1996 FORD Ranger Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
485
Complaints Reported
Complaints by Component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
59 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD RANGER. WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE BRAKES WOULD MAKE A LOUD GRINDING NOISE. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 161,200 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 162,000.
Sep 22, 2011
1. UNDERBODY CORROSION LEADING TO PERFORATION OF METAL BRAKE LINES 2. PARTIAL UP TO COMPLETE LOSS OF BRAKING FUNCTION. FIVE TIMES IN THREE YEARS. CATASTROPHIC LOSS OF BRAKING 3. REPLACEMENT OF BRAKE LINES - OLD CORRODED LINES AVAILABLE. *TR
Feb 21, 2011
MY 1996 FORD RANGER HAS A RECURRING PROBLEM OF THE FRONT BRAKES STICKING. THIS OCCURS MOST OFTEN IN WET WEATHER BUT ISN'T STRICTLY LIMITED TO THAT. I NOTICED A FORD RANGER THAT HAD SLID INTO ANOTHER CAR ON A SANDED CORNER AND RECALLED THE SAME THING HAPPENED TO ME A FEW YEARS AGO AS MY BRAKES LOCKED UP ON THE GRAVEL CAUSING THE TRUCK TO SLIDE SIDEWAYS AND I ONLY MISSED RUNNING INTO THE CAR IN THE OTHER LANE BY LETTING OFF THE BRAKE AND TWISTING THE STEERING WHEEL. THAT POOR MAN PROBABLY GOT A TICKET FOR GOING TOO FAST BUT IT IS A DESIGN FLAW, NOT A MATTER OF SPEED. I BELIEVE THE TRUCK IS SUPPOSED TO HAVE ANTILOCK BRAKES, BUT THAT IS NOT HOW ANTILOCK BRAKES ARE SUPPOSED TO PERFORM. MECHANICS HAVE VERIFIED TO ME THIS BEHAVIOR PROBLEM FOR RANGER'S SO IT SEEMS THAT IT IS A COMMON OCCURRENCE. HAD MY BRAKES REWORKED A COUPLE YEARS AGO WITH NO CHANGE. YESTERDAY THEY LOCKED UP AGAIN AND SEEING AN ARTICLE IN THE NEWSPAPER ABOUT TOYOTA I FINALLY OUT WHO TO REPORT THIS TO. *TR
Feb 04, 2010
1996 FORD RANGER TRUCK HAD EQUIPMENT FAILURE AND WAS UNABLE TO SLOW DOWN. THE DRIVER SWERVED TO THE RIGHT BERM AND GOT WEDGED BETWEEN ANOTHER VEHICLE AND THE BRIDGE WALL. *NJ THE CONSUMER STATED HIS BRAKES FAILED. WHEN HE ATTEMPTED TO SLOW DOWN, THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT # 10-0535-91)*JB LETTER UPDATED 03/17/10*BF
Aug 28, 2008
DT: THE CONTACT OWNED A 1996 FORD RANGER. THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT DUE TO BRAKES BECAUSE THE BRAKE PEDAL MOUNTING BRACKET BROKE. THIS OCCURRED ON MAY 24, 2005. THE ACCIDENT WAS REPORTED TO THE POLICE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A MECHANIC AND THEY SAW THE BRAKE PEDAL HANGING DOWN. UPON INSPECTION, THEY NOTICED THAT THE MOUNTING BRACKET BROKE WHEN BRAKE PRESSURE WAS APPLIED. THERE WAS NO PROBLEMS WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL BEFORE THIS ACCIDENT. THE MOUNTING THIS WAS MADE OF POT METAL, AND IT HELD THE CLUTCH PEDAL AND THE BRAKE PEDAL TOGETHER. THE WHOLE THING BROKE. THE ESTIMATED SPEED WAS ABOUT 30-35 MPH.*AK
Aug 03, 2005
+ 54 more complaints for this component
TIRES
48 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD RANGER EQUIPPED WITH MICHELIN GOODRICH RADIAL TIRES, SIZE P225/70/R14. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER ROTATING THE TIRES, A CRACK WAS DISCOVERED ON THE SIDE WALL OF THE TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO SEE THE CRACK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE TIRE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 15,000 AND THE VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000.
Aug 20, 2014
TIRE ON 2 CASES BLEW THE TREAD AND BELT, THE LATER OF THE TWO INCIDENCES WHICH RESULTED IN A CRASH THAT TOTALED THE VEHICLE, AND RESULTED IN TWO INJURIES TO BOTH THE DRIVER AND THE PASSENGER. BOTH NEEDED TO BE HOSPITALIZED.*AK
Jul 03, 2007
DRIVING ON INTERSTATE AND TIRE FELL APART. *JB WHEN THE TREAD SEPARATED THE TIRE ITSELF REMAINED INFLATED. *NM
Sep 29, 2005
WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH LEFT REAR TIRE EXPERIENCED A TREAD SEPARATION. AFTER MARKET EQUIPMENT INSTALLED AT 144,109, TIRE SIZE P225/70R14, DOT # PJFCDXKR4102. THE TIRE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED.*AK THE DEALER OFFERED A 15 DOLLAR CREDIT TO A NEW TIRE. THE CONSUMER STATED THAT HE FEELS THE REMAINING THREE TIRES ARE UNSAFE. *TC
Mar 02, 2005
SUMMIT TIRE, P225/70R14. DO TPJFC1ELR1203. CONSUMER DROVE ABOUT 60 MPH AND EXPERIENCED SIDEWALL TIRE SEPARATION. *AK
May 11, 2004
+ 43 more complaints for this component
VISIBILITY
38 complaints
WINDSHIELD WIPERS COME ON BY THEMSELVES OR WILL NOT WORK AT ALL. HOW DO YOU DRIVE SAFELY IN THE RAIN? *LA
Oct 21, 2003
BLEND AIR DOOR FAILED AND WILL NOT OPERATE ON 1996 FORD RANGER RESULTING IN INOPERATIVE DEFROSTERS. FORD WANTS $700 TO REPAIR PROBLEM. NUMBEROUS WEB SITE FORUMS REPORT THIS TO BE A CHRONIC AND FREQUENT PROBLEM WITH 93-96 FORD RANGER/EXPLORER AND MOUNTAINEER VEHICLES.*AK
Aug 27, 2003
THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS CAME ON BY THEMSELVES. *NLM
Mar 08, 2003
WHILE DRIVING WINDSHIELD WIPER AND WASHER COMES ON BY THEMSELVES. HAS TO PLAY WITH SWITCH TO TURN OFF. THIS HAPPENS INTERMITTENTLY. DEALER CONTACTED. PLEASE ADD VIN. *AK
Mar 08, 2002
WHILE DRIVING, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS COME ON WITHOUT BEING TURNED ON, THIS FAILURE HAPPENS AT LEAST ONCE A WEEK. *SLC
Jan 25, 2001
+ 33 more complaints for this component
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
29 complaints
RUBBER FUEL VAPOR HOSE BETWEEN FUEL VAPOR PURGE VALVE AND CHARCOAL CANISTER CAN'T BE REPAIRED BECAUSE FORD HAS MADE PART OBSOLETE. THIS HOSE IS NOT A NORMAL OFF THE SHELF BULK HOSE. IT IS RUBBER PERFORMED WITH A DIFFERENT INSIDE DIAMETER ON BOTH ENDS. FORD WON'T EVEN GIVE ME PART NUMBER! THREE PARTS VENDORS WERE RECOMMENDED TO MAYBE FIND PART. THE VENDORS ALL WANT PART NUMBER THOUGH-SO THAT DOESN'T HELP ME. THE VEHICLE CONSTANTLY LEAKS GASOLINE FUMES. I'M NOT EXPECTING FORD TO FIX IT BECAUSE OF AGE OF TRUCK. SOMETHING OUGHT TO DONE BY FORD TO MAKE PART AVAILABLE TO CONSUMER. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. TRUCK COULD EASILY CATCH ON FIRE! *TR
Aug 07, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FUEL TANK STRAPS FRACTURED, CAUSING THE FUEL TANK TO DETACH FROM THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED AND THE MANUFACTURER DENIED ANY ASSISTANCE WITH REPAIRS TO THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 96,000. UPDATED 09/30/11*LJ THE FUEL TANK STRAP WERE REPLACED AT THE CONSUMERS EXPENSE. UPDATED 10/05/11
Aug 18, 2011
GAS TANK DROPPED BUT DIDN'T COME APART FROM VEHICLE DUE TO GAS TANK STRAP RUSTING THROUGH. WHEN INVESTIGATED I FOUND THAT THE OTHER STRAP WAS RUSTED THROUGH APPROXIMATELY 75% OF THE WAY. *TR
May 10, 2011
GAS OVERFLOW FROM UNDERNEATH THE TRUCK, NOT THRU THE NOZZLE. *TR
Aug 02, 2010
FILLING MY FORD RANGER WITH GAS OFTEN LEADS TO OVERFLOWS ONTO THE GROUND FROM UNDERNEATH THE TRUCK; I.E. IT DOES NOT OVERFLOW THROUGH THE NOZZLE WHERE GAS IS PUMPED IN. *TR
May 27, 2010
+ 24 more complaints for this component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
29 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, SMOKE WAS EMITTED FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE VEHICLE WAS MERGED ONTO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD AND AS THE HOOD WAS RAISED FLAMES STARTED TO RISE. THE CONTACT EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES AND NOTICED THAT THE WIRES FROM THE VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL STARTED THE FIRE. AS A RESULT, THE WIRES FOR THE MASTER CYLINDER SWITCH MELTED AND ALL OF THE BRAKE FLUID LEAKED OUT. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS NOT NOTIFIED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED HOME. THE DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 127,000.
Sep 01, 2011
CRUISE CONTROL FAILED TO OPERATE AND HAS NOT OPERATED SINCE. THIS FORD RANGER HAS THE SAME WIRING HARNESS AS THE RECALLED FORD F-150 WIRING HARNESS. *TR
Oct 14, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD RANGER. WHEN HE ENTERED HIS VEHICLE HE FOUND THAT THE CRUISE CONTROL OFF AND ON SWITCH MELTED. THE DEALER STATED THEY HAVE NEVER SEEN THIS OCCUR. RECALL 09V399000 REPAIR WAS PERFORMED; HOWEVER, THEY DID NOT REPAIR THE SWITCH. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 97,000.
