How would you rate the Ford Ranger compact midsize truck? Do you plan to purchase one or already own one? Previous Ford Ranger owners usually reported common problems. You should be aware of these problems. If left unchecked or not repaired on time, these problems can cause costly repairs if left unchecked or not repaired. This knowledge can help you make a wise buying decision or maintain the vehicle’s health.
Our goal in this guide is to provide owners with solutions to the most common Ford Ranger issues they have encountered during their ownership journeys. Here are some potential issues to consider.
An Overview of Ford Ranger problems
Global attention has been drawn to the Ford Ranger, a compact and mid-size truck. Most nations, particularly North America, have adopted it as a favorite compact pickup truck. Known for its versatility, durability, and off-road capabilities, it is a reliable vehicle.
Owners of this vehicle, however, have experienced some problems over time, just like any other vehicle. Listed below are the most commonly reported issues.
1. Transmission issues
XLS, XLTs, STXs, Sports, Edges, and Tremor models, as well as the XL and XLT, have experienced transmission problems from 2000 to 2011. The automatic transmission system in these older models is often reported to be malfunctioning. There have also been reports of these issues with the new Ford Ranger. Here’s what owners are saying about CVT transmissions.
- Gears slipping: Many complaints have been received regarding the vehicle’s gear slippage during acceleration. In off-road conditions and at slow speeds, the shifting becomes rough.
- Delayed engagement: As the transmission ages, the time interval between changing positions from drive to park or part to drive becomes longer. It is possible that delayed engagement will result in additional problems including a malfunctioning clutch, worn-out internal components, or a faulty solenoid.
- Fluid leaks: Transmission fluid leaks have been reported by many owners, causing severe problems such as overheating, gear shifting difficulties, and transmission failures. Wearing seals, gaskets, and damaged transmission pans or cases usually cause fluid leaks.
2. Problems with combination switches
In addition to the combination switch, one Ford Ranger fault involves the turn signal, wipers, and headlights. Among them are:
- Headlight failure: Flickering and failure to turn on the headlights are symptoms of a malfunctioning combination switch. When you’re traveling at night, that may frustrate many owners.
- A malfunctioning turn signal: A malfunctioning sensor may cause the signal to be intermittent or not work at all.
- Wiper malfunction: Damage to the wiring and wear and tear on the internal components of the combination switch can lead to the wipers not functioning or operating at random speed.
3. Engine problems
Ford Ranger owners continue to experience engine problems, and new problems arise as the vehicle gets older. Listed below are these issues.
- Problems with Timing Chains: Check engine lights, rattling noises, poor engine performance, and other critical damage can be caused by timing chain problems affecting 4.0L V6 engines.
- Idling and Misfiring: Idling or misfiring may cause owners frustration and distress when it occurs due to malfunctioning fuel injectors, ignition coils, or spark plugs.
4. Problems with turbochargers (2019-Present)
For 2019, Ford Ranger models will feature a turbocharger that enhances the vehicle’s power and improves its fuel efficiency. Listed below are some of the most common problems that owners experience with their turbochargers.
- Excessive noise: Ford Ranger owners claim their cars’ engine bays produce unusual sounds such as rattling and whining.
- Reduced performance: Some owners experienced slower performance at higher RPMs, which could lead to other serious complications.
- Turbo Lag: A malfunctioning turbocharger can increase power delivery delay time when it causes turbo lag.
5. Electrical issues
Power window failures, instrument cluster malfunctions, and other electrical issues remain common in Ford Rangers from previous years. The following is a list of some of the Ford Ranger problems.
- Faulty Sensors: Different truck parts like the engine, transmission, and brakes have been reported to have faulty sensors, including MAF, oxygen, and ABS sensors. Due to the variety of sensors installed in vehicle parts, not all owners experience the same faulty sensor problems.
- Faulty alternators: There are frequent alternator problems in Ford Rangers, which cause battery drain, electrical problems, and truck starting problems.
- Issues with power windows: The power windows may occasionally not function properly or become stuck and cannot be operated. The Ford Ranger computer system might have a glitch.
6. Issues with the fuel system
Ford Ranger owners have reported several problems with the fuel system. Below are some of the issues they have reported.
- Injector clogs: Poor vehicle performance, stalling, engine misfires, and poor acceleration can all be caused by blocked or clogged fuel injectors. Injectors can only be cleaned, blocked ones replaced, and new ones installed to resolve the problem.
- Faulty fuel pump: A faulty fuel pump will result in rough idling, difficulty starting the Ford Ranger, and reduced engine performance if not delivered enough fuel to the engine’s combustion chamber.
7. Problems with Flex Fuel Sensors
There are a number of common problems reported by Ford Ranger drivers regarding their flex-fuel engines. The flex fuel sensor is among the most common problems reported. Wear & tear, wiring problems, and contaminants might cause these problems. A malfunctioning flex fuel sensor can cause Ford Ranger faults, which can be detected by observing the following symptoms.
- Engine light: An illuminated warning light on the dashboard indicates a faulty flex fuel sensor.
- Low fuel economy: When the flex fuel sensor fails, it can lead to increased fuel consumption because it helps the engine control module adjust and control the fuel injection.
Below is a video highlighting Ford Ranger faults from an automotive expert.
Related Articles
GWM UTE Problems And Solution [Explained]
Nissan Elgrand Problems & Common Problems
Haval Jolion Problems And Potential Issues 2025
GWM Cannon-x Problems & Potential Issues
Holden Trax Problems & Solution [Explained]
Problems reported with Ford ranger models.
The following chart provides an overview of the most common Ford Ranger problems, as well as specific models and years where these problems may occur.
| Model Name | Year(s) | Reported Problems |
| Ford Ranger XLT | 2000–2005 | Slipping transmissions, delayed shifts, misfiring engines, and problems with power steering |
| Ford Ranger Edge | 2001–2003 | The power window won’t work, the steering vibrates, the suspension creaks |
| Ford Ranger Sport | 2010–2011 | The combination switch isn’t working, the instrument cluster isn’t working, the suspension is noisy, and the fuel pump isn’t working |
| Ford Ranger XLT | 2011–2012 | Fuel economy problems, rough idle, and malfunctioning flex fuel sensors |
| Ford Ranger Wildtrak | 2020–2023 | A failure of the combination switch, an electrical glitch, a transmission issue, and poor performance of the fuel system |
| Ford Ranger XL | 1999–2004 | A malfunctioning power steering system, a noisy suspension, an exhaust leak, or an electrical fault |
| Ford Ranger FX4 | 2004–2011 | There may be issues with the engine, the steering, the suspension, or the combination switch. |
Conclusion
Ford Rangers make great vehicles for anyone to own or drive. It is important for new buyers and existing owners to understand that every vehicle has its share of problems.
This article discusses all the most common Ford Ranger problems reported and experienced by owners. Based on your research, you can resolve Ford Ranger issues or make a wise purchase decision after understanding the issues.
We recommend the new Ford Ranger 2019+, since it has less chance of encountering critical issues, and most problems are covered under warranty. Ford Ranger trucks can have serious problems if you don’t service them regularly, address issues promptly, and get a professional mechanic to fix them.
