Automatic Transmission Assembly for 2011-2012 Ford Explorer
Product Notes Read before buying
This is a 6-speed automatic transmission for vehicles with a 3.5L non-turbo engine and front-wheel drive (FWD). It has a final drive axle ratio of 3.16. Please verify your vehicle's specifications before ordering.
Voice or type your vehicle details and Wrenchy will confirm fitment in seconds.
Vehicle Fitment Guide
This part fits the following vehicles:
| SubmodelSUB- MODEL |
Body Style | Years | Engine | Attributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | SUV | 2011 - 2012 | V6 3.5L | FWD | Automatic |
| Limited | SUV | 2011 - 2012 | V6 3.5L | FWD | Automatic |
| XLT | SUV | 2011 - 2012 | V6 3.5L | FWD | Automatic |
| XLT Base | SUV | 2011 - 2012 | V6 3.5L | FWD | Automatic |
Know This Transmission Before You Buy
The research behind our purchase interview — recalls, bulletins and real install economics for this transmission family:
A quick look at your own vehicle makes sure the right transmission shows up:
- Drivetrain Check: Physically look under your vehicle to confirm it is Front-Wheel Drive (FWD / 4x2) and does not have a PTU (transfer case) or a driveshaft running to the rear wheels.
- Door Label Verification: Open your driver's door and locate the Safety Compliance Certification Label. Under the 'TR' (Transmission) section, confirm it shows code 'C'.
- Engine Verification: Confirm your Explorer has the 3.5L V6 engine (the 8th digit of your VIN should be '8' for the naturally aspirated 3.5L).
What the install really takes — plan and budget with confidence:
Special tools this job needs:
- Engine support bar
- Transmission jack
- J2534 pass-thru programming tool or Ford IDS/FORScan setup
- Torque converter alignment tool/depth gauge
- Cooler line flushing kit
- Subframe alignment pins
Budget for these consumables at install:
- Motorcraft MERCON LV transmission fluid (approx. 10 to 12.68 quarts for dry/overhaul fill)
- Torque converter seal (front pump seal)
- Axle shaft seals (left and right side CV axle seals)
- Cooler line flush kit
What your vehicle’s computers will need after the swap:
What’s involved: Solenoid Body Strategy Programming (13-digit strategy code) and Solenoid Body ID Programming (7-digit ID code), followed by a TCM/PCM Adaptive Relearn.
The Ford 6F55 uses individually calibrated solenoids. When you install this replacement transmission, you must program the 13-digit Solenoid Strategy and 7-digit Solenoid Body ID of the new unit into your vehicle's Powertrain Control Module (PCM/TCM). If you do not program the correct strategy, the transmission will operate with incorrect line pressures and shift timing, which can quickly destroy the clutches and void your warranty.
Pro tips for a smooth first start-up — hand them to whoever does the install:
- Torque Converter Seating: The torque converter must be fully seated onto the input shaft and pump gears. If it is not fully seated, bolting the transmission to the engine will crack the front pump, destroying the transmission instantly.
- Solenoid Strategy Documentation: Before installing the transmission, you must physically write down or take a clear photo of the 13-digit Solenoid Strategy Code and 7-digit Solenoid Body ID printed on the tag on top of the transmission case. If the tag is missing or illegible, you must drop the pan to read the codes off the internal lead frame before installation.
- Subframe Removal: Replacing this transmission requires dropping the front subframe/cradle. You must properly support the engine from above using an engine support bar.
- Cooler Line Flush / Replacement: The 6F55 is highly sensitive to debris. You must thoroughly flush the cooler lines. If your vehicle is equipped with an auxiliary plate-style cooler, it cannot be reliably flushed and must be replaced.
- Fluid Level Check Procedure: The fluid level must be checked via the leveling plug/dipstick while the vehicle is on a level surface, running in Park, and at normal operating temperature (180°F to 200°F / 82°C to 93°C). Checking it cold or with the engine off will result in a false reading.
Easy to get right once you know them:
- Buying for an AWD Vehicle: Buying a FWD (4x2) transmission for an AWD (4x4) vehicle. The FWD 6F55 case lacks the mounting bosses and splines required to bolt up and drive the Power Take-Off Unit (PTU).
- Skipping the Solenoid Strategy Programming: Installing the transmission and immediately driving it without programming the new 13-digit Solenoid Strategy into the PCM, leading to immediate internal clutch damage.