Oct 14, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD RANGER. AS THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO ENGAGE THE CRUISE CONTROL, HE NOTICED THAT THE SWITCH WAS BURNED AND THE PLASTIC WAS MELTED. THE DEALER INFORMED HIM THAT HIS VEHICLE WAS NOT UNDER A RECALL. A NEW CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH WILL COST $50. THE MANUFACTURER COULD NOT INFORM HIM IF THE NEW SWITCH WOULD FAIL AND ADVISED HIM TO FILE A COMPLAINT WITH NHTSA. THE CONTACT WILL REPLACE THE SWITCH HIMSELF, BUT WILL INVESTIGATE TO SEE IF IT WILL BURN AGAIN. THE SPEED WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 210,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 209,000.
Sep 05, 2007
DT: 1996 FORD RANGER. THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH LEAKED. CONSUMER SAW HYDRAULIC FLUID UNDER THE VEHICLE. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP ON JULY 25, 2005. IT WAS NOT COVERED UNDER THE WARRANTY. CONSUMER PURCHASED THE SWITCH AND REPLACED IT HIMSELF. *AK *NM
Aug 24, 2005
+ 24 more complaints for this component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
29 complaints
FIRST MY ENGINE SEEMED TO OVERHEAT A BIT THEN EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE IT WOULD SOUND LIKE THE ENGINE WAS GRINDING ON SOMETHING AND WOULDN'T STOP.. SOUNDED LIKE A BUNCH OF CHAINS IN MY HOOD. BUT THEN ON OCCASIONS THE STUPID THING WOULDN'T SHUT OFF WHEN IT WAS MAKING THE CHAIN SOUND, EVEN WITH MY KEY OUT. IT JUST HAPPENED AGAIN AND NOW THE THING SMELLS LIKE SOMETHING IS BURNING AND I HAVE NO POWER WHAT SO EVER IN MY VEHICLE. BEFORE WHEN IT FINALLY SHUT OFF IT SOUNDED LIKE IT WAS ABOUT TO SPARK. THEN IT WAS MAKING A CLICKING NOISE THAT WASN'T COOL. *TR
Oct 10, 2008
ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 11, 2005 WHILE TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY I EXPIRED A SUDDEN SPIKE IN TEMPERATURE ON MY 1996 FORD CROWN VICTORIA. AFTER TAKING MY CAR TO A FORD DEALERSHIP I WAS INFORMED THAT MY "PLASTIC" INTAKE MANIFOLD HAD CRACKED. I HAVE RESEARCHED THE CURRENT INVESTIGATION AND HAD NEVER RECEIVED ANY SORT OF CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION FROM FORD. I HEARD ABOUT THE MANIFOLD ISSUE FROM A FELLOW EMPLOYEE. THE TOTAL COST OF REPAIRS FOR THIS FAULTY MANIFOLD WAS $978.00. I FEEL IF THEY KNEW THEY NEEDED TO UPDATE IT WITH AN ALUMINUM MANIFOLD THAN THEY KNEW THE PLASTIC ONES WERE FAULTY.*JB
Dec 14, 2005
NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
Dec 06, 2001
ENGINE WILL STALL INTERMITTENTLY WHILE TRAVELING AT ANY SPEED, REGARDLESS OF WEATHER CONDITIONS / TEMPERATURES. DEALERSHIP HAS EXAMINED VEHICLE, AND WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE A CAUSE FOR THIS PROBLEM. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION / ATTACHMENTS.*AK
Nov 05, 2001
I WENT IN TO HAVE THE OIL CHANGED AND THEY SHOWED ME THAT THE OIL PAN GASKET WAS ABOUT TO BLOW OUT. I HAD JUST HAD THE OIL CHANGED 3000 MILES AGOE AND WENT ON A TRIP WHIT A NEW OIL CHANGE. I RETURNED HOME AND WENT TO GET THE OIL CHANGED AGAIN THE NEXT DAY AND FOUND THE OIL GASKET COMMING OUT. THANK GOD IT DID NOT BLOW WHILE I WAS DRIVING BACK HOME DURING THE LONG TRIP I HAD GONE ON. *AK
Jun 26, 2001
+ 24 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
26 complaints
OVERNIGHT THE TRUCK CAUGHT FIRE WHILE PARKED OUTSIDE WITHOUT THE KEY IN THE IGNITION. DAMAGE FROM THE FIRE WAS CONTAINED TO UNDER THE DASH THROUGHOUT THE ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS AS WELL AS DUCTWORK. IT RE-IGNITED AND BURNED AFTER BEING PUT OUT ONCE THEN AFTER THE BATTERY WAS SUCCESSFULLY DISCONNECTED, DID NOT CATCH FIRE AGAIN. *KB
Aug 17, 2011
UPON ENTERING THE VEH TO GO TO WORK WE FOUND THAT ONE SIDE OF THE STEERING COLUMN HAD MELTED AND A BURNT ODOR WAS DETECTED IN THE VEH. THIS OCCURRED ON THE SIDE OF THE STEERING COLUMN THAT THE CRUISE FEATURE IS LOCATED. WE TALKED WITH ANOTHER OWNER OF A RANGER AND HE ADVISED US THERE HAD BEEN A RECALL ON THE RANGER TRUCK. WE HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY NOTIFICATION AS TO THE RECALL AND WE BOUGHT THE VEH NEW IN 1995. IT IS A 1996 MODEL. THIS VEH WAS IN GOOD CONDITION BEFORE THIS HAPPENED AND I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF THIS CAN BE FIXED AND WHAT STEPS TO TAKE IN ORDER TO TAKE CARE OF THIS PROBLEM. *TR
Dec 30, 2008
DT: ON 7/8/05 AFTER DRIVING THE VEHICLE FOR ABOUT 20 MINUTES , VEHICLE WAS PARKED WHEN OWNER NOTICED THE TIRE HAD BLOWN OUT, AND A BOOM WAS HEARD. THE OWNER RAN OUTSIDE AND VEHICLE WAS IN FLAMES. THE FLAMES WERE NOTICED UNDER HOOD OF TRUCK. THE FLAMES WENT INTO CAB. THE FIRE LASTED ABOUT 30 OR 35 MINUTES BEFORE IT WAS PUT OUT. THE FIRE WAS PUT OUT BY FIRE DEPARTMENT. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT NEVER GAVE INDICATION OF WHAT CAUSED FIRE. THERE WAS A POLICE REPORT FILED. NO INDICATION FROM THE POLICE DEPARTMENT AS TO WHAT CAUSED THE FIRE. THERE IS A RECALL ON 1996 EXTENDED CAB RANGER REGARDING THE PRESSURE BREAK SWITCH. BUT OWNER DOESN'T HAVE THE RECALL NUMBER. WORK TOOLS WERE INSIDE THE VEHICLE WHEN IT BURNED. THERE WERE NO LIGHTS INSIDE THE VEHICLE OR WARNINGS OF A PROBLEM PRIOR TO THE FIRE. THERE WERE NO OTHER MAJOR PROBLEMS WITH VEHICLE. THE FIRE HAS NOT BEEN REPORTED TO INSURANCE COMPANY. *NM
Jul 11, 2005
WHILE VEHICLE WAS PARKED FOR 1 HOURR A FIRE STARTED UNDER THE HOOD. THE FIRE WAS PUT OUT, AND VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVED THE PROBLEM. *AK
Mar 31, 2005
AN UNDERHOOD ELECTRICAL FIRE STARTED AT OR NEAR THE SPEED DEACTIVATION SWITCH MOUNTED ON THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER.*AK
May 05, 2004
+ 21 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
26 complaints
1. NO EVENTS LEADING TO FAILURE. 2. WHILE TRYING TO BACK OUT OF A PARKING SPACE THE VEHICLE WENT FORWARD. NO DAMAGE WAS DONE TO VEHICLE OR PROPERTY. THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE FAILED. IT WAS WORN THRU DO TO CONTACT WITH THE EXHAUST PIPE. 3. THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION CABLE WAS REPLACED WITH FORD F57Z7E395A. THE BROKEN CABLE IS AVAILABLE.
Jun 08, 2005
WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE HAS HIGH ENGINE RPM BETWEEN 1600 TO 2200. NOT SAFE TO DRIVE ON ICY ROAD CONDITONS. CONSUMER CONCERNED ABOUT LONG TERM WEAR AND TEAR ON CLUTCH, TRANSMISSION AND REAR AXLE. DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM. *AK
Mar 02, 2001
THE GEAR SHIFT CABLE WAS MELTED BECAUSE OF ITS PROXIMITY TO THE EXHAUST SYSTEM, ACCORDING TO THE REPAIR SHOP. I HAVE THE PART WHICH CLEARLY SHOWS HEAT CAUSED THE FAILURE. I CALLED FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE AND MY DEALER SERVICE DEPARTMENT. I WAS TOLD IT WAS A "FREAK" OCCURANCE AND NOT TO WORRY ABLUT IT.
