1998 FORD Ranger Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
656
Complaints Reported
Complaints by Component
TIRES
148 complaints
WHILE ON FREEWAY LEFT REAR TIRE FAILED. LOST CONTROL OF VEHICLE CRASHED INTO CENTER DIVIDER. VEHICLE TOTAL LOSS. THE TIRE FAILURE APPEARS AS TREAD SEPARATION. *TR
Nov 15, 2008
ON JULY 10, 2003 MY COUSIN'S 1998 FORD RANGERS LEFT REAR TIRE PEELED APART, CAUSING THE TRUCK TO FLIP AND BLOW-UP. THERE WAS NO WARNING, WHAT-SO-EVER. MY COUSIN AND A PASSENGER WERE BOTH KILLED. THE REAR TIRES WERE COOPER DISCOVERER H/T TIRES. A TIRE EXPERT LATER DETERMINED THAT THIS TIRE HAD BOTH A MANUFACTURING AND DESIGN DEFECT. THE FAMILY ATTEMPTED TO MITIGATED THIS TRAGIC EVENT BY CONTACTING COOPER TIRE & RUBBER COMPANY DIRECTLY. COOPER TIRE COMPANY OFFERED NO DEFENSE, NOTHING. WE ARE NOW IN LITIGATION. I PERSONALLY ASKED COOPERS' ATTORNEYS ABOUT THE ORIGIN OF THEIR TIRES RUBBER. I WAS TOLD, "COOPER GETS THEIR RUBBER FROM VARIOUS SOURCES." WE REQUEST THE NHTSA INVESTIGATE COOPER TIRE AND RUBBER COMPANY'S MANUFACTURING PROCESS. THE PUBLIC NEEDS TO KNOW IF THIS COMPANY USES UNSAFE RUBBER MADE IN CHINA IN THE MANUFACTURER OF ITS H/T DISCOVERER TIRE. WE ALSO REQUEST THE NHTSA DISCUSS WITH COOPER ITS MISLEADING USE OF THE LETTERS " H/T" WHICH SUGGEST THE TIRE IS SAFE FOR BOTH HIGHWAY AND TERRAIN (OFF ROAD) USE. THIS IS AN UNSAFE TIRE. *TR
Jul 21, 2007
I WAS DRIVING ON I-95 AT APPROXIMATELY 80 MILES AN HOUR WHEN I HEARD A 'POPPING' SOUND AS IF MY TIRE WAS FLAT. THE NOISE CAME FROM THE DRIVER SIDE FRONT. MY TRUCK (A 98 FORD RANGER) WAS PULLED OFF THE ROAD AND INTO THE GRASS ON THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD. AS SOON AS I HEARD THE NOISE, I ATTEMPTED TO SLOW DOWN BY APPLYING THE BRAKE AND CONTINUED TO DO SO AS I MOVED ONTO THE GRASS. UNFORTUNATELY WHETHER THE GRASS WAS TO WET, OR FOR WHATEVER REASON, MY TRUCK DID NOT SLOW DOWN AND I RAN INTO A TREE- RENDERRING MY TRUCK UNDRIVEABLE. I LATER FOUND OUT THAT THE TREAD OF MY FIRESTONE P225 70R15 WILDERNESS TIRES HAD PEELED. THERE WAS STILL AIR FILLING THE TIRE, BUT THE TREAD HAD PEELED OFF. *AK
Aug 27, 2003
WHILE DRIVING AT 65 MPH REAR DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE TREAD SEPARATED AND WRAPPED AROUND REAR AXLE, CAUSING VEHICLE TO ROLL OVER. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
Aug 12, 2003
WHILE DRIVING AT 65 MPH, THE RIGHT REAR TIRE BLEW OUT (BLOWOUT WAS A SIDEWALL). UP TO THIS POINT, TIRES HAD WORN EVENLY. TWO MONTHS PRIOR, ALL TIRES WERE CHECKED BY VARIOUS TIRE SHOPS AS I WAS THINKING OF REPLACING THE TIRES. NO ONE COULD FIND ANY EVIDENCE OF WEAR AND RECOMMENDED I KEEP THESE TIRES AS THEY WERE IN SUCH GOOD SHAPE. REAR TIRES NOW SHOW EVIDENCE OF WEAR THAT IS NOT VISIBLE ON FRONT TIRES.*AK
Aug 03, 2003
+ 143 more complaints for this component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
66 complaints
PULLED INTO A SLOPING DOWN PARKING SPOT. STOPPED, FOOT ON THE BRAKE. BEFORE I COULD SHIFT OUT OF DRIVE, THE ENGINE ABRUPTLY REVVED UP TO MAX RPM. I HAD BOTH FEET ON THE BRAKES, THE BACK WHEELS STARTED SPINNING CREATING A CLOUD OF BLUE SMOKE. I JAMMED THE GEARS INTO PARK AND THEY ENGINE ONLY QUIT AFTER I TURNED OFF THE KEY. I HAVE SEVERAL WITNESSES TO THE EVENT. MY REGULAR MECHANIC DISCONNECTED THE CRUISE CONTROL CABLE AND IT HASN'T HAPPENED AGAIN. FORD CONTACTED BUT REFUSED TO FIX THE PROBLEM. *TR
Jan 29, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL FRACTURED AND DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE RIVETS ATTACHED TO THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND BRACKETS WERE CORRODED. AS A RESULT, THE MECHANIC HAD TO REATTACH THE PEDAL WITH NEW BOLTS. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
Oct 01, 2012
ENGINE SURGES WHEN FOOT IS OFF ACCELERATOR. ENGINE GOES TO HIGH RPM AND MUST BE TURNED OFF WITH IGNITION KEY TO KEEP IT FROM EXCEEDING RPM LIMITS. THIS IS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM WITH NO FIRM PARAMETERS FOR OCCURRENCE. THIS HAS HAPPENED EVEN THOUGH THERE ARE NO MATS IN THE DRIVERS SIDE OF THE TRUCK AND DRIVERS FEET ARE FLAT ON THE FLOOR NOT IN CONTACT WITH THE ACCELERATOR, BRAKE, OR CLUTCH. DEALER HAS REPLACED THROTTLE BODY TWICE BUT THAT DOES NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. THE DEALER HAS NO IDEA WHAT IS CAUSING THE PROBLEM. PROBLEM HAS BEEN IN EXISTENCE FOR AT LEAST 18 MONTHS. *TR
Feb 25, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD RANGER. AFTER THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN PARKED FOR 13 HOURS, IT CAUGHT FIRE. THE CONTACT FILED A REPORT WITH THE POLICE DEPARTMENT. A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 07V336000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL) WAS RECEIVED PRIOR TO THE FAILURE AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER ON OCTOBER 10, 2008 FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED AT THAT TIME; THEREFORE, THE CONTACT DOES NOT UNDERSTAND HOW HIS VEHICLE STILL CAUGHT FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER AND WAS INFORMED THAT HE WOULD RECEIVE A CALL BACK WITHIN 14 BUSINESS DAYS BY THEIR LEGAL DEPARTMENT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 136,000.
Jun 01, 2009
I HAD DRIVEN MY 98 FORD RANGER FOR A DISTANCE OF ABOUT 10 MILES PRIOR TO THE INCIDENT. 2 HOURS AFTER I GOT HOME MY TRUCK BURST INTO FLAMES. THE TRUCK IS TOTALED NOW. I DID NOTHING TO REMEDY THE SITUATION BECAUSE I WAS UNAWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME. *TR
Mar 31, 2009
+ 61 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
54 complaints
1998 FORD RANGER, DRIVE SHAFT BROKE ON VEHICLE. *BF AFTER THE DRIVE SHAFT BROKE, IT WENT THROUGH THE GAS TANK CAN CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO CATCH ON FIRE. OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT #10-0294-89 UPDATED 05/03/10 *BF UPDATED 05/24/10 *BF THE REAR AXLE PINION FROZE, THE DRIVE SHAFT TWISTED AND BROKE IN TWO. UPDATED 05/28/10
Mar 22, 2010
WHILE DRIVING A LOUD KNOCKING NOISE WAS HEARD FROM THE REAR. CONSUMER APPLIED THE BRAKES AND VEHICLE JERKED UNCONTROLLABLY. CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, AND DROVE IT HOME. THEN, TOOK IT TO DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT REAR DRIVESHAFT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. A RECALL WAS NOT ISSUED ON THIS VEHICLE. *AK
Jun 07, 2004
WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKES, A LOUD NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM REAR. CONSUMER DROVE THE VEHICLE TO A REPAIR SHOP FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT BOTH FRONT AXLES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED DUE TO A BROKEN SEAL. ALSO, MACHINE DID NOT CALIBRATE THE FRONT AXLES PROPERLY. *AK
May 13, 2004
FRONT WHEEL DRIVE INTERMITTENT EVEN WHEN 4X4 LIGHT IS ON AND 4X4 SWITCH IS ENGAGED. MOST NOTABLE WHEN BELOW OUTSIDE TEMPERATURES ARE 30 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT AND BELOW. MULTIPLE FORD DEALERS HAVE TRIED BUT CANNOT DUPLICATE CONDITION. THIS CONDITION IS INCREASING IN FREQUENCY AND HAS CREATED SOME DANGEROUS DRIVING SITUATIONS DUE TO LACK OF TRACTION WHEN DRIVER THOUGHT 4WD SYSTEM WAS ENGAGED. *CB
Jan 15, 2004
VEHICLE'S DRIVE SHAFT BROKE RESULTING IN LOST OF CONTROL. *MR *SC *JB
Dec 22, 2003
+ 49 more complaints for this component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
49 complaints
I STARTED THE TRUCK, ALL GAUGES READ OK, BACKED IT OUT ONTO THE ROAD AND PROCEEDED T DRIVE TO MY DESTINATION. I SHIFTED INTO 3RD AND IT FELT SLUGGISH, (LIKE BRAKE DRAG) I LOOKED DOWN AT THE INSTRUMENT PANEL FOR INFORMATION, AND FOUND NO RESPONSE FROM THE OIL PRESSURE GAUGE. I PROCEEDED TO PUSH IN THE CLUTCH AND SHUT OFF THE MOTOR, BUT BY THE TIME I PUSHED IN THE CLUTCH THE ENGINE SHUT DOWN AND WOULDN'T PROCEED TO RUN. I CHECKED THE OIL DIP STICK TO FIND THE OIL LEVEL IS ACCEPTABLE, BUT THE MOTOR REFUSES TO TURN OVER. PROBLEM STILL OCCURS TO THIS DAY. *TR
Jul 08, 2010
EVERY 4 MONTHS I HAVE TO CHANGE MY SPARK PLUGS BECAUSE THE CERAMIC PART KEEPS BREAKING. *TR
Mar 20, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SHUTTER RAPIDLY AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. HE DROVE APPROXIMATELY EIGHT MINUTES TO A LOCAL DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE CAM SHAFT SENSOR BECAME LOOSE. THE DEALER TIGHTENED THE CLAPPING SCREW ON THE SHAFT SENSOR AS A TEMPORARY REPAIR. THEY ALSO STATED THAT THE INTAKE MANIFOLD NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT YET BEEN COMPLETELY REPAIRED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS A SERVICE BULLETIN FOR HIS VEHICLE (ITEM NUMBER 10000592). HE FILED A COMPLAINT WITH THE MANUFACTURER. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 60,300. UPDATED 04-09-08 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THERE WAS A LOOSE CAM SHAFT SENSOR
Nov 30, 2007
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A SNAPPING SOUND COMING FROM THE ENGINE AND THEN THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF WITHOUT WARNING. AS OF SEPTEMBER 24, 2007, THE DEALER HAD NOT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE. SHE STATED THAT THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY SNAPPED, WHICH SHE BELIEVED WAS THE CAUSE OF FAILURE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 64,000.
Sep 24, 2007
I PURCHASED A VEHICLE WITH AN EXPRESS 45 DAY GUARANTEE. WITHIN THE 45 DAYS I WAS HAVING MAJOR PROBLEMS WITH MY VEHICLE. IT WAS NOT SHIFTING RIGHT, IT WAS OVERHEATING, LEAKING OIL AND RADIATOR FLUID. SINCE THE PROBLEMS WERE FOUND THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN BROUGHT BACK INTO THE COMPANY FOR REPAIRS OVER AND OVER AGAIN, IT IS NOW FOUR MONTHS LATER AND THE PROBLEM STILL HAS NOT BEEN FIXED. WITH ALL THE BAD REPAIRS AND INSTALLS DONE ON THE VEHICLE IT'S LIFE EXPECTANCY IS NOW SHOT. THE COMPANY DOES NOT HAVE ANY OTHER COMPARABLE VEHICLES TO PUT US IN AND IS REFUSING TO PURCHASE THE VEHICLE BACK FOR THE PRICE I PAID ON IT.