- Forgetting to Write Down the Strategy Tag: Installing the transmission and then realizing you need the 13-digit code on the case tag to program it.
- Incorrect Fluid Level Check: Checking the fluid level with the engine off or cold, leading to severe overfilling or underfilling.
- Reusing a Contaminated Cooler: Failing to flush or replace the cooler, which immediately washes metal debris from the old failed transmission into the replacement unit.
Not issues with the units on this page — the manufacturer documented these for every transmission of this family, wherever you buy one. Handy for your installer:
🔎 Recommended at install: Remove one check ball from the valve body, replace both separator plates, and reprogram the PCM with the latest calibration.
🔎 Recommended at install: Reprogram the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to the latest calibration using a dealer scan tool to reset the transmission's adaptive shift strategy.
🔎 Recommended at install: Diagnose and repair internal valve body or solenoid issues as specified in the TSB.
🔎 Recommended at install: Remove the main control valve body, inspect the cup plug, and replace the transmission case half if broken.
🔎 Recommended at install: Replace degraded fluid or replace worn torque converter clutch.
🔎 Recommended at install: Replace the internal lead frame assembly.
Researched from factory recalls, TSBs and OEM service data (reference unit 400-01448-1690262). Unit-specific details — mileage, condition, warranty, freight — are covered in the checkout interview.
Policies, in plain English.
Shipping & Handling
- Ships by LTL freight on a pallet — a real freight truck, not a parcel van
- Your checkout freight quote covers delivery to your door (liftgate service included for residential addresses)
- The carrier calls ahead to schedule a delivery window — someone must be present to receive it
- Typically palletized and picked up within 2–3 business days; transit time depends on distance
120-Day Warranty
This part includes a 120-day warranty.
- If the part fails within the warranty window, we'll replace it or refund per the coverage terms
- Coverage is parts-only — installation labor is not included
- Warranty covers defects — not installation errors, misuse, or damage after installation
Your pre-purchase interview reviews these exact terms with you before anything is charged.
Returns (30 Days)
We accept returns of uninstalled parts within 30 days of delivery for this part.
- Defective parts: We will replace the part or issue a refund at our discretion
- Programming: "Needs to be programmed to my vehicle" is not a valid return reason. Many modules require dealer programming — we're happy to help connect you with resources if your dealer says it's not programmable
- Return shipping: This part ships by freight (LTL) — the part price is refundable per the terms above, but shipping costs are non-refundable and return freight follows the seller's return terms. Your pre-purchase interview walks through the exact numbers before you buy
- Parts must be returned in original packaging and unmodified condition
- Poorly packaged returns that arrive damaged will not be credited
Damaged in Shipping?
Freight damage is rare — and you're fully protected when you do two things at delivery:
- Inspect before you sign — you're allowed time to look the pallet over while the driver waits
- Write any damage on the delivery receipt before signing — that one line is what makes a freight claim succeed
- Severe damage? Refuse the delivery — it goes back at no cost to you and we make it right
- Photograph the pallet before unwrapping; report concealed damage within 24 hours of delivery
We handle the carrier claim — you just help document it. Your pre-purchase interview walks through this checklist too.
Order Cancellation
Cancel before shipment for a full refund. Once the pallet has been built, a preparation charge may apply — and once the freight carrier picks it up, shipping costs are non-refundable and standard return terms apply. Your pre-purchase interview shows the exact numbers before you pay.
Expert Guides
2010-2012 Fusion & MKZ 3.5L 6F50 Transmission: Problems, Identification, and Used Replacement
Identify the correct Aisin AWF21 / Ford 6F50 variant, understand common failures like TSB 11-12-10, and learn when to replace it with a used OEM unit.
Read Full Guide →Related Trouble Codes (OBD-II)
8 matching guidesIf your scan tool is showing one of these trouble codes, this part is a common fix. Each guide explains the code, how to diagnose it, and exactly what to replace.
Miscellaneous Information
OEM Part Numbers:
Ford: BA5P-7000-PC, BA5P-7000-PD, BA5P7000PC, BA5P7000PD, BA5Z-7000-B, BA5Z7000B, BA5Z7000D, DA5P-7000-PA, DA5P7000PA
Fits Years: 2011 2012
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This unit ships with the selling yard's 120-day warranty. Longer plans can be requested during checkout.
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