This is a page everyone should read before buying a used Ford Ranger!

Looking to buy a used Ford Ranger? Due to the popularity of the Ford Ranger and the fact that Ford produced over 7-million of them, there are plenty of good used Rangers out there.

When choosing a Ford Ranger, you'll likely want to know:

What Are The Known Problems:

With any vehicle, some years have more reported problems than others. The chart below gives you an idea of the reported problems for each year.

You should take the vehicle to a reputable mechanic before deciding to buy the Ranger to have it checked out.  When initially evaluating the vehicle, be sure to check the following things:

* Be aware that the 1996 Ranger has reports of broken bolts that holds the power steering box to the frame.

Be cautious if the vehicle is running when you arrive to look at it.  Turn the vehicle off and let it set for a while why you look it over.  Also be concerned if the engine is warm when you show up to look at it.  This could be a sign that there is problems with the engine or hard starting. 

Test Drive:

You are going to test drive it right?

Smoke - Fluids:

When you start the engine, have someone look for smoke from the tail pipe. This could be a sign of bad rings or seals. Check the engine fluids. Check the transmission and make sure the fluid isn't dark and have a burnt smell. Check the engine oil to see if it looks milky white. This is a sign of coolant getting in to the engine from a bad head/gasket. 

4-Wheel Drive:

If it has manual hubs, check to see if they lock and for any cracks or damage. When you drive the vehicle, engage the transfer case and test the 4wd. Place the case in 4Lo because the vehicle will creep and you'll be able to feel the low gearing. 4Lo is an easier range to FEEL if the vehicle is in 4wd than 2Hi.  When you drive the vehicle check for strange noises, handling, steering, and check the transmission in all the gears.

If the 4WD has a switch, make sure it goes in to 2HI, and then place it in neutral and switch it to 4LOW. Make sure the 

The 1998-2000 Ford Ranger 4x4 has a vacuum actuated front locking hub that is very problematic. It's best to just replace them with aftermarket locking hubs. Click HERE for more information.

Transmission:

Make sure it shifts smoothly. Watch out for signs of delayed shifts, acting like it hangs up in neutral between shifts, or harsh down shifts. Make sure it doesn't jerk forward when you start out in Drive. Make sure manual transmissions shift smoothly as well and that the clutch is working properly. make sure the O/D light isn't on.

Brakes:

Make sure the brakes work properly and don't lock up. You should have good peddle pressure. The brake peddle should not go to the floor. Make sure the truck doesn't try to accelerate when you apply the brakes.

Heat - A/C:

If the vehicle has air conditioning, check to see that it works. Check the settings on the heater and ensure the fan turns at all speed settings. Check the heat settings and work it from hot to cool. Some Rangers such as the 1997 had faulty blend doors that get stuck in a position that only blows hot air. See more information HERE.

Electrical:

Check the turn signal / multi-switch. Make sure the lights, turn signals, wipers, and washer fluid all works. Check to see if the cruise control actually works. Check for melted cruise control buttons on the steering wheel, and check the plugs on the master cylinder under the hood to make sure nothing looks melted.

Make sure the door ajar and dome lights go out when the doors are shut.

The Interior:

Check to see that the seat backs haven't broken, and that the seat belts properly buckle and unbuckle. Make sure the buckles actual lock in place.

Be aware that the 2004 Ford Ranger had reported issues of the rear window popping out from the occupants leaning back against it. Look for gaps or signs of leaks.

Recalls:

Be aware of the recalls for the model year you're looking at (Use the 'Choose A year' chart above). Make sure you check with a dealer to ensure all the recalls have been done on that vehicle.

Best Years - Recommendations:

4-Wheel Drive:

Automatic - If you're looking for an off-road vehicle with an automatic transmission, the 1995-1997 4.0L 4x4 is the best choice. In 1995, Ford replaced the weak A4LD automatic transmission with a stronger 4R55E (behind the 4.0L V6. The 4R44E was behind the 4-cylinder and 3.0L V6). These Rangers also came with a 8.8-Inch rear axle, and Dana 35 TTB front. These Rangers are cheaper to lift, have more lift options, and will get more wheel travel than the 1998-2011 models.

Manual - If you're looking for an off-road vehicle with a manual transmission, the 1991-1997 4.0L 4x4 is the best choice. These Rangers came with the M5OD-R1 5-speed, 8.8-inch rear, and Dana 35 TTB front. These Rangers are cheaper to lift, have more lift options, and will get more wheel travel than the 1998-2011 models.

FX4 - If you want a newer style Ford Ranger, look for a 2002 FX4, or a 2003-2010 FX4 Level II. The FX4 Level II version comes with a special 31-spline 8.8-inch Ford 8.8 rear axle equipped with a Zexel-Torsen limited-slip differential, three skid plates, upgraded tow hooks, 31" BFGoodrich All Terrains, 15-inch forged Alcoa wheels, and Bilstein shocks. Inside, the Level II package added two-tone cloth seats, optional leather and rubber floors along with a six-CD MP3 headunit as standard options. The FX4 level II package was first available in 2003, though, in 2002 the very first "FX4" package, however not Level II, was available. The 2002 FX4 off-road package is identical to the 2003+ FX4 Level II package, since there wasn't a FX4 Level II package offered.

2-Wheel Drive:

The best 2-wheel drive Ranger is really a matter of personal preference. Ford used an A4LD transmission from 1985-1994, and would be considered the weakest link in the truck. Other than that, some buy them based on price, economy, or body style. We believe the 80's style Rangers still make the coolest mini trucks.

The 1983-1997 Ford Ranger used a Twin I-Beam front suspension. The 1998-2011 Ford Ranger used a SLA control arm front suspension. Lowering these vehicles require different components.

Some Ford Ranger Milestones: