Ford Ranger Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.23/5 Average
1,516 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

They say that in the event of Armageddon, the only thing to survive will be cockroaches. Well, there's a good chance you'd see some old Ford Rangers cruising around, too. This compact pickup truck soldiered on with relatively few revisions for nearly three decades. Of course, there were styling and interior overhauls over the decades, but the platform and most mechanicals underneath it all were practically Jurassic. Even those styling and interior updates dated back to the 1990s.

Older Rangers aren't quite as out of date compared to competitors of similar age. And given its wide choice of trim styles and lower pricing than comparable Japanese rivals, a well-maintained late-model Ford Ranger could be a good choice for a used pickup, provided you don't need a lot of passenger capacity or horsepower. But if you're looking for a relatively new used compact or midsize pickup, the Ford Ranger pales in comparison to other trucks with their more powerful engines, roomier crew-cab body styles and greater overall refinement.

Used Ford Ranger Models
The most recent generation of the Ford Ranger was produced from 2001 through 2011 and typically came in four different flavors: XL, XLT, Sport, and the off-road-oriented FX4. Depending on the year, there were also the monochromatic Edge, sporty STX and sound system-centered Tremor. Only standard and extended cab body styles were offered, as there was still no crew cab version.

Engine selection consisted of a 2.3-liter four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter V6 (until 2009) and a 4.0-liter V6. Output of the smaller engines varied slightly depending on year, with the 2.3 making 135-143 horsepower and the 3.0 making 148-154 hp. The 4.0 made 207 hp. Transmission choices included a five-speed manual and a five-speed automatic for all engines, though initially the 4.0-liter V6 came only with the automatic.

Although nimble on- and off-road due to its true compact size, even this latest version of the Ranger was seriously dated in terms of features and available body styles. While its midsize rivals offered roomy crew-cab (four-door) models, more modern features and much more powerful V6 engines, the Ranger made do with standard and extended-cab configurations only, and relatively low-tech power plants.

The second generation of the Ranger ran from 1993 through 2000. Styling was less blocky than the first-gen truck and the cabin was likewise updated with less angular forms. Standard and extended cab body styles were offered, but they were joined by a stylish, flareside bed version dubbed the Splash. Under the hood was the expected choice of a four- or six-cylinder engine. Notable changes throughout this generation are the availability of four-wheel antilock brakes in 1995, a five-speed automatic transmission (versus four-speed) for V6 models in '97 and freshened styling for '98.

Introduced for 1983, the Ford Ranger started life as a standard-cab, four-cylinder compact pickup truck with a choice of two bed lengths. The mid-'80s saw the introduction of the extended-cab body style known as the "SuperCab," which offered jump seats that were best left to kids. The Ranger continued through the early '90s with minor upgrades to the powertrains and small cosmetic changes.

User Reviews:

Showing 1151 through 1160 of 1,516.00
  • 2nd Ford - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    I purchased this truck four weeks after buying an Explorer with the 4.0L V6 and 5spd auto. I was so pleased with the performance of the Explorer I decided to look into the Ranger. The Ranger feels very solid, the engine is strong, and the transmission is silky smooth. The ride can be rough on less- than-perfect roads. Gas mileage is reasonable for a truck with this size engine.

  • EXELENT - 2002 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Great truck all around.

  • 1995 Ranger is a good bet - 1995 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Great Truck!A little under powered but will get you where you want to go and back. It has been VERY reliable and have very few repair bills. Just normal wear. The truck is a little light and needs some weight in the Snow ,But gets around good with about 300 pounds in the back. AC also works great and does not affect power on the engine. I recomend this truck .

  • Broke at 300 miles - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    It seems like a neet truck to drive but I would know because the tranny is broke at 308 miles. Hopefully I didnt make a major mistake by buying this vehicle.

  • My Reliable Ranger - 2000 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Have owned this rig for 38 months. Have only done oil changes and a set of wiper blades. Has never been back to the dealer for anything.

  • Great small truck - 1997 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Trouble free since we bought it. Great small truck that tows well. Would not hesitate to buy another ranger in the future

  • 99 Ranger XLT 4WD - 1999 Ford Ranger
    By -

    In short... this is a pretty tough truck. It out tows any 4.3 Chevy I have owned. And does well in the snow. The rear seats are useless as well as the rear doors. It handles well but eats brakes and front tires. I would strongly suggest an extended warranty if you looking to buy one of these used.

  • I am glad I bought Ford Tough - 2003 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Every thing with this truck has been just wonderful. From the sales person, owner and car. I love it.

  • Same as every one elses reviw - 1998 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Dome Light Stays On Door ajar Light stays on Check Engine light came on three times in four years ($270 to fix sensor EACH time) Latch on armrest compartment broke at 2 years and 15,000 miles non replacable part, armrest is $$$

  • Very Pleased! - 1999 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Looked extensively at small trucks and SUVs prior to this buy. Was impressed by reports of reliability and the sheer numbers of these trucks sold. Narrowed my search to Toyota 4WD or this. Was shocked at how much more I liked this after driving both. Toyota popularity and reputation being what they are. No regrets. Have the 3.0 6V engine and have both great gas mileage and power- on-demand.

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