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Older Rangers aren't quite as out of date compared to competitors of similar age.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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  Like this truck - 2003 Ford Ranger
  By X-Style - July 18 - 5:13 am

  Had the truck two years so far. No problems. Its an everyday driver, minimal issues "mysterious knock when in reverse". Everyone likes the looks and I like to drive it. Very comfy inside. I am a big guy and have no problems. I have even slept in the truck a couple of times, but dont try to climb behind the seats. My only regret with this truck is that i did not buy the 4x4. I would not use the 4x4 much, but it is nice to have when you need it. This truck in much bigger than the old Rangers. You sit high, nice clearance, good handling, great acceleration, but you do feel pot holes and speed bump. If you buy this truck you will like it.

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  Sold on the Ranger 2005 - 2005 Ford Ranger
  By Fraser Ellis - July 16 - 1:10 pm

  Owned a 2002 and turned it in for a 2005. It has really been developed into a great truck.

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  Great truck - 1994 Ford Ranger
  By Carlos - July 14 - 1:34 am

  I bought the truck in 1998 with 50k miles on it and it is still running great. Its kind of rough on bumpy roads. Ive only had to replace the battery, brakes, and electrical components at 100k miles. Im not a big Ford fan, but it has gotten me through the years without any major problems. And of course I had to put 30 inch all terrain tires on it.

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  Danger Ranger - 2004 Ford Ranger
  By Danger Ranger - July 10 - 11:40 pm

  This truck is great. It out-performs my every expectation. It feels like it can conquer all, but is still comfortable and practical for everyday use. Its been strong and reliable for over a year now. Its a great value and never lets me down.

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  Still Seems New - 1999 Ford Ranger
  By David James C - July 7 - 11:09 am

  Ive owned the 4x4 extended cab ranger since 2000, 2nd owner. This truck still seems new to me, even though it has 50,000 miles on it. The only problem is with the 4x4 electrical engagement. There is a problem that will cost me about $500 to fix. Dealer has to replace electrical box on transfer case. Choppy ride is only draw back. Otherwise fit and finish, interior and exterior are still great. Ford replaced the "Firestone roll over tires" for free. All in all Im still happy with this truck, and it is a shame to see such low ratings. Ive been through the new Ford pick-up plant in Dearborn - it is state of the art, and super-environmentally friendly!

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  Mighty Mouse - 1994 Ford Ranger
  By Ed - July 5 - 3:27 am

  I love my Ford Ranger. I think that a Ford Ranger is the best vehicle that a teenager can own. It has all the get up and go that I need, never lets me down, and is easy to beef up, performance-wise.

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  Good all around truck - 2000 Ford Ranger
  By Jim - June 29 - 12:58 am

  I bought this truck brand new in 2000. It tows very well considering its a V6. I drive this truck everyday and I couldnt ask for a better truck. It has always being there for me. The ride is rough but hey, its a truck. I love this truck especially being a 5 speed manual, I dont have to worry about transmission problems like you always encounter with Ford automatic transmissions.

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  Getting too old - 2004 Ford Ranger
  By R. Jones - June 28 - 1:04 am

  For the money, for a 4WD, the 2004 Ranger is a good buy for the money. BUT, it is basically the same Ranger I drove in 1993, with two more Mickey Mouse doors. Almost impossible to get in a 5 speed manual transmission. While the 4.O liter engine is good, youd think after all the years of producing it they could refine in a little better gas mileage. (Consistently getting 17 mpg and I dont hit the gas peddle very hard, very often, and get that mileage.). Truck wont hold a candle to the new Toyota I bought this year.

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  Great Truck - 1995 Ford Ranger
  By karl - June 27 - 1:54 am

  Outside of small electrical problems, this has been a wonderful, reliable truck. Perhaps the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. Only thing is the 4 cylinder engine is underpowered. 0-60mph is about 21 seconds. Mountains are a drag. But, I use the truck almost exclusively in the city. So it is GREAT.

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  Best truck I ever had - 2005 Ford Ranger
  By j phillips - June 26 - 10:13 am

  This truck has never had a problem, I pull out stumps, ride over sand dunes, and run it as hard as I can. One tough truck.