How many miles can a 1996 Ford Ranger go?

Typical range is roughly 350–500 miles per full tank, depending on the engine and driving conditions. The exact figure varies with configuration, fuel tank size, and how you drive.

Understanding how far a 1996 Ranger can go requires looking at its common configurations, fuel system, and real-world factors that influence miles per gallon. Below is a concise guide to help estimate range for this classic pickup.

Key factors that affect range

These are the primary elements that determine how far a Ranger can travel on a single tank:

• Engine type (2.3L inline-four or 3.0L V6)


• Transmission (5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic)


• Drivetrain (2WD vs. 4x4)


• Fuel tank size, which typically ranges from 19 to 21 gallons


• Driving conditions (highway vs. city, load, cargo, and top speed)


• Vehicle maintenance and fuel system condition (injectors, oxygen sensors, tires, etc.)

Because tank size and efficiency vary by configuration and condition, actual range can differ significantly from one Ranger to another.

Fuel tank size and efficiency by configuration

Knowing typical tank capacities and fuel economy helps translate mpg into miles per tank for common 1996 Ranger setups:

• Tank capacity: generally 19–21 gallons across configurations


• 2.3L inline-four mpg (estimated combined): about 23–25 mpg


• 3.0L V6 mpg (estimated combined): about 18–21 mpg

Using these figures, you can estimate per-tank range for each engine. For example, a 19–21 gallon tank with 23–25 mpg would yield roughly 437–525 miles per tank, depending on the exact mpg and tank size. A 19–21 gallon tank with 18–21 mpg would yield roughly 342–441 miles per tank under similar conditions.

Practical estimates by common configurations

Below are approximate ranges you might expect for typical 1996 Ranger builds in real-world driving, absent unusual fuel efficiency issues:

• 2.3L inline-four (4- or 5-speed): approximately 430–525 miles per tank


• 3.0L V6 (auto or manual, 2WD or 4x4): approximately 340–440 miles per tank

These ranges assume normal driving habits and a full tank. Real-world results can be lower with heavy loads, frequent idling, or aggressive driving, and higher with steady highway cruising and properly inflated tires.

Bottom line: how far can a 1996 Ranger go?

In practice, a 1996 Ford Ranger typically covers about 340 to 525 miles on a full tank, depending on engine choice, drivetrain, and driving conditions. To estimate more precisely for your truck, multiply the fuel tank capacity (in gallons) by your average miles per gallon (mpg) in typical driving, and adjust for your condition and habits.

Summary

The 1996 Ford Ranger offers a broad range of mileage per tank due to its two engine options and various configurations. With a roughly 19–21 gallon tank and mpg ranging from about 18–25 depending on engine, a typical full-tank range sits around 340–525 miles. For a personalized estimate, use your own tank size and recent mpg data, and factor in local driving conditions.

How much is a 1996 Ford Ranger worth?

The value of a 1996 Ford Ranger varies significantly, but a national average price is around $5,968. Other estimates suggest a fair purchase price of about $2,800 to $3,100 for models in good condition, while a trade-in value could be closer to $1,100. Factors like mileage, condition, trim level (like Splash), and a vehicle history report are key to determining the exact value.
 
Price estimates

• Average Listing Price: Approximately $5,968, based on current listings. 
• Fair Purchase Price (KBB): Varies by trim, from around $2,916 for a short bed to $3,085 for a Splash short bed. 
• Trade-in Value (KBB): Around $1,106 for a Super Cab model. 
• Edmunds Value: A 1996 Ranger in "average" condition might have a private party value of about $1,122 and a trade-in value of around $946. 

Factors that influence value

• Condition: "Outstanding" condition will be worth more than "rough" condition. 
• Mileage: Lower mileage vehicles are worth more. 
• Trim Level: Models like the "Splash" often have a higher value. 
• Vehicle History: A clean history with no accidents will increase the value. 
• Engine and Drivetrain: The engine size and whether it's 2WD or 4x4 will affect the price.
• Modifications: Aftermarket modifications might increase or decrease value depending on how well they are done. 

What is considered high mileage on a Ford Ranger?

A: Generally, a car with more than 150,000 kilometers (93,000 miles) is considered to have high mileage.

How long do 1996 Ford Rangers last?

Many Rangers were retired at around 250,000 miles due to the rising cost of repairs, but if you're willing to stick to it, this truck can reach up to 300,000 miles. On a related note, many owners from the Ford Ranger subreddit have shared their high-mileage trucks with over 200,000 miles.

Is the 1996 Ford Ranger reliable?

The 1996 Ford Ranger is generally considered a reliable and durable truck, especially models with the "Die Hard" engines, which are known for lasting a long time with proper maintenance. However, potential buyers should be aware of common issues like engine misfires, high idle, and potential rust, which is the biggest concern for older models. 
Strengths

• Engine longevity: Many of the engines are known to be very durable. The "Die Hard" engines are famous for their longevity, with many owners reporting the vehicles lasting well over 200,000 miles. 
• Affordability: These trucks are often a good value due to their low cost of ownership and repair. 
• Fuel efficiency: Many owners report good gas mileage, especially with the four-cylinder engine. 

Common problems

• Engine issues: Some common problems include engine bucking at freeway speeds, rough or stalling at idle, and high idle, which can be a sign of a vacuum leak or faulty control valve. 
• Synchronizer shaft: The synchronizer shaft for the camshaft position sensor may make noise. 
• Rust: Rust is the most significant concern, with potential issues on the floorboards, bed, and frame. 
• Other issues: Some owners have reported issues with the fuel filler neck, blend doors, and 4x4 system not working. 

What to look for when buying

• Rust inspection: Thoroughly inspect the truck for any signs of rust on the body, frame, and bed. 
• Engine check: Listen for any of the engine-related problems mentioned above, such as rough idle, misfires, or stalling. 
• Maintenance history: Check for a good maintenance history, especially oil changes, as this is crucial for engine longevity. 
• Electrical components: Ensure all electrical components, such as lights and sensors, are functioning correctly.