2006 Ford Explorer Owner's Manual
Year:
2006
Make:
Ford
Model:
Explorer
Rating:
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
1
Introduction
4
CONGRATULATIONS
4
SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION
5
Warning symbols in this guide
5
Warning symbols on your vehicle
5
Protecting the environment
5
BREAKING-IN YOUR VEHICLE
5
SPECIAL NOTICES
6
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
6
Special instructions
6
Service Data Recording
6
Event Data Recording
7
Notice to owners of pickup trucks and utility type vehicles
8
Using your vehicle with a snowplow
8
Using your vehicle as an ambulance
8
Cell phone use
9
Middle East/North Africa vehicle specific information
9
Instrument Cluster
12
WARNING LIGHTS AND CHIMES
12
GAUGES
18
Entertainment Systems
21
AUDIO SYSTEMS
21
AM/FM Single CD/MP3 Satellite Compatible Sound System (if equipped)
21
AM/FM Single CD/MP3/Cassette Satellite Compatible Sound System (if equipped)
26
Audiophile AM/FM In-dash Six CD/MP3 Satellite Compatible Sound System (if equipped)
31
GENERAL AUDIO INFORMATION
36
Satellite radio information (if equipped)
37
NAVIGATION SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
40
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
40
Climate Controls
41
MANUAL HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
41
Operating tips
41
DUAL AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL (DATC) SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
43
Operating tips
45
AUXILIARY SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
46
FLOOR CONSOLE CLIMATE CONTROLS
47
REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER
47
Lights
48
HEADLAMP CONTROL
48
Autolamp Control (if equipped)
48
Foglamp control (if equipped)
48
Daytime running lamps (DRL) (if equipped)
49
High beams
49
Flash to pass
49
PANEL DIMMER CONTROL
50
AIMING THE HEADLAMPS
50
Headlamp aim adjustment
50
TURN SIGNAL CONTROL
51
INTERIOR LAMPS
52
Dome/reading lamps
52
Cargo/reading lamps
52
BULB REPLACEMENT
52
Headlamp Condensation
52
Replacing exterior bulbs
53
Replacing the interior bulbs
53
Using the right bulbs
53
Replacing headlamp bulbs
54
Replacing front parking lamp/turn signal/sidemarker bulbs
55
Replacing tail/brake/turn/backup lamp bulbs
55
Replacing foglamp bulbs
56
Replacing license plate lamp bulbs
56
Replacing high-mount brakelamp bulb
57
Driver Controls
58
MULTI-FUNCTION LEVER
58
Windshield wiper features (if equipped with Autolamp feature)
58
Rear window wiper/washer controls
58
TILT STEERING COLUMN
59
ILLUMINATED VISOR MIRROR (IF EQUIPPED)
59
OVERHEAD CONSOLE (IF EQUIPPED)
60
Storage compartment
60
Installing a garage door opener (if equipped)
61
AUXILIARY POWER POINT (12VDC)
61
Rear auxiliary power point (if equipped)
62
CENTER CONSOLE
62
Rear center console features (if equipped)
63
POWER WINDOWS
63
One touch down
64
Window lock
64
Accessory delay
64
AUTOMATIC DIMMING INSIDE REAR VIEW MIRROR (IF EQUIPPED)
65
EXTERIOR MIRRORS
65
Power side view mirrors
65
Fold-away mirrors
66
Heated outside mirrors (if equipped)
66
POWER ADJUSTABLE FOOT PEDALS (IF EQUIPPED)
66
SPEED CONTROL (IF EQUIPPED)
66
Setting speed control
67
Resuming a set speed
68
Increasing speed while using speed control
68
Reducing speed while using speed control
68
Turning off speed control
69
STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS (IF EQUIPPED)
69
Audio control features
69
Climate control features (if equipped)
71
MOON ROOF (IF EQUIPPED)
71
