Here Are The Ford Ranger Years To Avoid

Since 1983, Ford Ranger has been on the market. Ford was known for its large full-sized trucks, but the Ranger was a compact truck that caught the attention of many. There are no other trucks like the Ranger, and it has won awards for performance and style, but not all years have been praised. 

Here Are The Ford Ranger Years To Avoid

In order to help you on your pre-owned Ford Ranger search, we’ve listed some Ford Ranger years to avoid. You shouldn’t jump onto every year, but we’ll tell you which ones are best avoided. 


Ford Ranger Years to Avoid

Ford’s Ranger was a pioneer in its field, setting the stage for other manufacturers to follow. While they haven’t had a perfect track record, they have had a few issues here and there. Below is a list of Ford Ranger models with the worst reputations.

The 1999 Ford Ranger

There is a terrible reputation attached to the 1999 Ford Ranger. This vehicle is regarded as one of Ford’s worst ever. There have been over 1,000 complaints about the 1999 Ford Ranger on CarComplaints. An engine gauge was typically one of the most common problems on the list. 

The 1999 Ford Ranger

The majority of the issues didn’t begin to appear until the vehicle reached well over 100,000 miles. As a result, Ford compact trucks weren’t a complete failure, which was perhaps the saving grace. 

The 2001 Ford Ranger 

Although there were not as many problems reported, this one was still a failing. The transmission was the most commonly reported problem, rather than the engine. Shifting wasn’t as smooth as it had been previously. Overdrive lights were also reported as a problem in many vehicles, in addition to transmission problems. Owners were left scratching their heads when this light started flashing and wouldn’t stop. 

The 2001 Ford Ranger 

Most of the problems began after the truck reached 100,000 miles, as with the 1999 model. Despite this, the truck still had nine recalls, affecting its reputation. 

The Good Times 

Ford Ranger years 1999 and 2001 are two to avoid. Aside from that, the vehicle has a solid reputation, which has caught the attention of many people for several reasons.

 These vehicles have been around for decades and have become Ford’s most-loved vehicles. Here are some years that you might be interested in if you are in the market for a preowned. 

The 1988 Ford Ranger 

Powered by a 2.3 L 4-cylinder engine and solid frame, this compact truck is built to last. The best model year is 1988, if there is one. The thing might sound old, but it was built to last. As long as it is maintained, those who own it can drive it.

The 1988 Ford Ranger 

The 2000 Ford Ranger

Ford knew that it needed to develop new and improved products in response to all the complaints and reports in 1999. It was this idea that led to Ford’s 2000 Ranger, an off-roading model that took the company to the next level. For drivers who want to go off-road, this model has wider tires and fog lamps. 

The 2000 Ford Ranger

The 1986 Ford Ranger 

The 1986 Ford Ranger is among the classics and is one of the most loved. (Even now, many consumers are raving about this one). With 18 mpg and a smooth drive train, you’d never expect to find that in an older model. It’s a classic piece of history as well as a well-built classic.

The 1986 Ford Ranger 

Common Ford Ranger Issues to Watch For

When it comes to pre-owned Ford Rangers, it’s good to know what problems you will encounter. There were years when the brand seemed perfect, and others when it didn’t. Consumer reports suggest that you could be dealing with some critical issues.

Common Ford Ranger Issues to Watch For
  • Engine misfire: Between 2004 and 2006, there have been reports of engine issues, especially misfires. There were power loss issues, slight tremors, and stalls reported by drivers. The exhaust valve seat recession is believed to be responsible for the issues highlighted in TSB 05-26-3.
  • Transmission issues: The 2002 model had some terrible transmission issues, though they weren’t widespread. Shift flares, gear loss, and erratic shifting are symptoms of this condition. The most common fix was to rebuild the transmission, but it wasn’t always successful.
  • High engine idle: Many Ford Ranger model years have been reported to have abnormally high idle speeds. When a manual gearbox is disengaged, the issue occurs or when an automatic gearbox is cold started. Updates to the powertrain control module (PCM) are the most common fix.
  • Hard to start cold: Many drivers reported having trouble starting their Ranger when it was cold. Aside from that, the Ranger also stalls at idle and hesitates when accelerating.
  • Steering issues: Some Rangers’ owners reported clunking and clicking noises while steering. It is unfortunate that this issue appeared almost immediately after the vehicle had been purchased. To resolve this issue, Ford released TSB 19844 to update the tie rod assembly.

The majority of these issues only arise after 100,000 miles, and most are not significant. Nonetheless, if you pick a Ranger from a year with many issues or a major recall, you should be aware of what you’re getting into. If you are thinking about purchasing a used car, make sure you check the year and any problems first. 


Are Ford Rangers Generally Reliable?

Ford Rangers are reliable no matter what year you buy, but they aren’t trustworthy if they don’t perform. Here are some other car options of a similar caliber that we can compare to the Ranger.

As compared to similar pickup truck choices, the Ford Ranger is averagely reliable. Several years of Ford Ranger models have exhibited average reliability, according to consumerreports.com, and this is likely to continue.

Getting a second opinion on a vehicle’s reliability is also a good idea. In a reliability survey by repairpal.com, the Ford Ranger is rated four out of five, which places it in third place out of seven other midsize trucks. It’s one of the best.

Compared to other midsize trucks, the Ford Ranger has an annual repair cost of $615, which is slightly higher than the $548 average. Midsize trucks have a 13% chance of needing an unexpected repair, 1% lower than other midsize trucks’ 13% average.

In comparison to other midsize trucks, Ford Ranger drivers report having their vehicles repaired on average .2 times per year for severe needs. It is an excellent choice if you are looking for a reliable truck.


Is The Ford Ranger Worth It?

Ford Ranger is a great vehicle. In the case of a used version, there are many excellent years that offer enough room for you and your cargo. This is a vehicle that is straight to the point in the best possible way.

The Ford Ranger is a great choice for anyone who loves the design or wants something to transport things. Even if you choose the most reliable model year, it’s well worth the investment.


Ford Ranger Years to Avoid: The Wrap Up

When the Ford Ranger was released, it caught many people’s attention. Due to their impressive features and superb build quality, the first versions of this vehicle ended up taking the industry by storm. Nevertheless, Ford has not been perfect in their construction, with some years having more problems than others. If you’re looking for a Ford Ranger, you should avoid certain years. 

The process of buying a preowned vehicle on your own can be stressful and unpleasant. This is where we come in to help, helping you find a Ford Ranger in your area without the hassle.

We carefully select Ford Rangers from the best years at CoPilot. Furthermore, we don’t deal with dealerships, so you can get the best services without having to deal with the hassles of dealerships. Let us show you some Ford Ranger models right where you are if you’re looking for one.


Frequently Asked Questions: Ford Ranger Years to Avoid

What are the Ford Ranger years that should be avoided?

If you want to avoid getting a Ford Ranger, stay away from years 1999 and 2001. There have been numerous complaints and problems reported with these model years.

What was the most common issue reported for the 1999 Ford Ranger?

One of the most common problems reported with the 1999 Ford Ranger was the engine gauge, which often needed to be replaced.

Did the 2001 Ford Ranger have any notable transmission problems?

There were numerous transmission issues reported in the 2001 Ford Ranger, including shifting difficulties. The overdrive light frequently flashed continuously, according to owners.

Which Ford Ranger model years are considered the most reliable?

Ford Ranger models from 1988, 2000, and 1986 are some of the best. A special note should be made about the 1988 model’s durability and longevity, while a more off-road-oriented model was introduced in 2000. Aside from its smooth drivetrain and overall quality, the 1986 Ford Ranger is also highly praised.

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