2008 Ford Ranger Problems & Recalls

Trucks Of The Month

Ranger Buyers Guide

Complaints:

Looking to buy a used Ford Ranger? Here are some complaints / problems and recalls to be aware of.

Engine:

Vibration - Reported in Rangers with 2.3 liter engines.

Engine light comes on and RPM's jump up.

Body / Paint:

Rear bumper rusted through.

Holes rusted through the bed body.

Door rattles.

Brakes:

Front calipers sticking due to rust.

Front caliper sticking.

AC / Heater:

Air conditioning runs in all modes. Will not shut off.

No heat.

Steering:

Steering pump cracked.

Windows / Windshield:

Door windows shutter. There is a Ford Technical Service Bulletin telling the dealer how to fix this.

Seat Belts / Air Bags:

Passenger air bag did not deploy during front end collision.

Drivers airbag did not deploy during a fatal collision.

Air bag light comes on intermittently.

Fuel System:

Gas tank was leaking from the top of the tank and the truck caught fire

Miscellaneous Electrical:

Anti theft system engaged and the instrument panel went blank.

Recalls:

2008 Ford Ranger Exterior Lighting: Tail Lights, Exterior Lighting: Brake Lights: NHTSA Campaign #11V352000

Date Announced: JULY 13, 2011 / Vehicles Affected: 26,715

Summary: Ford is recalling certain model year 2011 Ranger trucks built from January 25, 2011, through April 25, 2011 at the Twin Cities assembly plant, and service parts distributed to dealers for certain 2004 through 2011 model year Ranger trucks, 2002 through 2005 model year Excursion vehicles, and 2002 through 2007 model year F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 trucks for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." The multi-function switch was shipped with a subcomponent (slider) that may experience deformation. A multi-function switch with a deformed slider may malfunction causing the turn signal, tail lights, hazard warning signal flashers and/or brake lights not to activate.

Consequence: Non-functioning lights could increase the risk of a crash.

Actions: Dealers will replace the switches free of charge. The safety recall began on August 15, 2011. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332. For detailed information & supporting documents, see the NHTSA Recall 11V352000 »