HOMELINK WIRELESS CONTROL SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
72
Programming
73
Gate Operator & Canadian Programming
75
Operating the HomeLink Wireless Control System
75
Erasing HomeLink buttons
76
Reprogramming a single HomeLink button
76
STANDARD MESSAGE CENTER (IF EQUIPPED)
76
Selectable features
77
Info menu
77
Odometer/Trip odometer
77
Distance to empty (DTE)
77
Average fuel economy (AFE)
78
Setup menu
78
System check
79
Units (English/Metric)
80
Language
80
Autolamp
80
Autolock
81
Autounlock
81
Reverse Sensing System (Park Aid) (if equipped)
81
Oil Life Start Value
82
Compass display
82
Compass zone adjustment
83
Compass calibration adjustment
83
System warnings
84
OPTIONAL MESSAGE CENTER (IF EQUIPPED)
87
Selectable features
88
Reset
88
Info menu
88
Trip odometer
88
Distance to empty (DTE)
88
Average fuel economy (AFE)
89
Instantaneous fuel economy
89
Fuel Used
90
Trip elapsed drive time
90
Blank display
90
Setup menu
90
System check
91
Units (English/Metric)
92
Language
92
Autolamp
92
Autolock
93
Autounlock
93
Easy entry/exit seat
94
Reverse Sensing System (Park Aid) (if equipped)
94
Compass display
94
Compass zone adjustment
95
Compass calibration adjustment.
96
Oil life Start Value
97
System warnings
97
POSITIVE RETENTION FLOOR MAT
100
CARGO COVER (IF EQUIPPED)
100
Cargo management system
101
REAR LIFTGATE
101
LUGGAGE RACK
102
Locks and Security
104
KEYS
104
POWER DOOR LOCKS
104
Auxiliary power door lock control
104
Smart unlocking feature
104
Power door lock/unlock inhibit feature (if equipped)
105
CHILDPROOF DOOR LOCKS
106
REMOTE ENTRY SYSTEM
106
Two step door unlocking
107
One step door unlocking
107
Switching from two step to one step door unlocking
108
Locking the doors/liftgate
108
Opening the liftgate window
108
Sounding a panic alarm
108
Memory seats/adjustable pedals/easy entry-exit feature (if equipped)
108
Activating the memory seat feature
109
Deactivating the memory seat feature
109
Replacing the battery
109
Replacing lost remote entry transmitters
110
How to reprogram your remote entry transmitters
110
Illuminated entry
111
KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
112
Programming a personal entry code
112
Erasing personal code
113
Anti-scan feature
113
Unlocking and locking the doors, liftgate and liftgate window using keyless entry
113
Autolock
114
Deactivating/activating autolock
114
Power door unlock/lock procedure
114
Keyless entry key pad procedure
115
Message center procedure
115
Autounlock
115
Deactivating/activating autounlock
115
Power door unlock/lock procedure
116
Keyless entry key pad procedure
116
Message center procedure
117
SECURILOCK PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM
117
Anti-theft indicator
117
Automatic arming
118
Automatic disarming
118
Replacement keys
118
Programming spare keys
118
Seating and Safety Restraints
120
SEATING
120
Adjustable head restraints
120
Adjusting the front manual seat (if equipped)
121
Using the power lumbar support (if equipped)
122
Adjusting the front power seat (if equipped)
122
Memory seats and adjustable pedals (if equipped)
124
Using the manual lumbar support (if equipped)
125
Heated seats (if equipped)
125
REAR SEATS
125
Folding down the 2nd row 60/40 seats and bucket seats
125
Placing the 2nd row 60/40 seats in cargo mode (if equipped)
127
Adjusting the 2nd row seat for E-Z Entry
128
3rd row folding seat (if equipped)
130
3rd row power folding seat (if equipped)
130
SAFETY RESTRAINTS
132
Personal Safety System
132
How does the Personal Safety System work?
