2008 Ford Ranger Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.27/5 Average
44 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The Ford Ranger soldiers into 2008 with only minor changes. A new, more aerodynamic front bumper design improves fuel economy slightly, while trim levels have been reduced.

Pros:
  • Solid performance from 4.0-liter V6, very capable off-road with the FX4 trim.
Cons:
  • Cramped interior, choppy ride, subpar handling and braking, dated interior design, lacks modern-day safety and convenience features.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 44.00
  • Easy to work on - 2008 Ford Ranger
    By -

    My second ranger, bought first one new in 99 and drove it 14 years. This one is AUTO with CC. It was wrecked, but Ive had no issues. The 2.3L is pretty pathetic, but I get 25+ mpg. The parts are cheap and its easy to work on, simple is good. I bought it with 45K in 2010 and put 50K on it. The only thing that broke was the heater/AC fan clicks if not adjusted right after riding on a bumpy road. Ive changed front rotors, breaks and bearings, all the shocks and struts, the rear diff fluid, AT fuild and filter, plugs and wires, and flushed radiator. I did cause a steering pump leak by putting radiator flush in it, but theyre only 60 bucks. It is VERY easy to work on, I am not a mechanic. Ive towed/loaded heavy stuff and ripped up stumps. She will run. Its really small on the inside. Rangers are awesome and reliable.

  • After the new car glow - 2008 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Wonderful to drive when the weather turns ugly, only thing that gives me trouble is sheer ice, with factory tires. With no load it rides rough, with @150 - 250 lbs of cargo it is a much improved ride. At a hair over 6 I have room to move the seat back to give myself more leg to peddle room, but I do not need it. Everything else is too cramped. If I have a passenger we are riding shoulder to shoulder. As a short commuter or weekend play vehicle it is wonderful. SADLY, as a full time ride for me, @350KM/220Mi/week, it is not a good choice. I choose to support Ford. I should have bought a Toyota to get the same qualities but with better comforts at a higher cost.

  • Who needs luxory - 2008 Ford Ranger
    By -

    I love all these people that complain about how the ranger is simple and outdated. Technology means nothing when your vehicle is in the shop because the state of the art traction control system has a computer malfunction. This truck is always reliable because of its simplicity which is reflected in the low price. You can easily spend more money for a Toyota Tacoma but at the end of the day the ranger is more reliable and will get you from a to b for less money. They are also very easy to do self repairs on which also saves money. If you want luxury buy a lexus they cost just about the same as one of those loaded cushy f150s

  • Best value/most honest pick-up out there - 2008 Ford Ranger
    By -

    I purposely looked for and purchased a base XL 4WD regular cab pick-up. Mine came from a N.C. dealer who used E-bay as the primary sales tool. My expectations were rather low because of the heavily discounted price and the low equipment level, but I was happily surprised. For such an old design, the basic utility and honesty of this truck really stands out. Im completely satisfied.

  • The best small truck PERIOD - 2008 Ford Ranger
    By -

    This is my second ranger. There are 2 others rangers my family has (93&98).These trucks are tough and very reliable. The 2.3 DOHC and 5 spd are great choice 24mpg city and 27 highway and plenty of power( 3rd gear wheel spin). The other trucks have no rust and one has over 200,000 miles. I would have kept my 2001 ranger but I like the added interior space of the supercab.You cant buy a better small truck for the money... period

  • good truck - 2008 Ford Ranger
    By -

    MY Ranger is by far the most reliable new vehicle I have ever owned. Yes its dated and yes its much smaller than all other makes but lets face it most people under utilize their big trucks. I can pull over 6000lbs or throw a 4 wheeler in the back with no issues and my truck payment is only 460$ per month and cheep insurance to boot. I love my Ranger and would recommend one to anyone looking for a good truck that is inexpensive to own

  • The only compact left, and better for it - 2008 Ford Ranger
    By -

    This was my first new vehicle, my first four cylinder, and my first stick shift. I made the right choice. I bought the truck because of what it was, basic, inexpensive, and frugal. The turn signal stalk split at the mold seam at 12,000 miles, but thats not a big deal. Its 2wd but it will make it through deep mud, just dont stop. Ive got a K&N filer and a Flowmaster exhaust installed which added very usable low/mid range power. Im not a Ford guy, I grew up in a GM household. This little truck grows on you, my dad even likes it. Not bad for an old design is it?

  • Ford Ranger 2008 Reg Cab 2W 6cyl - 2008 Ford Ranger
    By -

    Style is thick, brawny, efficient and descendant of the bull dog. Basic model does the job on hauling furniture, plants, groceries. wood, sod, bricks. No space is wasted Recommend that you get the electrical windows option I installed after market windows and remote door locks and wished I had purchased the factory options with Ford. You should also protect your investment and get bedliner with Ford logo. The white paint is beautiful- like porcelein and reflects the 100 degree southern heat. For the low price, a very reliable and satisfactory long term investment. The MPG is really comparable to other 6 cylinder trucks as well as luxury cars! So you are in the ballpark.

  • Downsizing worked out! - 2008 Ford Ranger
    By -

    I sold my 2003 Dodge Ram Quad Cab 4 X 4 with Hemi & ordered my Ranger XLT 4 Banger with auto & all options. In short, I love this truck. Average 24 MPG, fun to drive and think Ford should put time & effort into the Rangers future! I am a happy Ford Customer!

  • Best Work Truck On The Road - 2008 Ford Ranger
    By -

    If you do the reserch (actual consumer reviews)you will find the Ranger is far more reliable than the Tacoma or Chevy.Just wish it got a few more MPGs.A family member who works for Toyota has told me that Toyotas own internal quality testings show that in recent years Ford cars & trucks beats toyotas hands down!I cary apox. a 1000 pounds of equip.& get 17mpg.I did add a leaf spring. I get 21mpg unloaded.The king cab says it seat 5, lets get real unless its 5 skinny dwarfs you can seat 2 adults comfortablely.

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