Ford Ranger Problems: 11 Known Issues (Explained)

The Ford Ranger nameplate has been in existence since the 1983 model year, and it has been used on a variety of vehicles.

The Ranger is without a doubt one of the best mid-size pickup trucks in existence right now. However, there are a few issues with the car, and we shall discuss some of them below.

1. Issues With the Transmission

There have been multiple complaints from Ford Ranger owners regarding the transmission.

This is often characterized by rough shifting, gear loss, and the overdrive light turning on and off in an erratic manner.

Here are the potential causes of rough shifting, including no drive/failure, and their solutions:

A word of caution on towing:

Towing can cause clutch plates inside the transmissions to wear faster and this can result in possible slipping of gears over time. When your gears slip you will notice your rpm will be erratic. You will notice that this mostly happens on hills.

This will cause an overdrive gear light to appear leading to an expensive repair as the clutch plates could be burnt or over worn.

If you smell a burning scent while driving or after towing your vehicle, this could mean your clutch plates inside your transmission have overheated.

You can prevent your gearbox from overheating by keeping the vehicle in a certain gear while maintaining above 2400rpm.

What to Do

Transmission issues are one of the most common problems faced by Ranger owners and can literally cripple your Ford Ranger, so we advise that you take the symptoms seriously.

One way to do that is by getting your preferred technician to diagnose the vehicle so you can resolve the issue before it leads to major damage.

Related: Ford Ranger & Light: 14 Questions Answered (For Newbies)

2. Frequent Engine Misfires

Many owners have lodged myriads of complaints about Ford Ranger engine problems.

Most of these complaints were about the Ranger’s abrupt engine misfires and the symptoms that followed.

The most common symptoms include:

• loss of power
• mild tremors
• engine stalls

Here are some of the potential causes of this problem:

What to Do

Misfires are one of the most common issues and they can happen for different reasons. It’s best not to guess why though because you may be wrong, and the mistake may cost you dearly.

We suggest enlisting the help of a certified technician for an expert diagnosis and solution.

3. Stalling at Idle During a Cold Start

A number of Ford Ranger drivers have reported that the vehicle is difficult to start from cold, and it hesitates at idle.

These issues are common with the 90s to early 2000s Ford Ranger models.

Here are some of the possible causes of this problem and their solutions:

What to Do

If your Ranger often stalls at idle during a cold start, we recommend sending it off to a technician for proper evaluation.

Related:  Ford Ranger In Snow & Winter Driving? (Explained)

4. Brake Problems

Brake troubles in your Ford Ranger, such as strange noises, brake pedal issues, or decreased braking ability, can be dangerous.

It is critical to address these issues as soon as possible.

For diagnosis, use the table below:

What to Do

Check the quality of your brake pads and rotors first if you detect any brake-related concerns, such as strange sounds or poor braking ability. Replace any worn-out parts.

To maintain the correct fluid level and quality, conduct a brake fluid flush if you have brake fluid issues.

If you suspect a problem with the brake master cylinder, have a professional technician check it and maybe replace it.

5. Suspension and Handling Concerns

Suspension issues in your Ford Ranger can provide a rough and unpleasant ride. Taking care of these concerns is critical for driving comfort and safety.

Let’s take a look at some of the possible causes for this issue:

What to Do

Check the state of your shock absorbers if you are having suspension concerns such as a rough ride. Shock absorbers that have worn out should be replaced.

If you see any evidence of damaged suspension components, such as control arms or bushings, get them inspected and fixed by a professional.

To avoid handling issues, make sure your tires are correctly aligned.

6. Exhaust System Issues

Problems with your Ford Ranger‘s exhaust system might appear as noise, leaks, or emissions-related difficulties.

The proper operation of the exhaust system is critical for vehicle performance. So, have a look below to see what might be giving you any exhaust system headaches:

What to Do

Inspect the exhaust components for apparent damage or corrosion if you notice exhaust system difficulties such as noise or emissions concerns.

As needed, replace damaged components.

Consider rust treatment and rust-resistant coatings to prevent additional degradation when dealing with rust and corrosion.

7. Air Conditioning and Heating Problems

As I’m sure you can imagine, problems with your Ford Ranger‘s air conditioning and heating systems will reduce your driving comfort.

