2003 FORD Ranger Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
VIN Decoder
243
Complaints Reported
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Complaints by Component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
30 complaints
VEHICLE ACCELERATES WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED. SO FAR ONLY HAS HAPPENED AT SLOW SPEEDS WHILE PARKING THE VEHICLE. I'VE SEEN A JUMP OF 1,000 RPM'S WHEN IT OCCURS, BUT IF YOUR PRESSING HARD ENOUGH ON THE BRAKES YOU CAN CONTROL THE ACCELERATION
Jul 21, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO REVERSE, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING AND CRASHED INTO A WALL. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES SUSTAINED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Apr 15, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE RPMS INCREASED TO 4,000, CAUSED THE TIRES TO SMOKE, AND THE ENGINE TO SUDDENLY ACCELERATE. THE CONTACT PLACED THE VEHICLE INTO NEUTRAL GEAR, RELEASED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE VEHICLE FUNCTIONED NORMALLY. THE CONTACT REMOVED THE CRUISE CONTROL LINKAGE; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE WAS NOT CORRECTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 59,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 63,000. ...UPDATED 11-12-13 *BF
Sep 12, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC STOP, THE ENGINE PMS INCREASED ABNORMALLY TO 3000. THE CONTACT HELD THE BRAKE DOWN WITH EXTREME FORCE AS THE TIRES BEGAN TO SPIN AND MAKE A SCREECHING NOISE.THE VEHICLE WAS ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE ABNORMALLY BUT THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO STOP THE FAILURE BY ABRUPTLY APPLYING THE BRAKES AND POWERING THE VEHICLE OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED AND RESUMED NORMAL OPERATION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND ADVISED THE CONTACT TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO A DEALER. THE DEALER STATED THAT BECAUSE THE VEHICLE WAS OVER TEN YEARS OLD, THEY WERE UNABLE TO PERFORM A DIAGNOSIS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 218,000.
Oct 23, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECAME STUCK. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY AND CRASH INTO A CURB. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILE AND INJURIES WERE REPORTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED AND THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE WHO STATED THAT THE CONTACT NEEDED TO WRITE A LETTER AND MAIL IT INTO FORD. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 72,000.
Aug 30, 2012
+ 25 more complaints for this component
STRUCTURE
26 complaints
The contact owns a 2003 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH, an abnormal, rattling noise began to emit from the rear of the vehicle without warning. Upon inspection, the contact discovered that the rear cross members had rotted out due to severe corrosion. The contact also stated that the fuel tank was no longer being supported due to the failure. An independent mechanic inspected the vehicle and deemed the vehicle unsafe to drive. The dealer nor the manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000.
Aug 15, 2022
THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE HER HUSBAND WAS DRIVING AT AN UNDISCLOSED SPEED, THE SPARE TIRE DETACHED FROM UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN BACK TO THE RESIDENCE AND INSPECTED. THE DRIVER NOTICED THAT THE UNDERCARRIAGE AND SUB-FRAME WERE SEVERELY CORRODED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE LOCAL DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE SUB-FRAME HAD RUSTED OUT AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT YET REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 131,000
May 18, 2021
TWO YEARS AGO, A CRUNCHING NOISE WHILE TURNING WAS DETERMINED TO BE THAT BOTH REAR SPRING BRACKETS HAD RUSTED THROUGH AND BROKEN, LEAVING THE REAR OF THE LEAF SPRINGS UNATTACHED TO THE FRAME. BOTH WERE REPLACED WITHOUT INCIDENT. THIS WEEK, WHILE DOING ROUTINE MAINTENANCE, I NOTICED THE FRONT FUEL TANK HANGER WAS OUT OF PLACE. UPON EXAMINATION, ONE SIDE OF THE FUEL TANK HANGER WAS COMPLETELY DISCONNECTED FROM THE FRAME. THE CROSS MEMBER AND THE HANGER FOR THE FUEL TANK BRACKET IS COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY. THE FRAME HAS NO STRUCTURAL SUPPORT IN THAT AREA AND NOTHING IS SUPPORTING THE FRONT OF THE FUEL TANK. IT IS UNACCEPTABLE THAT FORD IS ALLOWED TO PRODUCE FRAMES THAT RUST AWAY RIGHT UNDER THE VEHICLE SO QUICKLY. THIS TRUCK BODY LOOKS FINE, HOWEVER, THE BED IS RUSTED AWAY IN TWO PLACES AND THIS FRAME CROSS MEMBER IS COMPLETELY GONE.
Jul 22, 2020
THE FUEL TANK STRAP BRACKET ON THE FRAME ROTTED OUT AND THE STRAP IS NOW HANGING LOOSE. THE STRAP LOOKS TO BE RUSTY BUT WASN'T THE ISSUE IT IS WHERE THE T-SHAPE END ON THE STRAP HOOKS TO THE FRAME/BRACKET THAT IS THE PROBLEM IF THE OTHER STRAPS ARE TAKING UP ALL THE WEIGHT AND WERE TO BREAK THIS COULD CAUSE THE GAS TANK TO FALL OUT. THIS MAY HAVE HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING ON CITY STREETS. SALT SPREAD THROUGHOUT THE WINTER AND WET CONDITIONS WOULD BE THE BEST CAUSE FOR THIS TO HAPPEN RESULTING IN RUST AND CORROSION. ALSO COMMON FOR THE LEAF SPRING SHACKLES AND MOUNTS TO ROT OUT AND COME APART THIS IS ALSO ANOTHER SAFETY ISSUE IN ITSELF. THIS ALSO APPLIES TO THE MAZDA B2300 THROUGH THE B4000 SERIES PICK UPS SINCE THEY USE THE SAME RANGER FRAMES. *TR
May 05, 2020
A FEW WEEKS AGO MY SPARE TIRE FELL OFF MY TRUCK WHILE DRIVING ON LAKESHORE DRIVE IN HEWITT, NJ 07421. THANKFULLY IT ROLLED OFF ONTO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD SO NO ONE ELSE HIT IT. YESTERDAY I NOTICED THE BACK END OF THE TRUCK LOOKED TWISTED ONLY TO FIND THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE FRAME IS COMPLETELY SNAPPED. ONLY TO FURTHER DISCOVER THE ENTIRE FRAME, SUSPENSION, AND VARIOUS OTHER COMPONENTS ARE ROTTING HORRIBLY. MY VEHICLE HAS UNDER 70,000 MILES. I HAD AN OLDER TOYOTA TACOMA A FEW YEARS AGO THAT WAS RECALLED DUE TO FRAME RUST AND IT WAS FULLY HANDLED. HOWEVER, THE RUST AND ROT ON THIS FORD RANGER MAKE THE 1997 TACOMA FRAME LOOK NEARLY NEW. I CAN NO LONGER DRIVE THIS VEHICLE AS IT IS NOT SAFE. IRONICALLY, IT SEEM THAT THIS IS OR HAS HAPPENED TO NEARLY EVERY FORD RANGER FROM THE EARLY 2000S. PERSONALLY I FEEL WITH THE OVERWHELMING AMOUNT OF WEB EVIDENCE (LITERALLY THOUSANDS) FORD SHOULD BE HELD RESPONSIBLE. PLEASE SEE THE PHOTOS I'VE ATTACHED. THANK YOU.
Sep 21, 2019
+ 21 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
21 complaints
I BOUGHT THIS TRUCK USED ,IS THERE A RECALL ON THE AIRBAGS OR ANY OTHER RECALLS OF ANY KIND ?? THANKS *DT *TR
Aug 21, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO FRIENDLY FORD (2800 N TELEGRAPH RD, MONROE, MI 48162) TO BE REPAIRED PER AN UNKNOWN AIR BAG RECALL. UPON ARRIVING AT THE DEALER, THE CONTACT WAS CHARGED A FEE TO REPLACE WIRES THAT WERE CUT DURING THE AIR BAG REPLACEMENT. THE CONTACT RECEIVED ANOTHER RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V788000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT HAD NOT TAKEN THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 4,000.
Jun 01, 2018
AIR BAG LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON AND THE DEALERSHIP SAYS THAT IT IS A DEFECT WITH THE AIRBAG. I DO NOT WANT TO PAY FOR THE PRICE OF REPLACING IT ~ IF IT IS THE COMPANIES FAULT THAT MADE THE AIRBAG.
Nov 03, 2017
TAKATA RECALL
Oct 28, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V036000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. UPDATED 06/14/16*LJ UPDATED 06/29/16.*JB
Apr 07, 2016
+ 16 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
17 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH THE CONSUMER'S SON DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND HIS FOOT UNINTENTIONALLY DEPRESSED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL DUE TO THE CLOSE PROXIMITY OF BOTH PEDALS. THE DRIVER CRASHED INTO A FENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 18,000. UPDATED 02/14/12*LJ UPDATED 02/22/12
Jan 17, 2012
BRAKE ROTORS SOLD BY ADVANCE AUTO PARTS AS AN "EXACT FIT" FOR THIS VEHICLE WERE INSTALLED WITHOUT ANY PROBLEMS AND ALL ASSOCIATED COMPONENTS FOR A BRAKE REPAIR (PADS, CALIPERS, BEARINGS, SEALS, ABS RINGS) WERE ALSO INSTALLED AND SEEMED TO FIT PERFECTLY. AFTER ASSEMBLY I NOTICED THAT THE BRAKE PADS WERE ONLY PARTIALLY BEARING ON THE BRAKE ROTOR, WITH THE PADS OVERLAPPING THE EDGE OF THE ROTORS. I DID NOT NOTICE THIS CONDITION UNTIL BOTH NEW FRONT ROTORS HAD BEEN REPLACED AND ALL COMPONENTS EXCEPT THE TIRES/WHEELS HAD BEEN REPLACED. UPON FURTHER RESEARCH, THE ROTORS SOLD AS AN "EXACT FIT" (SELECTED FOR ME BY THE COUNTER MAN AT MY LOCAL ADVANCE AUTO PARTS STORE) WERE APPROXIMATELY 1 INCH SMALLER IN DIAMETER AS THE ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT ROTORS. I CONTACTED ADVANCE CUSTOMER SERVICE TO INFORM THEM OF THIS PROBLEM AND THEY DENIED ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR INSTALLATION OF IMPROPER PARTS. SEVERAL REVIEWS POSTED ON THE STORE'S WEBSITE INDICATE THAT OTHER PEOPLE HAVE INSTALLED THESE ROTORS AND ARE DRIVING AROUND WITH THEM DESPITE THE FACT THEY ARE NOT THE PROPER ROTORS FOR THIS 4 WHEEL ANTILOCK BRAKE VEHICLE (THEY DO FIT RANGERS WITH REAR WHEEL ANTILOCK BRAKES). THIS IS A MURPHY'S LAW SITUATION IN WHICH A CONSUMER CAN INSTALL THESE PARTS AND DRIVE AROUND WITH THEM, UNAWARE OF THE POTENTIAL FOR BRAKE FAILURE. THE FINAL INSTALLATION LOOKS NORMAL AND I WOULD NOT HAVE NOTICED UNLESS I HAD MADE A CLOSE INSPECTION AND FOUND THAT THE BRAKE PADS WERE NOT IN FULL CONTACT WITH THE ROTOR SURFACE BECAUSE OF THE SMALLER THAN SPECIFICATION DIAMETER. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD BECAUSE THE ADVANCE AUTO PARTS WEBSITE AND STORE COMPUTER SYSTEM LIST THEM AS AN EXACT FIT FOR THE VEHICLE WHEN, IN FACT, THEY ARE NOT. THEY CAN BE INSTALLED AND DRIVEN WITHOUT THE INSTALLER REALIZING THAT THEY ARE THE WRONG SIZE. THIS REQUIRES AN IMMEDIATE NOTICE AND RECALL AND ADVANCE SHOULD BE SANCTIONED. *TR
Dec 19, 2011
2003 FORD RANGER STEEL BRAKE LINE ROTTED AND FAILED. 26,000 MILES WELL MAINTAINED VEHICLE. CAUSE BRAKE FAILURE. FORTUNATELY NO ACCIDENT INCIDENT. STEEL LINE ROTTED AT FITTING OVER REAR AXLE WHERE IT ATTACHES TO FLEX LINE TO THE AXLE HOUSING. OTHER RUST AND CORROSION ISSUES PLAGUE THIS VEHICLE. *TR
May 15, 2011
THIS PROBLEM HAS APPEARED ALL OF A SUDDEN WITHOUT WARNING. BRAKES FADE AT LOW SPEEDS. THE PEDAL SINKS TO THE FLOORBOARD. THIS CONDITION OCCURS RANDOMLY. I HAVE TOPPED OFF THE BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR. THIS HAS NOT CHANGED THE SITUATION. I'VE REVIEWED THE INTERNET FOR POTENTIAL REMEDIES AND HAVE DISCOVERED MANY OTHERS WITH THE SAME OR SIMILAR PROBLEM. *TR
Mar 27, 2011
DURING WET WEATHER, REAR BRAKE LOCKS UP WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED. CAUSING SKIDDING AND LOSE OF CONTROL. FIRST TIME THIS HAPPEN MY LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP REFERRED TO THIS AS A REAR BRAKE LOCK PROBLEM, AND REPLACED REAR BRAKE COMPONENTS, AFTER THAT WHEN IT HAPPENED AGAIN I WAS TOLD THAT THE PROBLEM WAS DUE TO MOISTURE GETTING INTO THE BRAKE PARTS AND THAT IF I WANTED THIS FIXED I WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR THE FIX IT. THE FIRST TIME I WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS A SERVICE BULLETIN OUT ON THIS AND THAT'S WHY IT GOT FIXED,NOW I'M TOLD NO SUCH THING EXIST.FIRST TIME WITH PROBLEM TRUCK HAD ABOUT 26,000 TO 30,000 MILES ON IT SEEMS FUNNY THAT AT 60,000 I WOULD HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. *TR
Oct 08, 2009
+ 12 more complaints for this component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
15 complaints
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. WHILE DECELERATING AT 10 MPH, ALL OF THE FLUID SPILLED OUT FROM THE CLUTCH CYLINDER OR EITHER A FAILED HOSE. THE CONTACT IS UNCERTAIN AND THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED. HE IS CERTAIN, HOWEVER, THAT OIL WAS LEAKING BETWEEN THE TRANSMISSION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE OWNER'S RESIDENCE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 49,710.