Sep 01, 2000
I DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW AFTER 4 YEARS OF OWNING THE VEHICLE WITH ONLY 45,000 MILES ON IT THAT THE CARRIER BEARING WAS SHOT. I WAS ALSO TOLD THAT BY THE MECHANIC, WHO WAS ALSO TOLD THAT BY THE DEALERSHIP WHEN HE CALLED TO REPLACE THE PART. IF IT IS A MANUFACTURER DEFECT I WOULD REALLY APPRECIATE KNOWING.. THANK YOU. *AK
Apr 24, 2000
SPEEDOMETER FAILED TO OPERATE. DEALER IN YUBA CITY, CA AS WELL AS SPEEDOMETER SPECIALTY SHOP (SPEEDOMETER ELECTRIC IN YUBA CITY, (530) 742-2611) CONFIRMED THAT THEY HAVE SEEN THE SAME FAILURE (WILD FLUCTUATION LEADING TO TOTAL FAILURE) IN NUMEROUS WINDSTARS AND OTHER FORD MODELS. THE DEALER SAID IT WAS NOT UNCOMMON TO SEE THE SPEEDOMETER GO OUT IN THIS VEHICLE. AFTER TALKING WITH THE DEALER, SPEEDOMETER ELECTRIC OWNER , AND FINALLY A FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE, I AM CONVINCED THAT THERE IS A DEFECT IN EITHER MATERIALS OR WORKMANSHIP. THE COST OF THE PART ALONE IS $333.33. INCLUDING LABOR, I PAID $417.49 FOR A PART THAT SHOULD NOT HAVE GONE OUT, ESPECIALLY AT THE RELATIVELY LOW MILEAGE ON THIS VAN. I SENT TWO LETTERS TO FORD (OCTOBER 22, 1999, AND NOVEMBER 19, 1999) AND ONLY GOT A GENERIC POST CARD IN RETURN SAYING THEY TRIED BUT WERE UNSUCCESSFUL IN CONTACTING ME (ALTHOUGH MY WIFE STAYS AT HOME AND WE HAVE AN ANSWERING MACHINE). THE DEALER I TOOK IT TO FOR INITIAL DIAGNOSIS WAS GEWEKE FORD IN YUBA CITY, CA (530) 821-2121. DATE: 23 AUGUST 1999. CUSTOMER # 971976. SERVICE ADVISOR SCOTT BABLER SAID IT WAS THE SPEEDOMETER, NOT THE CABLE BECAUSE HE HAD SEEN MANY SIMILAR PROBLEMS. I STRONGLY BELIEVE THERE SHOULD BE AN INVESTIGATION INTO POSSIBLY RECALLING THIS VEHICLE AND OTHERS WITH THE SAME SPEEDOMETER UNIT. PLEASE HELP. THANK YOU, ROBERT A. SCHOENBERG. *AK
Feb 17, 2000
+ 21 more complaints for this component
SEAT BELTS
23 complaints
Drivers side seat belt buckle does not work. The tongue on the long strap does not lock into the buckle at the seat. I think this may be a recall problem with other models and/or years, but not 1996 Ford Rangers.
Feb 26, 2023
Drivers side seat belt buckle does not release. Broken about ten years. Currently using middle seat belt buckle.
Feb 09, 2022
DRIVERS SIDE SEAT BELT WILL NOT STAY LATCHED INTO LATCHING MECHANISM
Dec 28, 2016
IT TOOK SEVERAL ATTEMPTS TO GET THE DRIVERS SEAT BELT TO LATCH. SHORTLY AFTER THE SEAT BELT CAME UNLATCHED AS I WAS DRIVING. AFTER THAT THE BELT WON'T STAY LATCHED. *TR
Sep 07, 2014
DRIVER'S SEAT BELT WILL NOT LATCH. *TR
Aug 04, 2013
+ 18 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
23 complaints
TAKATA RECALL. I CRASHED MY 1996 FORD RANGER IN 2010. BOTH AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. MY COLLISION SHOP REPLACED THE AIRBAGS WITH UNKNOWN YEAR FORD RANGER AIRBAGS, BUYING SOME NEW PARTS FROM FORD TO COMPLETE THE INSTALL. THERE IS NO WAY TO KNOW IF THESE ARE RECALLED TAKATA AIRBAGS WITHOUT AN INSPECTION. MY LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP, VARSITY FORD IN ANN ARBOR MI, IS REFUSING TO DO ANYTHING WITHOUT A RECALL NOTICE. ANY INSPECTION, EVEN IF THESE ARE RECALLED AIRBAGS, WILL BE AT MY COST BECAUSE THIS IS A 1996 TRUCK. I CALLED FORD'S RECALL LINE AND EXPLAINED THE SITUATION, AND THEY REFERRED ME TO MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP. THERE SEEMS TO BE NO PLAN TO TRACK DOWN DANGEROUS TAKATA AIRBAGS INSTALLED AFTER MANUFACTURE, EVEN IF THEY WERE ORIGINALLY INSTALLED IN ANOTHER VEHICLE THAT WOULD HAVE BEEN RECALLED.
Feb 12, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING DOWN A HILL AT LESS THAN APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A TREE. NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED MINOR BRUISING, WHICH DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL TREATMENT. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE MONTHS LATER. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Jan 24, 2018
1996 FORD EXPLORER, 4X4. DRIVING IN DESERT WENT OVER A BUMP A LITTLE FAST, WHICH SET OFF MY AIRBAGS. MY RIDER IS IN THE HOSPITAL FOR BROKEN NOSE, CHEEK AND SOME KIND OF SMOKE INHALATION. MY WINDSHIELD IS BROKEN BECAUSE THE BAG HIT THE MIRROR WHICH THEN HIT THE WINDSHIELD. MY STEERING WHEEL IS DESTROYED, CRUISE CONTROL AND HORNS ARE OUT OF SERVICE. BEFORE I COULD DRIVE THE CAR AGAIN I HAD TO CUT THE AIRBAGS OUT. WHAT THE HELL IS THIS! NO DAMAGE TO THE CAR EXCEPT WHAT THE AIRBAGS DID. I WANT THIS ALL FIXED AT FORD'S EXPENSE. I HAVE HAD THIS CAR 10 YEARS WITH NO PROBLEMS EXCEPT; RECALLED TIRES, STEERING BARS AND BRAKES (ALL RECALL). *TR
Jan 18, 2008
TL*- THE CONTACT STATED THAT HIT A DEER ON 09/24/06, WITH THE 1996 FORD RANGER EXTENDED CAB WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH. THE WEATHER WAS CLEAR AND DRY. THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE HIT THE DEER ON THE DRIVER' FRONT SIDE , AND THE AIR BAG DIDN'T DEPLOY. HE PULLED THE VEHICLE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, PUT ON THE HAZARD LIGHTS, AND BEFORE GETTING OUT OF THE VEHICLE ANOTHER VEHICLE CAME BY AND HIT THE VEHICLE FROM THE BACK AT THE SPEED OF 55-60 MPH. THE CONTACT STATED THAT'S IS WHEN THE AIR DID BAG DEPLOYED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE HAS NEVER BEEN ANY INDICATION THAT THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE AIR BAGS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WERE BOTH 97,000. THERE WERE TWO INJURIES AS A RESULT OF THE CRASH.*AK
Mar 14, 2007
I HIT A SMALL DEER DOING ABOUT 35 MILES PER HOUR AND PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD ABOUT THREE MINUTES LATER ANOTHER AUTO CAME UP FROM BEHIND AND REAR ENDED ME MY AIR BAG DEPLOYED THEN. WHY DID IT DEPLOY THEN AND NOT WHEN I HIT THE DEER. THE ONLY DAMAGE I DID TO THE FRONT END TO MY TRUCK WAS CRACKED THE GILL AND OTHERS AROUND IT. THE DAMAGE THAT THE OTHER AUTO DID WAS BENT THE BUMPER UNDER MY TRUCK ALONG WITH THE BRACKETS TOO, THE IMPACT FROM THE OTHER AUTO WAS LOUD AND WAS HEARD FROM ABOUT A MILE AWAY. THE AUTO THAT REAR ENDED ME WAS GOING ABOUT 55 TO 60 MILES PER HOUR. *JB
Mar 05, 2007
+ 18 more complaints for this component
SUSPENSION
22 complaints
RIGHT REAR SPRING SHACKLE RUSTED OUT AND BROKE, PUSHING THE SPRING UP AGAINST THE BED. THE WHOLE BACK END OF THE FRAME IS RUSTING OUT, WHICH WILL EVENTUALLY MAKE THE VEHICLE UNSAFE TO OPERATE. *TR
Sep 25, 2011
THE FRAME MOUNTS ON THE REAR LEAF SPRING SHACKLES RUSTED OFF ALLOWING THE SPRINGS TO RIDE ON THE BOTTOM OF THE BED.
