2004 Ford Ranger Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

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

All 2004 Ford Rangers get a more aggressive raised hood and a partitioned grille that more closely matches that of other Ford trucks. Inside, seats have been revised to improve comfort, and leather upholstery is a new option. A new leather-wrapped, four-spoke steering wheel is available on some models, as is a floor console. New white-faced gauges are standard on all models, except the base XL. The Tremor model's 510-watt stereo now has MP3 capability, and other models are eligible for a 290-watt Pioneer Sound package with an in-dash CD/MP3 player. Additionally, the Tremor is available with four-wheel drive this year, and the off-road-ready FX4 gets an electronic shift-on-the-fly transfer case. Sixteen-inch aluminum wheels are optional on two-wheel-drive Edge models, and an engine block heater is standard in select states.

Pros:
  • Strong 4.0-liter V6 engine, multiple trim levels and options, functional interior.
Cons:
  • Dated platform, weak base engines, no crew cab configuration.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 143.00
  • Used "Edge" - 2004 Ford Ranger
    By -

    I bought a used 84k mile standard cab, 6 ft bed "Edge" model and I am pleasantly surprised. I worked at Ford back in the 80s and vividly recall the transmission trouble Rangers had back then. I saw this one on the lot, liked the stepside look, Googled reviews on it (most were right here) and liked what I read. Bought it for $6k and feel like I got a great deal. UWS makes a bed toolbox for these (TBS-54-SPLA-BLK) that was designed for the older "Splash" stepside models.

  • Great Truck! - 2004 Ford Ranger
    By -

    To start this review, Im not sure why Edmunds doesnt have an option for the single cab XLT 2.3L Automatic, because thats what I drive. Anyways, I bought this truck brand new in 2004 from Town and Country Ford in Madison, TN. Aside from a transmission recall before I hit 1,000 miles and an Oxygen sensor going back, this truck hasnt given me ANY issues since Ive bought it whatsoever in the past 8 years. The truck doesnt drive smooth like a Cadillac but its a truck and its not meant to. The 2.3L Duratec engine (found in Rangers from 02-11) are literally bulletproof and will last 200-300-400,000 miles easy with regular maintenance. Ford screwed up discontinuing this truck.

  • Perfect.. Well almost perfect. - 2004 Ford Ranger
    By -

    I bought mine used with 123,000 miles. It could idle better and the automatic transmission jumps a little (I heard that is because I use Wal-Mart Murphy gas). AC and everything are great but dont need it much since its small cab. The seats are comfortable, but im 61" so my legs could use more room. The inside looks nice. The outside is my favorite part. Everyone tells me what a nice truck I have. It runs good. Feels strong, though not the best acceleration. Its everything you can ask for in a small pick-up and more. Also very easy to resell. Fuel economy is great because I dont need the A/C as much as a car or suv. It cools down fast!

  • Repeat buyer - 2004 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Learned my lesson with my first Ranger and got the super cab and 4L SOHC engine. Bucket seats are a big plus for comfort. This truck is fun to drive, unfaltering reliability, and reasonably economical for a vehicle with over 200 HP.

  • Great Reliability - 2004 Ford Ranger
    By -

    I have had this truck for over a year now and have only had to replace the front brakes. This has been a very reliable truck and I would definitely recommend it if your wallet can afford the 15 city and 18 hwy mpg on the 4.0 model. Its not a speedy truck but more of a torque monster. This is a bit of a disappointment unless youre towing something. I barely notice whenever there is any weight on the truck. Overall a quality and reliability make this this ideal small truck.

  • Good Truck so far - 2004 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Edge 4wd Supercab with 4L/ 5 spd manual. Great truck overall, has not let me down until recently. Freeway driving is good, has hauled plenty of stuff. Kegs, plywood, mulch...it does it all with no complaints. Towed my boat this past summer which was borderline overweight, but it did it with no problems. Unfortunately now the clutch slave/master cylinder is going. It did this last year and had it "fixed" by dealership but now it is doing it again. $1000+ cost so far for new slave/master/clutch. Never had a problem when I drove to/from school and has been a great daily driver. First major problem. Done some offroading and snow driving and it tackles it with ease. Overall good truck!

  • Perfect Present - 2004 Ford Ranger
    By -

    After Highschool graduation it was time to upgrade over my 86 Silverado. I knew for a while I wanted a Ranger, Im impressed with way my truck handles and drives. The 3.0 is a good mixture of performance and fuel effiency. Its a solid little truck, that looks as good as it drives. The extended cab is perfect for transporting all my gear to and from school. It can hold all my fishing and camping supplies inside, out of the elemets. The Edge package gives it an awesome stance. I opted for the 2 wheel drive, over the 4 simply for the fact that I dont plan on doing any serious off-roading in it.I upgraded the head unit and rear speakers, simply because Im going through my loud music phase.

  • Awesome Ranger - 2004 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Best truck ever, always what I wanted and always a good experience

  • Great Multi Tasking Pickup! - 2004 Ford Ranger
    By -

    I bought my Ranger used. It was the basic pick up, no xtd cab, no 4x4, manual. It did have an awesome sound system. I love my truck. It does everything I have asked it to, and despite my abuse, it took it with no prob. My only complaint was that the rear window popped out because of the seat pressing up against it. Other than that, as basic as it was, it drove great in ice and snow ( as long as you didnt speed, and carried sand in the back bed . And never had a mechanical or electrical problem. Ford Tough is no misnomer.

  • Best in class - 2004 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Great truck for the money

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