Jun 27, 2007
TRUCK BUCKS/JERKS DURING DRIVE CYCLE WHEN IN 3RD OR 4TH GEAR, RPM ~2500. *JB
Feb 08, 2007
A FAILED ROLLER ROCKER DESTROYED A CAM AND LIFTER AFTER ONLY 66,000 MILES. 3,000 MILES PREVIOUS I HAD TAKEN IT TO THE DEALER WHO SAID THEY COULDN'T HEAR THE NOISE. BY THE TIME THEY COULD HEAR IT, THE DAMAGE HAD MORE THAN TRIPLED. THE FAILURE WAS DEFINITELY CAUSED BY THE DEFECTIVE ROLLER ROCKER(THE PART IS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION). *NM
Sep 19, 2006
DT: THE CONSUMER STATED THAT HIS 2003 FORD RANGER CAUGHT ON FIRE ON 9-30-05. THE VEHICLE STARTED SMOKING WHILE IN MOTION. THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED OVER. THE FIRE WAS VIEWED COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED. THE TRUCK WAS DECLARED A TOTAL LOSS. THE CONSUMER FELT THAT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE. THE CONSUMER EXPERIENCED NO PRIOR PROBLEMS WITH THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED HIS INSURANCE COMPANY. THE TRUCK WAS TOWED TO A JUNK YARD IN ILLINOIS. PICTURES WERE TAKEN OF THE ENGINE AND THE VEHICLE ITSELF. THE CONSUMER PLANNED TO NOTIFY THE MANUFACTURER ABOUT THE FIRE. *AK (11/22/05) A POPPING NOISE WAS COMING FROM THE ENGINE AND IT BEGUN TO LOSE POWER. THE CONSUMER POPPED THE HOOD AND SAW FIRE COMING OUT OF THE ENGINE. BY THE TIME THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED, THE ENGINE WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. *SC
Oct 04, 2005
DT: THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE STALLED. THE DEALERSHIP HAD THE VEHICLE 6 TIMES, BUT COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH IT. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE STARTED JERKING THEN IT DIED, AND AFTER WAITING APPROXIMATELY 1 HOUR THE VEHICLE STARTED BACK UP. THE DEALERSHIP WANTED TO TRADE THE VEHICLE WITH THE CONTACT. BUT THE MANUFACTURER WANTED THE DEALERSHIP TO FIND THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM BEFORE THEY WOULD AUTHORIZE THE TRANSACTION. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER. *AK
Aug 23, 2005
+ 10 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
13 complaints
Ford knows about the problems with the dual clutch and they are refusing to fix them. I have been giving the run around om trying to get my car fixed. I am a disabled veteran and all I get is they can't help. I just found out about these cars have this problem and ford has know about his problem for years.. they need to fix this. They again to be held according selling bad products to the public.
Jul 15, 2025
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY, THE CONTACT STARTED THE IGNITION AND WHEN THE GEAR WAS SHIFTED INTO REVERSE, THE TRANSMISSION FAILED TO RESPOND. THE OVERDRIVE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND REMAINED ILLUMINATED UNTIL THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 90,000.
Feb 07, 2011
WHEN STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT WITH THE BRAKE APPLIED AND THE ENGINE IDLING IN DRIVE (AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION) THE ENGINE REVVED UP SIGNIFICANTLY. WHEN IT DID I PUSHED ON THE BRAKE AS HARD AS I COULD AND THE REAR WHEEL SPUN. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING MAYBE 3 OR 4 TIMES A YEAR FOR THE PAST TWO YEARS AND MOST OF THE TIME CAN BE STOPPED BY RELEASING THEN QUICKLY PRESSING ON THE BRAKE. THIS IS THE FIRST TIME IT HAS HAPPENED WHERE SOMEONE COULD HAVE BEEN HURT AND I RECEIVED A TICKET FOR THE INCIDENT. *TR
Jul 04, 2010
FAULTY CLUTCH DESIGN ON 2003 FORD RANGER 4.0L WITH MAZDA M50-R1 5 SPEED TRANSMISSION: PLEASE RESEARCH THIS PROBLEM. PREMATURE FAILURE RATE APPROACHES 100% AND RECURS AGAIN WITHIN A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME. THIS PROBLEM IS NOT UNIQUE TO THE 2003 MODEL YEAR. THE HYDRAULIC MECHANISM OF THE CLUTCH IS AT FAULT. IT CANNOT MAINTAIN ADEQUATE PRESSURE TO ALLOW ENOUGH PEDAL TRAVEL TO SHIFT THE TRANSMISSION. RECOMMENDED FIXES INCLUDE REPLACING THE ENTIRE CLUTCH OR THE SLAVE CYLINDER/THROWOUT BEARING, AND MASTER CYLINDER FOR CLUTCH SYSTEM. ALL OF THESE SHORT LIVED FIXES ARE VERY EXPENSIVE AS THE TRANSMISSION MUST BE REMOVED EXCEPT FOR THE MASTER CYLINDER. JUST BLEEDING THE SYSTEM IS EXPENSIVE IF THE LEEK IS INTERNAL, WHICH IS USUALLY THE CASE. *TR
Mar 04, 2010
I DRIVE THE 2003 FORD RANGER EDGE V-6, 3.0. IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC MY TRANSMISSION SHIFTS VERY HARD INTO 2ND AND 3RD GEAR...IT HAS HAPPENED NUMEROUS TIMES THROUGH OUT THE YEAR I'VE HAD THE TRUCK. THE PROBLEM IS USUALLY FROM 0-25 MPH. I TOOK THE TRUCK TO THE DEALERSHIP, BUT THEY TURNED ME AWAY BLAMING ME FOR THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM....EVEN THOUGH MY TRUCK WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY. *TR
Jan 23, 2009
+ 8 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
9 complaints
ENGINE STOPS RUNNING WITH NO WARNING. HAPPENED 3 TIMES IN LESS THAN A MILE, UNDER 35 MPH.STARTED BACK UP .GAUGES WERE NORMAL WITH PLENTY OF FUEL. 1ST TIME ENGINE QUIT, I HAD JUST STARTED MOVING , NEXT 2 TIMES I WAS MOVING UNDER 35 MPH AALL TOOK PLACE IN LESS THAN 1/4 MILE IN TRAFFIC
Aug 02, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE SURROUNDING THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE FIRE WENT OUT BY ITSELF. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT OCCUPIED AT THE TIME OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 137,300. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Dec 28, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED THE HORN ACTIVATED ON ITS OWN. WHEN THE CONTACT PROCEED TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE SHE NOTICED THE VEHICLE ON FIRE AND SPREADED TO THE VEHICLE THAT WAS PARKED NEXT TO IT. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CONFIRMED THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 78,000.
Jun 10, 2013
INERTIA SWITCH BELOW PASSENGER SIDE DASH BOARD DEFECTIVE. HAD TO BE RESET FREQUENTLY (NO LESS THAN ONCE WEEKLY FOR 3 YEARS), UNTIL IT CAUSED SMALL ELECTRICAL FIRE BENEATH PASSENGER'S FEET. ENGINE STOPPED WHILE DRIVING 65MPH ON I-17 IN CENTRAL PHOENIX. HEAVY TRAFFIC CAUSED DIFFICULTY MANEUVERING ACROSS 3 LANES TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD. AN ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER WAS NEAR BY, AND ASSISTED TO PREVENT A COLLISION. PASSENGER PUT OUT THE FIRE WITH ONBOARD FIRE EXTINGUISHER. AFTER REPLACING THE INERTIA SWITCH (WHICH WAS BADLY DAMAGED BY FIRE), THERE HAVE BEEN NO FURTHER PROBLEMS. *TR
May 12, 2008
ON AUGUST 4TH,2007 MY FORD TRUCK WOULD NOT START. I HAD STOPPED AT WALGREENS TO PICK UP ASPIRIN AND UPON RETURNING TO MY TRUCK, IT WOULD NOT START. AS BEFORE I PUSHED THE FUEL PUMP RESET SWITCH. THE TRUCK DID NOT START. SO I REMOVED THE RESET SWITCH FROM UNDER THE DASH TO FIND IT HAD MELTED AND HAD MELTED THE PLUG. *JB
Aug 13, 2007
+ 4 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
8 complaints
MY 2003 FORD RANGER EDGE FRAME HAS RUSTED AROUND THE FUEL STRAP ON THE DRIVER SIDE. THE FRAME HAS RUSTED CLEAR THROUGH AND BROKE IN HALF. I HAVE SEEN SEVERAL COMPLAINTS ON THE INTERNET AS THIS IS SIMILAR TO WHAT WAS HAPPENING TO THE TOYOTA TRUCK THAT HAD IT'S FRAME RECALLED.
Sep 21, 2018
THE SPARE TIRE CARRIER(THE SHEET METAL PART THAT IS ATTACHED TO THE FRAME)RUSTED AND FELL OFF THE TRUCK WHILE THE TRUCK WAS GOING DOWN THE ROAD.
Aug 06, 2017
WHEN COMING TO A SLOW STOP AT A CITY STREET OR HIGHWAY AT STOP SIGNS AND STOPLIGHTS THE TRUCK STARTS TO ACCELERATE AS I PUSH THE BRAKE. WHEN I APPLY THE BRAKES THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATES TO A HIGH RPM 3500 , PLUS THE TIRES SQUEAL AND 3 PLUS SECONDS LATER I TURN THE KEY OFF BEFORE RESTARTING THE TRUCK. WHEN I RESTART THE TRUCK IT SEEMS TO BE OKAY. THIS HAS HAPPED TO ME 4 TIMES, AND SO FAR NO DAMAGE TO PROPERTY OR PERSONS. I HAVE PARKED THE TRUCK AS I FEEL IT IS UNSAFE TO CONTINUE TO DRIVE THE TRUCK. IT IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. THE LAST TIME I DROVE IT, I WAS GOING TO A FRIENDS HOME AT A GATED COMMUNITY. AS I TRIED TO STOP TO ENTER TO STOP TO ENTER THE CODE THE TRUCK ACCELERATED AS I BRAKED THE I TURNED THE KEY OFF AND THE TRUCK CAME TO A STOP. I HAVE BEEN FORTUNATE SO FAR THAT I HAVE NOT HIT ANOTHER VEHICLE, OBJECT OR PERSON WHEN THESE INCIDENTS HAVE HAPPENED.
May 11, 2017
TWO TIRES, DOUGLAS XTRA-TRAC II, BOUGHT FROM A LOCAL BIG RETAILER ARE NOT UNDER WARRANTY. BOTH TIRES BOUGHT ON APRIL 8, 2016 WITH LESS THAN 5000 MILES ON THEM ARE SHOWING SIGNS OF BAND SEPARATION IN THE OUTER SIDEWALL. I MUST CONTACT THE MANUFACTURER TO GET ANY ASSISTANCE WITH THE ISSUE. I PLAN TO DO THIS IMMEDIATELY, HOWEVER, I AM CONCERNED THAT I MAY HAVE A BLOWOUT WHILE DRIVING. PLEASE INVESTIGATE THESE TIRES AND SAVE MANY LOW INCOME CONSUMERS FROM FURTHER AUTO DAMAGE AND GREATER EXPENSE. THE VEHICLE IS SHUDDERING WHEN OPERATING AT SPEED OF 43-65 MPH.
