Overview & Reviews

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Older Rangers aren't quite as out of date compared to competitors of similar age.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:

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  Luv the little truck - 1999 Ford Ranger
  By adirondacker - March 13 - 2:00 am

  I am only a few months away from paying off the 0.9% financing and have loved owning this truck. Feels strong and sturdy but much better milage than my fathers F150 and brothers 250. Got all the amenities (power everything) with lower price.

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  love my truck - 1997 Ford Ranger
  By mac_712 - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I was told before buying that it was under powered. But I have found the 4.0L engine to have plenty of power. The seats are very comfortable.Gas mileage could be a bit better but I dont baby my vehicles either. This is my first 4x4 and I will never do without 4wd again. The only repairs I have had in the 2 years I have owned this truck is replacement of a couple of sensors in the EGR system and the 2 front u-joints on the front axles have been replaced. I have been told that the u-joints usually need replaced at around 75000 mi and mine lasted 87000 so I cant complain.

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  2000 ranger sport - 2000 Ford Ranger
  By tim11324 - March 8 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle has been perfect from day one. Very low maintence, and will perform any hauling function needed around the house.

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  Great Little Truck - 1998 Ford Ranger
  By BikeNut - March 3 - 2:00 am

  I started out leasing this truck and by the time my lease was up, I knew that I wanted to buy it. I have taken long trips, hauled everything from refrigerators to sheetrock and have never had to do anything to this truck except change the oil and put in gas. It is a great looking truck and is very comfortable. I now have 113,000 miles on it and I drive it 100 miles a day to work and back. I would highly recommend this truck to anyone who is looking for a small, good looking, economical and trouble free vehicle.

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  Ford, America s Best - 1997 Ford Ranger
  By Gerard - February 28 - 2:00 am

  Overall, the 1997 Ford Ranger Super is a very good vehicle. Its number one conveniencing brand I would place upon this vehicle is its saftey. Ford truely have lived up to "Built Ford Tough" slogan. However, I think that all of the models should be standardized with a V6 engine. This would make this vehicle more attractive to buyers and provide a more complete feeling when driving.

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  Pain in the butt! - 1999 Ford Ranger
  By REL - February 27 - 2:00 am

  I bought this truck used with 26000 miles on it.The cushioning in the drivers seat was completely worn down,and I can feel the steel pan whenever I drive.The door ajar light will come on,and the dome light will stay on(theres no off switch on the light).I only get 20 mpg in mixed driving(w/the 2.5 4cyl.)And The mass air flow sensor will malfunction causing the engine to hesitate and stall.Ive owned 2 toyotas prior to this,and will sell this p.o.s and buy another !

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  2002 Ranger Edge 4x4 4 door - 2002 Ford Ranger
  By Mr. Dirt - February 22 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive,great power,gets lots of comments on how cool it looks. no problems as of yet. This is my 3rd Ranger. Its a keeper

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  Ford Ranger XLT 4x4 - 1998 Ford Ranger
  By Starman1950 - February 19 - 2:00 am

  This is probably one of the best vehicles Ive ever owned. EXCEPTION--- front brakes. Right front brake has had serious mechanical problems for the 2nd time now...#1 warranty #2 will be out of pocket. I will be no doubt replacing the rotor, pads and God knows what else.

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  Loves the abuse - 1993 Ford Ranger
  By chacharelli - February 18 - 2:00 am

  My Ranger has the 4.0L V6 and 5 speed manual. Purchased when I was in high school in 1997 with 55,000 miles. It was my first vehicle, so of course it was abused early in our relationship. Now, with 120,000 miles - it just wont quit. Still gets 21+ mpg highway, and the torquey engine has not faded. Replaced the clutch at 85,000 but that was the only major repair. Reliability is almost unbelievable.

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  1993 Ford Ranger XLT Standard Cab SB - 1993 Ford Ranger
  By RobWilkins - February 11 - 2:00 am

  Excellent, reliable vehicle! I bought it in 1999 with 72,000 miles. It is now 2003 and the truck has over 106,000 and is still running strong. I have had no problems at all with the engine. The only two items Ive had to replace are the sending unit and the exhaust system. I am very good about changing the oil & filter every 2500-3000 miles and the gas & air filter every 10,000 miles, and the plugs & wires every 20,000-25,000 miles... I guess it pays off! I love this truck!!!