2003 Ford Ranger Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.32/5 Average
168 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Ford's popular compact pickup receives a number of minor changes for 2003. The 2002 Tremor package, with its ear-splitting 485-watt sound system, returns for 2003 as a trim level, joining XL, Edge and XLT in the lineup. A chrome appearance package for select XLT models is available, and last year's FX4 package for four-wheel-drive Rangers is offered in two guises: Off Road and Level II. New Sonic Blue paint is unique to FX4 Level II Rangers. Other changes to the 2003 Ford Ranger include covered visor vanity mirrors for XLT models, standard step bars on XLT 4WD SuperCab and Edge 4WD models and minor interior trim and fabric revisions on some models. Finally, crew cab rear seats get LATCH anchors, and some new colors are available.

Pros:
  • Strong 4.0-liter V6 engine, handsome styling, variety of trim levels, functional interior.
Cons:
  • Uncomfortable cabin, dated design, no V8 is available, no crew cab configuration.

User Reviews:

Showing 151 through 160 of 168.00
  • My First Pickup Truck - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    This truck is very,very clean and fun to drive. I bought the 4 cyl.,so,the power is a little lax.Next time,Im going to get one with 4 wheel drive,simply because typically,pickups have no rear weight,and it can be a real hassle in the snow and ice.The interior is quite tight,but I only use it for back and forth to work,so it doesnt really matter.But,I really love the way it looks.It is easily the best looking pickup on the road,and has Fordsreputation for solid trucks.

  • Fun Little Truck - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    I like the bold styling of the Edge package, and the quick response of the 5-speed/3.0 6 cyl engine.. The Sonic Blue metallic paint job is a real head turner.. The 6-cd am/fm stereo system has a really clean sound....

  • 2003 ranger xl. auto + air - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    no problems at all so far, good value for the money for basic transportation + light hauling duties.

  • 2003 ranger edge - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    this is my 3rd ranger. i really like the truck. my first was 1999 xlt, the 2nd a 2001 xlt, and my 3rd is an edge 2wd. my only problem with the vehicles has been with the brakes. my first two rangers had to have the brake rotors turned at 25,000 miles which seemed a little early.

  • Good Price Solid Truck! - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Nice truck...the $3k back from Ford and dealer $ made the truck a great buy. 5 speed works well with the 3.0 l engine. AC and Heat are fast! So far no problems and it was nice that Ford called twice to make sure all is well. Engine layout is logical and easy to access from top and bottom. No wind noice....very strong method of securing the window.

  • High on Value. Low on Gimmicks. - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    This is my 3rd Ranger. I just cant find another vehicle in the under $15,000 price range, car or truck, that I like more. This vehicle does everything right: payments are affordable; interior is roomy and comfortable; fuel economy is good; load capacity is more than youd think; its easy and fun to drive; it looks good inside and out; and--best of all--its TOTALLY RELIBLE. This truck seems ideal for a single person who only wants to operate one vehicle. This truck does it all! Its no wonder my friends and family always want to borrow my truck.

  • Yet another Ranger - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    This is our 7th or so Ranger since 1990. All of our Rangers have given us superb dependability. The Level II is the best yet with very good handling, good power, the extra cab space we wanted, good comfort, and a blast to drive. It has the feel that real sports cars used to. The Level IIs handling is noticably better than the regular FX4.

  • worth the money, gets the honeys - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    This truck is a tough and versatile little trooper. no matter what, i know i can rely on it for whatever i need. when buying one, make sure it runs and idles well. also make sure the ball joints and control arms are in good condition (if equipped). that alone can be the reason why people talk bad about them. I will admit the are a little expensive, but when it comes to some cars you get what you pay for. Overall i have had to do a few repairs here and there, but nothing you cant do at home. I will say it is the best 4x4 i have ever owned. BUT... if you want to make it an off road vehicle you may want to opt for an older one with a solid axle. The torsion bar suspension is the worst thing ive ever seen. i have a 3 lift on mine and it has absolutely no flex on the front end.

  • The best compact truck going - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    This is my second Ranger, last one was a 02 model. While my 02 model was a lemon in every since of the word my 03 has been fantastic. I average 22 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, and I am a very lead-footed driver. Overall perofrmance is excellent for a 4 cylinder truck, next to my 96 Accord this is the best vehicle purchase I have made.

  • Poor Build Quality & Many Design Flaws - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Cant direct cold air to floor, poor fit & finish (e.g. uneven gaps, underspray behind gas door, around rear door hindges, under hood, engine pings, sick exhaust note, sliding window rattles & ticks (makes me crazy), tach buzzes at specific RPM range, right rear door rattles, turn signal cancelation mechanism is defective on nearly all Fords (prevents operation when wheel is at 10:00 & 2:00 positions, premature cancelation, fights driver), hood prop rod tears up paint on underside of hood when serviced by dealer (needs protective cap), dealer tears up wheels when removing center cab due to poor design.

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