Jul 17, 2016
I WAS DRIVING MY FORD AND THE BACK BUMPER DROPPED ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE, SENDING IT AND THE SPARE TIRE TO THE PAVEMENT. AFTER FURTHER INVESTIGATION, IT HAS BEEN DETERMINED THAT THE FRAME IS RUSTED THROUGH AND ONLY HOLDING ON BY A SMALL BIT ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. ALSO, THE SPARE TIRE SUPPORT IS ONLY HOLDING BY APPROXIMATELY 1 1/2 INCHES. IN ADDITION, THE CROSS MEMBER FORWARD OF THE SPARE TIRE SUPPORT THAT SUPPORTS THE EVAPORATIVE EMISSIONS CONTROLS IS VIRTUALLY ROTTED IN HALF.
Oct 19, 2015
+ 3 more complaints for this component
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
7 complaints
DIFFICULTY IN FILLING GASOLINE IN 2003 FORD RANGER. IT SEEMS TO BE A SYSTEMIC PROBLEM THAT MANY RANGER OWNERS EXPERIENCE. NOT ONLY IS IT A SAFETY HAZARD BECAUSE OF THE CONSTANT SPLASH-BACK OF GASOLINE WHEN FILLING, BUT IT'S ALSO AN ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARD WITH ALL THE SPILLED GASOLINE ON THE GROUND. *TR
Sep 08, 2010
WHILE STATIONARY AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT, A SMELL OF GASOLINE ENTERED THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT FOLLOWED A FEW SECONDS LATER BY A MUFFLED EXPLOSION IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT FOLLOWED QUICKLY BY BLACK SMOKE AND FLAMES POURING OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND UNDER THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED FORWARD OF THE TRUCK BED. *TR
Jul 13, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SLOW TO FILL WITH FUEL. ONCE THE TANK WAS FILLED, GASOLINE WOULD SPILL BACK OUT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THEY COULD NOT REPAIR THE FAILURE. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT INSTALLED A NEW FUEL FILTER IN THE VEHICLE IN MARCH OF 2008. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 50,000. UPDATED 6/15/09 *CN UPDATED 06/16/09.*JB
May 27, 2009
FAILURE OCCURS ON A 2003 RANGER EDGE 4WD 4.0L EXTENDED CAB, IN THIS CASE, AS WELL AS IN MANY OTHER MODEL YEARS AND STYLES OF THE FORD RANGER PICKUP. FORD DESIGN FLAW IN PLACEMENT OF FUEL PUMP CUTOFF SWITCH (INERTIA SWITCH) IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT WHERE IT CAN BE EASILY KICKED (TRIGGERED) BY PASSENGER. DESCRIPTION OF INCIDENT: 1. ENGINE TURNED OFF AT SUPERMARKET, VEHICLE PARKED ON A COLD JANUARY NIGHT. PASSENGER INADVERTENTLY TRIPS FUEL PUMP CUTOFF SWITCH WITH FOOT WHILE EXITING THE VEHICLE. PARTIES RETURN TO A VEHICLE THAT WILL CRANK BUT WILL NOT START. UNAWARE OF FORD'S DESIGN FLAW, PARTIES WALK HOME IN FREEZING TEMPERATURES BURDENED WITH VALUABLES AND GROCERIES. INTERNET RESEARCH ON WIKI ANSWERS SITE REVEALS TRIPPED FUEL CUTOFF SWITCH AS COMMON PROBLEM AS A RESULT OF A DESIGN FLAW THAT PLACES SAID SWITCH WITHIN EASY KICKING DISTANCE OF PASSENGER'S FEET. OWNER RETURNS TO TRUCK NEXT DAY, RE-SETS THE SWITCH AND VEHICLE STARTS NORMALLY. 2. THE FAILURE OCCURS WHENEVER PASSENGER RAISES THEIR RIGHT FOOT, INADVERTENTLY MAKING CONTACT WITH THE SWITCH. 3. THE FAILURE WAS CORRECTED BY RE-SETTING THE SWITCH, BUT DESIGN FLAW PERSISTS. THIS DESIGN FLAW COULD BE EXTREMELY HAZARDOUS IF SWITCH WAS KICKED (TRIGGERED) AT SPEED ON CROWDED FREEWAYS OR IN REMOTE LOCATIONS. THIS IMPROPER PLACEMENT MAY BE PURPOSEFUL TO KEEP FORD REPAIR TECH'S BUSY, AS THIS DESIGN FLAW IS FOUND IN MANY MODEL YEARS AND STYLES OF THE RANGER PICKUP. VEHICLES SHOULD BE RECALLED TO HAVE SWITCH RE-MOUNTED UP A MINIMUM OF 4 INCHES, OR REROUTED AND PLACED UP UNDER THE DASH SO INADVERTENT TRIGGERING COULD NOT OCCUR BY PASSENGER SHIFTING FEET OR EXITING VEHICLE. *TR
Jan 11, 2009
THE INERTIA SWITCH LOCATED AT THE TOP OF THE PASSENGER FLOOR BOARD ENGAGES AT THE SLIGHTED BUMP. I'VE HAD THIS CAR FOR 5 YEARS AND CONTINUE TO GET FALSE INFORMATION FROM THE FORD DEALERSHIP ABOUT AVENUES OF RECOURSE OR RECTIFICATION. ITS A FAULTY DESIGN FOR THE INERTIA SWITCH TO BE LOCATED NEAR POSSIBLE CONTACT WITH A PASSENGER. LEGAL RECOURSE WILL BE PURSUED. *TR
Nov 03, 2008
+ 2 more complaints for this component
TIRES
7 complaints
I HAD A TIRE BLOWOUT DUE TO TREAD SEPARATION. CAUSED ME TO LOSE CONTROL ON THE FREEWAY AND I WENT DOWN A 40 FOOT EMBANKMENT THROUGH A STATE CHAINLINK FENCE AND I LANDED IN A CONCRETE WATER DRAINAGE DITCH. RESULTING IN MY TRUCK BEING A TOTAL LOSS. *TR
Dec 28, 2009
MY WIFE WAS DRIVING OUR FORD RANGER WHEN A GOODYEAR WRANGLER TIRE HAD A SIDEWALL BLOWOUT IN 3 SPOTS. SHE HIT NOTHING OR RAN OVER NOTHING. TIRE SIZE IS AS FOLLOWS ( 235/75R15) 105S M + S . *TR
Jul 04, 2009
IN MAY 2005, I FOUND THAT I HAD A NAIL IN ON OF MY WRANGLER GOODYEAR TIRES AND I TOOK THE TRUCK TO GOODYEAR. WHEN THEY REMOVED THE TIRE THEY FOUND A CRACK NEAR THE BEAD. THE TIRE ONLY HAD 20,000 MILES ON IT. THEY CLAIMED THIS WAS THE FAULT OF FORD MOTOR COMPANY FOR IMPROPER MOUNTING OF TIRE. THEY CLAIMED THIS WAS COMMON. MY TIRE WAS REPLACED IMMEDIATELY WITH AN ADJUSTED FOR WEAR. I CONTACTED GOODYEAR AND FORD AND BOTH BLAMED THIS PROBLEM ON THE OTHER. BOTH COMPANIES SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF THEIR DECEPTIVE PRACTICES. IT IS GOOD THAT I HAD A NAIL IN MY TIRE OR I COULD HAVE BEEN INJURED WITH A BLOWOUT.
Jul 23, 2005
THE VEHICLE CAME EQUIPPED WITH 16 INCH TIRES, HOWEVER THE VEHICLE SPAR TIRE IS ONLY 15 INCHES. *NM
Feb 02, 2004
CONSUMER STATES VEHICLE'S SPARE TIRE DOES NOT MATCH THE REST OF THE TIRES, THE SPARE IS A SIZE 16 WHEN THE REST OF THE TIRES ARE 15. DEALER STATES ALL SPARES ON THAT YEAR AN MODEL ARE SIZE 16. *AK
Jun 23, 2003
+ 2 more complaints for this component
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
6 complaints
The frame of my truck has rotted through. The strap that holds the gas tank has nothing to connect to, i think the tank could fall to the ground under the right circumstances. The frame has a large whole in it and i fear it will break very soon. I had to remove the spare tire because i feared it would fall off the truck. I had to replace both connectors that held the leaf springs to the frame,and was told there wasn't much left to connect them to.
Apr 14, 2023
THE ENTIRE FRONT OF THE BED RUSTED APART AND NOW HAS A THREE TO FIVE INCH GAP BETWEEN FRONT BED WALL AND BED FLOOR. NEEDLESS TO SAY THE FRONT BOLTS THAT ATTACH THE BED ARE NO LONGER DOING ANYTHING TO HOLD THE BED DOWN. THIS RESULTS IN THE ENTIRE FRONT OF THE BED FLOPPING AROUND AND BOUNCING WHEN DRIVING. TO ADD INSULT TO INJURY THE REAR PORTION OF THE FRAME WHEN THE LEAF SPRING SHACKLES MOUNT ARE RUSTED THROUGH WITH SEVERAL HOLES VISIBLE, AND THE ENTIRE PASSENGER SIDE LEAF SPRING SHACKLE RUSTED APART AND BUSTED OFF THE FRAME THE OTHER DAY WHILE DRIVING ON A STATE HIGHWAY AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. IT TOOK ME 11 HOURS TO GRIND OFF THE OLD RIVETS AND REPLACE THE SHACKLE BUT AM UNSURE IF THE FRAME WILL HOLD UP DUE TO THE SEVERE PERFORATION'S FROM RUSTING. THE OTHER SIDE HAS NOT COMPROMISED YET BUT IT IS IN REALLY BAD SHAPE AND WILL BE FALLING APART IN THE NEXT FEW MONTHS. HOPEFULLY IT WONT RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT WHEN IT DOES GO.
Oct 18, 2017
CHASSIS AND SUSPENSION EXHIBITS EXCESSIVE CORROSION FOR THE YEAR AND MILES. VERY HEAVILY CORRODED AND PITTED WHILE THE EXTERIOR IS RUST FREE. THE TRUCK IS A 2003 WITH 90000 MILES. *TR
Feb 02, 2015
TRUCK MADE A CLUNKING NOISE GOING AROUND A TURN. CHECKED IT OUT AND FOUND THE REAR SPRING SHACKLE AND HANGER HAD RUSTED OFF. WHEN REPLACING FOUND THE SPARE TIRE WELL AND HANGER ALL RUSTED WHICH COULD HAVE DROPPED THE SPARE TIRE ONTO THE ROAD. ALSO THE FRAME IS RUSTED COMPLETELY THROUGH AND NEEDS REPAIRED. ALSO WITH IT RUSTED AT THE REAR WHERE THE HITCH ATTACHES I COULD LOSE ANYTHING I MAYBE TRAILERING. MY FRAME IS HORRIBLE FOR THE YEAR AND UNSAFE. *JA
Apr 12, 2014
BODY, CHASSIS, AND ALL SUSPENSION IS RUSTED TO A NON-REPAIRABLE CONDITION. BOLTS HAVE TO BE CUT TO FREE, BODY UNDERPINNINGS HAVE DENIGRATED TO NOTHING, AND PAINT IS BUBBLING. *TR
Jan 07, 2014
+ 1 more complaint for this component
SUSPENSION
6 complaints
I had been noticing some squeaking form the rear of my 2003 Ford Ranger. I thought it was my breaks. It turned out that the mounts for the rear springs had rusted out. My mechanic also noticed a hole, in the frame, resulting from rust. The hole is located on the inside surface of the frame on the passenger side just forward of the passenger compartment. Since the hole was discovered I stopped using the Ranger due to safety concerns.
May 21, 2021
CHASSIS ROTTING OUT. LOST SPARE TIRE CARRIER AND REAR FRAME SUPPORT. SPRING PERCH ROTTED OFF CHASSIS. OTHER AREAS ARE BEGINNING TO ROT OUT ON FRAME RAILS! THINGS CAME APART IN MOTION BUT WAS ABLE TO SAFELY REMOVE UPON STOPPING
Sep 14, 2020
REAR BUMPER MOUNT FRAME ROT
Sep 20, 2017
HAD A RIGHT REAR SPRING SHACKLE REPLACED FROM BEING BROKEN IN HALF FROM CORROSION OF RUST. AUTO REPAIR SHOP SAID "REAR FRAME RAILS ARE PAPER THIN FROM RUST." "ESPECIALLY THE RIGHT SIDE". THEY TOLD ME THE VEHICLE WOULDN'T PASS INSPECTION EVEN AFTER THE INSPECTION HAD JUST BEEN RENEWED LESS THAN A YEAR AGO. RUST DOESN'T HAPPEN THAT FAST.
