ENGINES & SPECS
2015 Ford Explorer Intelligent 4WD & Terrain Modes
How 2015 Explorer Intelligent 4WD works, what Terrain Management changes, and when PTU symptoms matter
Confirm the vehicle's engine, trim, drivetrain, market and equipment. The exact procedure may differ, even within the same model year.
2015 Explorer reference
| Drivetrain | 2015 retail configuration |
|---|---|
| 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 | FWD or Intelligent 4WD |
| 2.0L EcoBoost | FWD |
| 3.5L EcoBoost Sport | 4WD |
| 4WD terrain modes | Normal; Snow/Gravel/Grass; Sand; Mud/Rut |
U.S. 2015 model-year specifications. Options, market, installed equipment and vehicle labels take precedence.
Intelligent 4WD is not a locking truck transfer case
Available 2015 Explorer Intelligent 4WD is an electronically controlled on-road-oriented all-wheel-drive system. It manages front-to-rear torque distribution as conditions change. It is not the same as a traditional low-range four-wheel-drive truck transfer case, so do not expect a separate 4-Low setting or heavy off-road capability.
Which engines get 4WD?
The naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 was available with FWD or 4WD; the 3.5L EcoBoost Sport uses 4WD. In Ford’s North American 2015 retail brochure, the 2.0L EcoBoost configuration is FWD. If a listing describes a 2015 2.0L EcoBoost AWD, independently verify its model year and drivetrain.
The Terrain Management dial
The Terrain Management System offers Normal, Snow/Gravel/Grass, Sand and Mud/Rut selections on equipped vehicles. It adjusts vehicle controls to suit traction conditions. Ford describes a separate Hill Descent Control function. These modes help manage available grip but cannot create traction where tires or ground clearance are inadequate.
Which mode should you select?
Normal is intended for ordinary paved driving. Snow/Gravel/Grass alters behavior for lower-grip surfaces; Sand and Mud/Rut allow different amounts of wheel spin to help maintain movement. Consult the exact owner manual before selecting modes, and reduce speed when driving on slippery surfaces.
What the PTU does
On AWD models, a power transfer unit routes torque toward the rear driveline. Its fluid and seals deserve attention, particularly if there is an unusual burning smell, gear noise or visible leak. Front-wheel-drive Explorers do not have the same AWD PTU; do not diagnose them using AWD repair advice.
Tire mismatches can matter
Keep tire size, inflation and overall rolling diameter consistent with Ford requirements. Significant mismatches and uneven wear can affect driveline operation. Replace tires according to Ford’s instructions and seek professional advice when replacing fewer than four on an AWD vehicle.
4WD fault messages and diagnosis
A displayed 4WD fault, overheating warning or disabled mode should not be dismissed as normal. Read relevant module codes, check for tire issues and inspect the driveline before replacing parts. Scanning the engine ECU alone may not reveal all AWD faults.
Towing and traction
AWD can help traction on a wet launch ramp but does not by itself increase towing ratings. Tow capacity is established by the complete vehicle configuration and available towing equipment, not simply by choosing AWD.
What the driver can feel
In normal conditions, the system manages traction automatically. The Terrain Management settings change how the vehicle responds to different surfaces, but they do not overcome tire grip, stopping-distance limits or ground clearance. Select the mode appropriate to the surface and use cautious speeds in snow, mud or sand.
Distinguish a PTU issue from an AWD warning
A mechanical grinding noise, leaking fluid or hot-gear-oil smell may lead toward a driveline inspection, while a dashboard message may require electronic-module diagnostics. Tire circumference differences, wheel-speed sensors and wiring can also affect how the system operates. Avoid assuming a PTU replacement will fix every AWD message.
Tire matching and AWD diagnosis
An AWD warning or binding sensation should not automatically be blamed on the power transfer unit. Check that all four tires are the approved size and similar in wear, and record whether the symptom occurs during tight turns, highway acceleration or after driving in wet conditions. Abnormal PTU noise, leaks or odours warrant professional evaluation, but wheel bearings, brakes and tire damage may create overlapping symptoms. Avoid operating with a temporary spare beyond Ford’s documented restrictions. Consult the manual for the exact terrain-management mode instead of treating every mode as suitable for paved roads.
AWD fluid quick reference
The 2015 Ford capacities chart lists PTU lubricant as SAE 75W-140 synthetic rear axle lubricant, approximately 18 US fl oz (0.53 L), meeting WSL-M2C192-A. Rear axle lubricant is listed separately as SAE 80W-90 premium rear axle lubricant, approximately 2.4 US pt (1.15 L), meeting WSP-M2C197-A. These apply to the specified components, not the front-wheel-drive configuration.
Four matching tires matter
Compare tire size, brand/model, pressure and actual tread depth across all four corners. Large rolling-circumference differences can cause abnormal driveline activity and complicate AWD diagnosis. If an AWD message appears after tire changes, record the fitted sizes and any sensor codes before replacing driveline parts.
What terrain management does not do
Terrain selections modify traction-control and driveline behaviour for driving conditions; they do not increase ground clearance, provide a low-range transfer case or justify exceeding the tire or towing limits. Use the mode appropriate to the surface and the specific equipment described in the owner’s manual.
Use the correct model-year manual and current service information. Stop if instructions or safety precautions are unclear, and use a qualified technician for work you cannot verify.
References and further reading
This independent guide is not endorsed by the vehicle manufacturer. Let us know if you spot an error.