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 41 through 50 of 168.00
  • All over again - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    This is my second Ranger. The 4.0 is a huge improvement in power and still gets 20mpg on the highway. I love the 5 speed auto its smooth and quiet. I towed my wifes taurus and had a motorcycle in the bed 350 miles. With the o/d off I still got 13mpg at 65mph on the trip with no problems. 4.0 hauled the 4500+lb payload with aplomb. I am very pleased with my Ranger and would recommend it to anyone who needs a smaller truck.

  • 2002 Edge - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Love the look of The Edge. I have the 4x2,Auto trans with V6, 3.73 rear end. The XTRA cab is nice for being able to put the seat back for more legroom , but it is hard for the kids to get in and out of. Gas mileage is about 12 city and 15 highway, not very good. Only have 1500 miles, so Im hoping it will improve.

  • ford ranger review - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    the truck drives good and shift nice and has a good engine

  • 2003 Ranger ratings - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    I love my Ford Ranger! I think the exterior as well as interior design are awesome. It is fun to drive and gets OK gas mileage. I just calculated mine today and I get 16.5 mpg. This is actually really good for a pickup truck. On the other hand, because its such a small pickup truck, the ride is extremely rough and any pothole or uneven road will throw the truck around. The driver must keep their hands on the wheel at all times because unexpected bumps will send it off the road. I noticed this in two other Rangers that I drove, so I can say that they are rough riding trucks and not just from one experience. Overall I love my ranger and I think it is 10x better looking than Chevy S-10s!

  • solid truck - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    I got my ranger in December of 2002, its a 2003 fx4. Rangers Ive had (all new): 1987, 1990, 2000, and now the 2003. The only problem Ive had with this truck is the transmission was leaking after about 1200 miles. The dealer replaced a good portion of it, has had no problems since. This is a solid, fun to drive truck. I have yet to do any serious "wheeling" in it, but have been happy with its handling in deep snow. Id recommend this truck.

  • A tough little truck - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    My Ranger with the 3.0 V6 Auto trans now has 240,000 miles. I follow the 3k oil changes and keep it serviced. It is as tough as nails. It averages 19MPG. It lacks on tow ability but will tow a 4x8 box trailer without any issues. The heater cores are prone to leak, mine has been replaced twice. I have also had to replace the radiator. If youre tall, the cab is a bit cramped. But for the money...you cant go wrong. These are tough trucks. It has never leaked any oil nor has it ever knocked. FYI... these little motors run hot, if you buy one with miles on it, be sure to replace belts and plug wires as they heat crack quickly and this is often overlooked.

  • Very Pleased - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Probably paid a little much for this model but Im glad I did now. The interior is very nice and pretty much every feature ranger offers comes standard.

  • 4.0 SOHC ONLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    I just purchased my second Ford Ranger. I test-drove many different models of ranger from the edge to XLT to the FX4 Level II. The level II was the best buy for the money I paid just under $20400 for it by purchasing online. After reading the other reviews it is pretty obvious that you have to buy the 4.0 Liter SOHC SC engine has more power then you need for a compact truck. The sport bucket seats are far more comfortable then the bench seats.

  • Ranger - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    93,000 miles has yet to see a service dept.

  • Ford Sucks! - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    This 3.0 L engine runs ruff... When you go to buy a truck take a GOOD LONG test drive. It gets worse with more millage! Its not too bad when the engine is brand new! Now it just shakes and dealer(s) say its NORMAL! Dont buy a ford, Crappy Quality Sadly... Now I got to either dump mine or suffer with it.

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