Sep 05, 2017
THERE IS NO INCIDENT AND PERHAPS THIS MAY NOT BE THE CORRECT PLACE TO FILE THIS COMPLAINT BUT YOU CAN BE THE JUDGE OF THAT. MY COMPLAINT IS I OWN A 2003 FORD RANGER 4WD SUPER CAB WITH GOODYEAR FACTORY INSTALLED TIRES WHICH ARE WEARING UNUSUALLY (CUPPING/CHOPPING). TIRES HAVE BEEN ROTATED BY FORD DEALER, BALANCED, PROPER AIR PRESSURE MAINTAINED AND ALIGNMENT CHECKED. VEHICLE HAS 16,500 MILES ON IT. TIRES ARE CAUSING VIBRATION AND NOISE. I BELIEVE THERE IS A SAFETY HAZARD BECAUSE I CAN'T FEEL OR HEAR IF ANOTHER COMPONENT IS FAILING. DEALER HAS TOLD ME HE SEES AN AVERAGE OF 6 FORD RANGERS WITH THE SAME PROBLEM EACH WEEK. FORD TELLS ME THERE IS NO RECALL OR DIRECTIVE TO REPLACE THE TIRES AND THEY WILL NOT REPLACE THEM. GOODYEAR TELLS ME THAT FORD HAS ISSUED A BROADCAST SERVICE BULLETIN TO ITS DEALERS TO REPLACE THESE TIRES WITH A LARGER SIZE. HAVE NO ACCESS TO THIS BULLETIN BUT QUESTIONED FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE AND THEY SAID THEY HAVE NO ACCESS TO BROADCAST BULLETINS. FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE SAID THIS TYPE OF TIRE IS NOT EXPECTED TO WEAR NORMALLY BECAUSE OF ITS DESIGN. WHY THEN PUT IT ON THE VEHICLE? CONVERSATION WITH FORD WAS ON THE PHONE AND I SHOULD HAVE WRITTEN EXACTLY WHAT THEY SAID BUT THIS IS PRETTY MUCH IT. IF THE DEALER IS SEEING THIS MANY VEHICLES EACH WEEK THERE MUST BE A HUGE PROBLEM SOMEWHERE. *JB
Dec 17, 2004
+ 1 more complaint for this component
SEAT BELTS
6 complaints
THIS IS MY SECOND RANGER. THE FIRST(1998) I HAD AN ACCIDENT IN,THE SEAT BELT NEVER EMPLOYED, I RECEIVED CONCUSSION, I HAVE NOTICED THE SAME WITH THIS 2003 RANGER, SEAT BELT WILL NOT STAY TIGHT, OR EMPLOY WHEN JERKED ON.STATIONARY.
Aug 05, 2016
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER WHICH WAS PURCHASED IN 2008. SHE STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SEAT BELT WOULD NOT LATCH INTO THE LATCH MECHANISM. NEITHER THE MANUFACTURER NOR DEALER WERE CONTACTED TO DATE. THE CONTACT WAS NOT AWARE IF THERE WERE ANY RECALLS ON HER SPECIFIC VEHICLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE UNDER 108,000. UPDATED 02/1710 *BF UPDATED 02/19/10
Jan 11, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH DOWNHILL IN INCLEMENT WEATHER, THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO A DITCH ON THE OPPOSITE SIDE OF THE ROAD. DURING THE CRASH, THE VEHICLE ROLLED OVER ONCE AND LANDED IN THE UPRIGHT POSITION. THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. THE CONTACT WAS WEARING HIS SEAT BELT PRIOR TO THE CRASH; HOWEVER, HE NOTICED THAT THE SEAT BELT WAS UNFASTENED AS HE ATTEMPTED TO EXIT THE VEHICLE AFTER THE CRASH. HE HAS NOT FILED A FORMAL COMPLAINT WITH THE MANUFACTURER. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 40,700. UPDATED 02-07-08. *KB
Dec 17, 2007
AT ABOUT 6000 MILES I NOTICED THE VEHICLE VIBRATING WHEN I APPLIED THE BRAKES. I TOOK IT IN TO THE LOCAL FORD DEALER IN TEMECULA AND THEY TOLD ME THE ROTORS ON THE FRONT BRAKES WERE OVERHEATING. I MENTIONED TO THEM THAT I NEVER HAD A PROBLEM BEFORE ON THE MANY CARS I'VE OWNED OVER THE YEARS (AS I'M 54 YEARS OLD). THEY MACHINED THE ROTORS FOR FREE BUT TOLD ME IT WAS MY DRIVING. AT ABOUT 11,000 MILES I EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM. I BROUGHT IT TO THE SAME DEALER AND AFTER MUCH DISCUSSION WITH THE SERVICE MANAGER HE MACHINED THE ROTORS FOR FREE. ABOUT A MONTH AGO THE CAR STARTED VIBRATING AGAIN WHEN I APPLIED THE BRAKES. I CALLED THE FORD HOTLINE TOLL FREE NUMBER AND THEY TOLD ME TO TAKE IT BACK TO THE DEALER THAT WORKED ON THE BRAKES AND HAVE THEM SEND THEM A REPORT. THE DEALER STILL CANNOT FIND ANYTHING A MATTER WITH THE BRAKES. PLEASE BELIEVE ME, I DO NOT TAILGATE ON THE FEEWAY AND DO NOT DRIVE LIKE AN 18 YEAR OLD. I'VE NEVER HAD A PROBLEM WITH BRAKES BEFORE, OUTSIDE OF REPLACING PADS AND MACHINE THE ROTORS EVERY 35K MILES OR SO. AT THIS POINT I'M NOT SURE WHAT OPTIONS I HAVE. CAN YOU HELP? THANK YOU, DENNIS CULLEN. *AK
Nov 16, 2004
THE SEAT BELT(S) WHICH ARE IN THE REAR, (IF IN AN ACCIDENT/ROLL OVER), THE REAR DOOR(S) MAY OPEN AND THROW A PERSON OUT. SCC
Jan 23, 2003
+ 1 more complaint for this component
STEERING
5 complaints
"TAKATA RECALL" DRIVING HOME ON DEC 23, 2015 AND TURNING IN MY DRIVEWAY SOMETHING IN THE STEERING COLUMN ON RHE DRIVERS SIDE OF FIRE WALL LET GO AND THERE WAS NO WAY TO CONTROL THE STEERING. THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD JUST SPIN AROUND. VERY SCAREY BUT NO ACCIDENT .
Dec 26, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME EXTREMELY LOOSE AND FAILED TO OPERATE. THE CONTACT CRASHED THE VEHICLE INTO A BARRICADE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A BROKEN JAW, THREE BROKEN RIBS, AND HIS SPINE WAS INJURED, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
Oct 02, 2014
DT: THE CONTACT WAS TRAVELING AT 45 MPH WHEN THE VEHICLE HIT A PATCH OF ICE ON THE ROAD. HE LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND HIT A DITCH. THE VEHICLE THEN ROLLED AND HIT AN EMBANKMENT. THE VEHICLE T BUSTED IN TO FLAMES. THE OCCUPANTS WERE ABLE TO GET OUT OF THE VEHICLE BEFORE IT EXPLODED. THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN INSPECTED AT THIS TIME TO DETERMINE WHAT CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO EXPLODE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED.*AK
Dec 27, 2005
2003 FORD RANGER [XXX] I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK AT NIGHT. IT WAS RAINING LIGHTLY. I WAS DRIVING BETWEEN 30 AND 35 MPH. I HIT A POTHOLE WITH MY LEFT FRONT WHEEL. I LOST CONTROL OF MY VEHICLE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO REGAIN CONTROL. AFTER SWERVING BACK AND FORTH A FEW TIMES MY VEHICLE STRUCK A LIGHT POLE AND STOPPED. *JB THE POLICE OFFICER, MY COWORKER WHO STOPPED TO SEE IF I WAS OK AND I WERE ABLE TO LOCATE THE POTHOLE. IT WAS BIG BUT NOT HUGE, MAYBE 16" IN DIAMETER AND 6 TO 7 INCHES DEEP AT ITS DEEPEST POINT. THE REPAIR SHOP CALLED ME A FEW DAYS LATER AND REPORTED THAT THE IMPACT WITH THE POTHOLE HAD BROKEN THE RACK AND PINION STEERING SYSTEM ON MY VEHICLE. MY INSURANCE COMPANY AGREED TO PAY FOR REPAIRS ESTIMATED AT $7591. THE REPAIR SHOP HAS BEGUN WORK. THEY WERE NOT ABLE TO RETAIN THE STEERING BOX BECAUSE FORD NEEDED IT AS A CORE. I CONTACTED FORD. THEY ONLY REPLIED THAT THEY ARE VERY BUSY AND WILL GET BACK TO ME. IT HAS BEEN MORE THAN TWO WEEKS. *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Mar 03, 2005
INTERMITTENT FAILURE OF POWER STEERING WHEN TURNING. HAS HAPPENED CONSISTENTLY SINCE PURCHASE OF T HE VEHICLE IN MAY 2003. TAKEN TO DEALER FOR SERVICE TWICE AND EACH TIME THE DEALER HAS BEEN UNABLE TO CONFIRM THE DEFECT SO NO REPAIR HAS BEEN MADE TO DATE. THE TRUCK IS CURRENTLY AT THE DEALER TO DRIVE UNTIL DEFECT IS NOTED.
Sep 23, 2003
ENGINE
4 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE SPARK PLUG SHOT OUT OF THE ENGINE AND LEFT A LARGE HOLE IN THE ENGINE BLOCK. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS COASTED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND WAS LATER TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED A SPARK PLUG BLOWOUT AND STATED THAT A REPAIR KIT WAS NEEDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND ADVISED THE CONTACT TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO A LOCAL DEALER. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS. THE FAILURE WAS NOT REMEDIED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 142,000.
May 24, 2016
ENGINE STALLS AND WON'T RE-START DUE TO IMPROPER ACTIVATION OF THE PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM (PATS) WHICH IS FAULTY. ENGINE SHUTS OFF, NO POWER ASSIST, LIGHTS REMAIN FUNCTIONAL, ANTI-THEFT DASHBOARD LIGHT STARTS TO BLINK. VEHICLE WILL RE-START ONLY AFTER REMOVING AND RE-INSTALLING THE #19 FUSE TO RE-SET THE SYSTEM. IT MAY REQUIRE SEVERAL RE-SETS OF THIRTY OR MORE SECONDS EACH, AFTER WHICH THE VEHICLE MAY RUN NORMALLY FOR A SHORT DISTANCE OR UP TO SEVERAL MONTHS OF NORMAL DRIVING. THERE ARE FOLKS WHO SHARED THEIR SIMILAR EXPERIENCES ON-LINE ALERTING ME TO THE RE-SET PROCEDURE. I AM TOLD THE SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM REQUIRES THE REPLACEMENT OF THE POWER CONTROL MODULE, WHICH THE PATS IS PART OF, AND THAT IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO OTHERWISE DISABLE THE PATS ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM. *TR
May 06, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE CONTACT RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND THE ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 244,000.
Sep 15, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE THERMOSTAT HOUSING FAILED, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO LEAK ANTI-FREEZE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE THERMOSTAT HOUSING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE FAILURE WAS RECURRING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 142,000.
Jan 15, 2014
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
4 complaints
THE FRONT TURN SIGNAL DO NOT WORK ALL THE TIME. *TR
Jun 19, 2014
FOG LAMP LENSES ON 2003 FORD RANGER PICK-UP TRUCK KEEP CRACKING. DEALER CLAIMS ROADSIDE DEBRIS IS THE CAUSE. HOWEVER, BOTH LENSES HAVE CRACKED TWICE AT THE SAME TIME. COMPLAINTS HAVE BEEN MADE TWICE TO FORD MOTOR CO. WHICH HAS NO RECALL RECORD FOR THIS TYPE OF INCIDENT. *NM
Feb 03, 2006
I WAS BLINDED BY ONCOMING HEAD LIGHTS NOT SET TO HIGH BEAM AND DISTRACTION FROM VERY BRIGHT HEAD LIGHTS IN REAR VIEW MIRROR (ALSO NOT ON HIGH BEAM). THE SOURCE IS FORD RANGER PICKUPS BUILT IN THE LAST 5 YEARS. OTHER MAKES OF TRUCKS AND SUV'S CAN BE BAD, BUT THE RANGER IS THE WORST OF THE BUNCH. *LA
Oct 30, 2003
VEHICLE'S BRAKE LIGHTS ALSO FUNCTION AS THE TURN SIGNALS INDICATORS. CONSUMER FEELS THIS DESIGN IS VERY UNSAFE BECAUSE IF YOUR ARE BRAKING AND SIGNALING FOR A TURN, YOU LOSE 1/2 OF BRAKING "VISIBILITY" TO ALERT OTHER TRAVELING VEHICLES. THIS DESIGN DEFECT INCREASED THE RISK OF REAR-END COLLISIONS.
