The Ford Ranger is a well-liked midsize vehicle due to its sturdy construction and dependable performance. But it’s not perfect and has flaws like every other car. Ford Ranger 2.2, 2.5, 3.0, and 3.2 owners should know the most often encountered issues with their vehicles. When you are aware of these risks, you may take measures to mitigate them or deal with them if they materialize. Ford Ranger owners should remember that keeping up with routine maintenance and repairs is crucial to maintaining their vehicles in peak operating condition. The most prevalent issues faced by Ford Ranger owners will be discussed, along with potential solutions.
Common Ford Ranger Problems
1. Rear Seatback Latch Malfunction
If you own a Ford Ranger, you may have experienced issues with malfunctioning the rear seatback latch assembly. This problem has been reported by several Ford Ranger owners and can cause the rear seatback to fail to lock into the upright position.
Solution
If you suspect that your Ford Ranger’s rear seatback latch is experiencing problems, it is essential to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic. They can diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate action to fix it. Don’t let a faulty latch compromise the safety and functionality of your vehicle – take action to fix the problem and get back on the road with confidence.
DIY Solution
If you are comfortable with DIY car repairs and have access to the necessary tools and equipment, you may be able to troubleshoot and fix the problem on your own. Some potential steps to take include the following:
- Inspect the latch assembly for visible damage or wear, such as broken or stretched springs.
- Test the latch mechanism to see if it is functioning correctly.
- Clean the latch assembly and lubricate any moving parts to ensure smooth operation.
- If necessary, replace any damaged or worn parts with new ones. Ford Ranger spares are available at most auto parts stores or online retailers.
If you cannot identify and fix the problem on your own, it is always best to seek the help of a qualified mechanic.
2. Rusting Air Conditioning and Seat Rails
Some owners of the Ford Ranger have reported issues with rusting in the air conditioning and seat rails. This can be a frustrating problem, as it can affect the comfort and functionality of your vehicle.
Solution
To prevent rusting in your air conditioning and seat rails, it’s essential to maintain your vehicle and have it regularly serviced. This includes checking for any signs of rust and addressing them as soon as possible. You can also consider using rust inhibitors or applying a rust-preventive coating to vulnerable areas of your vehicle.
3. Turbo Failure
The turbocharger is a critical component of your Ford Ranger’s engine, and a failure can have serious consequences. Some owners have reported issues with turbo failure, which can cause a range of problems, including reduced performance and fuel efficiency.
Solution
To prevent turbo failure, it’s crucial to maintain your vehicle and have it regularly serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals. This includes checking the condition of the turbo and replacing it if necessary. You can also consider upgrading to a higher-quality turbocharger to improve performance and reduce the risk of failure.
4. Engine Crank Bearing Issues
There have been a few reports of engine crank-bearing problems in the Ford Ranger. The crank bearings support the crankshaft, and a failure can cause significant damage to the engine.
Solution
To prevent crank-bearing issues, it’s essential to maintain your vehicle and have it regularly serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals. This includes checking the condition of the crank bearings and replacing them if necessary. You can also consider upgrading to higher-quality bearings to reduce the risk of failure.
5. Rear Seal Leaking
If you own a Ford Ranger and have noticed oil leakage from the rear of your engine, it could be due to a malfunctioning rear main seal. The seal is designed to fit around the end of the crankshaft and prevent oil from leaking. However, in some models, the seal may fail and allow oil to escape.
The problem is that other sources of oil leakage, such as a leaking oil pan gasket or valve cover gasket, can also cause oil to drip down the engine and appear as if it is coming from the rear main seal. That’s why it’s essential to have the issue checked out by a professional mechanic.
If you are comfortable with DIY car repairs and have the necessary tools and equipment, you may be able to fix the problem yourself. Some potential steps to take include the following:
DIY Solution
- Locate the rear main seal and inspect it for any visible signs of damage or wear.
- Check the oil level and condition of the engine. Low or dirty oil can cause the seal to fail.
- Replace the rear main seal using a seal kit and a new gasket, if necessary.
- Test the seal for proper function and ensure no more oil leaks.
If you are unsure about how to fix the problem or do not have the necessary tools and equipment, it is always best to seek the help of a qualified mechanic.
6. Crankshaft Sensor Issues in Ford Ranger
- Slow or uneven acceleration
- Reduced fuel efficiency
- Engine misfires or rough idling
- Difficulty starting or inability to start the vehicle
Cause and Solution
If you have noticed any of these issues with your Ford Ranger, it may be time to have some tests done to confirm whether the crankshaft sensor is the source of the problem. A qualified mechanic at a reputable service centre can diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate action to fix it.
DIY Solution
If you are comfortable with DIY car repairs and have access to the necessary tools and equipment, you may be able to troubleshoot and fix the problem on your own. Some potential steps to take include the following:
- Test the crankshaft sensor using a multimeter to check for correct resistance and output voltage.
- Inspect the wiring and connections to the crankshaft sensor for any signs of damage or wear.
- Replace the crankshaft sensor if it is faulty or the wiring and connections are damaged.
If you cannot identify and fix the issue on your own, it is always best to seek the help of a qualified mechanic. Don’t let a faulty crankshaft sensor compromise the performance and safety of your Ford Ranger – take action to fix the problem and get back on the road with confidence.
7. Gearbox Slippage
If you own a Ford Ranger and are experiencing issues with the automatic transmission, it’s essential to address the problem as soon as possible. Some common symptoms of a faulty message include gears slipping or feeling like they are in the wrong bag, revs hunting up and down, and a sound similar to a clutch slipping in a manual gearbox.
One potential cause of these issues is a failed valve assembly in the transmission. However, the only way to confirm the cause of the problem is through a thorough inspection of the gearbox. If you are experiencing transmission problems with your Ford Ranger, consider bringing your vehicle to a reputable service centre like SAC for a complete diagnosis and repair.
If you prefer to try to fix the issue yourself, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the problem. These include:
DIY Solution
- Checking the fluid level and condition in the transmission
- Inspecting the transmission filters and seals for any signs of damage or wear
- Checking the transmission linkage and cables for any looseness or damage
- Testing the transmission solenoids to see if they are functioning correctly
If you cannot identify and fix the issue on your own, it is always best to seek the help of a qualified mechanic.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, there are a few potential problems that Ford Ranger owners have reported. These issues range from gearbox slip, crankshaft sensor faults, and problems with the rear seatback latch, among others. It is essential to regularly maintain and service your Ford Ranger to ensure it continues running smoothly and safely. Consider purchasing used Ford Ranger parts as a cost-effective solution if you need replacement parts. However, be sure to research and buy from a reputable supplier to ensure that the used parts are of high quality and will effectively fix any issues with your vehicle.