Jun 06, 2007
+ 44 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
40 complaints
REAR BRAKES LOCKUP EVERY TIME IT RAINS. THIS CAUSES SLIDING ON WET PAVEMENTS. AS OF NOW I HAVE NOT BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM. *TR
May 18, 2011
MY 1998 FORD RANGER XLT SO FAR HAD 2 COMPLETE BRAKE FAILURES DUE TO CORRODED BRAKE LINES. THIS IS A SYSTEMIC PROBLEM CAUSED BY THE SPIRAL PROTECTION OF THE BRAKE LINES WHICH KEEPS THE HUMIDITY TRAPPED AND THUS CORRODES THE LINES. WHEN THIS HAPPENS, BRAKE FLUID IS LEAKING OUT WHEN THE PEDAL IS PUSHED DOWN YET NO BRAKE FUNCTION IS EXPERIENCED. AS THIS PROBLEM HAS A CLEAR TECHNICAL REASON IN THE FORM OF THE BRAKE LINES, IT IS SYSTEMIC IN ALL SUCH VEHICLES. THIS HAS BEEN CONFIRMED BY MY CAR MECHANIC SHOP WHICH IS FREQUENTLY REPAIRING FORD VEHICLES WITH THIS PROBLEM. THE PROBLEM HAS NO EARLY WARNING INDICATION AND IS NOT DETECTED BY THE YEARLY INSPECTION. *TR
Mar 16, 2010
EVERYTIME I PRESS MY BRAKE PEDAL, THERE IS A GRINDING/PULSATING AND THE VEHICLE SLOWLY "SKIDS" TO A STOP, USUALLY ONLY 10-15 FEET AFTER I INTENDED ON STOPPING. LESS THAN ONE (1) YEAR AGO, THE BRAKES WENT OUT ON MY 1998 FORD RANGER. THE MECHANIC TOLD ME THAT THE ABS ON THE VEHICLE IS WHERE THE PROBLEM WAS OCCURRING, YET HE DIDN'T KNOW HOW TO FIX IT. HE SAID THE UNNECESSARY PRESSURE BEING APPLIED BY THE ABS SYSTEM CAUSED MY MASTER CYLINDER'S SEALS TO CRACK. I PAID OVER $400 FOR ALL BRAKE REPAIRS. TEN (10) MONTHS LATER, I'M DRIVING ON A FREEWAY AT 60 M.P.H. AND MY EXIT IS APPROACHING. WHEN ATTEMPTING TO STOP, I WAS AGAIN LEFT WITH NO BRAKES. I NARROWLY AVOIDED A MAJOR ACCIDENT. THANKFULLY I HAD THE SENSE OF MIND TO PUSH MY EMERGENCY BRAKE (WHICH IS AWKWARDLY LOCATED ON A PICK-UP TRUCK) AND AVOID A NUMEROUS CAR PILE-UP ON A BUSY LOS ANGELES FREEWAY. I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A NEW MECHANIC AS WELL AS A PEP BOYS AUTO CENTER, AND WAS TOLD THAT THE MASTER CYLINDER'S SEALS WERE AGAIN CRACKED, AND CHARGED OVER $400 FOR THE SAME REPAIRS AS BEFORE. I'VE SEARCHED NUMEROUS ONLINE FORUMS, AND SPOKEN TO NUMEROUS MECHANICS AND FORD RANGER OWNERS AND EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM IS VERY FAMILIAR WITH THE PROBLEM AND HAS FACED NEAR-DEATH SITUATIONS DUE TO THIS MANUFACTURING ERROR. I WOULD REALLY APPRECIATE A RECALL AS IT'S THE ONLY ONE TO ASSURE THE PROBLEM IS FIXED AND THE SAFETY OF OTHERS ON THE ROAD (AS THE BRAKES WILL NO LONGER WORK WITHOUT ANY WARNING). *TR
Mar 25, 2009
BRAKE PEDAL FELL OFF WHILE PULLING OUT OF THE PARKING LOT. THERE WERE NO INJURIES TO REPORT.CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE. BY APPLYING THE EMERGENCY BRAKE.*AK
Sep 10, 2003
BRAKE ROTORS ARE WEARING OUT PREMATURELY AND NEED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
Jun 06, 2003
+ 35 more complaints for this component
SUSPENSION
33 complaints
THE REAR FRAME OF THE TRUCK FELL APART RUSTED AWAY
Aug 03, 2015
THE BACK SECTION OF THE FRAME IS RUSTED OFF THE SPRING HANGERS ARE RUSTED OFF THE FUEL TANK CROSS MEMBER IS RUSTED OFF AND THE TIRE HANGER IS RUSTED OFF THE SHOCK MOUNTS ARE ABOUT RUSTED OFF AND THE SPRINGS ARE BENT BECAUSE THE BRACKETS RUSTED OFF
May 26, 2015
TOOK IN FOR INSPECTION. IT FAILED BECAUSE OF RUSTED FRAME, SHACKLES, SHOCKS, BRAKE LINES AND REAR BRAKE DRUMS. IT COST ME $3,127.34 TO REPLACE ALL THE PARTS. BEFORE THIS, THE SPARE TIRE FELL OFF. TOYOTA REPLACED THE FRAME OF MY NEIGHBORS PICKUP AT NO COST TO HIM. I ALSO HAVE A FRIEND WHO HAD A YEAR 2000 MAZDA PICKUP THAT HAD A RUSTED FRAME AND WOULDN'T PASS INSPECTION. I'M SURE THIS ISN'T THE FIRST COMPLAINT ON THIS SUBJECT. I BOUGHT FORDS FOR YEARS AND MY FATHER WORKED FOR A FORD DEALER SHIP FOR 40 YEARS. SINCE THIS TRUCK, I WILL NOT BUY ANOTHER FORD. THANKS FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION. *JS
Apr 30, 2014
REAR LEAF SPRING MOUNTS ROTTED AND BROKEN , REAR BUMPER MOUNTS ROTTED AND VERY CLOSE TO FAILURE , SPARE TIRE MOUNT SEVERLEY ROTTED. *TR
Jun 30, 2012
AT 40,000 MILES AND NOW AT 81000 MILES I NEED THE BALL JOINTS REPLACED, I HAVE NEVER HAD TO REPLACE BALL JOINTS ON ANY CAR UNDER 150,000 MILES MY ENTIRE LIFE, THERE IS A PROBLEM HERE, THIS IS A '98 FORD RANGER. *TR
Feb 27, 2009
+ 28 more complaints for this component
STRUCTURE
30 complaints
I BOUGHT THIS TRUCK NEW, I HAVE HAD TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS BUT NOW MY FRAME IS IN BAD, BAD, BAD RUSTING CONDITION AND MY MECHANIC SAID IT WILL NOT PASS INSPECTION. THIS TRUCK ONLY HAS 82,000 MILES ON IT!!! TOYOTA STOOD BEHIND THEIR FRAMES WHY ISN'T FORD?
Apr 27, 2021
REAR FRAME EXCESSIVE RUSTING. SPARE TIRE CARRIER FELL OFF WHILE DRIVING. ONE SIDE OF BUMPER FELL OFF. NOTICED WHEN I STEPPED ON IT
Oct 16, 2020
EXTREMELY RUSTED CAR FRAME
May 22, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, A KNOCKING TYPE NOISE WAS PRESENT COMING FROM THE BED OF THE VEHICLE WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED INSPECTION DUE TO RUSTING AND CORROSION OF THE SUBFRAME AND CROSS MEMBERS. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURES WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 169,000.
May 17, 2017
THE REAR FRAME OF THE TRUCK HAS ROTTED AWAY. THE REAR SUSPENSION AND BUMPER ARE ABOUT TO FALL OFF. THE BODY ITSELF IS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION. I DIDN'T FIND OUT UNTIL I STEPPED ON THE REAR BUMPER AND IT BEGAN SAGGING DOWN AND THEN REALIZED THAT A LARGE MAJORITY OF THE FRAMES CROSS MEMBERS WERE ALREADY GONE!
Dec 01, 2016
+ 25 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
26 complaints
YOURE SUPPOSED TO TELL ME OF ANY PAST INCIDENTS , ACCIDENTS , FAILURES, & RECALLS. REMEMBER? THAT IS SUPPOSED TO BE THE POINT OF THIS WEBSITE. IS IT NOT?
Jul 08, 2015
ANY ANY??YOU TELL ME REMEMBER?
Jun 21, 2015
DRIVER'S SIDE AIRBAG STOPPED WORKING FOR NO REASON. FLASHING WARNING LIGHT CAME ON INDICATING A PROBLEM. WENT TO FORD DEALER (SUBURBAN IN SANDY, OR) AND THEY SAID THE 'RESISTANCE' LEVEL HAD INCREASED CAUSING THE AIRBAG TO NO LONGER FUNCTION. CALLED FORD, THEY GAVE ME A "SENIOR DISCOUNT", ALTHOUGH NOT A SENIOR. SAID THAT AIRBAGS FALL UNDER 5 YEAR/50000 MILE WARRANTY. THE RANGER HAS 56,000. FORD SAID THAT THEY CANNOT GUARANTEE THE FUNCTION OF AN AIRBAG FOR MORE THAN 5 YEARS OR 50,000 MILES. THEY WERE NOT ABLE TO ASCERTAIN IF THE AIRBAG STOPPED FUNCTIONING ALL AT ONCE OR IF MY SAFETY WAS IN JEOPARDY OVER AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME AS THE AIRBAG SLOWLY STOPPED WORKING. AIRBAGS ARE A MANDATORY SAFETY DEVICE AND SHOULD BE COVERED FROM DEFECT FOR THE LIFE OF THE VEHICLE. I AM EXTREMELY DISSATISFIED WITH FORD'S ATTITUDE ABOUT MY SAFETY. I HAVE THE AIRBAG MODULE AND CAN PROVIDE IT TO NHTSA TO STUDY AND DETERMINE IF THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE. BECAUSE OF THE MECHANICS OF AN AIRBAG, I WOULD ASK FOR SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO SEND IT TO YOU. *JB
Jan 09, 2007
THE CONSUMERS VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AND RESULTED IN A FRONTAL COLLISION THROUGH THE GARAGE. NEITHER THE DRIVER OR PASSENGER AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. *NLM
May 15, 2003
THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONTAL COLLISION, AND NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE CONSUMER SUFFERED MINOR INJURIES. *JB
Apr 01, 2003
+ 21 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
24 complaints
TRUCK WAS PARKED AT THE VETERINARIAN AND I HAD GONE INSIDE WITH MY TWO DOGS. AFTER ABOUT 15 OR 20 MINUTES SOMEONE OUTSIDE WAS BLOWING THERE CAR HORN. THE RECEPTIONIST LOOKED OUT AND THEN TOLD ME MY TRUCK WAS ON FIRE. I RAN OUTSIDE AND SMOKE AND FLAMES WERE COMING OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD. WE USED FIRE EXTINGUISHERS BUT THAT DID VERY LITTLE. THE FIRE TRUCK GOT THERE AND GOT THE FIRE PUT OUT. THEY CUT THE HOOD OPEN TO MAKE SURE THE FIRE WAS OUT.