132
Driver and passenger dual-stage airbag supplemental restraints
133
Front crash severity sensor
133
Driver’s seat position sensor
133
Front passenger sensing system
133
Front safety belt usage sensors
134
Front safety belt pretensioners
134
Front safety belt energy management retractors
134
Determining if the Personal Safety System is operational
135
Safety restraints precautions
135
Energy Management Feature
136
Combination lap and shoulder belts
137
Vehicle sensitive mode
137
Automatic locking mode
138
When to use the automatic locking mode
138
How to use the automatic locking mode
138
How to disengage the automatic locking mode
139
Safety belt pretensioner
139
Front safety belt height adjustment
140
Second row comfort guide
140
Safety belt extension assembly
141
Safety belt warning light and indicator chime
141
Conditions of operation
142
BeltMinder
142
One time disable
145
Deactivating/activating the BeltMinder feature
145
Safety belt maintenance
147
AIRBAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)
147
Important SRS precautions
148
Children and airbags
149
How does the airbag supplemental restraint system work?
150
Front passenger sensing system
151
Determining if the system is operational
156
Seat-mounted side airbag system
156
How does the side airbag system work?
157
Safety Canopy system (if equipped)
158
How does the Safety Canopy system work?
159
Determining if the system is operational
161
Disposal of airbags and airbag equipped vehicles (including pretensioners)
161
SAFETY RESTRAINTS FOR CHILDREN
161
Important child restraint precautions
162
Children and safety belts
162
Child booster seats
163
Types of booster seats
164
SAFETY SEATS FOR CHILDREN
166
Child and infant or child safety seats
166
Installing child safety seats with combination lap and shoulder belts
167
Attaching child safety seats with tether straps
170
Attaching safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) attachments for child seat anchors
172
Tires, Wheels and Loading
176
NOTICE TO UTILITY VEHICLE AND TRUCK OWNERS
176
VEHICLE CHARACTERISTICS
176
4WD and AWD Systems (if equipped)
176
How your vehicle differs from other vehicles
177
INFORMATION ABOUT UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADING
178
Treadwear
178
Traction AA A B C
179
Temperature A B C
179
TIRES
179
Glossary of tire terminology
179
INFLATING YOUR TIRES
180
INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE TIRE SIDEWALL
182
Information on “P” type tires
183
Additional information contained on the tire sidewall for “LT” type tires
186
Information on “T” type tires
187
Location of the tire label
187
TIRE CARE
187
Inspecting your tires
187
Tire wear
188
Damage
188
U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN)
189
Tire Replacement Requirements
189
Safety practices
190
Highway hazards
190
Tire and wheel alignment
190
Tire rotation
191
TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS)
192
Understanding your Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
193
When your temporary spare tire is installed (if equipped)
194
When you believe your system is not operating properly
194
When inflating your tires
196
How temperature affects your tire pressure
197
USING SNOW TIRES AND TRACTION DEVICES
197
VEHICLE LOADING – WITH AND WITHOUT A TRAILER
198
Special loading instructions for owners of pickup trucks and utility-type vehicles
205
Calculating the load your vehicle can carry/tow
205
TRAILER TOWING
205
Preparing to tow
208
Hitches
208
Safety chains
209
Trailer brakes
209
Trailer lamps
209
Driving while you tow
210
Servicing after towing
210
Trailer towing tips
210
Launching or retrieving a boat
211
RECREATIONAL TOWING (ALL WHEELS ON THE GROUND)
212
Driving
213
STARTING
213
Positions of the ignition
213
Important safety precautions
213
Starting the engine
214
Guarding against exhaust fumes
