Ford Explorer Transmission Repair in Glendale, AZ

Sun West Transmissions — Glendale, AZ. Free estimates, honest diagnosis and a 3-year / 40,000-mile warranty on qualifying rebuilds and replacements.

The Ford Explorer has changed more than almost any other SUV over the years. It started as a truck-based, rear-wheel-drive SUV, switched to a front-wheel-drive-based crossover layout for the 2010s, then returned to a rear-wheel-drive platform. Each change brought different transmissions with their own patterns of wear. At Sun West Transmissions in Glendale, we repair Explorer transmissions from every generation and explain the options for your specific vehicle.

Explorer Transmissions Across Generations

Truck-based Explorers (1990s to about 2010)

Earlier Explorers used rear-wheel-drive automatics, including four-speeds and the five-speed 5R55E and its later 5R55W and 5R55S versions. Some V8 models used the four-speed 4R70W, and late models in this era moved to a six-speed.

Crossover Explorers (about 2011 to 2019)

The front-drive-based Explorer used six-speed transverse automatics: the 6F50 and 6F55 on V6 models, and the smaller 6F35 on some four-cylinder EcoBoost models.

Rear-drive Explorers (2020 onward)

The current Explorer uses a ten-speed rear-wheel-drive automatic, including in hybrid and performance versions.

Because the generations are so different, we always confirm your transmission by VIN.

Common Explorer Transmission Problems

5R55 series slipping and harsh shifts

The five-speed units in older Explorers are known for worn servo bores, solenoid body problems and band issues. Symptoms include slipping into second or third, harsh engagement and erratic shifting. These units can often be repaired, but the right parts and machining matter.

6F50 and 6F55 issues

Crossover-era Explorers can experience harsh or delayed shifts, shudder and slipping. Valve body wear, solenoid faults and torque converter problems are common, and the power transfer unit on all-wheel-drive models deserves attention as well.

Ten-speed concerns

Some newer Explorers show harsh, delayed or inconsistent shifts. Software updates and adaptive relearns help some vehicles, while others require valve body or internal repair.

Power transfer unit leaks

On all-wheel-drive crossover Explorers, the power transfer unit can overheat and leak, sometimes causing a burning smell. It is a separate component but often mistaken for a transmission problem. See 4×4 service.

Signs Your Explorer Needs Help

• Slipping or loss of a gear
• Harsh shifts or a clunk into Drive or Reverse
• Shudder at light acceleration
• Burning smell or fluid drips
• Check engine light or limited-gear operation

If the Explorer suddenly drops a gear or will not move properly, limit driving and have it inspected. Our transmission won’t shift page explains common causes.

How We Diagnose Your Explorer

1. Confirm your generation and exact transmission
2. Road test to reproduce the symptom
3. Scan for codes and review live data, including shift timing and slip
4. Check fluid level using the correct method for your model
5. Inspect for leaks, wiring faults and power transfer unit issues
6. Explain the findings and provide a free estimate

Repair Options

Depending on what we find, the solution might be a software update, a solenoid or valve body repair, a torque converter, or a complete transmission rebuild. On older, high-mileage truck-based Explorers, a used transmission can be a reasonable option, and we will discuss the trade-offs honestly. See used vs remanufactured transmissions.

Why Accurate Diagnosis Saves Money on Explorers

Explorer shift complaints have many possible sources. A weak battery or poor ground can confuse the control module. A failed sensor can send bad speed information and cause erratic shifts. A leaking power transfer unit can create smells and noises that seem to come from the transmission. Even worn engine or transmission mounts can produce clunks. We check these possibilities before recommending internal work, so you pay only for the repair your Explorer actually needs. Learn more about computer transmission diagnostics.

Explorer Transmission Cost

Cost depends on the generation, drivetrain and findings. An older five-speed, a crossover six-speed and a modern ten-speed are very different jobs, and parts availability varies. Call (623) 473-9800 for a free quote, and ask about financing.

Keeping Your Explorer’s Transmission Healthy

• Change transmission fluid on a severe-service schedule in Arizona heat
• Service the power transfer unit and rear differential on all-wheel-drive models
• Fix leaks promptly
• Get harsh shifts or slipping checked early

For more tips, see our transmission maintenance checklist.

Why Choose Sun West Transmissions

We are a dedicated transmission shop at 6116 West Northern Ave in Glendale. Qualifying rebuilds and replacements carry our 3-year / 40,000-mile warranty with no deductible on covered repairs. We are open Monday through Friday 7:30 to 5:30 and Saturday 8 to 4.

Ford Explorer Transmission FAQ

How do I know which Explorer transmission I have?

Your model year and VIN tell us. Generations used very different transmissions, so this is the first thing we check.

Is the burning smell my transmission?

On all-wheel-drive crossover Explorers, it may be the power transfer unit. A quick inspection will tell.

Can you repair a slipping five-speed Explorer?

Yes. Older five-speed units are often repairable when diagnosed correctly.