🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Ford Model: Explorer Year: 1996 Codes Chassis Code: UN171 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Mid-size Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) Competitive Analysis Competitors: Chevrolet Blazer, Jeep Cherokee (XJ), Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder Key Features Body Styles: 2-door (short wheelbase), 4-door (long wheelbase) Platform: Ford Ranger (partially shared components) 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas General: Complete Service & Repair Manual Software Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) Equivalent Language Language: English Format Format: Software (likely digital, potentially searchable PDF or proprietary application) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: 4.0L V6 OHV, 5.0L V8 OHV Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic (4R55E, 4R70W), 5-Speed Manual (M5OD-R1) Drivetrain: 2WD (RWD), 4WD (Electronic Control Shift - Electronic Traction Control System - ETC/4WABS) Suspension: Independent Front Suspension (IFS), Solid Rear Axle Brakes: Front Disc, Rear Drum; Optional Rear Disc; ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Steering: Power Rack and Pinion Electrical: Charging System, Ignition System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Body Electrical, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Diagnostics, ABS Control Module Diagnostics HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning System Components and Operation Body And Chassis: Frame, Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, Bumpers Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Fluid Level Checks, Lubrication, Tune-Ups Troubleshooting: Diagnostic Procedures for all Major Systems, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Interpretation Repair: Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair Diagnostics: Component Testing, Wiring Diagrams, Pinpoint Tests, Scan Tool Data Interpretation Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive; Covers routine maintenance to major component overhauls and advanced diagnostics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: Software Application or Searchable PDF Print Quality Printability: High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1: 4.0L SOHC V6 (or OHV depending on specific build date/trim for '96) Engine 1 Displacement: 3958 cc (241.5 cu in) Engine 1 Horsepower: 160 hp @ 4200 rpm (approximate, OHV) Engine 1 Torque: 210 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (approximate, OHV) Secondary Engine Engine 2: 5.0L OHV V8 Engine 2 Displacement: 4942 cc (302 cu in) Engine 2 Horsepower: 205 hp @ 4000 rpm Engine 2 Torque: 280 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Engine Management ECU Type: EEC-IV (Electronic Engine Control IV) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Standard: 4-Speed Automatic (4R55E) Optional Transmission Optional 1: 4-Speed Automatic (4R70W) with 5.0L V8 Transmission Optional 2: 5-Speed Manual (M5OD-R1) Features Automatic Features: Electronic Controls, Overdrive 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase 2 Door: 104.7 inches (2659 mm) Wheelbase 4 Door: 113.7 inches (2888 mm) Length 4 Door: 189.5 inches (4813 mm) Cargo Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat: Approx. 40-45 cu ft (varies by configuration) Weights Curb Weight 2 Door: Approx. 3700-4000 lbs Curb Weight 4 Door: Approx. 4000-4300 lbs Towing Capacity: Up to 7,000 lbs (with V8 and optional towing package) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver: Not rated or 4-star (variable by year/testing protocols) Active Features ABS: Standard on most trims, Optional on others (4WABS available) Passive Features Airbags: Driver-side airbag standard Seatbelts: Front: 3-point shoulder/lap belts; Rear: Lap belts (some with shoulder belts) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional Connectivity Connectivity Features: Limited to basic vehicle diagnostics via OBD-I (on-board diagnostics). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) Tire Rotation Interval: Every 5,000 miles Transmission Fluid Change: Every 30,000-50,000 miles (depending on driving conditions) Coolant Change: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 (API SG or SH certified) for 4.0L V6; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for 5.0L V8 Coolant Type: Ford Premium All Season Coolant (Green) or equivalent Transmission Fluid Type: MERCON Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Common Wear Items: Ball joints, tie rod ends, shocks/struts, U-joints, exhaust components, wheel bearings. Engine Specific: Head gasket leaks (4.0L OHV), spark plug ejection (4.0L OHV), intake manifold gasket leaks (5.0L V8). Transmission Specific: Torque converter shudder (4R55E/4R70W), solenoid issues, input shaft seal leaks. Electrical Specific: Instrument cluster failure, ABS sensor issues, PCM failures. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Brand: Ford Motor Company, established 1903 Model Evolution Generation: First Generation (1991-1994) / Mid-cycle refresh in 1995 Year Context: 1996 model year represents the second year of the refreshed first generation, featuring updated styling and powertrain options. Production Manufacturing Location: Wayne, Michigan, USA (primarily) Sales Trend: Extremely popular SUV in the 1990s, one of Ford's best-selling vehicles. 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Awards Summary: While specific awards for the 1996 model are less documented than broader trends, the Explorer line was consistently a top seller and highly regarded in its...