1996 Ford Ranger Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.45/5 Average
50 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For the 1996 Ford Ranger, an optional passenger-side airbag is now available, and it comes with a switch that will disable the system if a child seat is installed in the truck. Super Cab models get standard privacy glass, Splash models lose that putrid green tape stripe, and the Flareside box from the Splash is now available on two-wheel-drive, four-cylinder XL and XLT models.

Pros:
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 50.00
  • Treating me good - 1996 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Original owner, 4.0 V6 manual extended cab. Easy to work on, gas mileage is good, and has hauled in some bigger loads than one might expect for its size. Roomy enough for me (63"). Things Ive had to repair, in order: The O2 sensor, under warranty, <5000 miles. Starter relay ($9) flaked out at 70K. Throwout bearing (manual) at around 90K miles, garage charged $300 for that and a clutch replacement. Driveshaft carrier bearing disintegrated at about 120K miles, $30 part. Gas pedal mounting bolts/rivets (<$1) fell out at 140K. Front brakes at around 160K miles, in the $30-$60 range. At 174K miles the ignition switch shorted and the truck was trying to start without a key, $20 part.

  • My 5th Ranger - 1996 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Have owned Rangers since 1983. The only real problem I have had with the 96 was the automatic hubs went out, I had them replaced with manual hubs for $260. As of today I have 98,000 miles and the body and finish are still excellent.

  • no test drive required - 1996 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Purchased used with 31k miles. Have had zero problems, aside from the carrier bearing on the two-piece driveshaft scaring me when it gave. An excellent vehicle, it is easy to see why there are so many of them on the road. And Im a GM guy (2 Z28s, 2 Firebirds and a Trailblazer in the stable now).

  • I Lost It - 1996 Ford Ranger
    By -

    My mom got it brand new in 96. Then my dad put a 3" lift on it. Then when I turnd 16 my mom gave it to me. I was using just to go to work and school. Then 4 months later after i got it, I was making a left turn and some people in a car T-boned me. So truck is no more. Ever since then Iv been looking for another 96.(My favrite year).

  • 1996 Ford Ranger - 1996 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Excellent vehicle. Low replacement of parts during maintence except common stuff like brakes oil filter, air filter, ect.

  • Pyros review - 1996 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Well its a tough little truck, ive gone everywhere in my little ranger, and i gotta say i love it and i wouldnt have anything else, its a good starter truck. I wish it would last me forever, but sadly all good things must come to an end, i hope thats far off for my little ranger.

  • In Alabama you need the 4.0L - 1996 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Its a very reliable truck. I bought it used in 10/97. I love it! The only thing besides normal wear items like a battery, tires and oil changes, is that I had to replace the oil pan seal. The one thing I dont like is the lack of power(3.0L)and performance going up the hills on the interstates and roads here in Alabama

  • Great little truck - 1996 Ford Ranger
    By -

    This was my first new vehicle. I got it off the lot with 12 miles on it. No real complaints. this truck really is built ford tough. i hit a deer about 2 years ago. Airbag deployed and the fiberglass pieces and lights were all messed up. all messed up. got a new airbag and lights etc and got back on the road. no engine trouble. radiator was well protected. shes getting old and bouncy on bumps now tho, but shes got 170000 miles on it. check engine light has been on since i hit 50,000 miles. needs a $150 replacement sensor or something, but still runs well.

  • Me Ranger - 1996 Ford Ranger
    By -

    I have had no problems with my truck. I was told to just keep the oil changed and I would never have a problem. Well they were right. I have driven this truck hard, beat it up and it still wants more! Great Truck

  • Reliable Truck - 1996 Ford Ranger
    By -

    This is a good basic reliable compact truck. I own the 4 cylinder 2.3L model with a five speed. For the higher elevations of Colorado its a little underpowered, but around town and the plains its fine. A good quality truck.

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