Apr 06, 2011
THE 1998 FORD RANGER WAS PART OF AN AUGUST 2007 RECALL BECAUSE OF A CRUISE CONTROL WIRING HARNESS ISSUE. WE HAVE BEEN TOLD SINCE THEN, THAT NO PARTS WERE AVAILABLE, DON'T PARK VEHICLE NEAR A STRUCTURE, BRING THE VEHICLE IN TO HAVE CRUISE CONTROL DISCONNECTED, AND PARTS SHOULD BE AVAILABLE IN JANUARY. WELL, IT'S NEARLY GROUND HOG'S DAY, AND GUESS WHAT? NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE TO SUPPLY PARTS. FORD NO DOUBT IS STILL BUILDING NEW VEHICLES AND PUTTING WIRING HARNESSES IN THEM, BUT THEY DON'T TAKE THE RECALL SERIOUSLY. NO WONDER THEY'RE NOT A VIABLE AUTOMOBILE ENTITY ANY MORE. BRING ON THE EUROPEANS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! *TR
Jan 31, 2008
I WAS DRIVING FROM THE STORE ON 10/27/05 ,WHEN I STOP TO A RED LIGHT AND I SAW SMOKE COME FROM THE SIDE AND FRONT OF THE CAR. THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN AND I PROCEEDED TO GO HOME ,WHEN I GOT HOME I RAN UP THE STAIRS TO WHERE I LIVE AND EXPLAIN TO MY BOYFRIEND SMOKE IS COMING FROM THE CAR HE WENT DOWN STAIRS TO CHECK AND THERE WAS A FIRE UNDER MY HOOD MY BOYFRIEND PUT THE FIRE OUT AND THEN WE TALKED ABOUT THE FIRE AND WE ALSO DROVE TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP WHICH WE GOT NO ANSWERS. NOW ON 10/28/05 WE HAD A WRECKER TO TOW THE CAR TO A FORD DEALERSHIP SO THEY WOULD SEE THE DAMAGE THEY LOOKED ON THE COMPUTER AND WE WERE INFORMED THERE'S NO RECALL ON THE FORD WINDSTAR GL, BUT THEY WOULD FIX IT BUT NOT UNDER WARRANTY, I ASK THE MANAGER WHAT DID HE SUGGEST HE SAID, CALL MY INSURANCE AND SEE WHAT THEY SAY. BUT INSTEAD OF DOING THAT I TOWED THE CAR TO A ELECTRITION AND HIS DESCRIPTION WAS THE PIGTALE WAS BURNT AND ALSO THE BRAKE PRESSURE SWITCH WAS BURNT UP AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED I DON'T KNOW MUCH ABOUT CARS, BUT I KNOW THERE SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN A FIRE.*JB
Nov 02, 2005
ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS GALORE--I'LL NEVER BUY ANOTHER FORD, PERIOD--LET ALONE A WINDSTAR. TAILGATE LOCK NEVER OPENED WITH KEY. DRIVER SIDE DOOR STOPPED OPENING WITH KEY 6 MONTHS LATER. PASSENGER SIDE DOOR STOPPED OPENING WITH KEY 3 WEEKS AFTER THAT. DOWN TO SLIDER ONLY THAT OPERATES WITH KEY AND IT TURNS VERY HARD. INTERIOR LIGHTS CAME ON....AND STAYED ON. REMOVED FUSE AND WINDOWS SHARING FUSE ALSO WOULDN'T GO UP--WAS WORTH IT TIL I HAD TIME TO GO AROUND AND REMOVE EVERY SINGLE INTERIOR BULB IN THE VEHICLE. REPLACED FUSE JUST TO HAVE WINDOWS OPERATE. DOOR AJAR SENSOR GOES OFF WHEN ALL DOORS ARE CLOSED SECURELY AND ACCOMPANYING WARNING BELL CONTINUES TO GO OFF WHILE I'M DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD. THEN IT DROPS TO GOING OFF WHEN I SLOW TO A CERTAIN SPEED AND THEN SHUT OFF AGAIN WHEN I SPEED UP. ABSOLUTELY THE WORST VEHICLE I'VE EVER OWNED IN MY LIFE. POS -- DOES NOT MEAN POINT OF SALE. HINT: FIRST WORD MEANS "PIECE" AND SECOND WORD MEANS "OF." YOU GET THE IDEA. *NM
Jan 15, 2005
DOOR AJAR SWITCH MALFUNCTIONS; CAUSES DOME LIGHT TO STAY ILLUMINATED; HAD TO REPLACE SWITCH INSIDE DOOR ASSEMBLY. *NM
Dec 29, 2004
+ 19 more complaints for this component
INTERIOR LIGHTING
13 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING HIS 1998 FORD RANGER THE INTERIOR DOOM LIGHT CAME ON AND OFF FREQUENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, BUT THE PROBLEM RECURRED. *AK
Jan 24, 2007
DOOR WAS AJAR AND LIGHT CAME ON INTERMITTENTLY. IT WAS REPAIRED ONCE, BUT HAS RECURRED. *AK
Jan 21, 2004
WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT, THE DRIVER WAS UNABLE TO SEE THE ASHTRAY BECAUSE VEHICLE DID NOT HAVE A LIGHT NEAR THE ASHTRAY. OWNER HAS CONTACTED THE DEALERSHIP.*AK THE DEALERSHIP HAD NO OPTION TO ADD A LIGHT TO THE ASHTRAY. THE CONSUMER PURCHASED LED LIGHTS AND INSTALLED THEM HIMSELF. CONSUMER FEELS ANY VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH AN ASHTRAY SHOULD HAVE LIGHTING TO MAKE IT VISIBLE. *PH *JB
Nov 05, 2003
INTERIOR DOME LIGHT FAILS TO TURN OFF WHEN DOOR SHUT/"DOOR AJAR" LIGHT STAYS ON WHILE DOOR IS SHUT. *AK
Jul 08, 2001
DOME LIGHT STAYS WHILE CONSUMER IS DRIVING. THEN, IT MAY GO OFF AFTER AN HOUR. DEALER CAN'T FIND CAUSE. *AK
Mar 06, 2001
+ 8 more complaints for this component
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
12 complaints
GAS TANK STRAPS RUSTED THROUGH AND GAS TANK FELL OUT. I FIXED IT BY INSTALLING MY OWN STRAPS BOUGHT AT A HARDWARE STORE. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS PROBLEM. *TT
Aug 05, 2011
HAZARD OF FIRE OR EXPLOSION FROM INFERIOR PARTS. HOSES AND PIPES FROM FILLER NECK TO GAS TANK ARE BEING REPLACED BY BENEFICIAL AUTOMOTIVE MAINTENANCE IN MOORE OKLAHOMA. TANK HAS TO BE FLUSHED AND FILTER REPLACED AGAIN DUE TO GAS FUMES AND LEAKING FUEL FROM THE DECOMPOSING FILLER NECK HOSES. I JUST HAD TO HAVE THIS DONE FOR THE SAME REASON ON MY '98 FORD E250. FORD DEALER PARTS SALESPERSON SAYS THIS IS A CHRONIC PROBLEM(EVEN HE STATED HE ANTICIPATES THIS WITH HIS FORD TRUCK) AND THE REPLACEMENT PARTS HAVE BEEN RE-ENGINEERED TO CORRECT THE RUBBER DECOMPOSITION WHICH ALSO CLOGGED THE FILTERS AND FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM CAUSING CHRONIC STALLING AND ROUGH RUNNING ON BOTH VEHICLES. HAD TO HAVE FILTERS REPLACED AND INJECTION SYSTEM SYSTEM CLEANED NUMEROUS TIMES. FORD HAS REFUSED TO EVEN SUPPLY THE REPLACEMENT PARTS OR ACKNOWLEDGE THIS PROBLEM. LEAKING GAS AND FUMES COULD LEAD TO INJURY OR DEATH IF THIS IS NOT HANDLED. THE RECENT REPAIR TO THE E250 WAS IN EXCESS OF $200 (PARTS WERE $100+ FROM DEALER. THE REENGINEERED PARTS FOR THE FORD RANGER ARE $250+ AND LABOR WILL MORE THAN DOUBLE THAT AS THEY HAVE TO REMOVE THE TRUCK BED AND TANK TO REPLACE THE PARTS AND FLUSH THE TANK. ADDITIONALLY MY DRIVEWAY IS DAMAGED FROM THE LEAKING FUEL. REFERRED TO YOU BY CONSUMER REPORTS MAGAZINE. LOOKING FORWARD TO YOUR RESPONSE. SINCERELY, VINCE DENNIS. *NM
Dec 28, 2006
PURCHASED TRUCK USED IN MAY 1999 WITH 15,000 MILES ON IT. PROBLEM STARTED AFTER HAVING 25,000 ODOMETER MILES ON TRUCK. VEHICLE WOULD ACCELERATE UPON STOPPING OR SLOWING. HAD IDLE ADJUSTED NEXT SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE (30K). AS OF THIS DATE, AUGUST 19, 2005, VEHICLE STILL ACCELERATES ON VERY RARE OCCASIONS. AFTER A FEW MONTHS FROM THE 45K MAINTENANCE CHECK THE VEHICLE THEN STARTED TO STALL AT RANDOM WHEN STOPPING OR SLOWING. AT REGULAR MAINTENANCE CHECKS I WOULD TELL TECH ABOUT STALLING PROBLEMS. MOST OFTEN TECH COULD NOT DUPLICATE PROBLEM ON ROAD TEST. VEHICLE WOULD BE SERVICED, STALLING PROBLEM WOULD STOP FOR A VERY SHORT TIME, AND THEN PROBLEM WOULD COME BACK. JULY 12, 2005- I WENT ON ROAD WITH TECH ON ROAD TEST AND FOUND TECH WAS DOWN-SHIFTING AT STOPS. TOLD HIM NOT TO AND THEN VEHICLE DID STALL WHEN COMING TO STOP. DEALER: INSPECTED AND VERIFIED COMPLAINT, CHECKED AND FOUND IDLE AIR CONTROL FAULTY, REMOVED AND REPLACED IAC MOTOR AND CONCERN. TECH NOTES: STILL ACTING UP. FOUND IDLE SPEED ADJUSTED TOO HIGH. READJUSTED IDLE SCREW, ROAD TESTED AND RECHECKED OK. PROBLEM WAS SOLVED FOR A BRIEF THREE WEEKS AND RESURFACED. AS OF AUGUST 19, 2005- THE STALLING PROBLEM STILLS EXISTS. IS A VERY REAL SAFETY ISSUE, AS I HAVE HAD SEVERAL CLOSE ACCIDENT CALLS. EXAMPLES: 1) TURNING OFF A VERY BUSY STREET (45MPH) INTO PARKING LOT, HAVING VEHICLE STALL AND LOSING ALL POWER STEERING INTO TURN, HAVING TO AVOID HITTING TREES, BUILDINGS, PEOPLE, AND OTHERS CARS IN PROCESS. 2) COMING TO A RED STOPLIGHT, MY VEHICLE STALLS, STOPLIGHTS CHANGING TO GREEN AS APPROACHING, CARS BEHIND ME HAVING TO AVOID HITTING MY TRUCK AS I RESTART. 3) VEHICLE STALLING AT YIELD SIGN. NO CROSS TRAFFIC AND CARS BEHIND ME EXPECTING ME TO PASS THROUGH.
Aug 19, 2005
ACCUMULATOR FAILED PREMATURELY BECAUSE OF A MANUFACTURING FLAW. THE ACCUMULATOR WAS FABRICATED WITH AN INSULATION ATTACHED TO IT WHICH IN TURN TRAPPED MOISTURE BETWEEN THE ACCUMULATOR AND THE INSULATION CAUSING THE ACCUMULATOR TO CORRODE PREMATURELY AND CAUSING THE SYSTEM TO LEAK AND BECOME DISABLED.*AK
May 14, 2002
THE HOLDING CAP THAT KEEPS THE GAS IN THE GAS TANK HAD BEEN BORKEN FOR A LONG TIME. I USED TO SMELL GAS FOR A LONG TIME ALMOST FROM THE DAY I BOUGHT THE CAR. ONE DAY WHEN I PUSHED ON THE BRAKE LOTS OF GAS RUSHED OUT OF MY CAR AND A FRIEND NEAR BY NOTICED THIS. TALKING TO MY TENNANT, SHE TOLD ME THAT SHE HAD THE SAME PROBLEM WITH HER FORS TAURAS. *AK
May 13, 2002
+ 7 more complaints for this component
STEERING
12 complaints
THE DAY AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE, (1998 FORD RANGER) THE CONSUMER HAD TO GET THE RACK AND PINION STEERING CHANGED. (SEE ODI NUMBER 10052130 FOR CONSUMER COMPLAINT REGARDING 2002 FORD ESCAPE).*MR *CB *JB
Dec 10, 2003
VEHICLE WAS MAKING A LEFT HAND TURN WHEN THE STEERING COLUMN CAME APART. DRIVER THEN SLAMMED ON THE BRAKES UNTIL VEHICLE CAME TO A STOP. *AK
Nov 14, 2003
WHILE BACKING OUT SLOWLY, STEERING WHEEL DISCONNECTED FROM STEERING MECHANISM, RESULTING IN LOSS OF STEERING, DEALER SAID THAT INTERMEDIATE SHAFT BOLT WAS STRIPPED, THERE WAS NO ACCIDENT.*AK *JB
Sep 05, 2001
RACK AND PINION HAS FAILED AT ONLY 38,000 MILES AND WITHIN 2 YEARS WITHOUT WARNING. CAUSE UNKNOWN.*AK
Jan 19, 2001
THE WHEELS LOCK AND FREEZE. YH
May 19, 2000
+ 7 more complaints for this component
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
10 complaints
THE FRAME HAS RUSTED SO SEVERELY THAT THE REAR SUSPENSION IS DETACHING FROM FRAME AND FRAME IS ALMOST RUSTED COMPLETELY THROUGH AND WILL SEPARATE SOON. THE SPARE TIRE AND CARRIER HAVE FALLEN OFF WHERE IS WAS ATTACHED TO THE FRAME DUE TO THE EXCESSIVE RUST AND THE BED MOUNTS HAVE RUSTED AWAY AND NO LONGER ATTACH TO THE FRAME LEAVING THE BED WITH NO SOLID MOUNT. SPARE TIRE AND CARRIER FELL OFF ON INTERSTATE WHILE DRIVING.
Jul 25, 2019
VEHICLE BACK BUMPER FELL OFF DUE TO EXCESSIVE RUST (WHILE IN MOTION). BALL JOINTS, TIE RODS, UPPER AND LOWER CONTROL ARM BRACKETS RUSTED OUT AS WELL AS HOLES IN THE FRAME (ALL IDENTIFIED WHILE STATIONARY).