Jul 30, 2003
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
4 complaints
AS I SLOWLY PULLED MY 2003 FORD RANGER INTO A PARKING SPACE AT WORK THIS MORNING WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE THE TRUCK SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. I APPLIED THE BRAKE HARDER AND THE TRUCK STOPPED. I VERIFIED THAT I DID NOT HAVE MY FOOT ON BOTH THE BRAKE AND ACCELERATOR, ONLY ON THE BRAKE. *TR
Oct 11, 2010
BRAKE PEDAL AND ACCELERATOR PEDAL TOOOO CLOSE TOGETHER! DISTANCE OF 2 & 1/4 " CAUSES CONTACT WITH ACCELERATOR WHEN BRAKE IS BEING APPLIED NUMEROUS INCIDENTS SINCE PURCHASED VEHICLE IN 03.. I WEAR A SIZE 9 &1/2 TO A 10 & 1/2 SIZE SHOE. EVEN THOUGH I AM AWARE OF THE PROBLEM, I FIND THAT IT KEEPS HAPPENING REPEATEDLY; BUT I ONLY BUMPED A CURB ONCE WITH MY TIRES. *TR
Mar 09, 2010
THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN TAKEN TO THE DEALER ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS FOR BRAKE FAILURE AND ACCELERATOR PROBLEMS. *NM *JB
Jan 27, 2005
CONSUMER STATED THE PEDALS ARE SO CLOSE TOGETHER THAT SOMETIMES WHEN DRIVING HE HITS BOTH PEDALS AT ONE TIME. *AK THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE BRAKE NEEDS TO BE MOVED 2 TO 2 1/2 INCHES TO THE LEFT. *TC
Jan 05, 2005
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
3 complaints
EVERY SO OFTEN WHEN I STEP ON THE BRAKE AND ACCELERATE ONE TIME I ALMOST BACKED INTO SOMEBODY THERE'S BEEN A LOT OF COMPLAINTS ON THE INTERNET ABOUT THIS HAPPENING TO THEIR FORD RANGER 2003
May 28, 2018
I WAS BACKING DOWN A DRIVEWAY WHEN THE TRUCK ACCELERATED FULL THROTTLE WHILE I HAD MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE PEDDLE. I ENDED UP CRASHING INTO A TREE TOTALING MY 2003 FORD RANGER XLT.
Jan 07, 2016
THE POCKET ON THE FRAME THAT HOLDS THE FUEL TANK STRAPS RUSTED OUT. THIS COULD CAUSE THE FUEL TANK TO FALL OFF WHILE DRIVING AND CAUSE A FIRE OR EXPLOSION.
Aug 06, 2015
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
3 complaints
THE RIGHT REAR BRAKE DRUM HAD A 2" PIECE RUSTED OUT, THE LEFT REAR BRAKE HAD RUSTED SO BAD IT HAD BROKEN LOOSE IN THE DRUM AND THE SHACKLES HAD RUSTED COMPLETELY OFF. THE VEHICLE HAS NEVER BEEN LEFT OUTSIDE ALWAYS GARAGED, NEVER BEEN IN HIGH WATER OR EXPOSED TO A HIGH LEVEL OFF SALT. THE UNDER CARRIAGE IS ALWAYS WASHED AFTER ROAD SALT HAS BEEN APPLIED. THE UNDER CARRIAGE HAS MORE RUST THAN NORMAL FOR A VEHICLE TAKEN CARE OF AS THIS ONE. THE MECHANIC EVEN COMMENTED ON IT. IN 2010 THE REAR SHOCKS HAD TO BE REPLACED BECAUSE THEY HAD BEEN RUSTED THROUGH. *KB
Dec 29, 2011
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH ON NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD GRINDING NOISE WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR INSPECTION. THE FAILURE WAS CONTRIBUTED TO THE MANUFACTURER INSTALLING INCORRECT HUBS ON THE VEHICLE. THE SERVICE REPAIR COST WAS ESTIMATED AT $800. THE FRONT BRAKE PADS WERE REPLACED AND THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED TO NOT DRIVE THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE POTENTIAL SAFETY HAZARD. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED, BUT THERE WERE NO RESOLUTIONS. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 60,000.
May 14, 2009
WHEN BRAKING AT ANY SPEED THE CONSUMER WOULD HEAR A SQUEAKING NOISE. THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THAT FRONT BRAKE ROTORS WERE WORN. THE PROBLEM WAS NOT RESOLVED. *AK THE VEHICLE ALSO DISPLAYED A LOUD CLUNK THAT FORD WAS UNDER THE FRONT END. THE NOISE APPEARED TO BE UPON SHIFTING ESPECIALLY WHEN GOING OVER BUMPS OR WHEN TURNING SHARPLY. *SC THE DRIVE BELTS WERE REPLACED
Feb 16, 2005
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
3 complaints
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING 60 MPH THE HOOD ON HIS VEHICLE CAME OPEN AND OBSCURED HIS VISION. THE LATCH ON THE HOOD AND THE HOOD CABLE ALSO FAILED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE REPAIRS WOULD BE APPROXIMATELY $260.00 AT THE OWNERS EXPENSE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 86,000. UPDATED 12/22/10 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED HE FIXED THE PROBLEM HIMSELF. UPDATED 12/23/10
Sep 01, 2010
THE STEEL CABLES THAT SUPPORT THE TAIL GATE OF MY 2003 FORD RANGER FAILED WITHOUT WARNING. THE TAILGATE DROPPED AND IT THE BUMPER. HAD I BEEN STANDING ON THE TAIL GATE OR HAD A LOAD PLACED ON IT I WOULD HAVE FALLEN TO THE GROUND OR THE LOAD WOULD HAVE DROPPED WHICH EITHER WOULD HAVE CAUSED INJURY. THE CABLES FAILED DUE TO CORROSION. THEY ARE COVERED BY A PLASTIC SLEEVE WITH OPEN ENDS WHICH ALLOWS WATER TO ENTER THE CABLE ASSEMBLY AND BECOME TRAPPED CAUSING THE CABLE TO CORRODED PREMATURELY. *TR
Jun 25, 2008
WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WAS BEING BY PASSED BY AN 18 WHEELER. THE AIR BLAST POPPED THE HOOD OPEN AND THE SAFETY CATCH KEPT THE HOOD FROM OPENING COMPLETELY. *AK *SC *JB
Jul 26, 2004
SEATS
2 complaints
ENTERING THE TRUCK I LEANED BACK WHILE GETTING SEAT BELT ON. SEAT SUPPORT BROKE CAUSING THE SEAT TO FALL BACK AGAINST THE BACK SEATS. VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY, THANK GOODNESS.
Oct 15, 2016
DRIVERS SEAT BACK COLLAPSED DUE TO A FAILURE OF A BOLT. *TR
Sep 01, 2012
SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
BOUGHT TRUCK USED AT 66018 MILES TRUCK NEEDED FRONT ROTORS TURNED ON 2/27/10 @ 79730 MILES (ROTORS WARPED) REPLACED FRONT ROTORS ON 12/31/11 (ROTORS WARPED) TRUCK AGAIN NEEDS FRONT ROTORS TURNED ON 7/18/13 @103055 MILES (ROTORS WARPED) TO DATE AT APPROXIMATELY EVERY 12,500 MILES THE FRONT ROTORS NEED TO BE TURNED. THE SAME BRAKE PADS ARE ON FROM WHEN I BOUGHT THE TRUCK WITH 37,037 MILES ON THEM. *TR
Jul 18, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ABS WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC HOWEVER, THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 78,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 96,000.
Feb 15, 2013
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
2 complaints
I HAVE A 2003 FORD RANGER REGULAR CAB 2 WHEEL DRIVE TRUCK. ON 5 OCCASIONS THE EMERGENCY FUEL SHUTOFF SWITCH LOCATED INSIDE THE CAB ON THE PASSENGER SIDE FIRE WALL HAS BEEN DISLODGE BY THE PASSENGER GETTING THERE FOOT ON THE CONNECTOR AND DISCONNECTING THE POWER PLUG FROM THE SWITCH THIS CAUSES THE TRUCK TO STALL IMMEDIATELY. I HAVE ONLY OWNED THIS TRUCK FOR APPROX 90 DAYS. IF THIS HAPPENS AT THE WRONG TIME THIS COULD GET SOMEONE HURT OR KILLED.
Jul 26, 2005
AFTER DRIVING 52 MILES (10 MILES CITY & 42 MILES HIGHWAY) WITH A FULL TANK OF FUEL, THE FUEL GAUGE SHOWS THAT THE VEHICLE USED 1/4 TANK OF FUEL. VEHICLE GETS BETWEEN 17 & 20 MILES TO THE GALLON. APPROXIMATE RANGE PER 1/4 TANK SHOULD BE BETWEEN 83 & 98 MILES. VEHICLE HAS A 19.5 GALLON FUEL TANK. THE FUEL GAUGE COMES OFF OF FULL VERY QUICKLY AND WHEN FILLING THE TANK WITH THE FUEL GAUGE IN THE RED (JUST OFF OF EMPTY) IT WILL ONLY TAKE 13.7 GALLONS OF FUEL. THE TANK HAS BEEN DRAINED AND FILLED TO VERIFY THAT THE TANK IS A 19.5 TANK. THE FUEL GAUGE AND FUEL METER HAVE ALSO BEEN REPLACED WITHOUT ANY CHANGE IN THE CONDITION. WAS ADVISED BY FORD THAT THIS IS NORMAL OPERATION EVEN THOUGH THERE IS A SERVICE BULLETIN (NHTSA # 0179/FORD #01-11-2) TO ADDRESS THIS EXACT CONCERN FOR 2001 MODEL YEAR FORD RANGERS. THE SUMMARY DESCRIPTION STATES: SOME VEHICLES BUILT BEFORE 3/26/2001 MAY EXHIBIT A FUEL GAUGE THAT DROPS FROM FULL TOO FAST OR INDICATES LESS THAN THE ACTUAL FUEL LEFT IN HE TANK (EXCESSIVE TANK RESERVE). WAS ADVISED THAT THIS APPROXIMATE 6 GALLON RESERVE WAS THERE TO ALLOW THE CUSTOMER TO MAKE IT TO A FILLING STATION SAFELY WITH THE TANK ON E. THIS IS TELLING ME THAT WHEN THE TANK READS ALMOST EMPTY THERE IS STILL OVER A QUARTER TANK OF FUEL IN THE TANK. WITH THE GAUGE READING THIS WAY YOU ARE NOT SURE HOW MUCH FUEL YOU HAVE. FOR THE PRICE OF VEHICLES, CONSUMERS SHOULD NOT HAVE TO RELY ON CALCULATING THEIR MILEAGE AND USING THE ODOMETER TO GUESS THERE FUEL RANGE. I THOUGHT THIS WAS THE PURPOSE OF THE FUEL GAUGE. *LA
Oct 18, 2003
STRUCTURE,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
Truck has no spare tire, totally missing the assembly and bracket originally used to hold the tire (have a junk one in the bed). The crossmember under the truck is about 50% intact is getting ready to fall off. Brake lines and rocker panals rotted out as well. Holes in the frame starting and a patch was already needed on the frame (drivers side rear). As well as a loose bed. The truck is very clean on top but underneath is rotting away like it has 200000 miles on it(truck is at 77,000). I want to remove the rust and coat it but im scared of punching through cause spots are brittle.
Jun 18, 2023
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
Airbag warning light always on.
Apr 04, 2023
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
WHEN AT STOP LIGHT ENGINE RPMS GO UP HIGH WHERE IT IS HARD TO HOLD VEHICLE STILL WITH BRAKES.
Dec 20, 2020
SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
BODY, FRAME AND SUSPENSION HAVE ALL BEEN RUSTED OUT. BUMPER RECENTLY JUST FELL OFF DUE TO RUST (WHILE PARKED). DOORS WON'T SHUT COMPLETELY DUE TO RUST, WHICH HAS LED TO THE INTERIOR LIGHT REMAINING ON OR PERIODICALLY TURNING ON THROUGHOUT THE DAY/NIGHT AND KILLING THE BATTERY. ENTIRE TRUCK IS ONE BIG PILE OF RUST ON WHEELS.
Sep 23, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. AFTER STARTING THE ENGINE AND TURNING ON THE HEATER, SMOKE AND FLAMES WERE PRESENT INSIDE THE VEHICLE COMING FROM THE DRIVER'S SIDE VENTS. A FIRE EXTINGUISHER WAS USED TO EXTINGUISH THE FLAMES. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. AUTONATION FORD MOBILE (901 EAST 1-65, SERVICE RD SOUTH, MOBILE, AL) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000. THE VIN WAS INVALID.
