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Older Rangers aren't quite as out of date compared to competitors of similar age.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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  Beware-Front End problems - 2007 Ford Ranger
  By Ron - December 11 - 8:46 pm

  My new Ranger has been in the shop 13 times in one year - 7 times in the past 2 months-Only has 15,000 km. Problems started first month-serious clunking in the steering in mid-turn & when accelerating from stop.Inner Tie rod ends have been replaced 4 times in 2 monthsc- last ones were Fords new/improved ones, as a result of TS Bulletins and serious problems. Also had intermediate shaft replaced twice and lower steering shaft once. Finally no clunking - only been a week - I am wary. Dealer told me several other owners have the same problem. Ford avoiding a recall? In my mid-40s, owned 28 vehicles all makes...never had such an unreliable piece of metal in the driveway (and I am a Ford fan).

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  Lots for the Money - 2008 Ford Ranger
  By Average Joe - December 9 - 10:05 pm

  After puting the last 20K, of 107K, on a 1997 model, I bought the 2008. Not much change, but "if it aint broke dont fix it!" These little trucks will give you much economical utility and reliabilty. When you are not "trucking" it is decently comfortable transportation for two.

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  Life With Ranger - Part IV - 2007 Ford Ranger
  By 07RangerSport - December 6 - 10:28 pm

  Just past the "One Year of Ownership" mark, and alls well. In that time, my Ranger has yet to so much as rattle, and this despite 22K L.A. miles in a single year. As Ive stated in my earlier reviews, by 2007 truck standards, my Ranger borders on "antique." Literally every other truck on the market rides more smoothly, get better gas mileage and provides greater and more cleverly packaged interior spaces. That said however, few offer Rangers total combo of rugged styling, "just right" size and seemingly military- spec durability. For those desiring a classic, comfortable little truck, adeptly able to tackle your basic chores without busting your bank account Rangers still #1.

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  Great truck - 1999 Ford Ranger
  By bluedevil3758 - December 6 - 1:30 pm

  I have 135k on the truck and no major repairs, just fluids and exhaust. I however did replace an axle shaft after a guy hit my rear end but I felt lucky considering I was able to still drive it while his car was in a bunch of pieces. I have really beat on this thing bought it from my Dad when i was 17 and took it off roading all the time and have put 2000lbs in the bed a couple of time. The only thing I wish was different was the 4x4 Ford uses a vacuum system to engage the system which always fails. I switched to manual hubs and no more problems. The 3.0 and 4.10 rear end is a pretty nice set up

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  Annies Paw - 1999 Ford Ranger
  By Annies Paw - December 4 - 12:11 am

  Good all around truck. Excellent vehicle for hauling light loads. Respectable fuel ecomomy (19 mpg) and virtually maintenance free.

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  Ford Tough - 1999 Ford Ranger
  By Buddy L - November 29 - 12:13 pm

  I bought this 4 door 4.0L 4x4 with 105k miles 3 years ago. After 170k I have had to replace the O2 sensors, alternator, steering column wiring, AC/Heat controls, power window switch, transfer case motor. The automatic hubs went out around 150k. The truck has never held an alignment. I have pulled more than 5,000 lbs with it and have put it through three years of heavy off road and on road abuse. It has been more reliable than I could have ever hoped it would be, I just wish I would have sold it at 150k. The rear doors are great for throwing small things in the back but the rear seats are not suitable for anyone over 8 years old. I would definitely buy another.

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  One Flaw Ranger - 1997 Ford Ranger
  By KD - November 26 - 10:14 am

  I own a 1997 Ford Ranger XLT 4cly. with 99,000 miles to this day. Its been very reliable as the engine, trans, and so on. Only had small problem with frnt brake slide pins outside of normal maint. It has one major exterior flaw: rust! I did wash the underbody every spring it still rusts. Id swear Ford designed this trucks frame to rust out. I suppose if I lived in another state besides Maine (and snow & salted roads) this would not be a problem, or would it.

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  I Love My Ranger So Much - 2006 Ford Ranger
  By deekellan - November 24 - 8:46 pm

  I traded a Hyundai Elantra for this truck and Ive never been happier! The extended cab is perfect for my work things (backpack, jacket, lunch),the body looks great. People compliment me on it all the time. The flared fenders really add some dirt cred to its stance, not like it needs it, but it still adds to the look. Driving it is just plain fun. On the street its civilized but the Billstein shocks make their presence known a bit, and thats a good thing. It doesnt "ride" like a car at all, but yet doesnt bounce unnecessarily. Off-road you can really feel its purpose. Nothing stops this truck.It performs and looks great. What else can you want from a truck?

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  Amazing Little Truck - 1996 Ford Ranger
  By drdz070 - November 17 - 11:52 am

  I bought my 1996 Ranger a little over a year ago with 113000 miles on it and i have since brought that total up to 143000 miles. The truck has required very little work, other that the basics like oil changes. In fact, the only thing ive had done to it, that was of any consequence, was the replacement of two belts and a tensioner. I would recomend this little truck to anyone and i am saddened that it has come time for a new car. I hope that the next owner enjoys it as much as I have.

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  4.0 XLT Off-Road! Everything youll want - 2000 Ford Ranger
  By jjwooly - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I have had no trouble with my 4.0 XLT Off-Road 4X4. The 5 speed Automatic transmission is shifts at just the right times and the 4.0Ltr engine has more than enough power. Highway and off-road performance is outstanding. Fit and finish is all so very good. I drove them all before I bought this one. I made the right choice.