May 22, 2007
THE CONSUMER STATES THAT WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE, THE REAR AXLE FELL OFF CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE. DEALER WAS NOTIFIED. *MR THE CONSUMER'S FATHER, A MECAHNIC, STATED THAT AT THE ARROW, THE PIN BROKE, ALLOWING THE SPIDER GEAR SHAFT TO TURN ABOUT 1/4 RD AND ALLOWING THE AXLE TO MOVE IN AND THE KEEPER TO FALL OFF, WHICH CAUSED THE WHEEL AND 3 FT. AXEL TO COME OUT . *SCC
Sep 27, 2002
WHILE MAKING A TURN AT 25MPH AND WITH NO WARNING CONSUMER CAN HEAR A POPPING NOISE. IT COULD CAUSE FUTURE STEERING PROBLEMS. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK
Aug 20, 2002
THE REAR LEAF SPRINGS WAS BROKE. THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THERE IS NO REASON FOR A SOLID PIECE OF STEEL TO JUST BREAK. *YH
Jan 24, 2002
+ 17 more complaints for this component
STEERING
19 complaints
WHILE DRIVING AT 5 MPH TWO BOLTS WHICH HELD THE STEERING BOX BROKE. AS A RESULT, THE STEERING PUMP FAILED, AND VEHICLE WAS INOPERABLE. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THE TECHNICIAN REPLACED THE BOLTS AND THE STEERING PUMP AT CONSUMER'S EXPENSE OF $458.00 . *AK THE STEERING BOX SNAPPED WHEN CONSUMER WAS ABOUT TO MOVE FROM A STOP SIGN. *LA
Jul 15, 2004
WHILE MAKING A SLOW TURN STEERING WENT OUT, CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO TURN STEERING WHEEL, BUT VEHICLE DID NOT RESPOND. DEALER DETERMINED TWO BOLTS IN STEERING BOX HAD BROKEN.*AK
Jul 29, 2002
BOLTS HOLDING STEERING GEARBOX IN PLACE EITHER BROKE OR FELL OUT, CAUSING NEARLY COMPLETE LOSS OF STEERING. ALMOST HIT GUARDRAIL ON EXPRESSWAY ENTRANCE RAMP. *AK
Feb 12, 2000
WHILE DRIVING AT 50 MPH STEERING FAILED AS THE TRUCK ENTERED A CURVE. AFTER FORCEFULLY TRYING TO STEER TO THE RIGHT, THE STEERING BECAME FREE. HOWEVER, THIS WAS ACCOMPLISHED TOO LATE TO AVOID A COLLISION WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE. THIS RESULTED IN EXTENSIVE DAMAGE TO THE TRUCK FROM THE COLLISION. *AK
Jan 18, 2000
DUE TO DEFECTIVE STEERING GEAR BOX, STEERING BECAME INOPERATIVE, ALMOST CAUSING A COLLISION. *AK
Sep 29, 1999
+ 14 more complaints for this component
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
12 complaints
WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY IN THE DARK, LIGHTS WILL GO OUT WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING, CONSUMER HAD TO TOUCH DIMMER SWITCH SO THAT LIGHTS WILL COME BACK ON. SWITCH HAD BEEN REPLACED BEFORE UNDER WARRANTY. BUT, CURRENTLY WAS NOT WORKING AGAIN, CONSUMER FEES IF IT GETS FIXED AGAIN, IT WILL NOT WORK AGAIN LATER ON. *AK *YD
Nov 29, 2001
DIMMER SWITCH CAUSES LIGHTS TO SHUT OFF. *AK
Nov 29, 2001
BOTH HEADLIGHTS GO OUT WHILE DRIVING, COME BACK ON WITHIN TEN SECONDS. OCCURS ONLY ONCE OR TWICE IN 3 TO 4 MONTH TIME FRAME. FORD AND DEALER CAN NOT HELP. OIGINALLY TAKEN TO DEALER FOR REPAIR ON 5/16/97. COULD NOT FIND PROBLEM. FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE HAS NO INFO RELATED IN THEIR DATA BASE. VERY SERIOUS PROBLEM. I HAVED TRIED TO IDENTIFY PROBLEM ON MY OWN (ELECTRICAL ENGINEER) BUT WIRING DIAGRAMS DO NOT EXPLAIN THE PROBLEM. I BELEIVE THERE IS A CIRCUIT BREAKER INLINE THAT DOES NOT SHOW IN THE FORD WIRING DETAILS FOR THIS TRUCK. I CANNOT VERIFY THIS THRU FORD. WOULD HAVE TO TEAR TRUCK APPART TO FIND.*AK
Oct 06, 2001
HEADLIGHTS WENT OUT WHEN USING TURN SIGNAL SWITCH TO SIGNAL LANE CHANGE WHILE OVERTAKING SLOWER MOVING VEHICLE AT NIGHT. HEADLIGHTS CAME BACK ON AFTER TOUCHING TURN SIGNAL SWITCH STALK. SWITCH STALK HAS EXCESSIVE UP-AND-DOWN PLAY; ABLE TO REPRODUCE INCIDENT AT WILL BY SLIGHTLY MOVING SWITCH STALK UP (TOWARD STEERING WHEEL). VEHICLE NOW AT DEALER FOR REPAIR.
Aug 14, 2000
VEHICLE HAS A BAD HEADLIGHT SWITCH. SWITCH HAS TO BE JIGGLED AROUND TO GET THE LIGHTS TO COME ON. ALSO, WHEN HIGH BEAMS ARE ACTIVATED THE LIGHTS GO OUT COMPLETELY. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
Mar 31, 2000
+ 7 more complaints for this component
EQUIPMENT
9 complaints
ENGINE RUNS AT HIGH IDLE FOR SEVERAL MINUTES WHEN AIR CONDITIONING FIRST USED
Aug 11, 2000
LEAK INSIDE AIR COMPRESSOR THAT WILL NOT HOLD ITS CHARGE
Jul 06, 2000
WAS TOLD BY REPAIR CENTER EVAPORATOR IS COMMON ON FORD RANGER. COST OVER $600 TO REPAIR/REPLACE. BUILT FORD TUFF?
Aug 04, 1999
AFTER RESEARCHING YOUR SERVICE BULLETIN DATABASE I FOUND 2 LIKE PROBLEMS RELATING TO MINE. COMPRESSOR FAILURE. # 96-20-6 AND # 96-22-6 THIS VEHICLE IS ONLY ON ITS SECOND SUMMER OF USE. AN AIR CONDITIONER COMPRESSOR SHOULD NOT SELF DESTRUCT CAUSING EXPENSIVE REPAIR TO THE ENTIRE SYSTEM. THIS IS A KNOWN DEFECT THAT FORD IS AWARE OF AND THEY WILL DO NOTHING ABOUT IT. IT IS NOT IN MY BUDGET TO HAND OUT $1200 (FORDS ESTIMATE) FOR A PIECE OF FAULTY EQUIPMENT WHICH FAILED DUE TO AN ERROR AT THE FACTORY. I HAVE HAD NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS WITH FORD DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPARTMENTS, AND CAN HONESTLY TELL YOU THAT I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER FORD PRODUCT AGAIN IF THIS IS HOW FORD TREATS THEIR CUSTOMERS. PLEASE HELP. SINCERELY, MARK LACHAPPELL
Jul 21, 1999
THE CERTIFICATE LABEL ON THE VEHICLE HAS INCORRECT REAR TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE DESIGNATION WHICH CAUSED PREMATURE WEAR TO REAR TIRES (FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT P265/75R15), PRIOR TO RECALL NOTICE (96V161000). *YC
Jun 03, 1999
+ 4 more complaints for this component
STRUCTURE
8 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED INSPECTION DUE TO EXTENSIVE RUST ON THE FRAME OF THE VEHICLE. THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC STATED THAT THE FRAME NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 124,000.
Aug 02, 2017
EXTENSIVE RUST DETERIORATION ON STRUCTURAL FRAME MEMBERS WHICH IS SPREADING RAPIDLY. VARIOUS LOCATIONS. I'M VERY CONCERNED ABOUT THE RIGHT SIDE REAR LEAF SPRING MOUNT BREAKING LOOSE WHILE IN MOTION. THE REMAINDER OF THE TRUCK IS IN GENERALLY GOOD CONDITION. WHEN I BOUGHT IT FROM THE ORIGINAL OWNER 7/11, SOME FRAME BRACKETS HAD BEEN REPLACED, BUT THE FRAME APPEARED SOUND. VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY.
May 04, 2016
1. EXCESSIVE UNDERBODY CORROSION 2. SUSPENSION FAILURE DUE TO BREAKS IN SPRING TO FRAME MOUNTS AND SHACKLES; THREE TIMES IN TWO YEARS. LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL WHEN BODY DROPPED ONTO WHEEL 3. NEW SPRING MOUNTS HAD TO BE WELDED ONTO FRAME. *TR
Feb 21, 2011
1996 FORD RANGER, 4.0, STANDARD CAB, STANDARD SHIFT, 2WHL DRIVE. THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL MOUNTING BRACKET, WHICH IS SPOT WELDED TO THE FIREWALL, BROKE THE WELDS. THIS LEFT THE VEHICAL WITHOUT THE ABILITY TO INCREASE SPEED ABOVE IDLE. ALTHOUGH THE BRACKET HAD POTENTIAL FASTENER HOLES THAT LINED UP WITH HOLES IN THE FIREWALL, THE BRACKET DOES NOT BOLT ON. REFER TO FORD CPD 2000 VERSION 15.04--JANUARY 2003, P-29097 ITEM 9A762 FOR A "BLOW UP" OF THE ITEM. NO ACCIDENT OCCURED AND SINCE I AM A MECHANIC, I DROVE THE VEHICAL HOME AND REPAIRED IT MYSELF.
Jan 16, 2003
THERE IS A RATTLE IN THE BED OF THE TRUCK.
Apr 19, 1997
+ 3 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
7 complaints
heading back from picking up meal at pizza hut when "POP" sound from front of truck and then cabin filled with smoke. within 20-30 seconds of exiting the car it was in flames (See attached photos) recall notification was never sent to current owner and current owner didnt own in 2009 when it was first recalled. Ford customer service informed that auto insurnace would be required to handle loss of vehicle, but current owner doesnt have comprehensive coverage so insurance company is unable to payout for loss due to fire. This recall should have been communicated to titled owner after purchase.
Dec 06, 2022
THE FRAME HAS EXPERIENCED SEVERE CORROSION INCLUDING THE SPARE TIRE MOUNT, CROSS MEMBERS, REAR BUMPER, LEAF SPRING SHACKLES, AND PERFORATIONS/RUST THROUGH OF THE MAIN FRAME RAILS.
Feb 08, 2016
THE REAR BUMPER FELL OFF WHILE DRIVING DUE TO RUSTED FRAME RAILS THAT IT WAS ATTACHED TO.
May 28, 2015
DT: THE CONTACT PREVIOUSLY FILED A COMPLAINT WITH NHTSA CONCERNING ODI 10139675. HE FELT THAT VEHICLES SHOULD BE EQUIPPED WITH A BRAKE LIGHT THAT STAYED ON ALL THE TIME WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT IN MOTION BECAUSE THIS WOULD DECREASE REAR END COLLISIONS AT NIGHT. ALSO, WITH THE TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD PUT A SENSOR ON THE SPEEDOMETER AND ON THE BRAKE PEDAL SO THAT WHEN THE SPEEDOMETER READ ZERO MPH, AND IN COMBINATION WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL NOT BEING DEPRESSED, THE BRAKE LIGHTS WILL LIGHT UP AND SIGNAL TO OTHER MOTORIST THAT THE VEHICLE STOPPED. IF A MOTORIST HAD THE VEHICLE IN THE PARK OR NEUTRAL POSITION OTHER MOTORIST COULD IDENTIFY THAT THE VEHICLE STOPPED. THE CONTACT BELIEVED THAT THIS TECHNOLOGY SHOULD BE USED ON ALL VEHICLES WHETHER THEY WERE AUTOMATIC OR MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS.*AK UPDATED 12/27/05. *JB
Nov 16, 2005
ON 06/03/2005, A GOVERNMENT OWNED, 1996 FORD BRONCO, WAS OBSERVED ON FIRE WHILE PARKED IN A PARKING GARAGE. THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN TURNED OFF AND PARKED FOR APPROXIMATELY EIGHT HOURS WHEN THE FIRE OCCURRED. THE FIRE WAS OBSERVED AT THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE, AND BURNED FOR SEVERAL MINUTES BEFORE IT COULD BE EXTINGUISHED. THE FIRE WAS BELIEVED TO HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY THE CRUISE CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH.
