Ford Explorer Generation 2 (2006–2010)

Ford Explorer Generation 2 (2006–2010) — production years, market prices by model year, NHTSA recalls and owner complaints, and live listings for sale on VehiSales.

Ford Explorer — body generations

Vehicles within one generation share the same platform and body style.

Engines used in the Explorer

Engine families this model shipped with, by NHTSA VIN build data — each links to every model that shares it.

Ford Explorer fuel economy: every year & engine (EPA) →

Used Ford Explorer prices by year → · Ford Explorer vs Jeep Wrangler · Ford Explorer vs Honda CR-V · Ford Explorer vs Subaru Forester

About this generation

The fourth generation Explorer entered production in July 2005 for the 2006 model year. While the Mercury Mountaineer also returned for 2006, the fourth generation Explorer did not have a Lincoln Aviator counterpart, as it was dropped following the 2005 model year. Bearing large similarities to the outgoing model, the fourth generation Explorer was marketed as all-new by Ford despite sharing its roof line, overall body, glass, drive-train, and several other major components with its predecessor.

In contrast, it rides on a new, stiffer frame produced by Magna International rather than Tower Automotive. Along with this new chassis, Ford updated the front and rear fascias, side profile, interior, and redesigned the rear suspension. Moreover, the problematic two-piece tail gate design from the outgoing model was replaced with a one-piece tail gate design. Also, a tire pressure monitoring system and electronic stability control became standard equipment for improved safety.

Unlike previous generations, there was no right-hand drive option available for order, causing Ford to market Explorers in Japan in left-hand drive configuration. The LHD Explorers were desirable there, as LHD vehicles are considered prestigious in Japan. This generation Explorer would be the last to use traditional body on frame construction. Beginning for the 2011 model year, the Explorer switched to unibody construction.

In addition, this would be the last generation of the Explorer to be produced at the Louisville, KY and St. Louis, MO assembly plants. The 4.0 L 12-valve SOHC V6 was once again the standard engine, paired to the five-speed 5R55S automatic transmission. A 4.6 L 24-valve SOHC V8, similar to the Fifth-generation Ford Mustang's engine, was available as an option, paired to a new 6-speed 6R automatic transmission, built by Ford and based on a ZF design.

The 2006 Ford Explorer was nominated for the North American Truck of the Year award for 2006. The fourth generation Explorer was the last generation to also have a Mercury Mountaineer counterpart as Mercury was dissolved in 2011. For 2007, The Explorer received a few minor updates including a standard AUX input on all stereos, a heated windshield, an Ironman Package, an XLT Appearance Package, and a heated leather seat package.

The XLS trim was also dropped for 2007, and the XLT became the base model. Additionally, the leather-wrapped steering wheel, power driver seat, and dual illuminated vanity mirrors were deleted as standard equipment on the XLT trim. Side curtain airbags were optional on Eddie Bauer and Limited trims, while XLT models were only offered with seat-mounted side torso airbags as standard equipment. Moreover, power-deployable running boards, like the ones from the Lincoln Navigator, were also made available for Eddie Bauer and Limited trims; the running boards lower to allow easier access when entering the vehicle, then retract upon door closure.

In addition, the Ford Explorer Sport Trac was also re-introduced for the 2007 model year after skipping 2006. For 2008, Ford added standard side curtain airbags on all Explorers. Notably, the 2008 Ford Explorer also became the first Ford vehicle to utilize the cap-less fuel filler system, though Explorers were not equipped with it until mid-year 2008. Three new colors were added for the 2008 model year: Stone Green clearcoat metallic, Vapor Silver clearcoat metallic, and White Suede clearcoat metallic.

All Explorers now came standard with body-color fender lip and bumper cladding, while Eddie Bauer models received standard Pueblo Gold cladding. In a minor change, the AdvanceTrac badge on the trunk door was replaced with a "4X4" badge on 4WD models. In a reversal from the 2007 model year, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, a power driver seat, and dual illuminated vanity mirrors were once again standard on the XLT.

In addition, XLT models also now received puddle lights, and a standard overhead console.

Source: Wikipedia — Ford Explorer — Fourth generation (U251; 2006), CC BY-SA.

Recalls & complaints by year (NHTSA)

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.

For sale right now

• 2006 Ford Explorer Limited — $6,487 · 145 mi · Sunbury, PA
• 2006 Ford Explorer XLT — $4,999 · 151,010 mi · Bethlehem, PA
• 2009 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer — $5,995 · 187,883 mi · Altoona, PA