Apr 07, 2018
MY FORD RANGER FRAME IS ALMOST COMPLETELY ROTTED AWAY IN THE BACK AND THE REST OF THE FRAME IS IN GOOD CONDITION. THE REAR SHACKLES AND SHACKLE BRACKETS ARE COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY. THE SPARE TIRE HAS EVEN FALLEN OFF FROM RUST. ALSO THE GAS TANK STRAPS ARE ABOUT TO FALL OFF FROM WERE THEY ARE ATTACHED TO THE FRAME. THIS SHOULD NOT BE HAPPENING TO A TRUCK THAT IS NOT THAT OLD. I HAVE READ THINGS ABOUT OTHER PEOPLES FRAMES THAT ARE RUSTED AWAY. *TR
Oct 25, 2014
I TOOK MY TRUCK TO HAVE A POWER STEERING ISSUE EXAMINED. THE MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE FRAME OF THE TRUCK WAS SEVERELY RUSTED. I EXAMINED THE FRAME AND NOTICED THAT THERE WERE SIZABLE HOLES IN THE FRAME OF THE TRUCK. THE ENTIRE BODY OF THE TRUCK IS IN SOLID CONDITION, HOWEVER THE FRAME ISSUE IS A MAJOR SAFETY CONCERN AND HAZARD. *TR
Sep 11, 2014
MY 1998 FORD RANGER FRAME IS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. THE GAS TANK IS READY TO FALL OFF . THE SHOCK FELL OFF. THE STRAP FOR THE SPARE TIRE IS RUSTED OFF HOW COULD THIS HAPPEN? *TR
Sep 08, 2014
+ 5 more complaints for this component
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
10 complaints
THIS IS A 98 FORD RANGER XLT WITH 73,000 MILES, MY PROBLEM IS THE TURNING SIGNALS FROM MY 98 FORD RANGER, EVERYTIME THAT I TURNED MY TRUCK ON IT MAKES A SQUEAKING SOUND AROUND MY STEERING WHEEL, THEN RIGHT AWAY MY LEFT TURNING SIGNAL LIGHT TURNS ON BY ITSELF, RIGHT AWAY WHEN THE LEFT TURNING SIGNAL LIGHT TURNS ON BY ITSELF THE SQUEAKING SOUND GOES AWAY, SO NOW TO QUIT MY LEFT TURNING SIGNAL LIGHT FROM KEEPING LIGHTING ON BY ITSELF I HAVE TO PUSH DOWN THE EMERGENCY BUTTON ON TOP OF MY STEERING WHEEL WHICH TURN BOTH TURNING SIGNAL LIGHTS ON, THEN RIGHT AWAY I HAVE TO PUSH IT DOWN AGAIN TO TURN THEM OFF, AT THAT TIME THERE IS NO SQUEAKING SOUND, BUT AFTER 5 OR 10 MORE MINUTES THE ANNOYING SOUND COMES BACK ON AND I HAVE TO DO THE WHOLE PROCESS AGAIN TO TURN OFF THE SQUEAKING SOUND, IT JUST STARTED TO HAPPENED 3 MONTHS AGO. *TR
Oct 07, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE HAZARD SWITCH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE GARAGE AND THE TURN SIGNAL SWITCH WAS REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE UNKNOWN.
Aug 13, 2007
CONSUMER COMPLAINED ABOUT A TURN SIGNAL PROBLEM. CONSUMER WAS DRIVING AND NOTICED A PUFF OF SMOKE, AND A CRACKLING SOUND BEHIND THE DASHBOARD. CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, AND DEALER DETERMINED THAT MULTI-FUNCTION MODULE HAD AN ELECTRICAL SHORT. *AK
Apr 14, 2004
STEERING WHEEL MOVEMENT DISABLES LEFT DIRECTIONAL. *AK
Feb 15, 2002
FUSE FOR THE ABS LIGHT FAILED CAUSING THE ABS LIGHT AND EMERGENCY BRAKE LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE EVEN THOUGH THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS NOT ENGAGED. NLM
Oct 29, 1999
+ 5 more complaints for this component
VISIBILITY
10 complaints
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WORKED INTERMITTENTLY. THE DEALER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND FOUND NO FAILURES. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED OF A RECALL FOR THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 45,000.
Jan 07, 2009
HEATER WENT BAD ON VEHICLE. CONSUMER FELT THAT IT WAS THE MANUFACTURER'S FAULT FOR MAKING A BAD HEATER. *LA *JB
Feb 19, 2004
THE OUTSIDE MIRRORS VIBRATE QUITE BADLY; IT LOOKS LIKE YOU ARE LOOKING AT TWO OR MORE VEHICLES AT THE SAME TIME. THE MIRRORS HAVE BEEN REPLACED ONCE ALREADY, BUT WE HAVE NOT NOTICED ANY IMPROVEMENT WITH THE NEW MIRRORS, THEY VIBRATE ALMOST AS BAD AS THE OTHERS AND WILL GET JUST AS BAD SHORTLY!!!!!!!!! ALSO, WE BROUGHT THE '98 RANGER IN FOR THE PROBLEM OF WE HAD A LIST OF 14 THINGS THAT WERE WRONG, (ONE OF WHICH WAS THE MIRRORS). THEY FIXED MOST OF THE THINGS THAT WERE WRONG WITH THE TRUCK, THEY ALSO CHANGED THE MIRRORS, BUT, THERE IS NO IMPROVEMENT IN THE NEW MIRRORS, THEY VIBRATE ALSO!!!!!!!! I WILL TELL THE REST OF THE PROBLEMS THAT WERE WRONG WITH THE TRUCK WHEN I DO TALK TO SOMEONE ON THE PHONE OR HOWEVER IT IS TAKEN CARE OF. *AK
Feb 22, 2001
CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 45MPH ON THE HIGHWAY ANDTAILGATE DOOR JUST OPENED ON ITS ON. THIS INCIDENT HAPPEN SEVERAL TIMES.*AK
Jul 11, 2000
WHEN EXITING VEHICLE AND SHUTTING DOOR HEARD SOMETHING HIT THE GROUND. CONSUMER THOUGHT IT WAS KEYS. NEXT MORNING, DRIVER'S SIDE SUPER CAB WINDOW BUSTED FROM THE INSIDE. CONSUMER DID NOT SLAM DOOR, AND NO ONE BUSTED IT. IT BROKE FROM INSIDE. CONSUMER FELT WINDOW SHOULD NOT HAVE BROKEN THAT EASILY. *AK
Apr 24, 2000
+ 5 more complaints for this component
EQUIPMENT
10 complaints
REPLACE HEATER PLUNTUM BECAUSE HEAT EXCHANGE DOOR BROKEN. IT IS A BAD PART BECAUSE IT WAS REPLACE WITH A NEWER IMPROVED PART.*AK
Aug 09, 2003
THE JACK WHICH COMES AS STANDARD EQUIPMENT WITH THIS VEHICLE, WHEN FULLY EXTENDED TO ITS MAXIMUM HEIGHT, IS INCAPABLE OF ELEVATING THE CHASSIS TO A HEIGHT SUFFICIENT TO INSTALL A SPARE TIRE. I HAD MY FIRST FLAT TIRE LAST NIGHT AND FOUND THIS OUT. THE SPARE I WAS TRYING TO MOUNT WAS THE ORIGINAL SPARE WHICH CAME WITH THE TRUCK, AND IT WAS INFLATED PROPERLY. THE JACK WAS MOUNTED PROPERLY PER THE WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS ATTACHED TO IT, AND AT FULL ELEVATION THE CHASSIS OF THE TRUCK WAS STILL ABOUT 3 INCHES TOO LOW FOR THE WHEEL STUDS TO LINE UP WITH THE WHEEL. THE TRUCK WAS PARKED ON A LEVEL CONCRETE PAVEMENT, AND I HAD A CLERK FROM AN AUTO PARTS STORE ASSISTING ME WITH CHANGING THE TIRE/WHEEL. IF I HAD GOTTEN THIS FLAT ON SOME SPARSELY TRAVELLED RURAL ROAD IN THE DESERT 25 MILES FROM HERE, I COULD HAVE BEEN STRANDED AND DIED OF HEAT EXHAUSTION OR DEHYDRATION. DOESN'T THE MANUFACTURER HAVE AN OBLIGATION TO SUPPLY A JACK WHICH IS MECHANICALLY CAPABLE OF LIFTING THE CHASSIS OF THE VEHICLE TO A SUFFICIENT HEIGHT TO ALLOW FOR THE MOUNTING OF A SPARE TIRE/WHEEL? NLM
Sep 25, 2002
UPON HAVING A FLAT TIRE I DISCOVERED THAT THE JACK WAS NOT THE PROPER SIZE FOR THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE IS A 4WD AND THE JACK WOULD NOT RAISE THE VEHICLE HIGH ENOUGH TO CHANGE THE TIRE. THIS COULD CAUSE SOMEONE TO USE UNSAFE METHODS TO CHANGE THE TIRE.*AK
Dec 26, 2001
THE CABLE THAT SUPPORTS THE SPARE TIRE BROKE AT APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH. THE FROMT OF THE SPARE DROPED DOWN CONTACTING THE ROAD WHICH RESULTED IN THE REAR OF THE TRUCK BEING LIFTED IN THE AIR. LUCKLY THIS HAPPENED ON A SECLUDED SECTION OF THE ROAD AND THERE WAS NO OTHER TRAFFIC. I CAN'T EMAGINE WHAT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED IF THIS HAD OCCURED ON A BUISY EXPRESSWAY DURING RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC. I CALLED THE DEALER SINCE I WAS RETURNING HOME AFTER HAVING ALL FOUR TIRES REPLACED UNDER THE RECALL PROGRAM. THE DEALER INFORMED ME I SHOULD CALL FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE. CUSTOMER SERVICE THANKED ME FOR THE CALL BUT SAID THERE WAS NO PROGRAM THAT WOULD COVER THE COST OF REPLACING THE FAULTY CABLE.*AK
Aug 08, 2001
THE CABLE THAT SUPPORTS THE SPARE TIRE BROKE AT APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH. THE FROMT OF THE SPARE DROPED DOWN CONTACTING THE ROAD WHICH RESULTED IN THE REAR OF THE TRUCK BEING LIFTED IN THE AIR. LUCKLY THIS HAPPENED ON A SECLUDED SECTION OF THE ROAD AND THERE WAS NO OTHER TRAFFIC. I CAN'T EMAGINE WHAT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED IF THIS HAD OCCURED ON A BUISY EXPRESSWAY DURING RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC. I CALLED THE DEALER SINCE I WAS RETURNING HOME AFTER HAVING ALL FOUR TIRES REPLACED UNDER THE RECALL PROGRAM. THE DEALER INFORMED ME I SHOULD CALL FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE. CUSTOMER SERVICE THANKED ME FOR THE CALL BUT SAID THERE WAS NO PROGRAM THAT WOULD COVER THE COST OF REPLACING THE FAULTY CABLE.*AK
Aug 08, 2001
+ 5 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
9 complaints
FRAME IS ROTTED OUT
Sep 17, 2020
MY FRAME ROTTED STRAIGHT THRU UNDER THE CAB ON BOTH LEFT AND RITE FRAME RAILS Y'ALL MADE TOYOTA FIX THIS SO FORD SHOULD DO THE SAME SO MANY RANGERS WITH BAD FRAMES
Feb 10, 2018
FRAME ROT FROM RUST CREWMEMBERS ARE RUSTED THROUGH FUEL TANK STRAPS ARE RUSTED THROUGH BUMPER MOUNTS ARE BAD REAR FRAME IS ROTED OUT
Oct 04, 2017
THE TRUCK IS BURNING FUEL AND IDALING I CHANGED ALL THE COMPONENTS THAT THE MANUAL SAID AND THE ENGINE IS FINE IT HAVE TO BE A RECALL SOME WERE ITS WITH ALL FORD RANGERS EVERYONE IS HAVING THIS PROBLEM.
Apr 19, 2017
1998 XLT 4X4. BODY IN GREAT SHAPE. FRAME HAS RUST SO BAD REAR BUMBER AND SPARE TIRE CARRIER HAVE FALLEN OFF. BROKE BY THE LEAF SHACKLES ALSO. FRAME WAS COATED. UNABLE TO REPAIR. I AM BEYOND UPSET THAT FORD DOES NOT HAVE TO REPLACE THE FRAME, SOMETHING I AM UNABLE TO AFFORD.
Nov 08, 2015
+ 4 more complaints for this component
SEAT BELTS
9 complaints
TL*THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE DRIVER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO TWO OTHER VEHICLES. THE DRIVER WAS EJECTED OUT OF THE REAR WINDOW AND WAS FATALLY INJURED. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY A POLICE OFFICER, WHO DETERMINED THAT THE FAILURE WAS CAUSED BY THE SAFETY BELT BEING SEPARATED. THE CAUSE OF THE SEPARATION WAS CAUSED BY THE SEAT HINGE FAILING, WHICH CUT THE SAFETY BELT. THE CONTACT IS IN THE PROCESS OF NOTIFYING THE MANUFACTURER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 197,500. UPDATED 02/24/09. *LJ UPDATED 02/25/09. *JB
Jan 29, 2009
THE FORD RANGER LOST TRACTION AND SLID ON THE ICE. THE SEAT BELT DID NOT LOCK ON IMPACT AND THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. MY CHILD HIT THE STEERING WHEEL WITH HER HEAD. THIS IS THE SECOND ACCIDENT IN OUR 1998 FORD RANGER THAT THE SEAT BELT DID NOT LOCK. *JB
Jan 24, 2007
PASSENGERS SEATBELTS GO INSIDE OF RETRACTOR, BUT SEATBELTS DOESN'T ATTACH OR SECURE PROPERLY.*AK
Aug 21, 2001
PASSENGER'S SIDE RESTRAINT WILL NOT RETRACT OUT. PASSENGER IS UNRESTRAINED.*AK
May 01, 2001
SEAT BELT DOES NOT RESTRAIN. DEALER SAYS IT IS NOT DESIGNED TO RESTRAIN SO OCCUPANTS CAN REACH FOR COFFEE, ETC.