Jun 27, 2005
+ 2 more complaints for this component
SEATS
6 complaints
CONSUMER STATES UPON SEATING IN DRIVER SEAT BACK OF SEAT COLLAPSED WITHOUT ANY INDICATION. *AK
Sep 03, 2003
VEHICLE WAS HIT FROM THE REAR AT A STOP LIGHT AND SEATBACK AUTOMATICALLY RECLINED, FALLING BACK UPON IMPACT. DEFECT CAUSED CONSUMER TO GO THROUGH BACK OF WINDSHIELD. CONSUMER SUSTANED HEAD INJURIES. *AK
Jun 06, 2000
SEAT ADJUSTING GUARD FAILED.
Oct 27, 1997
SMOKE CAME FROM THE DRIVERS SIDE ELECTRIC SEAT WHILE ADJUSTING, ALSO SEAT IS NOT ABLE TO GO FORWARD AS FAR AS IT SHOULD.
Aug 29, 1997
SEAT LATCH BROKE WHILE VEHICLE WAS IN A REAR END CRASH. *AK THE SEAT LATCH BROKE ON TWO SEPARATE ACCIDENTS. ON BOTH OCCASSIONS, THE SEAT FULLY RECLINED IN THE HORIZONTAL POSITION,LOCKING IN PLACE. BETWEEN THE FIRST AND SECOND ACCIDENTS, THE SEAT MECHANISM WAS REPLACED. *YH
May 12, 1997
+ 1 more complaint for this component
PARKING BRAKE
6 complaints
DESIGN OF THE PARKING BRAKE CABLE CHAFES AGAINST A SUSPENSION PART ON DRIVER'S SIDE AND SHOCK ABSORBER ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE CAUSING DAMAGE, DISCOVERED BEFORE COMPLETE FAILURE. MJS
Apr 26, 1999
WHILE PARKING BRAKE WAS ENGAGED VEHICLE ROLLED DOWN A HILL FOR NO REASON. DEALERS HAVE NOT LOOKED INTO PROBLEM. *AK
Apr 27, 1998
EMERGENCY BRAKES HAVE NOT FAILED, HOWEVER THE CABLE RUBS AGAINST THE SWAY BAR BRACKET CAUSING A HOLE IN THE CABLE HOUSING.
Mar 10, 1998
PARKING BRAKE WAS CHECKED TWICE AND DEALER CLAIMS IT IS NORMAL. PEDAL HAS TO BE PUSHED TO LAST CLICK (TO THE FLOOR) TO PREVENT VEHICLE FROM ROLLING BACKWARDS ON ANY GRADIENT, INCLUDING SLIGHT. DEALER ALSO STATES THAT VEHICLE SHOULD BE PARKED IN GEAR IN ORDER TO PREVENT ROLLING BACKWARDS.
Dec 23, 1997
THE EMERGENCY PARKING BRAKE LINE IS RUBBING AGAINST THE REAR SHOCK, IT MAKES A HOLE . PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
Nov 15, 1996
+ 1 more complaint for this component
INTERIOR LIGHTING
5 complaints
REPEATED PROBLEMS WITH DOME LIGHT ON ALWAYS WHETHER THE VEHICLE IS ON OR OFF, KEY IN IGNITION OR NOT; DOOR CHIME ALWAYS ON IF KEY IS IN IGNITION, VEHICLE ON OR OFF; BOTH CANNOT BE CORRECTED UNLESS FUSE IS REMOVED, RESULTING IN LOSS OF SPEEDOMETER/ODOMETER. THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH FORDS AND NEEDS TO BE RECALLED OR AT MINIMUM, FIXED FREE EACH TIME.*AK
Dec 20, 2001
INTERIOR LIGHT STAYS ON WHILE DRIVING. IF DRIVING AT NIGHT IT MAY CAUSE A REFLECTION ON THE WINDSHIELD AND VISUAL DIFFICULTY WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH. COMMON PROBLEM. DEALER SAYS THAT THIS IS A DESIGN FLAW THAT NEEDS TO BE CORRECTED. *AK.ET.
Mar 16, 2000
DOME STAYS ON CREATING A FIRE HAZARD. I BELIEVE THIS TO BE CONNECTED WITH A FAILED DOOR AJAR SENSOR. I KNOW OF AT LEAST TWO OTHER OWNERS OF THIS TYPE OF VEHICLE WHO ARE EXPRERINCEING THE SAME PROBLEM AND IT SEEMS THERE PROBLEMS STARTED OCCURING WITH THE SAME MILEAGE AND AGE AS MINE. SINCE I HAVE DISCOVERED TWO OTHER RANGER PICKUP OWNERS WITH THE SAME EXACT ISSUE THERE APPEARS TO BE A PROBLEM. I WAS ALSO WONDERING IF IT COULD BE A DESIGN PROBLEM TO GET OWNERS INTO THEIR REPAIR SHOP TO INCREASE PROFITS. *AK
Jan 24, 2000
DOME LIGHTS FAIL INTERMITTENTLY. *YC
Jun 03, 1999
COURTESY LAMP FAILED.
Oct 27, 1997
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
4 complaints
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WOULD ACTIVATE INTERMITTENTLY WHILE DRIVING OBSTRUCTING HIS VIEW. ALSO, THE INTERIOR DOME LIGHT DOOR AJAR ALARM WOULD CONTINUE TO ILLUMINATE WHEN THE DOOR WAS BEEN CLOSED INTERMITTENTLY. HE ALSO NOTICED THAT THE ELECTRONIC OVERDRIVE LIGHT WOULD ILLUMINATE INTERMITTENTLY. ALL THREE ELECTRICAL FAILURES BEGAN SEPTEMBER 2010. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN INSPECTED OR REPAIRED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 107,000 AND THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
Feb 24, 2011
WINDSHIELD WIPERS COME ON INTERMITTENTLY, VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN EXAMINED BY DEALER.*AK THE LIGHTS ON THE DASH WENT OUT. CONSUMER FOUND SOOT EVERYWHERE. CONSUMERS HUSBAND CHECKED TO SEE IF A FUSE HAD BLOWN. THEY NOTICED THAT IN THE POWER DISTRIBUTION BOX THE FUSES USED WERE HIGHER THAN WHAT THE MANUAL STATED. THESE HAD 50 AMP FUSES. THE MANUAL CALLS FOR 30 AMPS. CONSUMER FEELS THIS OVERAGE IN POWER COULD HAVE RESULTED IN FIRE TO THE VEHICLE AND THAT THIS MAY BE THE UNDERLYING PROBLEM WITH THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS. *JG
Jul 29, 2002
CHIME AND LIGHT WON'T GO OUT, WIPERS HAVE SHORT. I FEAR A FIRE DUE TO OVERHEATED ELECTRICAL WIRING/COMPONENTS. *AK
Jan 10, 2002
WHENEVER CONSUMER HITS A BUMP THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS COME ON. ALSO EVERY TIME HE PUTS THE VEHICLE INTO REVERSE FUSE, WHICH IS CONNECTED TO THE OVERDRIVE SWITCH AND REVERSE LIGHTS, BLOWS OUT. DEALER AND MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED.
Nov 04, 1998
VISIBILITY,INTERIOR LIGHTING
4 complaints
WINDSHIELD WIPERS COME ON BY THEMSELVES, DOME STAYS ON, DOOR CHIME STAYS ON. *AK
Dec 27, 2000
THE DOME LIGHTS AND DOOR AJAR BUZZER COME OFF AND ON. THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS COME ON BY THEMSELVES. IF THE SUN IS SHINNING IN THE WINDOW IT MY CAUSE AN ACCIDENT AS I CAN'T SEE. I ALSO HAD TO PULL THE FUSE ON THE DOME LIGHT AS IT WAS ON SO MUCH IT WAS RES HOT AND RUNNING MY BATTERY DOWN.
Feb 05, 2000
EXPERIENCING PROBLEM WITH INTERMITTENT WINDSHIELD WIPERS STOP WORKING DURING OPERATION OR ARE NOT OPERATING AT ALL. ALSO, DOME LIGHTS WOULD INTERMITTENTLY COME ON WHILE DRIVING WITH SWITCH IN THE OFF MODE. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
Dec 21, 1999
WINDSHIELD WIPERS COME ON AT HIGH SPEED WITHOUT EVER BEING TURNED ON BY THE SWITCH. SOMETIMES WIPERS FAIL TO COME ON WHEN SWITCH IS TURNED ON. DOME LIGHT COMES ON WITHOUT BEING TURNED ON BY THE SWITCH. *AK
Dec 10, 1999
WHEELS
3 complaints
DRIVER FRONT ALLOY WHEEL CRACKED IN HALF, WHICH ALMOST CAUSE A CRASH. *AK THE DRIVER EXPERIENCED DIFFICULTY IN CONTROLLING THE VEHICLE. THE WHEEL CUT IN HALF LIKE A SLICED BAGEL. *YH
Sep 20, 2000
WHILE PULLING AWAY FROM A STOP FRONT WHEELS : RIM BASE ON DRIVER'S SIDE SPLIT RIGHT DOWN THE MIDDLE, CAUSING FRONT END OF TRUCK TO FALL TO THE GROUND. TRUCK WAS TOWED TO DEALERSHIP. RIM WILL BE REPLACED AT OWNER'S EXPENSE. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
May 12, 2000
WHEL BOLTS: NUTS CAME LOOSE FROM HOUSING, CAUSING TIRE TO LOOSEN. *AK
Oct 03, 1997
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
3 complaints
WHILE DRIVING ON A NARROW TWO-LANE ROAD, I PROCEEDED TO PASS ANOTHER VEHICLE. I ACCELERATED AND KICKED THE TRUCK INTO PASSING GEAR. THE THROTTLE WENT TO THE WIDE OPEN POSITION AND WOULD NOT RELEASE. I USED THE BRAKES TO FIGHT THE OUT OF CONTROL ENGINE AND VEHICLE. I PROCEEDED DOWN THE CURVY FOR 3 TO FOUR MILES UNTIL I GOT TO A PULLOUT PLACE WHERE I APPLIED THE BRAKES SO HARD THAT IT KILLED THE ENGINE. THE BRAKES WERE DOWN TO NO PADS, WERE VERY HOT, AND COOKED OUT GREASE THAT CAUGHT ON FIRE. I RESTARTED THE ENGINE AT WHICH TIME THE THROTTLE WAS NO LONGER STUCK IN THE WIDE OPEN POSITION. *AK
Mar 06, 2000
WHILE DRIVING THE BRACKET THE HOLDS THE GAS PEDAL IN PLACE BROKE AWAY FROM THE FIREWALL, LEAVING NO ACCELERATION. WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES, THE PEDAL WOULD NOT GO ALL THE WAY DOWN BECAUSE THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DANGLING BEHIND THE BRAKE PEDAL. DRIVER WAS ABLE TO COAST SAFELY TO A STOP. THE PROLBEM HAS NOT BEEN CORRECTED.