Nov 14, 2019
SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS,WHEELS
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH, THE SPINDLE ON THE DRIVER SIDE TIRE ROD BROKE. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE SWERVED FROM LANE TO LANE THE VEHICLE WENT OFF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE BECAME AIR BORN AND CRASHED IN A TREE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELTS WOULDN'T BUCKLE. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A CUT FROM THEIR EAR TO THEIR THROAT FROM THE SEAT BELT, THE CONTACT ALSO HAD A BURN MARK FROM THE SEAT BELT. THE CONTACT SOUGHT MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE CONTACT'S BROTHER WAS IN THE VEHICLE WAS AS WELL. THEY SUSTAINED AN INJURY BUT DIDN'T RECEIVE MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE CONTACT'S BROTHER SUSTAINED A CRACKED RIB. THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS THE ONLY VEHICLE EVOLVED IN THIS CRASH. NO OTHER MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NEEDED. A POLICE REPORT WAS MADE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. NO ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 129,000.
Aug 30, 2019
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
ENGINE QUIT RUNNING,TOOK TO MECHANIC. SPARK PLUG OVERHEATED BLEW WIRE OFF. ENGINE HAD WATER IN OIL. ENGINE IS RUINED. WAS ON HIGHWAY.HAD TO USE WRECKER TO MECHANIC.ONLY 160,000 MILES ON HIGHWAY. THOUGHT RECALL ON FORD TRUCKS TO ENGINES GIVING AWAY PREMATURELY.
Jan 23, 2019
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
FRAME AND CHASSIS HAS SEVERE ROT FRAME IS ALSO CRACKED. BUMPER FELL OFF WHILE DRIVING REAR BUMPER. THIS IS A 2003 FORD RANGER 5 SPEED 2 WHEEL DRIVE IT HAS LESS THAN 81000 MILES ON IT. THE BUMPER FELL OFF WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING DRIVEN. I DO NOT HAVE PICTURE OF FRAME BUT IF ASKED I COULD GET SOME.
Feb 11, 2018
STEERING,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
I WAS RECENTLY AN ACCIDENT DURING WHICH 3 THINGS OCCURRED THAT CONTRIBUTED TO MY INJURIES. THE FIRST THING THAT HAPPENED WAS STEERING WHEEL LOCKUP PREVENTING ME FROM TURNING OUT OF THE WAY. THE 2ND & 3RD THINGS OCCURRED WHEN THE TRUCK WAS IN FREE FALL. FIRST OF ALL THE SEATBELT FAILED TO RESTRAINED MY BODY DURING THE ACCIDENT SENDING ME STRAIGHT INTO THE STEERING WHEEL DURING WHICH TIME THE AIR BAG FAILED TO DEPLOY. SO THERE WAS NOTHING TO BRAKE MY IMPACT TO SAID STEERING WHEEL. ALL OF THE THIS TOOK PLACE ON A FREEWAY AT HIGH SPEEDS I WAS LUCKY THAT MY INJURIES WERE NOT WORSE THEN THEY ARE AND IN TIME THEY WILL HEAL. I WAS LUCKY, BUT THE NEXT PERSON MAY NOT BE SO, YOU NEED TO LOOK INTO THIS MATTER THOROUGHLY BECAUSE THE NEXT PERSON MAY DIE AS A RESULT OF THESE SAFETY FAILURES, AND THAT IS SOMETHING NONE US WANT.
Nov 02, 2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
1 complaint
I PURCHASE THIS TRUCK BRAND NEW FROM GENE EVANS FORD IN AUGUST 2003. I STARTED COMPLAINING TO THEM A WEEK LATER THAT THE TRUCK RIDES AS THOUGH MY BUTT IS HITTING THE PAVEMENT ON A TRIP I TOOK. EVERYONE IGNORED MY CONCERN IN THE SERVICE AND SALES DEPARTMENT. WHEN THE PROBLEM WAS FINALLY NOTICE. I WAS SOLD A BRAND NEW TRUCK WITH A SEVERE BENT AXLE AND THEY WOULD NOT DO ANYTHING TO REPAIR THE TRUCK NOR GIVE ME ANOTHER ONE. THEY ALL PLAYED DUMB AND STUPID AS TO NEVER SEEING THE PROBLEM IN THE BEGINNING. FORD STILL OWES ME RESTITUTION. DEALERSHIP SHOULD NOT BE ABLE TO DEFRAUD THE PUBLIC ON DAMAGE VEHICLES PAYING A FORTUNE FOR JUST TO KILL YOU OR SOMEONE ELSE. GENE EVANS KNEW THERE WAS A PROBLEM FROM THE ONSET. THERE HAS BEEN A LOT OF PROBLEMS WITH THIS TRUCK IN THE PAST, PRESENT AND MOST LIKELY IN THE FUTURE CONSIDERING THE REPAIRS THAT HAS ALREADY BEEN PUT INTO THE TRUCK OUT OF MY POCKET. MY VEHICLE DOES EVERTHING IN ALL MOTION AND NO MOTION AT ALL. DANGEROUS THINGS HAPPENS INCLUDING, CUTTING OFF CONSTANTLY, LIGHTS ARE DIM ON THE OUTSIDE SO IT IS VERY HARD TO SEE AT NIGHT,RAIN COMING IN THE REAR WINDOW, TRUCK STARTED SMOKING, FILLED THE RESERVOIR AND OVER FLOWED SPEWING THE ANTIFREEZE ALL OVER THE ENGINE. IT SOUNDED LIKE FOOD WAS FRYING IN VERY HOT GREASE. THERE IS A STINKING ODOR, SMELLS LIKE VERY STRONG URINE . SICKENING FEELING COMES OVER ME AND ANYONE IN THE TRUCK.ABS AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS WILL NOT GO OFF. THE PASSENGER WINDOW IS MOVING SLOW AS THOUGH IT IS GOING TO STOP. TRUCKS JUMPS WHICH CAUSING ME TO BOUNCE UP AND DOWN WHILE IDLING OR AT A STOP.
Feb 12, 2017
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
ENTIRE FRAME RUSTED OUT. WON'T PASS INSPECTION. OBVIOUSLY AN ONGOING PROBLEM. DRIVER SIDE BEHIND CAB TO BUMPER VERY BAD. IT IS ACTUALLY ALLTHE WAY INTO.WE GOT IT ON A LINE OF CREDIT. WE ARE OUT OF 5000.00 . REST OF TRUCK IS REALLY NICE
Aug 15, 2016
SEAT BELTS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
CRUSE-CONTROL IS VERY FLIMSY,SOME TIMES IT WILL NOT WORK,,, HAVE TO HOLD IT FROM BACK SIDE WHEN TRYING TO START CONTROL.IN MOTION, ON HIGHWAY.
Aug 05, 2016
SUSPENSION,WHEELS
1 complaint
SPIN OUT AND FISHTAILING ISSUE. I WAS TURNING A CORNER AND I STEPPED DOWN TO GET OUT OF THE WAY OF ONCOMING TRAFFIC. THE TIRES BEGIN TO SPINOUT; I LOST CONTROL OF THE TRUCK, CRASHED INTO THE CURB, AND BLEW OUT THREE NEW TIRES AND BENT 3 RIMS. I ALSO HAD SOME SMALL DAMAGE TO THE TRUCK'S BODY. THIS SPINOUT HAS HAPPEN ON MORE THAN ONE OCCASION. MOST VEHICLES WOULD BURN RUBBER, HOWEVER THIS TRUCK SPINOUTS AND HAS SOME FISHTAILING WHICH I CONSIDER A SAFETY ISSUE. I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHAT TO DO TO STOP THIS FROM HAPPENING AGAIN AND KNOW IF THERE ARE OTHER FORD RANGER TRUCK OWNERS HAVING THE SAME ISSUE.
Apr 06, 2016
STEERING,ENGINE
1 complaint
CARQUEST WATER PUMP NEW 18420011 (T4188) COMPLETE FAILURE AFTER 100 MILES. A NEW WATER PUMP WAS INSTALLED ONTO A 2003 FORD RANGER V6 3.0 VIN-V TRUCK. HE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN BETWEEN 25 - 60 MPH OFF AND ON FOR APPROXIMATELY 1 WEEK TOTALING ABOUT 100 MILES. UNDER NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS (30-35 MPH) AND WITH SLIGHT ACCELERATION, THE BEARING HOUSING SHEARED OFF FROM THE WATER PUMP BODY LAUNCHING THE COOLING FAN/CLUTCH INTO THE RADIATOR. POWER STEERING FAILED (NO DRIVE BELT) AND THE COOLING SYSTEM DUMPED IT'S CONTENTS. THE BODY OF THE PUMP IS STILL INTACT TO THE VEHICLE, BUT THE REST OF IT CAME OFF. UPON INSPECTION OF AN IDENTICAL PART FROM THE SAME STORE, THERE IS AN APPARENT CASTING COLOR DIFFERENCE ON THE PUMP. IT APPEARS THAT THERE IS A CASTING DEFECT PRESENT IN THE PUMP AND THE INSTALLED PUMP BROKE ALMOST PERFECTLY ALIGNED TO THE CASTING COLOR DIFFERENTIATION.
Mar 24, 2016
STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
2003 FORD RANGER SUDDENLY ACCELERATED UPON ATTEMPTING TO PARK. I WAS PULLING INTO MY PARKING SPOT WHILE APPLY THE BRAKES WHEN MY VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED, JUMPED A SNOW BANK AND HIT A LIGHT POLE. INDEPENDENT WITNESS REPORTED THE VEHICLE JUST TOOK OFF, REAR WHEELS RAPIDLY STARTED TURNING. I CONTACTED FORD MOTOR CO. WHO DID NOT SEEM TOO CONCERNED ABOUT THE INCIDENT AND HAD NO INTEREST TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE.
