How Many Miles Can a Ford Ranger Last – RELIABILITY
Ford Rangers, when properly maintained, can endure beyond 200,000 to 250,000 miles due to their sturdy build.
However, earlier models encountered timing chain and transmission issues.
T6 Rangers, particularly early models, faced challenges related to transmission and Turbo problems.
These vehicles, if well-maintained, can surpass significant mileage thresholds.
However, earlier models faced issues such as timing chain and transmission problems, particularly the T6 models with early transmission and Turbo challenges.
If you need a practical, durable, mid-sized truck then the Ford Ranger should be high up on your list.
These trucks have a strong loyal following and a very good durability and reliability reputation.
Ford Ranger reliability is unfortunately not flawless and there are, however, certain models to avoid which we’ll get into next.
- The 2.2 T6 Ford Ranger is highly reliable and maintains its value.
- Like most Fords, monitoring the electrical system is crucial.
- It’s advisable to have a Ford OBD1 digital Code reader.
- The engine’s head and block typically pose no issues, and its power aligns well with the gearbox and differential capacities.
The 2.2-liter Ute offers decent performance and superior fuel efficiency compared to the 3.2.
The 2.2-liter Ute offers decent performance and superior fuel efficiency compared to the 3.2.
A well-maintained 2.2 with low mileage and a warranty can easily exceed 200,000 miles with proper care and attention to maintenance.
Ford Ranger 3.2 Mileage Expectancy
Conflicting reports exist about early 3.2 models.
Owners express both loyalty and complaints ranging from:
Certainly, here’s a table showcasing the reliability data for Ford Ranger 3.2 and 2.2 in terms of electrical issues, engine failures, and oil pump problems:
Below is a table rating the reliability issues for Ford Ranger 3.2 and 2.2:
| Reliability Issues | Ford Ranger 3.2 | Ford Ranger 2.2 |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Issues | High | Moderate |
| Engine Failures | Moderate | Low |
| Oil Pump Problems | Common | Rare |
| Serpentine Belt Tensioner | Common | Occasional |
| Air Conditioner Issues | Occasional | Occasional |
| Transmission Issues | Touch-and-go | More Reliable |
| Turbo Failures | Reported on Low Mileage | Reported on Low Mileage |
| Injector Failures | Reported as Faulty | Occasional |
Turbo and injector failures occurred, often covered by warranty, and engines can reach 200k miles if well-maintained with an extended warranty advised.
Which Years Ford Rangers To Avoid
The 1999 model recorded the most amount of complaints which makes it appear as if it was the worst year, however, they were mainly electrical at higher mileage and wipers had a mind of their own.
The 2002 model was the worst model of the lot recording the most expensive repairs at lower mileage.
1999
A quick search online will reveal the 1999 model to be one of the worst models ever produced by Ford.
Carcomplaints.com lists over 1000 complaints on that year’s model.
The 99 models were riddled with electrical problems as well as engine and interior-related issues.
I’d steer clear of that one
2001
Moving a bit forward in time 2001 was the second worst year for the Ranger.
Most complaints lodged were related to transmission problems, followed by interior accessories problems.
Over 700 complaints were logged consisting of Onboard dash lights flashing, rough shifting, and transmission failures.
These models still went on to rack up mileage well over 250k miles even with all the niggles.
Probably a good idea to have a decent repair manual on hand.
2005
Things seemed to have improved quite a bit at the Ford Production plant with only 354 complaints logged on carcomplaints.com.
The worst 05 model problems consisted of a wheel bearing going bad, high-pressure power steering lines bursting, and engine stalling while driving.
Doesn’t sound as bad when compared to the previous models…
2008
Come 08 things took a turn for the worst again with close to 400 official complaints listed.
These consist mainly of air conditioning and body and paint issues.
Not that serious when compared to the previous model’s engine and transmission woes.
2013
By the time the T6 2013 rolled along, Ford seemed to have a handle on things with less than 10 official complaints listed on carcomplaints.com.
The worst 2013 Ranger problems consist of transmissions not shifting properly, transmission cooler failure, and door latch failure.
2019
Roll on 2019 and the complaints withered to a mere 43 in total.
There are sporadic reports of weird buzzing from the engine and a rattle on the dash you can read about here.
The worst was the engine light coming on and the loud wind noise from inside the cabin while driving.
Is A Ford Ranger Reliable?
For a used Ford Ranger, aim for a full-service history and extended warranty due to pricey diesel repairs.
Consider an oil analysis before purchase for engine health insights.
Earlier T6 models were less reliable, while the 2.2 exhibits fewer engine and transmission problems, yet low mileage 2.2s report turbo failures.
User Experiences
These are real-world reports from Ford Ranger owners regarding their reliability and long-term ownership experience.
User Experience #1 (Ranger 3.0)
Rangers are well-known to surpass 300k with regular maintenance.
As long as the price is right, and it’s thoroughly inspected, 180k isn’t a deal breaker
https://www.reddit.com/r/fordranger/comments/34s2oa/how_long_do_rangers_last/
User Experience #2 (Ranger 3.0)
My 3.0 has around 165k and since I bought it at 147k the only engine work it needed was timing chain cover gasket.
While that was being done I opted for the timing chain kit and water pump and thermostat too.
Engine runs perfectly as of now. My question is how long my transmission will last before it needs a rebuild
https://www.reddit.com/r/fordranger/comments/34s2oa/how_long_do_rangers_last/
Final Thoughts
Reliability depends on overall statistics, issue severity, and occurrence at low or high mileage.
Analyze the failure rate per 1000 vehicles.
The 2.2 Ranger appears more reliable than the 3.2, capable of higher mileage with fewer problems.