May 01, 1998
IN WET AND COLD WEATHER THE ABS BRAKES STICK AND DRAG (LOCK UP), VEHICLE ALSO EXPERIENCES INTERMITTENT HIGH IDLE AFTER COMING TO A STOP. *AK
Feb 27, 1997
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
3 complaints
DRIVER OR PASSENGER SIDE DOORS DO NOT HAVE CHILD SAFETY LOCKS. WHILE TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH CHILD PULLED ON DOOR HANDLE, THAT WAS LOCKED, AND THE DOOR FLUNG OPEN.
Aug 04, 1997
THERE ARE NO CHILD LOCKS ON THE DOOR, CHILD CAN OPEN DOOR FROM THE INSIDE. *AK
Apr 15, 1997
DOOR LOCK INOPERATIVE.
Apr 10, 1997
SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
TRUCK WAS PARKED ON THE GARAGE PAD FOR A WEEK. I OPENED THE HOOD AND CHECKED ALL FLUID LEVELS, AND FOUND THE BRAKE FLUID A LITTLE LOW. TOPPED OFF THE MASTER CYLINDER AND GOT BACK INTO THE TRUCK. STARTED ENGINE, AND PUSHED THE BRAKE PEDAL. IT WENT TO THE FLOOR, GOT OUT OF THE TRUCK AND HEARD FLUID DRIPPING. I LOOKED UNDER THE TRUCK AND SAW A PUDDLE OF BRAKE FLUID NEAR THE LEFT REAR WHEEL. I ASKED MY WIFE TO PUSH THE PEDAL DOWN AND I SAW BRAKE FLUID SPRAYING FROM THE MAIN STEEL BRAKE LINE. COULD HAVE BEEN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT AS THE TRUCK WAS USED ONE WEEK PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT TO HAUL A FULL LOAD OF FIRE WOOD.
Jun 19, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1996 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND THE VEHICLE ROLLED AWAY FOR A FEW SECONDS. THE FAILURE RECURRED INTERMITTENTLY AND BECAME PERMANENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS HOWEVER, THE CONTACT WAS UNCERTAIN OF THE REQUIRED REPLACEMENT PART. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILALBE. THE CONTACT NO LONGER OWNED THE VEHICLE.
Jun 03, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaints
THE CONTROL CLUSTERS ON THE STEERING WHEEL HAVE BEEN AT A SUFFICIENTLY HIGH TEMPERATURE THAT THE PLASTIC COVERING OVER THE MICRO SWITCHES HAS DEFORMED AND ON OCCASION IT WILL STICK TO YOUR FINGERS. THE CENTER BUTTON ON THE LEFT SIDE HAS DISINTEGRATED TO THE POINT THAT THE ACTUAL MICRO BUTTON IS NOW OPERATED DIRECTLY THROUGH THE MISSING PORTION OF THE ORIGINAL COVERING. ONE OF THE MICRO BUTTONS ON THE RIGHT SIDE IS IN THE SAME CONDITION AND BOTH CONTROL CLUSTERS HAVE BROKEN LOOSE FROM THE STEERING WHEEL. WITH THE PROBLEMS FORD HAS HAD WITH FIRES I THOUGHT THEY WOULD OFFER SOME ASSISTANCE IN REPAIRING THIS DEFECT BUT BOTH THE LOCAL DEALERS I HAVE TAKEN IT TO HAVE INDICATED NO ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE, I GUESS WE WILL WAIT FOR THE FIRE THAT SPREADS THROUGH THE GARAGE AND TAKES DOWN THE WHOLE HOUSE. DEALERS THAT TURNED ME DOWN ARE BLUE BONNET IN NEW BRAUNFELS, TX AND GRIFFITH IN THE KYLE, TX AREA. THE CONTROL STILL ACTUALLY FUNCTIONS IF YOU CAN HOLD IT ALL TOGETHER LONG ENOUGH TO ACTIVATE THE MICRO SWITCHES AND YOU DON'T MIND GETTING STICKY BLACK GOOP ON YOUR FINGERS. *TR
Feb 02, 2015
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD RANGER. WHILE ACTIVATING THE RIGHT TURN SIGNAL, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ELECTRICAL CRACKLING SOUND IN THE DASHBOARD. THE FAILURE HAS BEEN OCCURRING DAILY FOR THE LAST NINE MONTHS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 164,000. UPDATED 04/08/08. *LJ THE RIGHT TURN SIGNALS AND EMERGENCY FLASHERS DID NOT WORK. THE CONSUMER ALSO STATED THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS A PROBLEM AS WELL. UPDATED
Mar 11, 2008
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
2 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD RANGER. WHILE ENTERING THE DRIVEWAY AT 3 MPH, THE LID FOR THE GAS TANK SEPARATED FROM THE VEHICLE. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION HE NOTICED THAT THE SPRINGS HAD CORROSION. A TECHNICIAN FROM THE DEALER RECOMMENDED REPLACEMENT OF THE SPRINGS. HOWEVER THE PARTS FOR THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000.
Nov 05, 2009
I OWN A 1996 FORD RANGER V6, 4.0L TRUCK. THREE INCIDENTS OF THE SAME NATURE HAS OCCURRED ON THIS VEHICLE. THE INCIDENT DOES NOT HAPPEN ALL THE TIME BUT WHEN STEPPING ON THE GAS PEDAL TO ACCELERATE, THE VEHICLE CONTINUES TO ACCELERATE EVEN AFTER RELEASE OF THE GAS PEDAL. I HAD TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO A LOCAL FORD DEALER AND THE MECHANIC ADVISED THAT THE THROTTLE "STICKS". I CONSENTED TO THEIR SUGGESTION TO HAVE THE THROTTLE ASSEMBLY REPLACED TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM, WHICH WILL COST ME APPROXIMATELY $400. I UNDERSTAND THERE IS A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (NUMBER: 99-23-5) WHICH WAS PUBLISHED IN NOVEMBER 1999 FOR THE 1996 FORD RANGER 2WD V6-182 3.0L ENGINE TRUCK WITH A PROBLEM OF "THROTTLE STICKING". I WOULD LIKE TO REPORT THAT THE 4.0L ENGINE ALSO HAS THE SAME PROBLEM.*AK
Feb 25, 2004
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaints
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH WAS LEAKING FLUID. THERE IS A NHTSA RECALL ON OTHER FORD VEHICLES. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A SERVICE DEALER, THE REPAIR WERE MADE FOR A FEE. ALSO EVERY 25000 MILES, THE OIL PAN GASKET NEEDED TO BE CHANGED DUE A SMALL LEAK. THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM. THIRD, THE EXHAUST AND INTAKE MANIFOLDS WERE LEAKING CAUSING A NOXIOUS SMELL INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TAKEN TO THE SAME SERVICE DEALER. THE DEALER REPLACED BOTH MANIFOLDS, AND DETERMINED THAT THERE WAS AN OIL LEAK DRIPPING ONTO THE EXHAUST SYSTEM.
Jun 22, 2006
ABNORMALLY HIGH COLD IDLE MADE WORSE BY ATTEMPTING TO 'KICK IT DOWN' WITH ACCELERATOR PEDAL; PEDAL STICKS TO KICKED POSITION CAUSING ENGINE TO RACE EVEN HIGHER. MUST SHUT OFF ENGINE TO AVOID DAMAGE. WITH ENGINE OFF, MUST REPEATEDLY STOMP PEDAL TO ATTEMPT RELEASE. PARTIAL RELEASE STILL LEAVES VERY HIGH ENGINE SPEED, UNDRIVEABLE. DEALER CAN'T DUPLICATE PROBLEM; FOUND CORROSION AT END OF THROTTLE CABLE, CLEANED AND LUBRICATED. NOT SURE IF PROBLEM IS FIXED, SINCE ON BOTH OCCASIONS THE VEHICLE HAD SAT FOR ONE WEEK OF NONUSE BEFORE PROBLEM OCCURRED.
Jul 24, 2000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,INTERIOR LIGHTING
2 complaints
DASHLIGHTS ARE NOT WORKING. CONSUMER SEES SOOT ON THE DASH SOMETIMES AND SMELLS SOMETHING BURNING. DEALER DETERMINED AMPS ON FACTORY INSTALLED FUSES ARE TOO HIGH. CANNOT REMEDY THE PROBLEM. *AK CONSUMER STATES THAT THE FUSES SHOULD HAVE BEEN A 30 AMP. *SCC
Jul 29, 2002
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONED, CAUSING THE DOME LIGHT TO COME ON UNEXPECTEDLY, ETC. COMMON PROBLEM. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
Jan 31, 2000
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaints
TRUCK WAS TAKEN FOR EAST FORD (DEALER) FOR TRANSMISSION MAINTENANCE. THE OD LIGHT AND REVERSE LIGHTS FAILED FROM THAT POINT ON. TRUCK TAKEN BACK 4/16/2001 FOR SAME, DEALER SAYS WIRING IN STEERING/SHIFTER IS RUBBED AND REQUIRES SHIFTER REPLACMENT.*AK
Apr 16, 2001
TRANSMISSION AND ENGINE COMPUTER FAILED RESULTING IN VEHICLE GETTING REAR ENDED DUE TO FAILURES.