Feb 04, 2015
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
THE VEHICLE WAS RIDING VERY ROUGH AS THOUGH SOME ONE WAS KNOCKING ON THE ENGINE WITH A HAMMER. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER ( GENE EVANS FORD ) WHICH IS WHERE I PURCHASE IT FROM, ALL I WAS TOLD WAS THAT IS WHAT A TRUCK SUPPOSE TO SOUND LIKE. I CONTINUE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT THE ROUGHNESS OF THE TRUCK, NO ONE WAS CONCERN ABOUT MY COMPLAINTS. NOW HERE IT IS SEPTEMBER 2010, I TAKE MY TRUCK FOR A OIL CHANGE AND TIRE ROTATION IN NEW JERSEY AND THE REPAIR SHOP WRITES UP A INVOICE STATING MY REAR AXLE NEEDS AN ADJUSTMENT. THE FORD DEALERSHIPS HAS SERVICE MY VEHICLE ALL THIS TIME AND TO ME THEY MADE SURE THIS WOULD NOT BE DETECTED. I HAD AN ACCIDENT ON JANUARY 4,2014 AND MY AXEL IS NOW BENT FROM A SMALL IMPACT BECAUSE IT WAS NO GOOD FROM THE DAY I BOUGHT THE TRUCK. AUTO NATION WAS GOING TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE AND WHEN [XXX] THE MANAGER SAW THE INVOICES WITH THE DIAGNOSIS ABOUT THE ADJUSTMENT OF THE AXEL AND THE 2010 DATE ON IT, SOMEONE THERE TOLD STATE FARM THAT I DID NOT WANT THEM TO FIX THE TRUCK. IN ALL HONESTY THEY ARE THE ONLY ONE I WANTED TO HANDLE THIS REPAIR SO THEY COULD GIVE ME A BRAND NEW AXEL OR A BRAND NEW VEHICLE INSTEAD THEY LIED TO EVERYONE AND WALKED AWAY FROM THE PROBLEM. I HAD AND HAVE SUBMITTED CORRESPONDENTS TO FORD ALSO I HAD ASK TO SPEAK TO FORD REPRESENTATIVES AT SEVERAL DEALERSHIPS, I WAS TOLD BECAUSE OF THE HIGH MILEAGE THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO. THE MOST PECULIAR THING IS THAT ALL THE DEALERSHIP MADE SURE THAT NO ONE ADDRESS THE PROBLEM WITH THE AXLE ALTHOUGH THEY HAD BEEN ROTATING THE TIRES AND ALL AND ANY OTHER KIND OF REPAIRS THEY AS PROFESSIONALS KNEW THE TRUCK NEEDED. BEING A WOMAN NEEDED YOUR VEHICLE PROPERLY MAINTAINED AS TO ENJOY THE LONGEVITY OF SOMETHING YOU DEPEND ON DAY TO DAY JUST TO HAVE SOMEONE TO TAKE IT FOR GRANTED TO PRETEND THEY HAVE DONE YOUR TRUCK A VIABLE SERVICE TO KEEP YOU SAFE AND ON THE ROAD AT ALL TIME. HELP!!!! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Oct 31, 2014
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
BOUGHT THE 2003 RANGER NEW IN JAN 2004. LAST WEEK, AFTER COMING TO A STOP AT RED LIGHT, IT SUDDENLY BEGAN REVVING UP DRASTICALLY ( 3000 + RPM'S). BRAKE HARDER TO KEEP IT FROM RAMMING CAR IN FRONT. PUT IN PARK AND TURNED OFF WITH KEY. RE-STARTED AND IT RAN NORMALLY. IT HAS DONE THIS TWICE MORE SINCE THEN, ONCE WHEN I PUT IT IN REVERSE TO BACK OUT OF PARKING SPOT. BOTH TIMES IT RAN NORMALLY AFTER THE INCIDENT. NEVER HAD THIS HAPPEN BEFORE. CHECKED MATS AROUND THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, ALL CLEAR. THERE ARE 66,720 MILES ON ODOMETER, NO MAJOR PROBLEMS 'TILL NOW. ??? *TR
Oct 27, 2014
STRUCTURE,TIRES
1 complaint
THE UNDER-BED SPARE TIRE HOLDER ROTTED OFF THE FRAME AND DROPPED THE ENTIRE ASSEMBLY TO THE GROUND WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVING. *TR
Aug 28, 2014
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
LOST ALL BRAKES WHILE DRIVING. FOUND ALL BRAKE LINES ROTTED AND IN NEED OF REPLACEMENT. WHILE REPLACING LINES, NOTICED EXCESSIVE FRAME AND CROSS MEMBER DETERIORATION FROM RUST. BED CROSS MEMBERS COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY AND REAR SPRING HANGERS RUSTED SO BAD THEY ARE READY TO BREAK OFF. *JS
Jun 15, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, THE HEADLIGHTS AND THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTS SUDDENLY BEGAN TO FLICKER FOLLOWED BY THE VEHICLE STALLING. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT EXITED THE VEHICLE AND RETURNED THE NEXT DAY TO DISCOVER THE VEHICLE HAD CAUGHT ON FIRE AND WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A WRECKING YARD AND WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FIRE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 185,000. *TR
Feb 14, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
THE TRUCK STALLED IN TRAFFIC. ACTED AS IF IT WAS OUT OF GAS, BUT HAD HALF A TANK OF FUEL. CALLED TOW TRUCK. LUCKILY THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO SHOW ME THE INERTIA SWITCH, AND HOW TO RESET IT. WAS CHARGED 50 DOLLARS FOR THIS, DID NOT HAVE TO TOW VEHICLE. SINCE THEN IT HAS TRIPPED MANY TIMES WHEN I HAVE A PASSENGER, IT'S PLACEMENT IS SUCH THAT A PASSENGER'S FEET WILL TRIP IT VERY EASILY. IT NOW ALSO TRIPS FOR NO REASON, NO PASSENGER, NO BUMPING IT ETC. IT HAS TRIPPED WHILE DRIVING IN THE FAST LANE OF FREEWAY, NO PASSENGER IN VEHICLE. THIS IS VERY SCARY AND DANGEROUS. I HAD TO PULL TO LEFT SIDE OF FREEWAY, WITH NO POWER BRAKES, NO POWER STEERING ETC. EXIT VEHICLE, GO TO PASSENGER SIDE OPEN DOOR AND RESET SWITCH. VERY DANGEROUS. THIS "SAFETY FEATURE" CAN CAUSE AN ACCIDENT, NOT TO MENTION THE MULTITUDE OF REPORTS I HAVE READ OF PEOPLE HAVING VEHICLES TOWED AND REPLACING FUEL PUMPS WHEN THE ISSUE WAS ACTUALLY THIS SWITCH. I WAS LUCKY TO GET A TOW TRUCK DRIVER THAT WAS AWARE OF THE BAD DESIGN, AND IT ONLY COST ME THE 50 DOLLAR MINIMUM FEE FOR HIM SHOWING UP. I CALLED FORD, AND THEY WERE NO HELP AT ALL. THEY DENIED EVEN KNOWING THAT A PROBLEM EXISTS WITH THIS PART. I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED IN FORD. *TR
Oct 05, 2013
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
I OWN A 2003 FORD RANGER I BOUGHT NEW. ON NOVEMBER 26 2010 I PULLED INTO THE PARKING LOT @ WORK AND MY CLUTCH AND BRAKE PEDALS FELL TO THE FLOOR CAUSING A MINOR CRASH. THE PIVOT BRACKET THAT HOLDS THE STEEL PEDALS IS MADE FROM CAST ALUMINUM. I HAVE BEEN A ALUMINUM WELDER FOR OVER 10 YEARS AND IN MY OPINION THIS BRACKET IS VERY SUBSTANDARD. I SEARCHED THE WEB AND FOUND THAT OTHER PEOPLE HAD THE SAME THING HAPPEN ON RANGERS AND OTHER TRUCKS AND FORD CARS. IF I WAS ON THE ROAD THIS COULD HAVE BEEN MUCH WORSE. I SENT PICTURES AND A PIECE OF THE BRACKET TO A RECALL INVESTIGATOR. HE SAID ITS NOT A COMMON FAILURE SINCE HE CANT FIND ANY COMPLAINTS. *TR
Dec 21, 2010
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
I HAVE A 2003 FORD RANGER, WHEN I APPLY THE BRAKES THE VEHICLE SURGES. FORWARD; I PUT THE TRUCK IN PARK & SHUT OFF THE IGNITION. WHEN I RESTART. IT RETURNS TO NORMAL. THIS HAPPENS ON ONCE IN A WHILE. *TR
Aug 07, 2010
PARKING BRAKE
1 complaint
1. NO WARNING OR EVENT. 2. PARKING BRAKE CABLE SHEARED OFF BY LEAF SPRING. HAPPENED WHEN TRUCK WAS LOADED WITH 700 LBS IN BED OF TRUCK ( WITHIN RATED CAPACITY ). RESULTING IN LOSS OF PARKING BRAKES AND POSSIBLE RUNAWAY VEHICLE. 3. REPLACED BROKEN CABLE BUT FAILURE WILL HAPPEN AGAIN UNLESS THE CABLE GUIDE IS MODIFIED TO PREVENT THE SPRING FROM CHOPPING INTO THE CABLE ( NEEDS RAISED AN INCH ). *TR
May 12, 2010
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
THE FIRST TIME THE CAR ENGINE STARTED RACING UNCONTROLLABLY I WAS AT A STOP SIGN. THE SECOND TIME, THE SAME DAY 3/10/2010 I TURNED A CORNER AND WE TOOK OFF AT A VERY HIGH SPEED. BOTH TIMES I PUT THE VEHICLE IN NEUTRAL AND "GOOSED" THE GAS PEDAL AND THE ENGINE SETTLED DOWN TO A NORMAL SPEED. 2003 FORD RANGER. *TR
Mar 15, 2010
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,CHILD SEAT
1 complaint
2003 FORD RANGER PASSENGER AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY UNTIL 2 OR 3 SEC. AFTER THE ACCIDENT TRUCK HIT TREE ABOUT 40 MPH DRIVERS AIR BAG WENT OFF PASSENGERS DID NOT GO OFF PASSENGER BROKE BACK REAR BED OF TRUCK CAME INTO TRUCK LEAVING A ARROW SHAPE PEACE OF STEAL APPROX 4" LONG INSIDE OF TRUCK CAB WARE A 4 TO 5 FOOT TALL PERSON WOULD HAVE IT PERCHED INTO HEAD BECAUSE OF BEING BELTED INTO SEAT. *TR
Mar 08, 2010
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
WHILE USING RAMPS TO LOAD LAWN EQUIPMENT INTO THE BED OF MY 2003 FORD RANGER PICKUP, BOTH OF THE TAILGATE LIMIT CABLES BROKE SIMULTANEOUSLY. EXAMINATION OF THE FAILED CABLED INDICATED THEY BOTH BROKE AT THE SAME LOCATION, ROUGHLY THE MIDPOINT OF THE CABLE WHERE IT IS FOLDED WHEN THE TAILGATE IS IN THE UP POSITION. IT WOULD APPEAR THAT WATER MIGHT HAVE ENTERED THE CABLE SHEATH AND RUSTED THE CABLE. THIS FAILURE RESULTED IN THE TAILGATE DROPPING APPROXIMATELY SIX INCHED AND NEARLY CAUSING TWO PERSONS PLUS HEAVY EQUIPMENT TO FALL TO THE GROUND. THIS COULD HAVE RESULTED IN SERIOUS INJURY. THIS APPEARS TO BE A CLASSIC DESIGN FLAW. I TRIED TO GET NEW CABLES FROM FORD, BUT THEY ARE ON BACKORDER PENDING RE-DESIGN (ACCORDING TO THE PARTS DEPARTMENT AT THE FORD DEALER I WENT TO). THIS SEEMS TO INDICATE THAT FORD IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM BUT HAS NOT NOTIFIED ITS CUSTOMERS. *TR
Nov 26, 2008
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE
1 complaint
WHEN RELEASING THE PARKING BRAKE DURING WET CONDITIONS THE LININGS STICK TO THE DRUMS, THIS IS ESPECIALLY A PROBLEM IN THE WINTER MONTHS AS THEY WILL FREEZE. THIS ALSO CAUSES THE BRAKES TO BE EXTREMELY SENSITIVE DURING THE FIRST 5 MILES (APPROX) OF BRAKING. WHEN THE VEHICLE SERVICE BRAKES ARE APPLIED THE REAR WHEEL GRAB HARD AND THE ABS TRIES TO RELEASE THEM AND CAN'T. I HAVE HAD TWO FAULTS ON THE ABS DUE TO THIS. THIS IS NOT A ONE TIME THING THIS HAPPENS SO FREQUENTLY THAT DURING WET/FREEZING CONDITIONS I ACTUALLY USE A 4X4 WOOD BLOCK TO HOLD THE VEHICLE IN PLACE.. *TR
Oct 02, 2008
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
2003 FORD RANGER 4.0L 4WD AT. TWO OF THE SIX VALVE SEATS IN THE ENGINE DROPPED CAUSING THE ENGINE TO LOSE COMPRESSION AFTER LESS THAN 70K MILES. NOTICED LOSS OF POWER, TOOK IT IN AND HAD TO PAY OVER $2K IN REPAIRS EVEN THOUGH IT WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY. THE VALVE SEATS WERE REPLACED. THE PROBLEM WAS FIXED BUT A FEW MONTHS LATER WHILE MERGING TO FREEWAY SPEEDS THE CAR STALLED AND WOULD NOT RE-START. TOWED IT IN TO FIND THAT THE ENGINE HAD JUMPED TIMING AND BENT ALL SIX CRANK ARMS. AGAIN, REPAIRS WERE MADE. TOP END OF THE ENGINE WAS REPLACED INCLUDING THE CRANKS. THIS IS RIDICULOUS FOR A TRUCK WITH LESS THAN $70K MILES ON. I FEEL THE ORIGINAL REPAIR COSTS UPWARDS OF $2,000.00 SHOULD HAVE BEEN COVERED UNDER THE WARRANTY AS IT WAS AN INTERNAL ENGINE ISSUE AND BEEN REIMBURSED. ALSO A NEW ENGINE SHOULD BE INSTALLED OR VEHICLE TRADED AS THIS ENGINE IS OBVIOUSLY DEFECTIVE. ALL THE MEANWHILE THE MAIN REASON FOR TAKING THE VEHICLE IN FOR REPAIRS THREE TIMES PRIOR WAS TO FIX THE HUGE THUMP AND DELAY ON ACCELERATION THAT ALMOST CAUSED ME TO GET IN AN ACCIDENT! THE DEALER SAID THIS WAS NORMAL FOR 4WD TRUCKS AND THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH IT. YET EVERY 4WD I'VE DRIVEN, EVEN ONES WITH OVER 100K MILES ON THEM, ACCELERATE SMOOTHLY WITH NO THUMPING OR DELAY IN ACCELERATION. NEARING THE EXPIRATION ON MY WARRANTY DUE TO MILEAGE, I FEEL THE DEALERSHIP WAS TRYING TO PUSH THE ACTUAL REPAIRS OFF UNTIL THEN. THEY EVEN SAID THAT THE CAUSE OF THE THUMP WAS THAT THE TRANSMISSION MOUNTS WERE LOOSE. SO THEY "REPAIRED" THAT BUT IT HAD NO EFFECT AND THE ISSUE STILL REMAINS. THIS IS WHERE I STAND CURRENTLY AND AM TRYING TO GET THE TRUCK BACK IN THE SHOP, ONCE AGAIN, TO HAVE THIS ISSUE FIXED SO THAT I DO NOT ACTUALLY GET IN AN ACCIDENT. AND TO ADD TO THAT, THERE IS ONCE AGAIN A LOSS IN POWER, SO WE'LL FIND OUT IF THE VALVE SEATS HAVE ONCE AGAIN DROPPED... *TR
Nov 13, 2007
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
1 complaint
WAS DRIVING ON STATE HWY.20 @ 615PM, WHEN I NOTICED NO POWER WHEN I PRESSED ON THE ACCELERATOR, RPM SHOT TO 4000, THEN DROPPED DOWN WITH NO POWER,CARS BEHIND ME WERE FLASHING THERE LIGHTS, ARMS WAVING OUT THERE WINDOWS WHEN THE CAR CAME TO MY SIDE THEY WERE FRANTICALLY YELLING THAT I WAS ON FIRE. I IMMEDIATELY PULLED TO THE SIDE OF HWY. AND FLAMES WERE ROLLING INTO THE CAB OF THE TRUCK, IT WAS IN 2 WAVES THEN I WAS ABLE TO OPEN MY DOOR AND EXIT THE TRUCK.NOW FLAMES WERE ROLLING OUT OF THE REAR DRIVER SIDE WHEEL WELL, LUCKILY I HAD A FIRE EXTINGWISHER IN THE BED OF THE TRUCK WHICH I EXTINGWISHED IN THE WHEEL WHELL AND AS FAR BACK AS I COULD REACH,THIS PUT OUT THE FIRE,BUT NOT WITHOUT EXTENSIVE DAMAGE TO THE UNDERNEATH OF TRUCK INCLUDING THE GAS TANK WHERE GRASS VALLEY FORD DETERMINED THE FIRE ORINGINATED.AS THE HOT SPOT IS VERY DISTINGUISHING.FORD MOTOR CO IN DEARBORN MI.SENT ME A LETTER SAYING THEY WILL NOT ADDRESS THIS FAILER,AND WILL NOT GIVE ME ANY INFORMATION TO CONTACT ANYONE THAT CAN HELP RESOLVE THIS MATTER.A 4 YEAR OLD TRUCK THAT HAS NO MODIFICATIONS,AND HAS BEEN WWELL TAKEN CARE OF SHOULD NOT BURST INTO FLAMES,ENDANGERING LIVES.THEY ARE AT THIS POINT OFFERING NO ASSISTANCE TO CORRECT THIS PROBLEM.I CAN PROVIDE ESTIMATES FROM THE DEALERSHIP WITH PARTS LIST INCLUDED AS WELL AS THEM DETERMING THAT IT WAS A FIRE ORIGINATING AT THE GAS TANK..THERE WERE NO EVENTS LEADING TO THIS FAILER, NEVER A GAS SMELL JUST INSTANTLY INTO FLAMES..THANKS FOR YOUR TIME IN THIS MATTER..
