The Ford Ranger is a versatile midsize pickup truck known for its rugged design, capable performance, and practicality. With a reputation for durability and reliability, the Ranger is a popular choice for drivers looking for a truck that can handle both work and play. The truck offers a range of engine options, including powerful turbocharged engines, delivering impressive towing and hauling capacities. The Ranger features a comfortable cabin with modern technology features and advanced safety systems, making it a practical and convenient choice for daily driving and off-road adventures. Whether tackling tough terrain or navigating city streets, the Ford Ranger is a dependable and versatile truck that excels in both performance and utility.
FORD RANGER PROBLEMS

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Worst Year
1999
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Worst Module
Airbag

Issues by Year
Click on the chart bars to get detailed information about years to avoid
Malfunction Modules
Click on the car modules reliability chart below for details
Best and Worst Years
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Best Choice
2016 Ranger
Total Complaints:
1 issues
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Worst Choice
1999 Ranger
Car owners are faced with the first problems after 115 miles.
Total Complaints:
934 issues
Complaints and Common Faults
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1. Fire-Related Issues:
- Vehicle caught on fire under the hood or in the engine compartment.
- Fire originating from the ignition switch, ignition hot wire, or wiring harness.
- Fires caused by electrical shorts, fuel leaks, or leaves ignited by heater motor resistor coils.
- Fires in the air conditioner evaporator core housing due to blower motor resistor assembly.
- Vehicle fires while parked or driving due to various electrical faults.
- Vehicle caught on fire under the hood or in the engine compartment.
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2. Electrical Problems:
- Ignition switch failures causing smoke or fire.
- Electrical shorts in the ignition switch.
- Horn and lights causing electrical fires.
- Short circuits in various components leading to fires or smoke.
- Ignition switch failures causing smoke or fire.
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3. Transmission and Gear Issues:
- Transmission failure due to unreliable rubber seals.
- Transmission slipping out of gear causing accidents.
- Reverse gear thrust washer breaking, locking transmission.
- Transmission failure due to unreliable rubber seals.
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4. Engine and Stalling Problems:
- Engine stalling at various speeds or while idling.
- Intermittent engine failures and catastrophic engine shutdowns.
- Fuel pump and sender assembly failures causing stalling.
- Engine stalling at various speeds or while idling.
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5. Brake and Rotor Problems:
- Brake rotors failing.
- Emergency parking brake failure.
- Brakes locking up occasionally, causing skids or hydroplaning on wet roads.
- Brake rotors failing.
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6. Seat Belt Issues:
- Driver's shoulder/lap belts inoperative or failing to latch.
- Seat belts becoming unfastened while driving.
- Seat belt retractors not functioning properly.
- Driver's shoulder/lap belts inoperative or failing to latch.
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7. Structural and Mechanical Problems:
- Hitch breaking off or trailer hitch snapping.
- Left rear axle shearing off, causing wheels to fall off.
- Issues with the U-joint causing drive shaft damage and fuel tank damage.
- Hitch breaking off or trailer hitch snapping.
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8. Fuel System Issues:
- Gas tank leaks and improper filling.
- Fuel lines or high-pressure power steering hose leaks leading to fires.
- Fuel pressure regulator leaks causing under-hood fires.
- Gas tank leaks and improper filling.
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9. Miscellaneous Issues:
- Bad primer on cars.
- Studs on tires coming loose.
- Heater system problems causing smoke or fluid leaks.
- Air conditioning system fires due to debris ignition.
- Bad primer on cars.
Questions
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What causes a Ford Ranger not to start?
A Ford Ranger not starting may be due to issues such as a depleted or faulty battery, a defective starter motor, a faulty ignition switch, problems with the fuel system like a clogged fuel filter or a failing fuel pump, electrical faults, or issues with the ignition system such as a faulty ignition coil or spark plugs. Additionally, other potential causes could include a malfunctioning crankshaft position sensor or a faulty fuel injection system. Diagnosing the specific reason for the no-start condition may require a comprehensive inspection by a qualified mechanic.
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Why is my Ford Ranger losing power?
A Ford Ranger may lose power due to several reasons, such as a clogged air filter, dirty fuel injectors, a failing fuel pump, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, a faulty oxygen sensor, a blocked exhaust system, worn spark plugs or ignition coils, low fuel pressure, a slipping transmission, or engine-related issues like a failing EGR valve or a clogged catalytic converter. It is essential to address the underlying cause of power loss promptly to prevent further damage and ensure optimal performance. Consulting a mechanic for a comprehensive diagnosis and necessary repairs can help resolve the issue efficiently.
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