How do I tell what transmission I have on my Ford Explorer?
Your quickest way to know which transmission is in your Ford Explorer is to confirm by year and engine, then check official documentation or inspect the transmission for its code. In general, the newer generation (2020–present) uses a 10-speed automatic, while older generations relied on 6-speed automatics, with variations by engine and trim. The most reliable method is to pull the build data for your VIN or examine the transmission labeling directly on the vehicle.
In this article, we walk you through practical steps to identify your Explorer’s exact transmission, including generation guidance, where to look on the vehicle, how to use Ford’s official resources, and what markings to expect on the transmission itself.
Generation and engine guide
Understanding the generation of your Explorer helps set expectations about the typical transmission used. These guidelines reflect common factory configurations, but exact specs can still vary by engine and market. Use the steps below to verify for your specific vehicle.
- 2020–present: Most Explorers use Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission (designated 10R80) across the engine options available in this generation.
- 2011–2019: Most Explorers use a 6-speed automatic transmission (part of Ford’s 6R-series family). Some early or specific engine trims may differ, but the 6-speed is the general norm for this generation.
- Pre-2011: Transmission options varied by engine and market, with several Explorers equipped with 4- or 5-speed automatics depending on the year and region.
These are general guidelines; the exact transmission for your SUV depends on its engine, options, and region. The most reliable confirmation comes from official sources or the build data for your VIN.
Ways to confirm your exact transmission
Below are practical checks you can perform to confirm the exact transmission in your Explorer.
- Check the window sticker or the vehicle's Build Sheet. The window sticker (if still with the vehicle) lists the transmission type; you can access a digital copy via the Ford Owner portal using your VIN.
- Inspect the transmission itself for model markings. On many Ford automatics, the case or pan will bear a marking such as 10R80 or 6R80, often visible on the lower side of the transmission or on the transmission pan.
- Look for a data plate or label on the driver's door jamb. It may include a transmission designation or code that identifies the transmission family.
- Use the VIN to pull a Build Sheet or RPO data. Ford’s official site or a dealership can generate the Build Sheet from the VIN, which lists the installed transmission. Third-party VIN decoders can help, but verify with a trusted source.
- Ask your dealer or a qualified repair shop to look up the exact transmission using the VIN. They can tell you the factory-installed transmission code and ensure it matches your engine and options.
These references will give you a definitive answer about your Explorer’s transmission.
Visual and practical hints
Sometimes a quick visual check can help narrow down the transmission family. Look for identifying markings or a floor-pitted code on the transmission, and note any fluid type or capacity notes in service manuals that correspond to 10R80 vs. 6R80 families. If you’re unsure, rely on official documentation for the final confirmation.
Where to physically look
In most Explorers, the transmission sits under the engine bay toward the center or slightly toward the rear. The pan may be accessible from underneath the vehicle, and while some markings are visible from above with a careful inspection, a professional lift often provides a clearer view of any stamped model codes like 10R80 or 6R80.
Certifications and service data
Service bulletins, dealer service databases, and the vehicle’s official Build Sheet often reference the transmission by model code. If you’re planning maintenance or fluid changes, knowing whether you have a 10-speed vs. 6-speed is important for the correct fluid type and capacity. When in doubt, consult your Ford dealership for an exact match to your VIN.
Summary
To determine which transmission your Ford Explorer has, start with the model year and engine, then confirm via official documents (window sticker or Build Sheet), the VIN, or by inspecting the transmission case for its model code (such as 10R80 or 6R80). In the current generation (2020 onward), Ford broadly uses a 10-speed automatic, while older generations relied on 6-speed automatics with variations by engine and market. For definitive confirmation, contact a Ford dealer or use Ford’s owner portal to pull the exact build data for your VIN.