Apr 12, 2001
+ 4 more complaints for this component
WHEELS
7 complaints
THE SPINDLE ON THE RIGHT FRONT WHEEL OF THE VEHICLE SPLIT IN HALF CAUSING THE WHEEL TO SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE. MY SON LOST CONTROL AND DAMAGED THE RIGHT FRONT BUMPER AND FENDER. BUT FOR THE GRACE OF GOD HE COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED OR SERIOUSLY INJURED. HE HAD JUST LEFT THE FREEWAY. *JB
Mar 27, 2007
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE ORIGINAL LEFT REAR WHEEL IS CRACKED AND RUSTING ALONG THE INNER PORTION BY THE VALVE STEM OF THE RIM. THE VEHICLE WAS SEEN BY AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP. THE REPAIR SHOP PERSONNEL DETERMINED THE RIM FRACTURED DUE TO RUSTING OF THE STEEL MATERIAL OF THE WHEEL. THIS PROBLEM ONLY EXISTED ON THE LEFT REAR WHEEL RIM. ALTHOUGH THE VEHICLE WAS NOT EXPOSED TO HARSH WEATHER OR OTHER ELEMENTS, THE RUSTING RIM ALLOWS AIR TO ESCAPE FROM THE ATTACHED TIRE. *NM
Jan 19, 2006
WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH FRONT LEFT WHEEL BEARING SUPERHEATED AND IGNITED LUBRICATION OF GREASE WHICH CAUSED A FIRE. AND WHEEL OFF WHICH ALMOST CAUSED A SERIOUS CRASH. FORD WAS NOT WILLING TO ASSIST CONSUMER, EVEN UNDER WARRANTY. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
Jan 05, 2001
RIM RUPTURED AND DEFLATED, CONSUMER FELT IF HE WAS GOING ANY FASTER MAY HAVE LOST CONTROL OF VEHICLE. TIRE WAS DAMAGED DUE TO THE BEAD COMING THROUGH THE CRACK IN THE RIM, CONSUMER IS CONCERNED ABOUT THE OTHER 3 RIMS ON VEHICLE. *AK *SLC
Jan 03, 2001
THE TIRES NEED TO BE TRUDE AND BALANCED ALMOST EVERY MONTH, I HAVE TAKEN IT BACK TO FORD 4 OR 5 TIMES AND THEY WILL DO NOTHING ABOUT IT ITS EITHER THE TIRE OR RIMS AND NO ONE WILL HELP ME WITH THIS PROBLEM IN THE PAST YEAR I'VE SPENT OVER 1,000.00 AND MORE JUST TO GET IT RIGHT AND IT IS STILL NOT RIGHT. FORD IS BLAMEING FIRESTONE AND FIRESTONE IS BLAMEING FORD I NEED HELP PLEASE.( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: 235/70/14 )
Sep 08, 2000
+ 2 more complaints for this component
SEATS
6 complaints
DRIVER SEAT SUPPORT IS DEFECTIVE. AT LEAST TWO WIRE SUPPORTS (DIAMETER OF A CLOTHES HANGER) IN THE DRIVER CHAIR (BACK REST) HAVE SNAPPED AND ARE PIERCING THROUGH THE BACK OF THE CHAIR. POSSIBLE DEFECTIVE METAL. IF MORE WIRES SUPPORTS BREAK THIS MAY CAUSE THE DRIVER TO FALL THROUGHT THE SEAT CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. I WEIGH 155 POUNDS AND THE FIRST BREAK MAY HAVE HAPPENED APPROXIMATELY 2 YEARS AGO WITH A POPPING NOISE (WHICH UNKNOWINGLY WAS INSIDE THE CHAIR). ONE SUPPORT WIRE HAS COMPLETELY BROKE AND FELL OUT OF THE BACK OF THE CHAIR, THE OTHER IS PIECING THE BACK OF THE CHAIR. FORD WAS CONTACTED TODAY AND THEIR RESPONSE WAS NO FURTHER ACTION OR REPLACEMENT OF THE PART. *AK
Apr 18, 2002
NO SUMMARY INCLUDED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
Nov 20, 1999
FRONT SEAT IS DISTORTED AND SINKING/COLLAPSED, REPAIRED SEVERAL TIMES AND CONTINUES TO COLLAPSE. MJS THE CONSUMER WAS WRITING A COMPLEMENT TO THE DEALERSHIP. *YH
May 21, 1999
FRONT SEAT IS DISTORTED AND SINKING/COLLAPSED, REPAIRED SEVERAL TIMES AND CONTINUES TO COLLAPSE. MJS
May 21, 1999
PASSENGER SEAT RECLINER BAR BROKE OFF. *YC
Feb 01, 1999
+ 1 more complaint for this component
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
5 complaints
THE REAR OF THE FRAME RUSTED CAUSING THE BUMPER TO HANG OFF. IT WILL FALL OFF IF NOT ADDRESSED
Mar 25, 2021
"FRAME RECALL ? " WHILE DRIVING FRAME BROKE IN HALF, BOTH SIDES. SINCE OWNING I HAVE REPLACED LEAF SPRING AND SHOCK BRACKET,AND ALSO REMOVED SPARE TIRE BRACKET BEFORE IT FELL OFF IN ROADWAY. THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED BEFORE SOMEONE GETS KILLED!!!
Oct 29, 2017
DRIVING ON HI WAY, EVAP CANISTER ROTTED OFF, AND ALSO LOST MY SPARE TIRE, I HAVE PATCHED FRAME 13 TIMES NOW WAITING FOR A RECALL TO COME OUT AND YET STILL HAVNT HEARD OF ONE. TRUCK NEEDS TO BE FIXED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. . HOPING ANYWAY POSSIBLE THAT THEY WILL THROW A RECALL OUT THERE FOR US RANGER OWNERS. THANKYOU.
May 13, 2015
REAR FRAME HAS ROTTED OUT BY THE RIGHT REAR SPRING HANGER CAUSING SPRING TO GO TRU BED AND THE REAR AXLE TO BE DETACHED THE TRUCK AT THIS TIME IN IN OPERABLE DUE TO THIS WILL BE TRYING TO WELD AND REPLACE IT AS BEST AS CAN BE BUT THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON COMPLAINT IM READING ABOUT ONLINE SURE WISH FORD WOULD STEP UP LIKE TOYOTA DID
Jan 27, 2013
SEVERELY RUSTED OUT REAR FRAME RAILS THAT WOULD NOT PASS PA. INSPECTION CODES. IN THE PAST 3 YEARS I HAVE REPLACED ALL THE REAR SPRING HANGERS AND MOUNTS. I UNDERSTAND THAT THIS IS A MAJOR PROBLEM WITH THE FORD RANGER LINE AND IS WHY IM SENDING THIS LETTER AND FORM.
Oct 20, 2012
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
5 complaints
1998 FORD RANGER HAS SECURITY ISSUE WHICH ALLOWS ANY INDIVIDUAL TO UNLOCK THE DOOR AND NO ONE WOULD EVEN KNOW IT UNTIL YOU FIND YOUR STUFF MISSING. ALL IT TAKES IS A SCREW DRIVE UNDER THE DOOR HANDLE TO UNLOCK THE DOOR AND GAIN ENTRY. THIS IS COMMON TO MOST ALL RANGERS AND IT IS HARD TO REPORT ANY LOSS WITHOUT PROOF THAT THERE WAS ILLEGAL ENTRY BECAUSE THERE IS NO DAMAGE TO THE DOOR OR THE DOOR HANDLE. THIS MUST NOT BE TAKEN LIGHTLY AND FORD NEEDS TO COME UP WITH SOMETHING TO PREVENT THIS. *TR
Jun 13, 2011
1998 FORD RANGER HAS SECURITY ISSUE WHICH ALLOWS ANY INDIVIDUAL TO USE A TO UNLOCK THE DOOR AND NO ONE WOULD EVEN KNOW IT UNTIL YOU FIND YOUR STUFF MISSING. ALL IT TAKES IS A SCREW DRIVE UNDER THE DOOR HANDLE TO UNLOCK THE DOOR AND GAIN ENTRY. THIS IS COMMON TO MOST ALL RANGERS AND IT IS HARD TO REPORT ANY LOSS WITHOUT PROOF THAT THERE WAS ILLEGAL ENTRY BECAUSE THERE IS NO DAMAGE TO THE DOOR OR THE DOOR HANDLE. THIS MUST NOT BE TAKEN LIGHTLY AND FORD NEEDS TO COME UP WITH SOMETHING TO PREVENT THIS. *TR
Jun 13, 2011
1998 FORD RANGER HAD THE DOOR AJAR SWITCH REPLACED 3 OR 4 TIMES IN AS MANY YEARS. THE DOOR AJAR IS LINKED TO THE DOME LIGHT. IF THE DOOR AJAR SWITCHES BECOME CORRUPTED OR MALFUNCTION, THE DOME LIGHT GOES ON AND STAYS ON. THE POSES A SAFETY HAZARD IF IT HAPPENS AT NIGHT BECAUSE THERE IS NO WAY TO TURN THE DOME LIGHT OFF WHILE DRIVING EVEN THOUGH THE DOORS ARE FIRMLY CLOSED AND LOCKED. THE GLARE FROM THE DOME LIGHTS MAKE DRIVING NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE, AND COULD CAUSE A SERIOUS ACCIDENT IF IT OCCURS WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT WITH NO REPAIR FACILITY CLOSE BY.*JB
Nov 04, 2005
DOOR AJAR LIGHT REMAINS ON AND THE VEHICLE THINKS THE DOOR IS OPEN EVEN THOUGH IT IS LATCHED SECURELY.*AK
May 03, 2004
MY DOOR AJAR LIGHT AND DOME LIGHT STAY ON AFTER YOU GET IN AND OUT OF THE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR. FROM POSTINGS, THIS IS A VERY COMMON FORD PROBLEM THAT THEY IGNORE. DRIVING FORWARD (REVERSE WON'T DO IT) WILL RESET THE LIGHT MOST OF THE TIME AND MAKE THEM GO OUT. SOMETIMES YOU HAVE TO PULL THE FUSE. WD-40 SEEMS TO BE A SHORT TERM FIX BUT THE REAL PROBLEM IS THE DOOR SWITCH JAMS. *AK
Feb 20, 2004
PARKING BRAKE
4 complaints
WHILE APPLYING THE PARKING BRAKE THE LEVEL WILL GO DOWN . BUT THE BRAKE LEVEL WILL NOT COME UP AT ALL. *AK
Jul 08, 2003
EMERGENCY BRAKE CABLES ARE DESIGNED INCORRECTLY-RUB ON EACH OTHER AND LEAF SPRING CUTTING THROUGH JACKETS. CANNOT USE BRAKE WITHOUT IT LOCKING REAR BRAKES. NOTED A LOT OF RANGERS HAVE SAME PROBLEM. PEOPLE CANNOT USE PARKING BRAKE MAKING THE POSSIBILITY OF A RUN AWAY VEHICLE. REPLACING THE SYSTEM AS DESIGNED IS NOT AN OPTION AS IT IS DESIGNED TO FAIL AGAIN. RESULT IS TRUCKS OUT THERE WITHOUT USEFUL PARKING BRAKES. FORD IS IGNORING THE PROBLEM. WE HAVE EXTENDED WARRANTY AND FORD WILL NOT COVER SAYING IT IS RUST WHEN IN REALITY IT CAUSED BY THE FAULTY DESIGN. *AK
Sep 18, 2001
THERE IS A MANUFACTURER'D DESIGN DEFECT IN EMERGENCY BRAKE SYSTEM. CONSUMER NEEDS TO EXPLAIN FURTHER. *AK
Feb 27, 2001
AFTER A SNOW OR A RAIN PARKING BRAKE WILL FREEZE. FORD SERVICE MESSAGE SAID THAT IT WAS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THESE TRUCKS. DEALER TOLD CONSUMER THAT PARKING BRAKE COULD NOT BE USED WHEN SNOWING OR RAINING. CONSUMER FEELS THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD. *AK *ML
Feb 17, 2000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
3 complaints
MY FUSE #27 FOR BACKUP LIGHTS AND THE O/D KEEPS BLOWING OUT AND NOW THE O/D LIGHT FLASHES SOMETIMES I PULLED THE COVER OFF OF THE STEERING COLUMN BUT THE O/D CORD WASN'T PINCHED OR DAMAGED ALSO NO APPEARANCE OF ANY WIRE TOUCHING ANYTHING
Aug 25, 2018
MY 1998 FORD RANGER CAUGHT FIRE ON JULY 31, 2006. THE TRUCK HAD BEEN PARKED IN FRONT OF OUR HOUSE AND THE ENGINE HAD BEEN TURNED OFF. MINUTES LATER, THE VEHICLE UNEXPECTEDLY CAUGHT FIRE UNDER THE HOOD AND A WATCHFUL NEIGHBOR CALLED THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. NOW, THE VEHICLE'S ENGINE IS COMPLETELY CHARRED, PROPERTY ON THE HOUSE IS DAMAGED, AND THE VEHICLE IS A TOTAL LOSS. I HAVE CONTACTED MY INSURANCE COMPANY AND I WILL HAVE A FIRE INSPECTOR DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE. FURTHER INVESTIGATION ON THE INTERNET HAS LED ME TO BELIEVE THE FIRE MAY HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY A FAULTY SPEED CONTROL SWITCH PRESENT ON MANY FORD VEHICLES. THE NHTSA IS CURRENTLY CONDUCTING AN INVESTIGATION ON THIS MATTER, AS IT HAS ALREADY RECEIVED OVER 550 COMPLAINTS FROM SIMILAR INCIDENTS. PLEASE MAKE A REPORT OF THIS COMPLAINT AND CONTACT ME FOR FURTHER INFORMATION. THANK YOU. *NM
Aug 01, 2006
VEHICLE CONTINUALLY EXPERIENCING SUDDEN ACCELERATION, REPAIRED THROTTLE VALVE ASSEMBLY, REPROGRAMMED COMPUTER AND REPLACED IDLE AIR CONTROL VALVE. MJS
May 21, 1999
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
3 complaints
TURN SIGNALS FAILURE AT TIMES, DOES NOT HAPPEN ALL THE TIME. *TR
Jan 14, 2013
UPON ACTIVATING TURN SIGNAL ON A DARK MORNING, THE HEADLIGHTS COMPLETELY FAILED. ACTIVATING THE DIM/BRIGHT LEVER PROVIDED INTERMITTENT ACTIVATION. UPON RELEASE OF THE DIM/BRIGHT FUNCTION THE HEADLIGHTS WOULD NOT REMAIN ON IN EITHER DIM OR BRIGHT MODE. OTHER USERS OF VEHICLE REPORT COMPLETE HEADLIGHT FAILURE. THEY TOO HAVE BEEN ABLE TO RESTORE HEADLIGHT FUNCTION INTERMITTENTLY AFTER SEVERAL FRANTIC SECONDS OPERATING THE LIGHT SWITCH OR THE DIMMING LEVER WHILE TRAVELING IN THE DARK. *TR
Feb 06, 2012
WHILE DRIVING WITH HEADLIGHTS ON AT NIGHT THE HEADLIGHTS GO OUT INTERMITTENTLY. THE CONSUMER MUST TURN THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH SEVERAL TIMES TO GET THE HEADLIGHTS TO OPERATE AGAIN. *AK WHEN THE CONSUMER PLACED THE HIGH BEAMS ON, THEY WOULD FAIL TO GO BACK TO DIM. THE SWITCH ON THE DASH SOMETIMES FAILED TO BRING THE LIGHTS ON, WOULD TAKE SEVERAL MINUTES BEFORE GOING OFF. THE SWITCHES IN THE DOORS WERE FAULTY AND CASUED THE LIGHTS TO FAIL TO TURN OFF. *SC
Apr 01, 2004
STEERING,SUSPENSION
2 complaints
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED A SQUEAKING NOISE CAME FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE UPPER AND LOWER CONTROL ARMS, TIE RODS AND BEARINGS WERE REPLACED.
