Ford Ranger first appeared on the scene in 1983. Ranger was Ford’s smaller compact truck, rather than the large full-sized trucks it was known for. In spite of its incredible performance and style, the Ranger hasn’t always been praised for its performance.
Below you will find some Ford Ranger years to avoid when looking for a pre-owned vehicle. Our guide will show you which years you should take advantage of and which ones you should avoid at all costs.
Ford Ranger Years to Avoid
As a result, other companies followed suit, including Ford. There have been some issues here and there, and they have not had a perfect track record. Here is a list of the Ford Ranger models with the worst reputations.
The 1999 Ford Ranger
There is a terrible reputation attached to the 1999 Ford Ranger. Ford has referred to it as one of the worst vehicles it has ever produced. Over 1,000 complaints have been reported about the 1999 Ford Ranger on CarComplaints. Typically, an engine gauge had to be replaced, which was one of the most common problems.
It was an issue-filled year, but most of the problems didn’t show up until the vehicle had exceeded 100,000 miles. Despite this, Ford compact trucks weren’t an absolute disaster, which was perhaps their saving grace.
The 2001 Ford Ranger
In spite of the fact that this one wasn’t as bad as the previous one, over 720 problems were reported. Transmission issues, rather than engine issues, were most commonly reported this time, since the transmission wasn’t shifting as smoothly as it usually did. The overdrive light has also been reported as a problem in many vehicles in addition to the transmission. Owners were puzzled when this light started flashing and didn’t stop.
Most of the issues started after the truck reached 100,000 miles, just as they did with the 1999 model. However, after all was said and done, nine official recalls affected the truck’s reputation.
1999 and 2001 are the two major Ford Ranger years to avoid. Apart from that, the vehicle has a solid reputation, which has attracted attention for several reasons.
The Ford Falcon has been around for decades and went down in history as one of Ford’s most loved vehicles. The following years are worth checking out if you want to purchase a preowned vehicle.
The 1988 Ford Ranger
With a 2.3 L 4-cylinder engine and a solid frame built to last, this compact truck is ready for anything. When it comes to model years, 1988 deserves the top prize. Despite the fact that this may seem like an oldie, this thing was built to last a lifetime. Long as the vehicle is maintained, it can still be driven.
The 2000 Ford Ranger
After all the complaints and reports from 1999, Ford knew it had to come up with something new and improved. Hence, Ford released the 2000 Ford Ranger as an off-roading model, stepping up their game. In order to allow drivers to go off-road, this model was equipped with wider tires and fog lamps.
The 1986 Ford Ranger
Ford Ranger 1986 is one of the classics and one of the most popular models. This is one of the best, raved about by many consumers (even today). This vehicle boasts 18 mpg and even has a smooth drive train that you rarely see in older models. These are not only classics, but also well-made pieces of history.
Common Ford Ranger Issues
Pre-owned Ford Rangers may have a number of issues you need to be aware of if you’re looking for one. Occasionally, the brand seemed to be in perfect shape, but other times it was not. These are some of the critical issues you may be facing, according to consumer reports.
- Engine misfire: Many Ranger models from 2004 to 2006 have been reported to have engine problems, particularly misfires. The drivers experienced power loss, slight tremors, and stalling. The exhaust valve seat recession is the cause of the issues, according to Ford’s TSB 05-26-3.
- Transmission issues: Although the 2002 model’s transmission issues aren’t as widespread, they were still horrendous. Shift flares, gear loss, and erratic shifting are some of the symptoms. It wasn’t always successful to rebuild the transmission.
- High engine idle: Ford Ranger model years have been reported to have abnormally high idle speeds.
- In manual gearboxes, drivers reported the issue typically occurs after disengaging the clutch or after cold starts in automatic transmissions. In most cases, the powertrain control module (PCM) software needs to be updated.
- Hard to start cold: Some drivers reported difficulty starting the Ranger from a cold start. Aside from stalling at idle and hesitating during acceleration, the Ranger also hesitates during acceleration.
- Steering issues: Some 2007 Ranger owners reported hearing clicking and clunking noises. Unfortunately, this problem appeared at practically new mileage. As a solution to this issue, Ford released the TSB 19844 to update the tie rod assembly.
Most of these issues do not occur until 100,000 miles, and they tend to occur only after that point. It’s still important to know what you could be getting into if you choose a Ranger from a year with many issues or a recall. It is always a good idea to check the year and the problems before purchasing an item.
Are Ford Rangers Generally Reliable?
No matter which Ford Ranger year is the most reliable, if it isn’t reliable, it doesn’t matter. In comparison to other cars of a similar caliber, let’s see how the Ranger performs.
When compared to similar pickup truck selections, the Ford Ranger has average reliability. It is likely that Ford Ranger reliability will remain average in the coming years, based on consumerreports.com’s analysis.
Second opinions on a vehicle’s reliability are also highly recommended. Ford Ranger rates four out of five on repairpal.com’s reliability scale, which puts it above average and in third place among seven other midsize trucks. There is no doubt that it is a top contender.
Ford Ranger repairs cost $615 annually, which is slightly more than the $548 average for other midsize trucks. The chance of an unexpected repair being severe is 12%, 1% lower than the average of 13% for other midsize trucks.
Ford Ranger drivers say they take their vehicles in for severe repairs on average two times a year, right on par with other midsize trucks. An excellent truck option is the Ford Ranger if you’re looking for reliability.
Is The Ford Ranger Worth It?
Ford Ranger is worth the investment. In terms of buying a used version, there are many excellent years available, and each comes with plenty of room. In the best possible way, it’s a no-nonsense vehicle.
If you want something to carry things from one place to another or you love the design, the Ford Ranger is a great choice. The investment is well worth it, especially if you choose the most reliable model year.
Ford Ranger Years to Avoid: Conclusion
Ford Ranger is an excellent vehicle that attracted a lot of attention when it was first released. First-generation versions of this vehicle were well-built and loaded with amazing features, which contributed to their success. That doesn’t mean Ford’s construction is perfect, as some years have more issues than others. Ford Ranger models from certain years should be avoided when looking for one.
Buying a preowned one alone can be frustrating and time-consuming. That’s where we can help, matching you with a Ford Ranger in your area to take care of all the hassles. Our team at CoPilot spends a lot of time choosing Ford Rangers from the best years and not the worst. In addition, we do not deal with dealerships, so you won’t have to deal with all the dealer stuff. Call us, and we’ll show you some Ford Rangers right where you are so you can make an informed decision.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Ford Ranger Years to Avoid
What are the Ford Ranger years that should be avoided?
Ford Ranger models from 1999 and 2001 should be avoided. Numerous problems and consumer complaints have been reported for these model years.
What was the most common issue reported for the 1999 Ford Ranger?
Ford Ranger 1999s had thousands of reported problems, with the engine gauge being one of the most common.
Did the 2001 Ford Ranger have any notable transmission problems?
Several transmission issues were reported with the 2001 Ford Ranger, including shifting problems. Overdrive light flashes continuously, as well, which owners frequently complain about.
Which Ford Ranger model years are considered the most reliable?
Ford Ranger model years 1988, 2000, and 1986 are among the best. There is a particular fondness for the 1988 model due to its longevity and durability, as well as an improved off-road version introduced in 2000. As well as its smooth drivetrain, the 1986 Ford Ranger is also highly regarded for its overall quality.
