What year are Ford Rangers not to buy?
When it comes to purchasing a used Ford Ranger, knowing which model years to avoid can save you from potential headaches and costly repairs. With years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I’ve compiled insights on the Ford Ranger's reliability and performance across different years. Here’s a detailed look at the model years that have garnered a reputation for issues, helping you make an informed decision.
Model Years to Avoid
While the Ford Ranger has a strong legacy, certain years have been marked by significant problems. Here are the model years you should consider avoiding:
- 1998-2000: These models are known for transmission issues, particularly with the automatic transmission failing prematurely.
- 2001: This year had a notable number of complaints regarding engine problems, including stalling and rough idling.
- 2002: Similar to 2001, the 2002 Ranger faced issues with the engine and electrical systems, leading to frequent repairs.
- 2004: Owners reported problems with the rear axle and suspension, which can lead to costly repairs if not addressed early.
- 2010: This model year had a higher incidence of complaints related to the transmission and fuel system, making it less reliable.
Common Issues with Problematic Years
Understanding the specific issues associated with these years can help you avoid making a poor investment. Here are some common problems:
- Transmission Failures: Many of the problematic years experienced premature transmission failures, leading to expensive replacements.
- Engine Stalling: Several models had issues with the engine stalling unexpectedly, which can be dangerous while driving.
- Electrical Problems: Faulty wiring and electrical components were common, leading to various malfunctions.
- Suspension Issues: Problems with the suspension can affect handling and safety, making it crucial to inspect these components.
Conclusion
When considering a used Ford Ranger, it's essential to be aware of the model years that have a history of problems. By avoiding the years mentioned above, you can increase your chances of finding a reliable vehicle that will serve you well for years to come. Always remember to have a trusted mechanic inspect any used vehicle before making a purchase to ensure you're making a sound investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What years did Ford have bad transmissions?
Related Story. The Ford PowerShift transmission in question is found in 2011–2016 Fiesta and 2012–2016 Focus cars.
What was Rangers best year?
120 years past, Rangers embarked on one of their most successful seasons in their history, for in the 1898-99 season, the club's 26th season in football and the ninth season of the Scottish Football League, Rangers went on to achieve a one hundred percent record of 18 wins from 18 matches.
Do Ford Rangers have transmission problems?
Transmission problems are a recurring theme for the Ranger. Several owners have reported rattling noises, which can be caused by low or old transmission fluid, worn-out bearings or gear teeth, worn transmission mounts or a damaged drivetrain.
What years did the Ford Ranger have transmission problems?
In very early-build examples of the Ranger (from 2011 and 2012) there was a problem with the gearbox output-shaft speed sensor that could cause the transmission to shift back to first gear with a distinct clunk.
Is 2019 a good year for a Ford Ranger?
Notably, we picked the 2019 Ford Ranger as one of Edmunds' Best Trucks for Towing and Best Gas Mileage Trucks for this year.
What generation of Ranger is the best?
It should be no surprise that the final year of the third-generation stands out as one of the best years of Ford Ranger production. As a generation endures, manufacturers have the chance to finesse and perfect the manufacturing process, which means any issues that come to light from earlier years can be ironed out.
What transmission problems are common in Ford Rangers?
Transmission problems are a recurring theme for the Ranger. Several owners have reported rattling noises, which can be caused by low or old transmission fluid, worn-out bearings or gear teeth, worn transmission mounts or a damaged drivetrain.
What is the most common problem with Ford Rangers?
Fuel injector issues on Ford Rangers
If you notice your engine light coming on, an unsteady idling or find your engine misfires at times, you probably have fuel injector issues. This has been noted as a common problem for some Ford Rangers, with the cause often being a dirty or clogged filter.
What was the best year the Ford Ranger made?
For some people, the best Ranger year is one of the mid-1990s models, as they offer plenty of power and are generally reliable. These models have a classic look that is still attractive today, which makes them popular with collectors. For others, the best Ranger year is one of the later models from 1998 to 2011.
What are the bad years for Ford Rangers?
A: Yes, some Ford Ranger model years have proven less reliable than others. It's best to avoid the following years: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2011, and 2019. These years have been subject to numerous customer complaints and issues.