May 16, 2006
FRONT SHOCKS AND FRONT SPINDLE CONNECTING DRAG ASSEMBLY REPLACED. MJS
Jul 28, 1999
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
2 complaints
I WAS DRIVING MY 1998 FORD WINDSTAR WITH 5 PASSENGERS, AND MYSELF AS THE DRIVER. WE REAR ENDED A CAR ON THE LEFT FRONT BUMPER. NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED, THAT IS A QUESTION FOR MYSELF. MY 4YR OLD IN BACKSEAT DIRECTLY BEHIND ME SITS IN A HIGH BACK BOOSTER, NOT USING THE 5 PT HARNESS. HE IS IN A REGULAR SHOULDER/LAP BELT. UPON IMPACT MY CHILD FLEW FORWARD SLAMMING INTO MY SEAT AND HAVING HIS GLASSES ALSO FLY FORWARD OFF OF HIS FACE. QUESTION ON SEAT BELT. PLEASE HELP!!!!!*AK
Mar 09, 2005
DUE TO A CHAIN REACTION ANOTHER VEHICLE HIT CONSUMER'S VEHICLE. UPON IMPACT, DRIVER'S SIDE AIRBAG DIDN'T DEPLOY. ALSO, DRIVER'S SHOULDER SEAT BELT DIDN'T LOCK UP. *AK
Apr 12, 2000
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,INTERIOR LIGHTING
2 complaints
I HAD TO REPLACE ALL FOUR DOOR JAM SWITCHES DUE TO SWITCHES GETTING GUMMED UP AND FAILING. ALSO LATCHES ON THE BOTTOM OF THE REAR DOORS WHERE THE SWITCH IS MOUNTED HAD ALOT OF COROSION ON THEM. *AK
May 01, 2004
INTERIOR LIGHT WILL STAY ON EVEN W/ALL DOORS CLOSED, DOOR AJAR LIGHT SHOWS ON DASH, DID HEAR POPPING NOISE FROM UNDER DASH, WHEN LIGHTS DID GO OFF AFTER 10 MINUTES OF DRIVING, PARKED VEHICLE IN P-LOT AT WORK WITH LIGHT STILL ON, WENT TO CHECK AN HOUR LATER THE LIGHT WAS OFF, SEEMS TO HAPPEN RANDOMLY.*AK
Oct 30, 2001
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaints
WHILE DRIVING AT 45 MPH THROTTLE STICKS OPEN AND VEHICLE UNEXPECTEDLY ACCELERATED AND TOOK OFF. DRIVER FIRMLY HELD BRAKE PEDAL TO THE FLOOR AND SHIFT VEHICLE INTO NETURAL TO GAIN CONTROL. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFROMATION.
Aug 01, 2002
NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
Jun 08, 2000
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
2 complaints
CONSUMER STATES THE GAS GAUGE FLUCTUATES BETWEEN ONE HALF AND THREE FOURTHS FULL, CONSUMER NEVER KNOWS HOW MUCH GAS THE VEHICLE HAS.*JB
May 08, 2002
FAULTY GAS GAUGE. YH
Feb 01, 1999
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
2 complaints
LOAD 'SQUEAL' HEARD WHEN RELEASING CLUTCH PEDAL BETWEEN 1ST-2ND, 2ND-3RD, 2WD & 4X4 HIGH. WILL BE SERVICED FOR THE 3RD TIME MARCH 1999. FIRST TWO INSPECTIONS RESULTED IN REPLACEMENT OF PRESSURE PLATE(2) AND FLYWHEEL (1).REAR DRUM BRAKES FAILED TO RELEASE AFTER EMERGENCY LEVER PULLED. OWNER HAD TO APPLY UNACCEPTABLE GAS PEDAL PRESSURE TO MOVE VEHILCE, RESULTING IN A LOUD 'CLUNK' WHEN DRUM BRAKES FINALLY RELEASED.
Mar 11, 1999
WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES THE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR ,THE DRIVER TRIED TO PUMP THE BRAKES, BUT VEHICLE KEPT GOING. OWNER HAD TO USE EMERGENCY BRAKES TO STOP THE VEHICLE. DEALER SAID THE AXLE BENT, CAUSING THE BRAKES TO GO OUT. *AK
Jan 21, 1999
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS
2 complaints
THE CONSUMER EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS WITH ANTI- LOCK BRAKES AND AIRBAG. DURING AN ACCIDENTANTI-LOCK BRAKES FAILED TO WORK. WHEN THE CONSUMER APPLIED THEIR BRAKES, THE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOORBOARD. IN ADDITION, DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SIDE AIRBAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
Nov 10, 1998
ANOTHER VEHICLE PULLED IN FRONT QUICKLY. RANGER HIT BRAKES SHARPLY & BRAKES LOCKED UP ON RIGHT SIDE AND SKIDDED. DID NOT HIT OTHER VEHICLE. SKID MARK 92FT. AIR BAG DEPLOYED. LACERATION ON FACE & FOREHEAD ABRASION. EMERGENCY ROOM TREATMENT. HAS HIGHWAY POLICE REPORT.
Jul 17, 1998
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
4WD STOPPED WORKING SOME TIME AGO, SERVO/ACTUATOR SEEMED TO BE FREE, RECENTLY STARTED MAKING GRINDING NOISES IN THE FRONT RIGHT, SOUNDS LIKE HUB IS SOMEWHERE BETWEEN LOCKED AND UNLOCKED. SORT OF POPS OUT WHEN COMING TO A STOP HVAC DOES NOT WORK, FAN SPEED ONLY INTERIOR COURTESY STOPPED WORKING
Mar 30, 2020
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE BRAKES FAILED WHILE DEPRESSING THE PEDAL MULTIPLE TIMES. THE VEHICLE FINALLY CAME TO A STOP. THE FAILURE RECURRED AND THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 214,299.
Jul 15, 2015
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
I HIT A DEER WHILE COMMING HOME FROM WORK AT 45 MPH AND BENT BUMPER, DENTED LEFT QUARTER PANEL,BROKE LEFT TURN SIGNAL LENS AND CRACKED PLASTIC GRILE. AIRBAGS DID NOT APPLY OR ENGAGE. I ALSO HAVE TAKEN MY TRUCK TO THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP 4 TIMES TO GET MY DOOR ALARM CHIP REPLACED @ 50 DOLLARS EACH TIME. ON LAST ATTEMPT MY EXTENDED WARANTY HAD EXPIRED AND THEY REFUSED TO HONER THE PROBLEM AND PROMISE TO REPLACE.EVEN THOUGH IT WAS AN EXSISTING PROBLEM. THIS WAS PRIOR TO HITTING THE DEER.
Jun 25, 2015
STEERING,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
1998 FORD RANGER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE STEERING WHEEL ISSUES. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED THE STEERING WHEEL MELTED. ALSO, THE HEAD LAMP SWITCH AND CONNECTOR WAS REPLACED. *JB
Jun 08, 2015
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AND THE TRUCK STARTED SMOKING AND CAUGHT ON FIRE, I PULLED OFF THE FREEWAY AND THE WHOLE FRONT OF THE TRUCK BURST INTO FLAMES. *TR
May 13, 2014
POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
1 complaint
WHILE IN BED AT 2:00 AM TRUCK CAUGHT FIRE. *TR
Oct 20, 2013
ENGINE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE VIBRATED AND THE WATER RESERVOIR WAS ABNORMALLY LOW. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY A PRIVATE MECHANIC, WHO STATED THAT THE NUMBER FOUR SPARK PLUG WAS BURNED. THE HATCH HAD CRACKED AND LEAKED WATER TO THE NUMBER FOUR SPARK PLUG. THE FAILURE RECURRED FREQUENTLY AND HAD TO REPLACE THE SPARK PLUG EVERY 3,000 MILES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 139,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 146,329.
Apr 26, 2013
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
PARKED OUT ON THE STREET IN FRONT OF MY HOUSE, CAUGHT ON FIRE AROUND 9 PM. FIRE TRUCKS CAME AND PUT IT OUT AND KNOCKED ON THE DOOR AROUND 9:25 PM. *TR
Jan 06, 2012
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SEAT BELTS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
98' FORD RANGER: HAS A CRACKED FRAME ON THE REAR RIGHT SIDE. TRUCK MAKES LOUD NOISES WHEN DRIVING AND I AM AFRAID IT MAY BECOME WORSE OVER TIME OR COMPLETELY BREAK DOWN IN UNSAFE SPEEDS. I CAN NOT SELL IT, AS I WAS TRYING TO USE THE MONEY FOR A NEW VEHICLE DUE TO A NEW BABY IN OUR FAMILY. NO ONE WILL BUY SUCH A DEFECTIVE VEHICLE. ALSO SEAT BELTS WILL NOT STAY LATCHED? ALSO THE INSIDE DOME LIGHT MELTS RIGHT THROUGH THE COVERING, WHERE TEMPERATURES MAKE THE PLASTIC COVER BUBBLE AND MELT.
Feb 20, 2011
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
DISPITE PROPER MAINTENCE, I OBSERVED BODY RUST AND DECAY ON THE UNDERSIDE OF MY TRUCK FRAME. ALSO THE BRAKE LINES HAVE BEEN REPLACED DUE TO CORRUSION AND RUST INTO THE FRAME. SPARE TIRE BRACKETS HAVE RUSTED INTO AND THE TIRE FELL OFF. ALSO EVAP CANASTER BRACKET RUSTED INTO AND THE EVAP CANASTER FELL OFF.