215
Important ventilating information
215
USING THE ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (IF EQUIPPED)
215
BRAKES
215
Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS)
216
ABS warning lamp
216
Parking brake
216
ADVANCETRAC WITH ROLL STABILITY CONTROL (RSC) STABILITY ENHANCEMENT SYSTEM
217
STEERING
221
PREPARING TO DRIVE
222
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OPERATION
223
Brake-shift interlock
223
Driving with a 5–speed automatic transmission (if equipped)
224
Driving with a 6–speed automatic transmission (if equipped)
227
If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow
230
REVERSE SENSING SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
230
FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE (4WD) OPERATION (IF EQUIPPED)
232
System indicator lights
232
Using the Control Trac 4WD system
232
Shifting between 4X4 AUTO (4WD Auto) and 4X4 HIGH (4WD High)
233
Shifting to/from 4X4 LOW (4WD Low)
233
Driving off-road with truck and utility vehicles
233
How your vehicle differs from other vehicles
233
Basic operating principles
233
If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement
234
If your vehicle gets stuck
234
Emergency maneuvers
235
Parking
235
4WD Systems
236
Normal characteristics
236
Sand
236
Mud and water
237
Driving on hilly or sloping terrain
238
Driving on snow and ice
239
Maintenance and Modifications
239
DRIVING THROUGH WATER
240
Roadside Emergencies
241
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
241
Getting roadside assistance
241
Using roadside assistance
242
Roadside coverage beyond basic warranty
242
HAZARD FLASHER
243
FUEL PUMP SHUT-OFF SWITCH
243
FUSES AND RELAYS
245
Fuses
245
Standard fuse amperage rating and color
245
Passenger compartment fuse panel
246
Power distribution box
249
CHANGING THE TIRES
252
Dissimilar spare tire/wheel information
253
Stopping and securing the vehicle
255
Location of the spare tire and tools
256
Removing the jack and tools
256
Removing the spare tire
257
Changing the spare tire
258
Stowing the flat/spare tire
260
Re-stowing the jack and tools
261
WHEEL LUG NUT TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
261
JUMP STARTING
262
Preparing your vehicle
262
Connecting the jumper cables
263
Jump starting
265
Removing the jumper cables
265
WRECKER TOWING
267
Customer Assistance
268
GETTING THE SERVICES YOU NEED
268
At home
268
Away from home
268
Additional Assistance
269
IN CALIFORNIA (U.S. ONLY)
270
THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU (BBB) AUTO LINE PROGRAM (U.S. ONLY)
270
UTILIZING THE MEDIATION/ARBITRATION PROGRAM (CANADA ONLY)
271
FORD EXTENDED SERVICE PLAN
272
GETTING ASSISTANCE OUTSIDE THE U.S. AND CANADA
273
ORDERING ADDITIONAL OWNER’S LITERATURE
273
Obtaining a French owner’s guide
274
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (U.S. ONLY)
274
Cleaning
275
WASHING THE EXTERIOR
275
WAXING
276
PAINT CHIPS
276
ALUMINUM WHEELS AND WHEEL COVERS
276
ENGINE
277
PLASTIC (NON-PAINTED) EXTERIOR PARTS
278
WINDOWS AND WIPER BLADES
278
INSTRUMENT PANEL AND CLUSTER LENS
279
INTERIOR TRIM
279
INTERIOR
280
LEATHER SEATS (IF EQUIPPED)
280
UNDERBODY
280
FORD AND LINCOLN MERCURY CAR CARE PRODUCTS
281
Maintenance and Specifications
282
SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS
282
PRECAUTIONS WHEN SERVICING YOUR VEHICLE
282
Working with the engine off
282
Working with the engine on
282
OPENING THE HOOD
283
IDENTIFYING COMPONENTS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT
284
4.0L SOHC V6 engine
284
4.6L V8 engine
285
WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID
286
Checking and adding washer fluid for the liftgate
286
CHANGING THE WIPER BLADES
287
ENGINE OIL
287
Checking the engine oil
287
Adding engine oil
289
Engine Oil Recommendations
290
Use SAE 5W-30 engine oil.
290
Use SAE 5W-20 engine oil.