Dec 02, 1996
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VISIBILITY
2 complaints
NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
Jan 29, 2001
NO SUMMARY
Oct 11, 1999
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
2 complaints
IN MAY OF 1996 I PURCHASED A NEW 1996 FORD RANGER 4 WHEEL DRIVE XLT MODEL. IN THE SPRING OF 1997 (APPROX. MAY) I CHANGED THE MUD FLAPS AND DISCCOVERED THAT I HAD 2 EACH CRACKED ROTORS. I TOOK THE TRUCK BACK TO PORT CITY FORD--ROUTE 104 EAST, OSWEGO N.Y. 13126--WHERE I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE. IN 1998 THIS DEALERSHIP WAS CLOSED SO I TOOK MY BUSINESS TO FRED RAYNOR FORD IN FULTON N.Y. PORT CITY FORD REPLACED BOTH FRONT ROTORS IN MAY 1997 UNDER WARANTEE. IN JAN. 1998 TOOK VEHICLE TO PORT CITY FORD FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE. DISCOVERED THAT BOTH FRONT ROTORS WERE AGAIN CRACKED. PORT CITY FORD AGAIN REPLACED BOTH FRONT ROTORS UNDER WARANTEE. APPROX. MILEAGE WAS 33,000 MILES. IN MARCH OF 1999 I DISCOVERED THAT THE RIGHT FRONT ROTOR WAS CRACKED. PORT CITY FORD HAD GONE OUT OF BUSINESS SO I TOOK MY TRUCK TO FRED RAYNOR FORD IN FULTON,NY. THEY SAID THAT THEY COULDN'T RETRIEVE MY RECORDS FROM PORT CITY FORD AND THAT MY 12000MILE/12 MONTH WARANTEE ON FORD PARTS HAD EXPIRED. I PAID THEM FOR A NEW RIGHT ROTOR, TURNED DOWN RIGHT ROTOR, NEW BRAKE PADS AND BACK BRAKE INSPECTION. IN JUNE, 1999, I REPLACED MY REAR BRAKE SHOES MYSELF AND HAD THE TRUCK INSPECTED. THE FIRST WEEK IN JULY IL NOTICED MY BRAKE PEDDAL PULSATING AND DISCOVERED THAT MY LEFT FRONT ROTOR HAD CRACKED. I WENT TO FRED RAYNOR FORD AND TALKED WITH THE SERVICE MANAGER--BRAD STEVENS-- AND SET UP AN APPT. FOR TODAY-7/23/99- AT 8AM. THEY COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG, SO THEY CALLED THE FORD TECH HOT LINE AND TALKED TO SOMEONE WHO SPECIALIZED IN FORD RANGERS. THAT PERSON SAID THAT THEY HAD NOT RECEIVED ANY COMPLAINTS NOR DID THEY HAVE ANY KNOWLEGE OF ANY FORD RANGERS HAVING ROTOR PROBLEMS. I PAID FOR ANOTHER FORD ROTOR TODAY BUT I RECEIVED A 10% DISCOUNT AND FREE LABOR. THESE PEOPLE ARE TREATLING ME AS GOOD AS CAN BE EXPECTED, BUT IT LOOKS LIKE THEIR HANDS ARE TIED. WHERE DO GO FROM HERE? THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN INHERENT TO THIS VEHICLE FROM DAY ONE.
Jul 23, 1999
IN MAY OF 1996 I PURCHASED A NEW 1996 FORD RANGER 4 WHEEL DRIVE XLT MODEL. IN THE SPRING OF 1997 (APPROX. MAY) I CHANGED THE MUD FLAPS AND DISCCOVERED THAT I HAD 2 EACH CRACKED ROTORS. I TOOK THE TRUCK BACK TO PORT CITY FORD--ROUTE 104 EAST, OSWEGO N.Y. 13126--WHERE I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE. IN 1998 THIS DEALERSHIP WAS CLOSED SO I TOOK MY BUSINESS TO FRED RAYNOR FORD IN FULTON N.Y. PORT CITY FORD REPLACED BOTH FRONT ROTORS IN MAY 1997 UNDER WARANTEE. IN JAN. 1998 TOOK VEHICLE TO PORT CITY FORD FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE. DISCOVERED THAT BOTH FRONT ROTORS WERE AGAIN CRACKED. PORT CITY FORD AGAIN REPLACED BOTH FRONT ROTORS UNDER WARANTEE. APPROX. MILEAGE WAS 33,000 MILES. IN MARCH OF 1999 I DISCOVERED THAT THE RIGHT FRONT ROTOR WAS CRACKED. PORT CITY FORD HAD GONE OUT OF BUSINESS SO I TOOK MY TRUCK TO FRED RAYNOR FORD IN FULTON,NY. THEY SAID THAT THEY COULDN'T RETRIEVE MY RECORDS FROM PORT CITY FORD AND THAT MY 12000MILE/12 MONTH WARANTEE ON FORD PARTS HAD EXPIRED. I PAID THEM FOR A NEW RIGHT ROTOR, TURNED DOWN RIGHT ROTOR, NEW BRAKE PADS AND BACK BRAKE INSPECTION. IN JUNE, 1999, I REPLACED MY REAR BRAKE SHOES MYSELF AND HAD THE TRUCK INSPECTED. THE FIRST WEEK IN JULY IL NOTICED MY BRAKE PEDDAL PULSATING AND DISCOVERED THAT MY LEFT FRONT ROTOR HAD CRACKED. I WENT TO FRED RAYNOR FORD AND TALKED WITH THE SERVICE MANAGER--BRAD STEVENS-- AND SET UP AN APPT. FOR TODAY-7/23/99- AT 8AM. THEY COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG, SO THEY CALLED THE FORD TECH HOT LINE AND TALKED TO SOMEONE WHO SPECIALIZED IN FORD RANGERS. THAT PERSON SAID THAT THEY HAD NOT RECEIVED ANY COMPLAINTS NOR DID THEY HAVE ANY KNOWLEGE OF ANY FORD RANGERS HAVING ROTOR PROBLEMS. I PAID FOR ANOTHER FORD ROTOR TODAY BUT I RECEIVED A 10% DISCOUNT AND FREE LABOR. THESE PEOPLE ARE TREATLING ME AS GOOD AS CAN BE EXPECTED, BUT IT LOOKS LIKE THEIR HANDS ARE TIED. WHERE DO GO FROM HERE? THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN INHERENT TO THIS VEHICLE FROM DAY ONE.
Jul 23, 1999
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
2 complaints
VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONTAL COLLISON AND THE AIR BAG DID'T DEPLOY. THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT BROKE WHICH CAUSED THE DRIVER TO BE INJURED. *AK
Jul 31, 1997
CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN A SIDE IMPACT COLLISON IN WHICH THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED, CAUSING CONSUMER TO SUSTAIN 2ND TO 3RD DEGREE BURNS. ALSO DRIVER'S SIDE SHOULDER BELT MIGHT HAVE MALFUNCTIONED, CAUSING HER TO SUSTAIN AN INJURIES TO THE HEAD. *AK
Jul 08, 1997
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
MY 96 FORD RANGER HAS TREMENDOUS FRAME ROT ON THE DRIVE SIDE AT THE FRONT OF THE SPRING SHACKLES. SOMEONE HAD SPRAYED RHINO LINER LIKE MATERIAL ON THE ROT TO COVER IT UP OR TO TRY TO MAKE IT HOLD. THE REST OF THE FRAME IS IN OUTSTANDING CONDITION EXCEPT FOR IT BEING ALMOST BROKEN INTO AT THE GAS TANK STRAP AND FRONT SHACKLES. I HAVE REPLACED EVERY FRONT END PART ON THIS TRUCK THINKING IT WAS IN THE FRONT SUSPENSION. WHEN DRIVING IT RUNS OUT OF LINE FROM THE REAR AND THE FRAME IS STARTING TO BEND.
Oct 25, 2020
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
1 complaint
NANO AND MICRO PARTICULATES/CONTAMINANTS HAVE BEEN SPRAYED FROM AN AIRLINER AND CAUSED SEVERE DAMAGE TO MY BODY AND MY VEHICLE; IT INCLUDES FLAKES, TUBULES AND HIGHLY REFLECTIVE PARTICLES AND METALS. THE VEHICLE HAS STALLED AND LOST TWO GEARS AS A RESULT. IT HAS A GAS LEAKING ISSUE CAUSED BY THE TECHNOLOGY. I HAVE HAD TO GO TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM. MY VEHICLE HAS BEEN CONTAMINATED, DAMAGED AND SABATAGED AS WELL AS MY FAMILY MEMBERS VEHICLES, PERSONS AND PROPERTY. IT'S OCCURING ON AND OFF HIGHWAY. IT'S HAPPENING TO OTHER VEHICLES AS WELL. OIL AND BATTERY INTERIOR AND EXTERIORS AS WELL AS BODILY HARM, RISK AND INJURY. THE TECH AND PARTICULATES ARE HIGHLY DANGEROUS AND DESTRUCTIVE. [XXX] IS THE OFFENDING PARTY THAT CAUSED IT TO HAPPEN WITH THE FEDERAL AGENCIES. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Jan 20, 2020
ENGINE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1996 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, FLAMES APPEARED UNDER THE HOOD. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE WAS UNKNOWN. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TOWED, BUT WAS DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND OPENED A CASE. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 300,000. *TR *JS *BF CONSUMER STATED BOTH ODI 11173289 AND 11173291 HAD MANUFACTURER DEFECT THAT CAUSED THE FIRE.*JB
Jan 31, 2019
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
THE WHOLE UNDERBODY AND FRAME IS RUSTED AND ROTTED. THE LEAF SPRING SHACKLES HAVE RUSTED AND ROTTED AWAY.