Jan 29, 2011
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
THE PLASTIC HEADLIGHT LENS ARE SEVERELY CLOUDY, A LOT WORSE AS TIME TIME GOES ON....YEARS AGO, WHEN I BOUGHT THE TRUCK THEY WERE CLEAR, NOW THEY ARE VERY - VERY OPAC, CLOUDY, SO BAD THAT YOU CAN'T EVEN SEE THE HEADLIGHT BULB ! THERE ARE MANY VEHICLES THAT HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM! SO MANY, IN FACT THAT THE PART STORE AFTERMARKET INDUSTRIES HAVE COME OUT WITH A RESTORATION KIT . I AM SURE THAT THE CLOUDY, OPAC LENS DO SEVERELY LESSEN THE AMOUNT OF LIGHT EMITTED THROUGH THE LENS. MY OPINION ON THIS IS THAT THE TYPE OF PLASTIC SELECTED BY FORD SEEMED FINE BACK IN 1998 BUT OVER A PERIOD OF YEARS THE PLASTIC DETERIORATES. MY RECOMMENDATIONS IS TO HAVE THE MANUFACTURES REPLACE THEM. BY, I DID BUY THE KIT FROM A PARTS STORE AND IT IS CALLED HEADLIGHT RESTORER / DEFOGGER KIT. MYHEADLIGHT.COM . MY BROTHER AND I HAND BUFFED HIS 2001 JEEP HEADLIGHTS AND IT TOOK US ALMOST 2 HOURS ! IT DID HELP THE AMOUNT OF LIGHTING! P.S. SORRY, HAVEN'T GOT SPELL-CHECK.... *TR
Nov 06, 2008
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
CARBON MONOXIDE LEAKAGE INTO CAB OF 1998 FORD RANGER CAUSED SEVERE SLEEPINESS WHILE DRIVING TO AND FROM WORK AND WHILE AT HOME. EACH DAY FOR ABOUT A MONTH I WAS EXPERIENCING DIZZINESS, SLEEPINESS AND NAUSEA. I HAD A SMALL ACCIDENT WHEN I FEEL ASLEEP WHILE STOPPING FOR A RED TRAFFIC LIGHT AND RAN INTO THE BACK OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. I REPORTED MY DIZZINESS AND SLEEPINESS TO MY SUPERVISOR WHO NOTIFIED OUR MEDICAL DEPARTMENT AND THEY SENT ME HOME. I HAD A MEDICAL STRESS TEST PERFORMED; IT WAS OK', A SLEEP STUDY PERFORMED AND THE CARDIOLOGIST INCREASED MY DOSAGE OF A BETA BLOCKER. I WAS FINALLY RELEASED TO RETURN TO WORK TWO MONTHS LATER. I HAD TAKEN MY VEHICLE TO MY LOCAL FORD DEALER SHORTLY AFTER I WAS SENT HOME AND THEY REPORTED THERE WAS NO CO LEAKING INTO MY CAB. I TRIED DISCUSSING MY PROBLEM WITH THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY'S CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT A COUPLE OF TIMES, BUT THEY SAID THE SERVICE TECHNICIAN COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG AND THAT'S ALL THEY COULD DO FOR THE CARBON MONOXIDE WAS ENTERING INTO MY CAB FROM THE EXHAUST OF OTHER VEHICLES ON THE ROAD. I FINALLY FOUND AND BOUGHT A DIGITAL CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR WHICH WOULD READ ANY LEVEL OF CO DETECTED. THE FIRST DAY I DROVE TO WORK IT INDICATED 18 PPM CO POISON AND ANOTHER 16 PPM CO POISON ON THE DRIVE HOME AFTER WORK WHICH TOTALED AROUND 34 PPM PER DAY FOR OVER A MONTH. I IMMEDIATELY WENT TO MY DOCTOR AND REQUESTED A BLOOD GAS TEST WHICH INDICATED A HIGH LEVEL OF CO IN MY BLOOD. IT WAS CONFIRMED BY THE PULMONARY DOCTOR THAT THE SLEEPINESS WAS CAUSED BY CO POISONING ENTERING THE CAB OF MY TRUCK. MY TRUCK IS NOW PARKED IN MY DRIVE WAY AND HAS NOT BEEN DRIVEN FOR OVER THREE MONTHS. *TR
Dec 03, 2007
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
PULLED MY 1998 FORD RANGER INTO A STORE PARKING LOT. I WAS GETTING READY TO PARK WHEN I COULD SMELL SOMETHING BURNING. STOPPED THE TRUCK. SMOKE WAS COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. I POPPED THE HOOD AND SAW AN ELECTRICAL PLUG BURNING WITH FLAMES. I WAS ABLE TO BLOW THE FLAMES OUT BEFORE MUCH ELSE WAS DAMAGED. I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE IT TO A FORD DEALERSHIP. THEY TOLD ME THAT THE CRUISE CONTROL PLUG IS WHAT CAUGHT FIRE. IT ALSO DAMAGED MY RESERVOIR FOR THE BRAKE FLUID. THEY ARE REPLACING THE MASTER CYLINDER AND THE CRUISE CONTROL PLUG. OF COURSE, THIS IS AT MY OWN EXPENSE, NOT FORDS. *TR
Jul 10, 2007
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN,WHEELS
1 complaint
WHILE BACKING MY 98 FORD RANGER 4.0 SUPERCAB WITH TOW PACKAGE (WHICH HAS THE BEEFIER BRAKES) THE ALUMINUM BRACKET THAT HOLDS THE BAR THAT THE BRAKE AND CLUTCH HINGE ON, BROKE AWAY FROM THE TRUCK. THIS LEFT ME HEADING IN REVERSE WITH NO BRAKE OR CLUTCH. I WAS IN SHOCK, IMAGINE THE STEERING WHEEL COMING OFF IN YOUR HANDS WHILE DRIVING; THAT'S HOW I FELT. I DIDN'T THINK TO HIT THE EMERGENCY BRAKE, BUT I WAS ALREADY HALFWAY INTO THE GARAGE AND HAD VERY LITTLE TIME TO REACT PROPERLY BEFORE I CRASHED INTO THE BACK WALL (CINDERBLOCK) PUNCHING A HOLE IN THE WALL WHICH KILLED THE ENGINE. THIS HAPPENED AT THE FIRE STATION WHERE I WORK! THE POLICE DID A REPORT. HE SAW AND REPORTED THE BRAKES WERE BROKE ALTHOUGH HE DIDN'T LOOK VERY CLOSELY. MANY OF MY SUPERIORS AT THE JOB SAW THAT THE BRAKES HAD BROKE AWAY AND WERE NOW DANGLING, USELESS. THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED TO A FORD DEALERSHIP WHERE THE BRAKE ASSEMBLY WAS REPLACED. THE DEALERSHIP ACKNOWLEDGED ON THE BILL THE STATE OF THE BRAKES AND CLUTCH ASSEMBLY. I REQUESTED THE BROKEN PARTS AND THEY ARE NOW IN MY POSSESSION. I CONTACTED FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE, THEY STATED THE OBVIOUS, THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY. THEY ALSO STATED THEIR WERE NO RECALLS ON MY VEHICLE WHICH WAS NOT TRUE; I KNEW ABOUT THE CRUISE CONTROL AND HAS HAD THE FIRESTONES REPLACED. I GUESS THEY MEANT ON THE BRAKES. I SAID YES, BUT CERTAIN THINGS SHOULD NEVER HAPPEN ON A VEHICLE. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE ON A VEHICLE ONLY EIGHT YEARS OLD YOU WOULD NOT ACCEPT THAT THE STEERING WHEEL MAY FALL OFF. JUST LIKE YOU WOULD NOT ACCEPT THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL ASSEMBLY MAY BRAKE AWAY UNDER YOUR FEET. TODAY I RECEIVED A LETTER FROM FORD SAYING THEY COULD NOT HELP ME BECAUSE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT UNDER WARRANTY. I WONDER IF THERE HAS BEEN OTHER INCIDENTS LIKE MINE AND THEY ARE IN THE FORM OF "SERVICE BULLETINS" SECRET RECALLS THAT KEEP FORD AND OTHER COMPANIES FROM HAVING TO FIX MANY OF THEIR PROBLEMS. *JB THE CONSUNER HAD TO HAVE 2 BAD LUG NUTS REPLACED ON THE RIGHT FRONT WHEEL. UPDATED 01/10/07. *JB
Dec 26, 2006
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
I HAVE HAD 3 DOOR SWITCHES REPLACED ON MY RANGER DUE TO THE "DOOR AJAR" LIGHT COMING ON. I HAVE ALSO TALKED TO OTHER PEOPLE W/FORDS AND THEY HAVE HAD THE SAME PROBLEM. MY DOME LIGHT WILL STAY ON, AS DOES THE DOOR AJAR LIGHT AND SOMETIMES THE HORN STARTS BLOWING. *JB
Feb 11, 2005
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
1998 FORD RANGER PICKUP TRUCK. PULSATING BRAKE PEDAL,L SUSPECTED WARPED FRONT BRAKE ROTORS. I HAD SIMILAR PROBLEM WITH 1991 FORD EXPLORER. FIRST OCCURANCE IN MARCH 2001 FORD REPLACED ROTORS UNDER WARRANTY ON 2/12/2001, VEHICLE HAD 24,170 MILES AT TIME OF REPAIR.SECOND TIME WITH SIMILAR PROBLEM AT 42717 MILES ONLY 18547 MILES AFTER FIRST PROBLEM ON 5/27/2004. ROTORS HAD TO BE REPLACED AGAIN THEY WERE RUSTY AND PITTED. I PAID FOR THIS REPAIR THE DEALER WAS GOING TO TAKE IT UP WITH FORD REP BUT CLAIM WAS DENIED. I HAVE HAD NUMEROUS CONVERSATION WITH DEALERSHIP SERVICE REP TO NO AVAIL. ONE SERVICE REP I TALKED TO INSINUATED THAT FORD RANGERS ARE PRONE TO THIS PROBLEM. I HAVE CALLED FORD AND OPENED A COMPLAINT FILE. I AM CONVINCED FORD HAS A QUALITY PROBLEM WITH BRAKE ROTORS ON THIS MODEL. EVERYONE AGREES ROTORS SHOULDN'T WEAR THIS FAST. I TAKE VERY GOOD CARE OF MY VEHICLES. *AK
Aug 20, 2004
VISIBILITY,INTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
WE HAVE HAD NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS WITH THE DOOR AJAR LIGHT AND DOME LIGHT STAYING ON, PLUS THE WIPERS ARE IRRADIC AND THE WINDOWS WILL SOMETIMES GO DOWN ON THEIR OWN. IT WAS FIXED ONCE AND NOW IT'S HAS STARTED DOING THE SAME THING AGAIN. IT SEEMS TO ME THERE ARE AN AWFUL LOT OF SIMILAR COMPLAINTS OUT THERE ON THIS VERY SAME ITEM AND I FEEL FORD SHOULD HAVE TO RECALL THIS VEHICLE TO CORRECT THE SITUATION. I CALLED THEM AND ASKED IF THIS WOULD BE SOMETHING THEY WOULD FIX SEEING AS IT'S ONE OF THEIR MECHANICAL DEFECTS AND THEY REPLIED WITH A 'NO'. I AM TO THE POINT THAT I JUST WANT TO GET RID OF THIS VEHICLE. I ALSO NOTED THEY HAVE A MENTION OF HOW THIS VEHICLES LEANS. THAT IS ALSO TRUE. MY RANGER LEANS. I THINK THIS TRUCK IS A TRUE LEMON.
May 09, 2002
SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaint
AT 30000, THE FIRST SERPENTINE BELT WAS REPLACED. THE DEALER SAID THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO BECAUSE THE BELT WAS NOT COVERED UNDER THE WARRANTY. THE BELT HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE MORE SINCE THEN, AND THE VEHICLE ONLY HAS 52000 MILES. AROUND 40000 MILES, THE FRONT SUSPENSION STARTED CLUNKING EVERY TIME YOU HIT A BUMP. THE MECHANIC WHO INSPECTED THE FRONT END STATED THAT THE FRONT SUSPENSION BUSHINGS ARE WHAT IS CAUSING THE CLUNK.*AK
Feb 24, 2002
STRUCTURE,INTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
DOOR WILL NOT REGISTER AS BEING CLOSED WHILE VEHICLE IS IN OPERATION. DASH SENSOR STATES THAT "DOOR IS AJAR" WHEN DOOR IS CLOSED. ALSO, DOME LIGHT WILL COME ON AND OFF WHILE GOING AROUND TURNS. *AK THE DOOR IS AJAR STAYS ON SOMETIME AND GOES OFF IN A WHILE AT OTHER TIME. *YH
Mar 16, 2001
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
4- WHEEL DRIVE HAS QUIT WORKING, IT HAS ONLY BEEN USED 3-4 TIMES. ALSO HORN HAS FAILED, CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
Mar 06, 2001
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
VEHICLE IDLES VERY ROUGHLY. THEN IDLE WILL GO AWAY FOR AWHILE. VEHICLE TURNED OFF WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM. *AK CONSUMER STATES THAT AFTER ROUGH IDLE GOES AWAY, VEHICLE WILL HESITATE OR STALL, MASS AIR FLOW SENSOR WAS REPLACED, HOWEVER PROBLEMS STILL EXISTS. GAS PEDAL GETS STUCK. PASSENGER SIDE FRONT WINDSHIELD WIPER ARM WAS LOOSE. PWER STEERING PUMP WAS REPLACED DUE TO WHEN TURNING WHEEL IT WOULD MAKE ANOISE. *SLC
Feb 14, 2001
POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,INTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
DOOR AJAR AND LIGHT STAYING ON FOR 45 MINUTES OR MORE BEFORE SHUTING OFF. DEALER/MANUFACTURER NOTIFIED. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS ON THIS MATTER. *AK A SEAL IN THE TRANSMISSION KEEPS LEAKING AND HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE, PLACE WHERE CAR WAS PURCHASED IS GOING TO REPLACE VEHICLE BECAUSE IN ORDER TO FIX THE PROBLEM, THE TRANSMISSION, COMPUTER CHIP, AND DRIVESHAFT WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. *SLC
Feb 08, 2001
VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
Nov 15, 2000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE
1 complaint
AFTER TAKING VEHICLE FOR INSPECTION FOUND OUT THAT REAR BRAKES WERE STUCK TOGETHER. NEVER WERE REPAIRED BEFORE. EMERGENCY BRAKE CABLE WAS BROKEN, LIKE IT WAS RUBBING TO A PART OF VEHICLE, AND BRAKE PADS AND SHOES WORE OUT.*AK
Oct 30, 2000
STEERING,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
CRASH INVOLVED MY VEHICLE STRIKING ANOTHER VEHICLE WHICH HAD TURNED INTO MY PATH TO MAKE A LEFT TURN AT A LIGHTED INTERSECTION. POLICE DETERMINED THAT OTHER DRIVER WAS AT FAULT. OTHER VEHICLE (A VW JETTA) WAS STRUCK IN THE SIDE, YET BOTH AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. MY VEHICLE WAS STRUCK IN THE FRONT WITH SUFFICIENT FORCE TO BREAK FRONT AXLE, YET NEITHER AIRBAG DEPLOYED. I CONTACTED DEALER WHO REFERRED ME TO THEIR 1-800 CUSTOMER HOTLINE, WHO THEN REFERRED ME BACK TO DEALER TO PURSUE TECHNICAL PROBLEMS SUCH AS THIS. THEREFORE, I'M NOW CONTACTING YOU.