Oct 19, 2007
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
1 complaint
TWO THINGS ON MY 2003 FORD RANGER SUPERCAB 2 WD : 1.) FRONT BRAKES ARE BAD, AND CONTINUE TO BE BAD, DUE TO BAD DESIGN OF FRONT ROTORS. THE ORIGINAL OEM ROTORS FAIL, DUE TO WARPING, RESULTING IN A MOST THE AGGRAVATING PULSING WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED. THIS RESULTS IN INADEQUATE STOPPING WHEN NEEDED, AND COULD CAUSE A VERY SEVERE ACCIDENT !!! 2.) THE FUEL CUTOFF SAFETY SWITCH ( WHATEVER IT IS CALLED) ABOVE THE FRONT PASSENGER LEG AREA (ON WALL -INSIDE CAB) IS DEFECTIVE, CAUSING SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES TO THE OCCUPANTS, DUE TO VEHICLE LOSING ALL POWER DURING OPERATION. THIS HAS HAPPENED TO ME NOW 10+ TIMES IN THE LAST 6 MONTHS. SOMETIMES WHILE IN HEAVY TRAFFIC, WITH NO WHERE TO GO WHEN ALL POWER IS LOST, GAUGES GO WACKY,LOSE STEERING CONTROL, ETC. AS SOON AS THE SWITCH IS "RESET", BY PUSHING IN ON IT FROM THE TOP OF IT, AND TURNING VEHICLE KEY TO ON POSITION FOR 3-5 SECONDS, THEN BACK OFF ( PER OWNER'S MANUAL) THE VEHICLE SEEMS FINE,,,UNTIL, RANDOMLY IT HAPPENS AGAIN WHEN YOU LEAST EXPECT IT. THE MANUAL SAYS THIS SWITCH IS FOR "SAFETY" CONCERNS , WHEN AFTER AN ACCIDENT, IT SHUTS OFF FUEL SUPPLY, ETC....BUT MY TRUCK HAS NEVER BEEN IN ANY ACCIDENT WHATSOEVER, AND THIS DEVICE IS NOW BECOMING A GREAT POTENTIAL ACCIDENT PRODUCER IN ITSELF !!!!! THE "INCIDENT DATE" IS MULTIPLE DATES !!!!! AND THEY ARE STILL CONTINUING AS OF TODAY 8 MARCH 2008 * I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY MECHANICS THE OEM BRAKES ROTORS ARE DEFECTIVE, BUT SINCE THERE IS NO RECALL, I WOULD HAVE TO PAY AGAIN,,,AND AGAIN,,,AND AGAIN...WHICH IS JUST NOT RIGHT. *JB
Mar 08, 2007
POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
SEVERE WATER LEAK IN ROOF AND REAR WINDOW EXACT LOCATION NOT DETERMINED YET. OWNER NOTICED WATER DRIPPING ON DRIVERS SEAT. UNDER HEAVY RAIN CONDITIONS THE CAB WILL FILL UP WITH WATER -ALL OVER THE FLOOR, CARPETS, MATS, ETC. WATER HAS CAUSED DAMAGE TO INTERIOR AND UPHOLSTERY. I TOOK THE TRUCK TO FORD''S SERVICE DEPARTMENT AND THEY REFUSED TO LOOK AT THE VEHICLE AS WELL AS REPAIR THE LEAK AND DAMAGE TO INTERIOR. THEY TOLD ME LEAKS ARE COMMON AND THEY WILL DO NOTHING ABOUT IT. SECOND DEFECT: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS DOES NOT SHIFT CORRECTLY WILL EVEN GET HUNG UP IN A GEAR; CAUSES HEAVY VIBRATION UPON BRAKING. SOME STEERING AND SUSPENSION COMPONENTS HAVE BEEN RECENTLY REPLACED BY OWNERS EXPENSE. *JB
Sep 16, 2006
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
2003 FORD RANGER EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH THE DOOR LOCKS.*MR DOOR LOCKED SPONTANEOUSLY, WAS INFORMED THAT FORD COULD NOT FIX THE PROBLEM. THE CONSUMER HAD TO PURCHASE A SPARE KEY TO KEEP OUTSIDE THE TRUCK. *BF *NM
May 06, 2005
TIRES,WHEELS
1 complaint
PROBLEMS WITH THE SIZE OF THE SPARE TIRE EQUIPMENT ON FORD RANGER.*MR THE SPARE AND WHEEL ARE NOT THE SAME SIZE OR SAME SPEC AS THE REST OF THE TIRES. THE SPARE WAS NOT RATED TO CARRY THE WEIGHT OF A FULLY LOADED TRUCK. THE TRUCK HAS 4 WHEEL ANTILOCK BRAKES BUT THE USE OF THE SPARE TIRE AND WHEEL RENDERED THE ANTILOCK BRAKES INOPERATIVE. *BF *NM
Apr 19, 2005
SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
SLID OFF ROAD, DRIVERS TIRES BLEW OUT VEHICLE ROLLED TWICE. DRIVER NOR PASSENGER SEATBELT RESTRAINED UPPER BODY. DRIVER'S HEAD WEDGED UNDER STEERING WHEEL AND UPPER LEFT BACK SHOULDER AND ARM EXITED THE VEHICLE. ROOF CAVED IN ON DRIVER, RESULTING IN MULTIPLE BREAKS, FRACTURES AND PARTIAL PARALLIZATION. PASSENGERS LEGS HIT CHEST FROM LACK OF RESTRAINING SEATBELT. *AK
Nov 28, 2004
EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
SILVER COATING AROUND A/C AND HEATER UNIT IS COMING OFF AND THE INSIDE DOOR HANDLES RATTLE AND ARE LOOSE. *CB
Jan 17, 2004
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
VEHICLE HAS DIED ON INTERSTATE FOUR TIMES AND HAD TO BE TOWED IN. FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-392-FORD STATES THAT THEY DON'T WANT TO REPLACE THE VEHICLE. I AM TOLD I SHOULD CONTINUE TO GET IT REPAIRED UNDER WARRANTY. MY CONCERN IS FOR THE SAFETY OF MY FAMILY WHEN WE ARE WAITING HOURS IN A SNOWSTORM FOR THE TOW TRUCK TO ARRIVE. I HAVE OWNED 8 FORDS IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS. THAT IS ABOUT TO CHANGE BECAUSE FORD MOTOR STATES THAT THEY HAVE FOLLOWED THE LETTER OF THE LAW CONCERNING REPAIRS UNDER THE WARRANTY. WE HAVE NOW REPLACED ONE FORD WITH A LEXUS AND ARE TOTALLY AMAZED AT THE DIFFERENCE OF ATTITUDE TOWARDS THE CUSTOMER. AT OUR FIRST FREE LEXUS OIL CHANGE MY WIFE WAS GIVEN A DOZEN LONG STEM ROSES. WHAT DO YOU THINK SHE IS SAYING ABOUT FORD THESE DAYS? NOW I UNDERSTAND WHY PEOPLE ARE BUYING MORE FOREIGN CARS AND TRUCKS.
Jan 15, 2004
SUSPENSION,TIRES
1 complaint
CONTINENTAL CONTITRAC TIRES CONSTANTLY VIBRATE. NOT POSSIBLE TO HAVE BALANCE LAST MORE THAN 100 MILES BEFORE VIBRATION STARTS AGAIN. *JB
Oct 03, 2003
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaint
BRAKE AND ENGINE PROBLEMS. *MR THE ROTORS WERE TURNED ON THE FRONT BRAKES AND A IDLER WAS INSTALLED BECAUSE THE ENGINE STALLED OUT. (TWICE AFTER THAT THE VEHICLE WAS RETURNED THE VEHICLE FOR THE SAME PROBLEM) *SCC *JB
Sep 03, 2003
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS FAILED AND WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP PROPERLY AND ACTED AS IF THE BRAKES WERE MANUAL, THE BRAKES HAD TO BE PUMPED BEFORE THE TRUCK STOPPED. THE VEHICLE WAS IN THE SHOP PREVIOUSLY BECAUSE THE EMERGENCY BRAKE FAILED TO RELEASE. *JB *TS
May 14, 2003
Where to Find VIN for Problems Check
To check for problems and complaints on your 2003 FORD Ranger, you'll need the VIN number. Find your VIN in one of these 4 common locations.
Understanding VIN Structure for Problem Reports
Each character in your 2003 FORD Ranger 17-digit VIN helps identify specific complaints and problems affecting your vehicle model.
How to Check 2003 FORD Ranger Problems in 3 Steps
1
Locate Your VIN
Find the 17-character VIN on your 2003 FORD Ranger dashboard (visible through windshield), door jamb, engine bay, or vehicle documents.
2
Review by Component
Browse owner-reported complaints organized by vehicle component (engine, transmission, brakes, electrical) to identify common issues and problem patterns for this model year.
3
Check Safety Issues
Review crash and fire incidents for each component to assess safety concerns. Contact your FORD dealer or report problems to NHTSA at SaferCar.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2003 FORD Ranger have?
The 2003 FORD Ranger currently has 243 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 2003 FORD Ranger?
The most common problems reported for the 2003 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 2003 FORD Ranger problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2003 FORD Ranger comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
How do I report problems with my 2003 FORD Ranger?
You can report safety problems with your 2003 FORD Ranger directly to NHTSA at SaferCar.gov or call 1-888-327-4236. Your complaint helps identify patterns and may lead to recalls or investigations.
Where can I find my VIN to check problems?
Your 2003 FORD Ranger VIN is located in 4 places: (1) Dashboard near windshield on driver's side, (2) Driver's door jamb sticker, (3) Engine bay, (4) Vehicle registration and insurance documents.
Is the 2003 FORD Ranger reliable?
Reliability can be assessed by reviewing the number and severity of owner complaints for the 2003 FORD Ranger. Check complaints by component, crash reports, and fire incidents above to evaluate potential issues and problem patterns.
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