types. It is great for people with kids seats seven people very well. Very affordable. The sound system is also very good.
accountCircle Lana N on December 19, 2020
Ford Explorer is the best on the snow and you can go up the mountains.
My car is in the perfect condition, it is my beast, Ford Explorer is the best car to go on snow or mountains and it has a lot of space inside, it is a luxury car.
accountCircle Dawn K on December 15, 2020
It is very roomy and has been a great family car. People need to know that the computer is the best I've seen in a long time, on other vehicles. The way this thing is running I think it's going to last us a long time.
I got my vehicle about 8 years ago and since we have been keeping up on the maintenance the vehicle now has 200,000 miles. It still runs like it did when I bought it in 2011. I like that the computer is always right. There are many vehicles that have computers that are not accurate with the gas to empty, tire pressure, etc. I also LOVE, the third row seats.
accountCircle Angela C on December 7, 2020
I like SUVs because they sit higher than cars. I like to have 4x4 for the winter time. There is plenty of room for my whole family.
It is comfortable and reliable. You can be safe no matter what the season is.
accountCircle Terry G on November 29, 2020
Nice car to have for 4x4 and to have for work.
Nice white color, runs well. Do not like the tire sensors they are a pain. Fits 10 people well. It has lots of room. Mileage no great but does the job. Has 4x4 witch I love. Easy to keep up. Sound system is good. Love the a/c and heater. Needs ash tray that seems to not come with the car. Should always have one just cause.
accountCircle Dana G on November 24, 2020
The middle row where you gain access to the third row lift up and out of the way.
A big thing for me is that it doesn't have a CD player. I have a lot of kids so I love how middle row allows great access to the third row. Truck could be a bit bigger. After the kids bags are in my suitcase has to squeeze between to kids. Love the door cup holders. Not a big fan of only being able to unlock the truck on the driver side.
accountCircle Richard M on November 20, 2020
It is compact but has a very large trunk!.
It is an eddie bauer version so has quite a few high end options. Gas mileage is not great because it is a v8 with 4 wheel drive. The exterior and interior is excellent condition. We like the vehicle a lot and have had no major issues with it in the 5 years we have owned it.
accountCircle Cindy T on November 18, 2020
Listen to the engine, the car will tell you when he needs help.
I have had a few issues with basic upkeep, it is really reliable and has been good through thick and thin. However there are a lot of cosmetic issues that make it a little difficult, such as the gas gauge breaking, or the fabric starting to remove itself, etc..
accountCircle Jacqueline V on November 14, 2020
Comfortable and Reliable Vehicle
Normal wear and tear problems over the years but very comfortable, reliable. It has performed excellent in the snow and has a spacious interior. My specific model doesn't have any fancy features.
accountCircle Macy W on November 13, 2020
3 rows of seating, back row can be dropped down made into 1 big cargo area.
Love my vehicle. Provides plenty of space for me and my family. The only dislike is the amount of gas used quickly. It gets 14.5 mpg.
accountCircle Jack H on November 12, 2020
My car is an alright car. It's not extravagant, but it does its job, and that's good enough for me.
It gets me from point a to point b and is very easy to drive. The only thing about it that I don't like is the gas mileage since the car is an SUV. I only get about 16 mpg on a good day, so gas gets expensive.
accountCircle Brittany D on November 11, 2020
Great spacious vehicle for everyday use.
I have had my car since 2006 no major issues. I have hit two deer in it and had the damage fixed. It is great for having multiple children and the back is great for grocery shopping. I keep my sons stroller in the very back and still have room for groceries. It is an everyday vehicle and very reliable.
accountCircle Jodi B on November 9, 2020
My vehicle has four wheel drive, third row seating, and side airbags.
I have had hardly any problems with my ford. This car has been in my family for going on 13 years. It runs great and is so comfortable. The four wheel drive is awesome and it drives like a dream in icy conditions. It will keep you safe in the event of an accident. I have been (minorly) rear-ended twice and it kept me safe both times. Aside from routine maintenance, I have spent less than $200 on repairs for the car. It is also a great family car with seven seats. All in all, a fantastic SUV.
accountCircle Taylor B on November 5, 2020
Ford Explorer Sport Trac adrenalin edition 2006.
Ford Explorer Sport Trac adrenalin edition 2006- sunroof, automatic back window, heated seats in the front. Performs great, has been a family vehicle for 6/10 years we've owned it. Has had one transmission replaced due to a coolant leak but is taken care of very well besides that. Very little amount of rust. Slightly loud, just needs muffler replaced.
accountCircle Glen S on November 2, 2020
I like that there is a truck bed and four doors. There is a rust spot on the roof, which seems to be common among this model.
It rides comfortably on or off road. This truck can handle hauling and driving to work.
accountCircle Lea M on November 1, 2020
It is a very good vehicle that I like a lot. Nothing I dislike about it.
It is a very reliable vehicle that always gets me to where I need to go.
accountCircle Luis S on October 19, 2020
Overall it's a good car that anyone can drive
My time with the car has been a good one. The ford explorer is a good car for someone who has or takes care of a kid since it is spaces
accountCircle Lanell s on October 4, 2020
If you plan to keep an explorer over 5 years, plan on having to deal with a faulty transmission.
I love my Ford Explorer, this is my 3rd one, however, with every one we have had transmission problems. The years we have owned are 1995, 2000, and 2006. Wish Ford would do something about their transmissions on this vehicle.
accountCircle angela M on October 3, 2020
Comfortable and spacious vehicle.
It has a very comfortable ride, easy to handle, decent gas mileage, roomy interior and great options available. Kids really like the movie player in the back but I do not like the screen being in the middle, it makes it hard to see in the rear view mirror.
avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.