291
BATTERY
292
ENGINE COOLANT
294
Checking engine coolant
294
Adding engine coolant
296
Recycled engine coolant
298
Coolant refill capacity
298
Severe climates
298
What you should know about fail-safe cooling (4.6L V8 engine only)
299
Fail-safe cooling and engine oil overheat mode (4.6L V8 only)
299
When fail-safe cooling mode is activated
300
FUEL FILTER
300
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT AUTOMOTIVE FUELS
301
Important safety precautions
301
Refueling
302
Fuel Filler Cap
303
Choosing the right fuel
304
Octane recommendations
304
Fuel quality
305
Cleaner air
305
Running out of fuel
305
ESSENTIALS OF GOOD FUEL ECONOMY
306
Measuring techniques
306
Filling the tank
306
Calculating fuel economy
307
Driving style — good driving and fuel economy habits
307
Habits
307
Maintenance
308
Conditions
308
EPA window sticker
308
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
309
On board diagnostics (OBD-II)
310
Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing
310
POWER STEERING FLUID
311
BRAKE FLUID
312
TRANSMISSION FLUID
312
Checking automatic transmission fluid
312
TRANSFER CASE FLUID (IF EQUIPPED)
313
DRIVELINE UNIVERSAL JOINT AND SLIP YOKE
313
AIR FILTER
313
Changing the air filter element
314
MOTORCRAFT PART NUMBERS
314
REFILL CAPACITIES
315
LUBRICANT SPECIFICATIONS
318
ENGINE DATA
321
VEHICLE DIMENSIONS
321
IDENTIFYING YOUR VEHICLE
323
Safety Compliance Certification Label
323
Vehicle identification number
323
TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE CODE DESIGNATIONS
324
Accessories
325
GENUINE FORD ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR VEHICLE
325
Exterior style
325
Interior style
325
Lifestyle
326
Peace of mind
326
Index
327
2006 Ford Explorer Overview
Introduction
The 2006 Ford Explorer embodies the rugged versatility and utility that define the SUV segment. With a strong legacy stretching back to its launch in 1990, the Explorer has garnered a loyal following thanks to its impressive combination of performance, spaciousness, and comfort. The 2006 model year continues this tradition, offering a range of features designed for both on-road and off-road adventures.
Powertrains
The 2006 Ford Explorer comes equipped with two capable powertrains that cater to varied driving needs. The standard engine is a 4.0-liter V6 that generates an impressive 210 horsepower, providing ample power for daily driving and light towing. For those seeking more performance, an optional 4.6-liter V8 engine is available, producing 292 horsepower and allowing for a higher towing capacity. Both engines are matched to a smooth 5-speed automatic transmission, with available four-wheel drive options to enhance traction on slippery or rugged terrains.
Trims
This model is offered in four distinct trims: XLS, XLT, Eddie Bauer, and Limited. The XLS serves as the base model, while the XLT adds more comfort and convenience features. The Eddie Bauer trim is a nod to adventure, with upgraded leather upholstery and unique styling cues. Lastly, the Limited trim caters to those wanting luxury in their SUV experience, featuring an array of advanced technology and premium materials.
Features
The 2006 Explorer boasts numerous features designed to enhance both safety and comfort. Standard equipment includes full-length curtain-side airbags, anti-lock brakes, and a robust audio system. Higher trims offer additional luxuries such as dual-zone climate control, a premium audio system, navigation, and leather seating. A rear-seat entertainment system is also available, making family trips enjoyable and less stressful.
Owner's Manual
The owner's manual for the 2006 Ford Explorer serves as a comprehensive guide for maintenance, operation, and troubleshooting. It provides essential information on vehicle features, safety instructions, and routine service recommendations. Following the guidelines in the manual helps ensure the longevity and reliability of this dependable SUV, making it a trusted companion for exploration.
User manual download
The Ford Explorer owner manual for the 2006 model year is to be found in PDF downloadable format on this page. The owner manual for the model year 2006 is free and in English, but the repair manuals are usually not easy to get and may cost more.
Posted by, John Mana
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