Sep 20, 2016
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
I HAVE A 1996 FORD RANGER AND WHEN I WAS FILLING UP THE GAS TANK I STARTED NOTICING A STRONG SMELL OF GAS THEN LATER CAME TO FIND OUT IT WAS LEAKING GAS. I HAVE COME TO FIND OUT THAT THIS IS A COMMON DEFECTED WITH THESE VEHICLES. I THINK THAT IT SHOULD BE ADDRESSED BEFORE SOMEONE GETS KILLED IF SOMEONE HAS NOT GOTTEN KILLED YET. *TR
Apr 01, 2015
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
TURNS OVER BUT WON'T START. *TR
Jul 05, 2014
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
THE TWO BUTTONS ON EITHER SIDE OF THE HORN, ON THE STEERING WHEEL, THAT CONTROL THE CRUISE CONTROL MELT IN THE HEAT AND EXPOSE THE CIRCUIT BOARDS. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR A FEW YEARS AND I FINALLY NEED TO REPORT THIS. *TR
Jun 03, 2013
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD RANGER. WHEN THE VEHICLE IS IDLING OR PLACED INTO NEUTRAL WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL NOT DEPRESSED, THE BRAKE LIGHTS DO NOT ILLUMINATE. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN REAR ENDED FOUR TIMES IN FIVE YEARS. THE MOST RECENT CRASH OCCURRED IN MARCH OF 2008 AND THE VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED. THE CONTACT HAS PICTURES. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 165,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 75,000. UPDATED 06/25/08. *LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE DOES NOT HAVE A FEATURE TO KEEP THE BRAKE LIGHTS ON WHEN THE VEHICLE IS IN NEUTRAL AND THE CLUTCH BRAKE IS NOT PRESSED.UPDATED 06/25/08
Jun 05, 2008
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
DT: ON JULY 10, 2005 THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT. WAS SITTING AT A RED LIGHT WITH THE CAR IN NEUTRAL. THE BAKES WERE NOT PRESSED. BECAUSE THERE WERE NO BRAKE LIGHTS ILLUMINATING THE VEHICLE WAS HIT FROM BEHIND. THE CONTACT FELT THAT VEHICLES SHOULD BE EQUIPPED WITH BRAKE LIGHTS THAT SHOULD STAY ON WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT MOVING. THIS WAS A SAFETY DEFECT IN ALL MANUAL TRANSMISSION VEHICLES. THE VEHICLE SUSTAINED DAMAGE TO THE REAR BUMPER AND DECK. THERE WAS NO POLICE REPORT TAKEN. THE TWO VEHICLE OPERATORS ONLY EXCHANGED PHONE NUMBERS. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED AT THIS TIME. THERE WERE NO INJURIES SUSTAINED BY THE VEHICLE OWNER OR THE OPERATOR OF THE OTHER VEHICLE. *AK UPDATED 12/27/05. *JB
Oct 14, 2005
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS REPLACED ON 1996 THUNDERBIRD IN 2000. IT IS NOW CRACKED, AND AFTER SPENDING 550.00 TO FIND THAT OUT, THERE IS NOTHING FORD WILL DO EVEN THOUGH IT IS ON CAMPAIGN (97M91). NOW I CAN NOT DRIVE MY CAR.
May 25, 2005
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
1 complaint
FUEL TANK CRACKED AND WAS LEAKING FUEL INTO A PARKING LOT. PHOENIX TEMP WAS 106 THAT DAY. SMELLED AND SAW GAS RUNNING ON THE GROUND. TOWED IT TO A REPAIR SHOP. REMOVED TANK AND FOUND CRACKS THAT LOOK LIKE STRESS FRACTURES BEHIND THE MOUNTING BRACKETS. IT WAS ALSO LEAKING AT THE TOP OUTLET OF THE TANK WHERE THE GASKET HAD DRIED OUT AND CRACKED. CONTACTED FORD BOTH THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURE, THEIR COMMIT WAS IT IS OUT OF WARRANTY.
Jan 13, 2003
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,INTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
INTERMITTENT PROBLEM WITH THE COURTESY LIGHTS AND TRUNK CARGO LIGHTS STAYING ON WHILE DRIVING OR PARKING. BLOWER MOTOR WOULD COME ON AND GO OFF WHILE THE SWITCH ARE IN THE OFF MODE OR IN THE ON MODE. DEALER AND MANUFACTRER WERE NOT NOTIFIED AT THIS TIME. *AK THE ABS BRAKES LOCK UP ON WET PAVEMENT. *YH
Jun 10, 2002
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
THIS IS THE SECOND TIME IN 2 YEARS THAT THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH ON THE END OF THE TURN SIGNAL ARM HAS FAILED. WASHER SWITCH ON ARM STILL WORKS, BUT WIPERS DO NOT WORK IN ANY MODE. I HAVE CONTACTED A LOCAL FORD DEALER AND THEY WILL ONLY OFFER TO REPLACE AGAIN FOR AROUND $300.00
Aug 18, 2001
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING AND WHEN ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE WHILE VEHICLE WAS IN LOW GEAR, IT POPPED OUT OF GEAR INTO NEUTRAL. ALSO, WHEN SHIFTING GEARS VEHICLE WAS MAKING A NOISE. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED DEALER. DEALER HAS REPLACED CLUTCH, AND HAS STATED THAT MANUAL TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK DEALER ALSO REPLACED FIRST GEAR SYNCRO, BLOCKER RING, AND THIRD GEAR BLOCKER RING. HEATER WOULD NOT BLOW HOT AIR, DEALER REPLACED THERMOSTAT. TAIL PIPE WAS HITTING SPARE TIRE CAUSING NOISE, DEALER REPOSITIONED TAIL PIPE. *SLC
Apr 11, 2001
VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
ENGINE LIGHT STAYS ON DOME LIGHT DOESNT GO OFF WINDSHIELD WIPERS DONT GO OFF. *AK
Mar 03, 2001
VISIBILITY,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,INTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
WINDSHIELD WIPERS COME ON FOR NO REASON, WON'T COME ON SOMETIMES, DOME LIGHT AND DOOR BEEP STAYS ON FOR SEVERAL MINUTES, ACCELERATOR STICKS OFTEN.*AK
Jan 30, 2001
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
ENGINE. KNOCKING ROD AT ONLY 56,000 MI. OVER $3,000 FOR NEW ENGINE. HEADLIGHTS FAILED TO TURN ON BEFORE LEAVING DRIVEWAY. CAME ON AFTER TURNING ON HIGH BEAMS AND TURN SIGNALS. ON 4 SEPARATE OCCASIONS, I'M ABOUT TO DOWNSHIFT TO MAKE A TURN AND THE ENGINE CUTS OFF. NO POWER STEERING, NEARLY LOST CONTROL.
Dec 27, 2000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
TRANSMISSION SHIFTER CABLE HAS FALLEN ON TOP OF CROSSOVER PIPE WHICH IS CONNECTED TO THE EXHAUST PIPE ,BURNING THROUGH CABLE. THE 1998 MODEL WAS EQUIPPED WITH AN ADDED HEAT SHIELD TO PREVENT BURNING. BRAKE PADS, SHOES AND CALIPERS REPLACED ON (7-22-99). *AK
Sep 21, 1999
SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
DOOR PROBLEM; IT IS HARD TO GET INTO VEHICLE ALSO, BELT WARNING SYSTEM B UZZER KEEPS RINGING/ LIGHT COMES ON INTERMITTENTLY WHEN IT'S WARM OUTSIDE. WHEN THE BELL RINGS ALOT, IT KILLS THE BATTERY. *AK
Apr 02, 1999
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
AT LEAST 12 SETS OF BRAKES PUT ON VEHICLE"4 IN UDER 9000 MILES, RESULTING IN 2 ACCIDENTS" 3 TIMES AT TURNING ROTORS/ENGINE REBUILT AT 52000 MILES STILL WITH LOSS OF PORWER. 2 EGR VALVES/2 WIPER SWITCHES/SYNCRONIZERS/2 SLAVE CYLINDERS ON TRANSMISSION AND OIL LEAK. ALL PROBLEMS STILL EXIST. ENGINE IDLES HIGH ENOUGH THAT THE USE OF THE GAS PEDAL IS NOT NEEDED FOR INTOWN DRIVING. SPEEDS OF 45MPH CAN BE OBTAINED BEFORE HITTING PEDAL.
Mar 27, 1999
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
ENGINE CHECK LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON. TOOK TO DEALER & HAD IT CHECKED & REPAIRED. HAD COMPUTER CHIP CHECKED ALSO. *AK
Nov 06, 1998
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
WINDSHIELD WIPERS WOULD WORK INTERMITTENTLY, SOMETIMES NOT AT ALL. HEADLIGHTS WORK SOMETIMES. A/C WOULD NOT WORK ALL THE TIME. DEALER BEING CONTACTED. *AK
Oct 01, 1998
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
WHILE CONSUMER WAS DRIVING ON DRY PAVEMENT READY TO MAKE A TURN SHE PUT ON BRAKES, THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY DOWN TO THE FLOOR. CONSUMER MANAGED TO TURN INTO A PARKING LOT AFTER PUMPING THE BRAKES. VEHICLE BEGAN TO SMOKE AND FLUIDS LEAKING FROM THE LEFT SIDE OF THE CAR. THEN CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE. *AK
Sep 08, 1998
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A DIRECT FRONTAL IMPACT AT 20 MPH IN WHICH THERE WAS NO DEPLOYMENT OF DRIVER'S OR PASSENGER'S SIDE AIRBAGS. ALSO, MOTOR MOUNTS BROKE IN LOW SPEED CRASH. CAUSE UNKNOWN. *AK
Jul 08, 1998
VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
WHEN TURNING ON EITHER AIR CONDITIONER OR DEFROSTER THE GAS SURGES AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATES FORWARD. TOOK IN FOR REPAIR AND DEALER SAID THAT THIS IS NORMAL FOR THE VEHICLE. TO SURGE.
Mar 21, 1997
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
ANTILOCK BRAKES FAILED, CAUSING ACCIDENT, ALSO SEAT BELT FAILED IN ACCIDENT, CAUSING INJURY.
Sep 11, 1996
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 1996 FORD Ranger have?
The 1996 FORD Ranger currently has 485 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 1996 FORD Ranger?
The most common problems reported for the 1996 FORD Ranger are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 1996 FORD Ranger problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 1996 FORD Ranger comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
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