Oct 23, 2000
SUSPENSION,TIRES
1 complaint
ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT ON 1998, FORD, RANGER WITH 23,000 MILES, TIRE SIZE P235/70R16, DOT VN0811U. ALL 4 TIRES HAD WORN OUT FROM INSIDE AND GOING TOWARDS THE OUTSIDE CAUSING FRONT END TO COME OUT OF ALIGNMENT. TIRES SHOULD HAVE LASTED 50,000 MILES. *AK
Sep 13, 2000
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
ON GOING/INTERMITTENT PROBLEM IN HOT WEATHER CONDITION WHEN APPLYING TRANSMISSION TO STOP OR DECLINE FROM A HILL. IT CAUSES RMPS TO INCREASE TO 1500. VEHICLE BEEN IN/OUT OF DEALER SHOP ON TWO OCCASIONS, AND PROBLEM STILL REOCCURRING. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
Aug 30, 2000
STEERING,WHEELS
1 complaint
LEFT WHEEL BROKE OFF AND THERE WAS A NOISE DUE TO A SPINDLE BREAKING,WHICH COULD HAVE CAUSED LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL. CURRENTLY THE NOISE HAS RETURNED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
Mar 30, 2000
POWER TRAIN,TIRES
1 complaint
THIS FAILURE HAPPENED IMMEDIATELY AFTER I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. I TOOK IT BACK IMMEDIATELY AND IT WAS CHECKED BY FORD, AND KOONS MECHANICS. THEY STATED EVERYTHING WAS GOOD. ALL KOONS DID FOR ME WAS REPLACED 4 TIRES THAT WERE WORN ON DIFFERENT PARTS OF ALL TIRES. I HAVE CONTINUED NOTIFING KOONS ABOUT THE SAME PROBLE SINCE THE DAY I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE, AND THEY HAVE NOT DONE ANYTHING. I FINALLY FOUND OUT FROM A BACK YARD MECHANIC THAT THE PROBLE WAS THE DRIVE SHAFT. I TOLD KOONS' MECHANICS THAT ,AND I ORDERED THRU AN EXTENDED PLAN THE SHAFT TWO MONTHS AGO 2/10/00 .I HAVE NOT HEARD FROM KOONS YET. I FEEL THAT THE JUMPING AND SWAYING WILL COST ME TO HAVE A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. THANK YOU. *AK
Mar 29, 2000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE,INTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
CLUTCH SLAVE CYLINDER BOLTS CAME OUT KNOCKING HOLE THROUGH TRANSMITION CASE.TRANSMISSION CROSS MEMBER HAD TO BE CUT OUT AFTER SPEED NUTS BROKE LOOSE.HEATER FAILED THREE TIMES.THERMOSTAT REPLACED TWICE DIDN'T HELP.BOLTS HOLDING COOLING FAN ON CAME OUT.SWITCH FOR DOME LIGHT FAILED, AND BRAKE ROTORS WARPED.*AK
Mar 08, 2000
STEERING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
WHILE TRAVELING CONSUMER PASSED OUT AND VEHICLE RAN OFF ROAD. ALSO, NOTICED FUMES INSIDE CAB. DRIVER BELIEVES THAT CARBON MONOXIDE FUMES WERE COMING INTO THE VEHICLE, CAUSING HIM TO PASS OUT. *AK *ML
Feb 22, 2000
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
1 complaint
FUSE FOR THE ABS LIGHT FAILED CAUSING THE ABS LIGHT AND EMERGENCY BRAKE LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE EVEN THOUGH THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS NOT ENGAGED. NLM
Oct 29, 1999
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
REAR END (?) WHINES AT VARIOUS SPEEDS,TRANSMISSION SLIPS. DEALER REBUILT DIFFERENTIAL, PROBLEM PERSISTS, DEALER NOW HAS VEHICLE INSTALLING A NEW TRANSMISSION TRYING TO FIX PROBLEM. BRAKE PEDAL PULSES (NOT ABS)AND STEERINGS WHEEL SHUDDERS (LEFT/RIGHT) WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED AT ALL SPEEDS. (NOT REPORTED TO DEALER, HAVE SINCE FOUND OUT THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE). OIL FILTER- TO REMOVE FILTER IT MUST BE WEDGED PAST THE SOLENOID/STARTER. IT COME IN CONTACT WITH THE EXPOSED WIRES/LUGS? ON THE STARTER. THERE IS NOTHING PROTECTING THIS EXPOSED AREA. MY DEALER HAS BEEN EXTREMELY COURTEOUS AND UNDERSTANDING IN DEALING WITH THE TRANSMISSION/DIFFERENTIAL PROBLEM. I HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY INFORMATION FROM FORD REGARDING THESE PROBLEMS.THROUGH RESEARCH ON THE INTERNET I HAVE COME TO BELIEVE THAT THE PROBLEMS DESCRIBED HERE ARE NOT LIMITED TO MY EXPERIENCES. THANK YOU. *AK
Sep 01, 1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
VEHICLE WOULD LOSE POWER. ENGINE FELT LIKE IT HAD DIED. AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM. WHEN IN LOWER GEAR ONLY, WOULD DIE OUT. HAVE BEEN TO DEALER'S TWICE. *AK
Aug 24, 1999
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
1 complaint
VEHICLE STALLING DUE TO FAILURE OF THE FUEL PUMP/SENDER AND SENSOR, SENSOR REPLACED A SECOND TIME DUE TO FAILURE. MJS
Jul 20, 1999
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
ON STARTING ENGINE HESITATED ,ALMOST STALLED THEN RACED WITH HIGH RPM,WHILE HUGE AMOUNTS OF WHITE THICK SMOKE AND HEAVY GASOLINE SMELL PRESENT.TRUCK STALLED.RESTARTED SAME PROBLEM WITH THE ADDITION OF A LARGE BLACK CLOUD OF SMOKE FROM TAIL PIPE ON PUSHING ACCELERATOR.THROTTLE STICKS CAUSING SURGING.DEALER REPLACED THROTTLE VALVE.PROBELM PERSISTS. BRAKES MAKE GRINDING NOISE WHEN APPLIED,DEALER COULD NOT REPLICATE AFTER 4 VISITS THEY FINALLY ACKOWLEDGE PROBLEM AND HAD TO DO A COMPLETE BRAKE JOB.BRAKES ARE HARD NOW AND IT APPEARS THAT THE ANTI LOCKS DO NOT ENGAGE.REAR SLIDER LEAKS WATER INTO EXTRA CAB WHEN IT RAINS. VIBRATION HEARD FROM EX HAUST AREA,HAD TO HAVE THE HEAT SHIELD TIGHTENED. NOISE HAS RETURNED./
Jul 05, 1999
SEAT BELTS,WHEELS
1 complaint
LEFT FRONT WHEEL BECAME UNATTACHED FROM THE VEHICLE WHILE IT WAS TRAVELING ON EXPRESSWAY RESULTING IN LOSS OF CONTROL AND AN ACCIDENT. SEAT BELT ALSO BECAME DISCONNECTED AT THE TIME OF IMPACT. NLM
Jun 29, 1999
SUSPENSION,CHILD SEAT
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING AT 25 MPH BACK END HIT SOME GRAVEL IN THE ROAD, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SPIN AROUND AND ROLLOVER. CONSUMER'S CHILD WAS SITTING IN THE CHILD SEAT IN THE REAR, AND THE CHILD SAFETY SEAT BUCKLE POPPED OPEN,CAUSING THE CHILD TO BE HANGING OUT OF SEAT. FIRE DEPARTMENT HAD TO CUT THE STRIP FROM AROUND THE CHILD. *AK
Apr 26, 1999
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
1 complaint
A VIBRATION HAS DEVELOPED UNDER ALL BRAKING CONDITIONS (15,000 MILES ON). THE STEERING WHEEL WILL SHUDDER AND TWITCH FROM SIDE TO SIDE. ENTIRE VEHICLE WILL VIBRATE. WORST UNDER LOW BRAKING PEDAL PRESSURE. AS THE VEHICLE SLOWS, THE SENSATION IS AS IF THE BRAKES ARE MAKING VARYING BRAKING CONTACT WITH THE ROTORS/DRUMS, CONSISTANT WITH THE WHEEL REVOLUTION SPEED. AT LOW SPEED AND LIGHT BRAKE PEDAL PRESSURE, THE STEERING WHEEL WILL SUDDENLY SPIN 90-180 DEGREES TO THE LEFT, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO CHANGE DRIVING LANES, UNLESS FIRMLY HELD BACK. DEALERSHIP INSPECTED AND DROVE THE VEHICLE. EXPERIENCED VIBRATION/SHUDDER AND WHEEL PULL. STATES BRAKING AND STEERING SYSTEMS COMPONENTS ARE IN NORMAL CONDITION, BRAKES ARE UNADJUSTABLE, COMPLAINT IS COMMON, AND USUALLY GETS WORSE. CAN OFFER NO SOLUTION. *AK
Mar 24, 1999
STEERING,SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
1 complaint
BRAKES HAVE BEEN EXAMINED TWICE FOR SQUEAKINESS. DEALER HAS STATED THAT THEY CANNOT DUPLICATE PROBLEM. NOISES HAVE WORSENED SINCE LAST EXAM ON 12/15/98. THERE ARE SEVERAL AREAS OF RUST ON THE UNDERSIDE OF MY TRUCK AND ON THE OUTTAKE MANIFOLD IN THE ENGINGE. DEALER HAS STATED "THAT'S NORMAL" TO REPEATED INQUIRIES ABOUT THIS RUST. I HAVE ALREADY HAD THROTTLE ASSEMBLY PIECE, THE "BUTTERFLY VALVE" REPLACED IN NOV OF 1998. I NOW HAVE SQEAKY NOISES COMING FROM THE REAR AXLE AS WELL, WHICH I WILL SCHEDULE FOR EXAM THIS WEEK, 1/11/99.
Jan 11, 1999
AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
STARTED VEHICLE UP. HAD DOOR OPENED AT TIMES DRIVER'S LEG NOT INSIDE VEHICLE. VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED FORWARD, WITHOUT WARNING. HIT A TRUCK & THEN A WALL. UPON IMPACT, NEITHER AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. *AK
Dec 08, 1998
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VISIBILITY,SEATS
1 complaint
COMPLAINT#1: GAS TANK LEAKED AFTER VEHICLE WAS ONLY ONE WEEK OLD. DEALER REPLACED IT WITH A NEW TANK. COMPLAINT#2: POWER WINDOWS ARE 'JERKY' AND THEY CHATTER WHEN GOING DOWN. DEALER HAS NOT REPAIRED IT YET. COMPLAINT#3: PASSENGER SEAT VIBRATES ANY TIME TRUCK DRIVES OVER ANY BUMPS, LARGE OR SMALL. DEALER HAS NOT REPAIRED IT AT THIS TIME.
Nov 20, 1998
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE WILL STALL UNEXPECTEDLY (ALL POWER WILL GO OUT) WHICH ALMOST COULD RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT. CAUSE UNKNOWN. DEALER REPLACED BATTERY, FUSES ETC. DEALER CANNOT DETERMINE PROBLEM. PLEASE FURTHER DETAILS AND VIN #. 8AK
Oct 28, 1998
SUSPENSION,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
THE FRONT MIDDLE SEATBELT MALFUNCTIONS WHEN THE OCCUPANT MOVES TO THE RIGHT AND SEATBELT ADJUSTER SLIDES DOWN, WHICH WILL NOT PROTECT THE OCCUPANT IN ACCIDENT. ALSO THE TORSION BAR RUBS AGAINST THE BRAKE LINE, CAUSING A HOLE IN THE BRAKE LINE, RESULTING IN BRAKE LOSS. *AK
Aug 05, 1998
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 1998 FORD Ranger have?
The 1998 FORD Ranger currently has 656 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 1998 FORD Ranger?
The most common problems reported for the 1998 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 1998 FORD Ranger problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 1998 FORD Ranger comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
Other Years - FORD Ranger
2025 Problems
2024 Problems
2023 Problems
2022 Problems
2021 Problems
2020 Problems
2019 Problems
2018 Problems
2017 Problems
2016 Problems
2015 Problems
2014 Problems
2013 Problems
2012 Problems
2011 Problems
2010 Problems
2009 Problems
2008 Problems
2007 Problems
2006 Problems
2005 Problems
2004 Problems
2003 Problems
2002 Problems
2001 Problems
2000 Problems
1999 Problems
1997 Problems
1996 Problems
1995 Problems
1994 Problems
1993 Problems
1992 Problems
1991 Problems
1990 Problems
Other FORD Models
'34
1500 Foldaway
A8513
A9513
A9522
Aerostar
Affordable Aluminum
Affordable Trailers
Aspire
AT8513
AT9513
AT9522
Similar Brands
ST
3,555 models
RS
3,484 models
NC
2,822 models
ND
2,385 models
Z
1,951 models
MOTO
1,583 models
NU
1,189 models
RC
1,122 models