Potential 2006-2010 Shopper.... please help!

[NJExplorerFan]

Hey guys, I might have to purchase another Explorer soon if my body shop estimates end up costing too much for the '03 Explorer my other half just smacked up. If I do upgrade to the '06-'10 generation, which year is safe to get? I was thinking 2008+ to not get the first or 2nd model year. Are there any changes I should be aware of to steer my shopping selections? Any years to avoid? Common problems?

My 2003 had all the typical issues - door ajar switch, crack in the hatch panel, torque converter rattle, highway gear whine, etc.

What can I expect in a 2006-2010 model? And of course I would want a V8 with a class III hitch. Is this newer 3-valve more powerful than the previous 2-valve? I hear the suspension is also better?

 

[TourGuide]

I think you're right on target looking for an 08 to 10 model year. There are a few reasons for that. 06 and some early build 07s had radiator issues. That is an expensive fix.

Beyond that other common issues:

- Wheel bearings (OEMs usually go to 75k - some go to ~100k with blind luck)

- V8s have had issues with exhaust manifold studs breaking and creating exhaust leaks. I think this issue may be model year specific, but in all honesty I don't really know that. I haven't really paid much attention to it because mine is a V6.

- HVAC blend door actuators often go bad on the 4th gens. The teeth in the motors are plastic and just go out. Replacement of these is easier than on previous gens.

- Plugs on the V8s are a JOB to change. Check to see that they've been done recently if you are buying a V8. (Most people will recommend the V8 in spite of the issues described here)

- If you buy a V6 be aware that a lot of guys here warn about the V6 timing chain design is poor and prone to failure. I bought mine with 96k on the clock and immediately started running full synthetic oil in it with Mobil 1 filters. I have 127k now and haven't had a problem with my timing chain.

- Rear wiper motors do seize due to corrosion on this gen without added grease pack to the shaft. I've replaced two of them and before the winter comes I'm going to disassemble mine and pack it with grease to keep it free.

Hope that helps.

-TG

 

[banditxp]

2v 2002–2005 Ford Explorer, 239 hp (178 kW) and 282 lb·ft (382 N·m)
3v 2006–2010 Ford Explorer, 292 hp (218 kW) and 315 lb·ft (427 N·m)

i Love my 4.6L 3V, put a K&N air intake on and a 3" exhaust and wow. woke it right up.
loved the look one some BMW 328i's faces when umm.. they where behind me hehe

 

[NJExplorerFan]

Would it perhaps be a wiser choice to get the last year of the Gen III (2005 V8)? I would assume all the Gen III known issues would have been resolved by then? The overall shell of the 2006-2010 Explorers are identical to the previous generation except for a freshened front end, rear end and interior. Look-wise, it's okay (and is growing on me as I see them), but I'm not "in love" with it. I do prefer the 2002-2005 body. All in all... it appears to be a greatly improved truck with power, handling, suspension etc. I drove one and the suspension seems much more smoother than my 2003 model. Overall, it looks/feels like a better SUV so that's why I'm now leaning towards it.

I just don't want to buy a 2008 V8 with problems and then wish I had gotten a 2005 V8. But then again, the 2005 could also have issues.

Oh what to do...

 

[03 Explorer XLT]

I traded a 2003 V6 for a 2008 V8. Much better ride and handling. The later 2008 models have Sync, which I like. I believe the spark plug issue was resolved on engines built after November 2008.

I have had a broken exhaust manifold stud. I'm glad I have an extended warranty. I used it a couple times.