These issues result in poor cooling or heating performance, and ultimately a smelly ride.

To ensure you’re cruising in comfort, have a look at these possible causes below:

What to Do

Check for refrigerant leaks and get them repaired if you have cooling problems. A qualified technician can detect and repair air conditioning system leaks.

Consult a professional to diagnose and repair blower motor issues, providing adequate airflow and temperature management.

If HVAC control issues persist, get professional help to diagnose and correct control system failures.

8. Wiper and Washer System Malfunctions

Problems with your Ford Ranger‘s wiper and washer systems could decrease visibility in adverse conditions.

The correct operation of your wipers is definitely crucial for you and your passengers‘ safety.

Have a look below at the possible causes:

What to Do

To guarantee proper windscreen cleaning, I highly recommend replacing old wiper blades. For improved performance, consider using high-quality wiper blades.

Clear blocked washer fluid nozzles to restore appropriate washer system performance. Remove any debris with a little pin or needle.

If the issue persists, visit a skilled technician for diagnostic and repair of defective wiper motors to restore wiper performance

9. Rust and Corrosion

Rust and corrosion problems in your Ford Ranger, especially in cold temperatures, can affect the vehicle’s frame and appearance.

If you live in the Northeastern parts of the U.S., your car is likely to rust. Therefore, rust prevention is critical, particularly if you want to preserve the lifespan of your Ranger.

If you are unaware, in the table below you can find out how rust can occur:

What to Do

Prevent rust and corrosion by washing your car regularly, especially in regions prone to salt and moisture exposure.

To preserve the body and undercarriage of your Ford Ranger, use rust-resistant paints.

If there is already severe rust, see an expert for rust treatment and repair.

10. Engine Overheating

Overheating in your Ford Ranger can be caused by cooling system problems, resulting in engine damage, and must be addressed as soon as possible to keep your engine healthy.

Below are some possible causes:

What to Do

If your engine overheats, pull over safely and turn off the car to avoid further damage. Allow it to cool before tackling the problem.

If a malfunctioning thermostat is detected, get it changed by a qualified technician to correctly control the engine’s temperature.

Consult a skilled technician for full diagnostic and required repairs if you have radiator difficulties or coolant leakage.

Related: How Long Do Ford Rangers Last? (7 Important Facts)

11. Electrical Issues

Electrical troubles in your Ford Ranger might emerge as a variety of problems affecting lighting, power windows, or electronic systems.

These issues can be aggravating and may have an influence on the overall performance of your vehicle.

Below are some possible causes for you to explore:

What to Do

If you have electrical problems, such as faulty lights or power windows, begin by examining the vehicle’s fuses. Any blown fuses should be replaced.

If the problem persists, look for apparent damage or wear on the wiring. As needed, repair or replace faulty wiring.

If the problem still persists, consider obtaining professional help from a certified expert who can diagnose and repair electrical system faults.

General Pros and Cons

Here are some of the pros and cons of the Ford Ranger truck:

What Do the Reviews Say?

“… while it may rarely be No. 1 in a particular area, it’s also rarely much deeper than No. 2. Others have high highs and low lows, but the Ranger is steadily executed, which is primarily [the] reason it won our midsize truck comparison test. It’s fun to drive on- and off-road, yet surprisingly comfortable. The cabin may be a bit dull in appearance, but it’s functional and the quality is strong. Its unusual, standard turbocharged engine delivers ample power and above-average fuel economy. Basically, the 2021 Ford Ranger is a well-rounded truck that can stand toe-to-toe with any competitor.”

Source: Autoblog

“The 2021 Ford Ranger ranks near the top of the compact pickup truck class. With a good tow rating, easy-to-use features, and comfortable seats, this truck does almost everything well.”

Source: USNews

What Is the Resale Value of the Ford Ranger?

GO BACK > problems for all Ford models.

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ⓘ  The information in this article is based on data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall reports, consumer complaints submitted to the NHTSA, reliability ratings from J.D. Power, auto review and rating sites such as Edmunds, specialist forums, etc. We analyzed this data to provide insights into the best and worst years for these vehicle models.