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How much horsepower does a 2004 Ford Ranger XLT have?

The horsepower for a 2004 Ford Ranger XLT depends on the engine installed. In US-spec models, the XLT could be equipped with three different engines, yielding a range of horsepower from 143 hp up to about 207 hp. The most powerful option was the 4.0-liter V6, while smaller engines delivered less power.


Engine options and horsepower


Below is a quick breakdown of the available engines and their approximate horsepower ratings for the 2004 Ranger XLT.



  • 2.3 L inline-four (I4) — about 143 horsepower

  • 3.0 L V6 — roughly 154–165 horsepower

  • 4.0 L SOHC V6 — about 207 horsepower


These figures reflect typical US-market ratings for the 2004 Ranger XLT. Exact horsepower can vary slightly by market, emission configuration, and specific vehicle setup.


Notes on availability and trim


Within the XLT line, the 4.0 L V6 was the common choice for buyers seeking higher performance, whereas the 2.3 L I4 was more common on lower-trim configurations or for buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency. The 3.0 L V6 offered a middle ground in power. Always verify the exact engine and horsepower on a specific vehicle’s VIN or door sticker, as options varied by cab/bed configuration and production region.


Summary


In summary, the 2004 Ranger XLT's horsepower ranges from 143 hp with the 2.3 L I4 to 207 hp with the 4.0 L V6, with the 3.0 L V6 typically in the 154–165 hp range. The exact figure depends on the engine and configuration installed.

What engine does the 2004 Ford Ranger XLT have?


The 2004 Ford Ranger XLT with the 4.0L V6 engine delivers strong performance in a compact and dependable package. Known for its durability and capability, this midsize truck offers solid towing power and off-road potential, especially when equipped with 4WD.



How much horsepower does a 2004 Ford Ranger 2.3 L have?


143-horsepower
Like all jump seats in compact pickups, the Ranger's rear seats are too small to hold adults comfortably. Two-wheel-drive Rangers are equipped with a 143-horsepower, 2.3-liter inline-four-cylinder engine.



Is the Ford Ranger 4.0 V-6 a good engine?


The Ford Ranger's 4.0L V6 is considered a good engine, especially the older OHV (Overhead Valve) version, known for its low-end torque and reliability when properly maintained. However, the newer SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) version had a significant weakness with its plastic timing chain guides, which could break, although owners report that with timely maintenance and upgrades, these engines can last a very long time. 
OHV (Overhead Valve) 4.0L V6 

  • Pros: Generally considered more reliable and robust. It has good low-end torque.
  • Cons: Less powerful than the SOHC version.
  • Maintenance: Simple pushrod design means it's a more traditional and often more straightforward engine to work on. 

SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) 4.0L V6 
  • Pros: Produces more horsepower and torque than the OHV version. 
  • Cons:
    • The most significant issue is the potential for the timing chain guides to break due to a faulty plastic component, which can cause major engine damage if not addressed. 
    • Some users report issues with the transmission, especially with the automatic, and recommend regular fluid changes. 
  • Maintenance: The timing chain setup is more complex, with one chain at the rear that is very difficult to access without removing the engine. 
  • Recommendation: For this engine, it is crucial to check if the timing chains have been replaced and upgraded. If not, plan for this potential repair to prevent catastrophic failure. 

General considerations for both engines
  • Maintenance: Both versions benefit significantly from regular oil changes and proper cooling system care to prevent overheating. 
  • Longevity: Despite potential issues, many owners have reported these engines lasting well over 150,000 miles with proper care, and some have reached over 200,000 miles. 
  • Transmission: The automatic transmission that came with this engine can also be a point of failure and is known to develop issues over time. 



How much horsepower does a 2004 Ford Ranger 4.0 V-6 have?


The 2004 Ford Ranger with the 4.0L V6 engine has a horsepower of 207 hp. This engine was an option on models like the XLT, Edge, and FX4, and produced 238 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm.
 
You can watch this video to see a start-up and walkthrough of the 2004 Ford Ranger with the 4.0L engine: 56sCal's Car CornerYouTube · May 4, 2021

  • Engine: 4.0L SOHC V6
  • Horsepower: 207 hp @ 5,250 rpm
  • Torque: 238 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.