WORST Ford Ranger Years To Avoid, as per Real Owner Complaints

Buying a used truck can be tricky, especially when it comes to the Ford Ranger. Some model years have more problems than others.

For instance, Rangers from 1999 to 2003 often have electrical issues and transmission problems. The 2007 and 2008 models also have safety concerns like faulty airbags.

Knowing which years to avoid can save you a lot of trouble and help you get a more reliable truck. Want to know more? Let’s dive into the details.

Key Takeaways

• 1999 Ford Ranger: Known for electrical problems and wiring issues that affect reliability.
• 2000 Ford Ranger: Common issues with airbag failures and transmission breakdowns.
• 2001 Ford Ranger: Ongoing problems with the transmission and airbag deployment.
• 2002 Ford Ranger: Engine stalls frequently and has poor safety ratings.
• 2007 Ford Ranger: Major steering problems and unpredictable transmission shifts.

Understanding the NHTSA Complaints

When looking at the NHTSA complaints for the 1999 Ford Ranger, you’ll see that electrical problems were the most common. There were 963 complaints about issues like the temperature gauge acting weird and the wipers turning on by themselves.

These problems point to big flaws in the vehicle’s wiring and electronic controls. The large number of complaints shows that these issues were widespread, which probably made the truck less reliable and less satisfying for owners.

Knowing about these NHTSA complaints can help you understand the risks of buying or maintaining a 1999 Ford Ranger. The data strongly suggests you should be cautious, especially given how common these electrical problems were.

Common Problems With Ford Rangers

Looking at the common problems with Ford Rangers, especially the models from 1999 to 2003, you’ll notice they often had issues with the electrical system, temperature gauges, and transmissions. These problems made the vehicles less reliable.

Here are the three main problem areas:

1. Electrical System Failures: These included bad wiring and battery drains, leading to frequent stalling and trouble starting the truck.
2. Erratic Temperature Gauges: Many owners reported that the temperature gauges gave wrong readings, which could cause the engine to overheat or not heat up properly.
3. Transmission Issues: Problems like slipping gears and hard shifts were common and often required expensive repairs.

When thinking about getting a Ford Ranger, it’s important to know about these common issues so you can avoid future headaches.

Major Issues in 1999 Ford Ranger

If you’re thinking about getting a 1999 Ford Ranger, be aware that it has some big problems with its electrical system and transmission.

A lot of owners have reported issues like the temperature gauge acting up and the windshield wipers turning on by themselves.

Also, the transmission can shift unpredictably, which can really affect how the truck drives and how safe it is.

Electrical System Failures

The 1999 Ford Ranger is known for having major electrical issues that have led to numerous complaints and safety concerns from owners. These problems weren’t just small annoyances but affected important parts of the vehicle. Owners often reported:

1. Erratic temperature gauges: These gave incorrect readings, which could cause the engine to overheat.
2. Random wiper activation: The wipers would turn on by themselves, distracting drivers and making it hard to see.
3. General electrical problems: These included issues with lights, ignition, and other key systems.

These electrical issues made the 1999 Ranger unreliable and unsafe.

If you’re thinking about buying a used Ford Ranger, it’s best to avoid the 1999 model to steer clear of these ongoing problems.

Transmission Shifting Problems

The 1999 Ford Ranger had serious transmission shifting problems that made it hard to drive and less reliable. Many owners reported issues like rough shifts, delays in shifting, and uneven acceleration. These problems were so common that a lot of complaints were filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The shifting issues not only hurt the vehicle’s performance but also highlighted the need to research and think about possible repair costs when looking at this model. If you’re thinking about getting a 1999 Ford Ranger, keep in mind that transmission problems are a big downside and could lead to expensive repairs.

Why Avoid 2000 Ford Ranger

Avoid the 2000 Ford Ranger because it has a lot of serious problems. Here are the main issues:

1. Airbag Failures: Many people reported that the airbags didn’t work properly, which is a major safety risk.
2. Transmission Issues: This model often had transmission problems, leading to expensive repairs and possible breakdowns.
3. Electrical Problems: Owners commonly experienced issues like dome lights that wouldn’t turn off and other electrical glitches.

The 2000 Ford Ranger received 853 complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and had several recalls and engine problems. Because of these issues, it’s not a good choice for a reliable vehicle.

Troubles in 2001 Ford Ranger

If you’re looking at the 2001 Ford Ranger, be aware that it has major transmission issues, like rough shifting and failures.

The airbags also have problems, sometimes not deploying when needed, which is a big safety risk.

These ongoing issues make the 2001 model unreliable and not a great performer.

Persistent Transmission Issues

The 2001 Ford Ranger often has transmission problems, with many owners facing issues like rough gear changes, unpredictable behavior, and even total transmission breakdowns. These problems can seriously affect how reliable and well the truck performs, making this model year one to be cautious about.

Common issues include:

1. Rough Shifts: Many owners feel harsh or jerky gear changes, which can be uncomfortable and lead to more wear on the transmission.
2. Unpredictable Transmission Behavior: This includes unexpected shifts and loss of acceleration, often with warning lights coming on.
3. Complete Transmission Failures: Sometimes, the transmission may fail completely, leading to expensive repairs or needing a replacement.

Because of these ongoing issues, the transmission problems in the 2001 Ford Ranger are a big concern.

Airbag Deployment Failures

In 2001, the Ford Ranger had serious safety problems because its airbags didn’t work right. Many owners complained to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) about this issue. They said the airbags either didn’t go off in crashes or went off when they shouldn’t have, which was very dangerous.

Because of these problems, the 2001 Ford Ranger got bad safety and reliability ratings. The many complaints to the NHTSA made it clear that there were big safety issues with this truck’s airbags. As a result, the airbag problems were a major reason why people thought the 2001 Ford Ranger wasn’t safe.

Issues With 2002 Ford Ranger

Looking at the 2002 Ford Ranger, you’ll quickly find a bunch of safety problems and engine issues that made this model a headache for many owners. Many people reported so many problems that it became known as unreliable and unsafe.

Here are the main issues with the 2002 Ford Ranger:

1. Engine Problems: Owners often faced mechanical issues like stalling and losing power.
2. Safety Scores: This model had poor safety ratings, which hurt its reputation.
3. Airbag Issues: There were many complaints about airbags not working correctly.

These problems led to 447 complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), showing how unreliable and unsafe the 2002 Ford Ranger was. Consumer reports strongly suggest avoiding this model year because of these ongoing issues.

Problems in 2003 Ford Ranger

Moving past the major safety and engine issues of the 2002 model, the 2003 Ford Ranger still let many people down with 301 complaints, mostly about engine and transmission problems. Owners often reported rough shifting, losing acceleration, and loose wheel bearings. These issues made the Ranger unreliable and a risky buy. Here’s a quick look at the common problems:

Problem Area	Common Complaints
Engine	Unstable performance, loss of power
Transmission	Rough shifting, shifting issues
Wheel Bearings	Loose, causing instability

Potential buyers should be cautious when considering the 2003 Ford Ranger because of these frequent problems.

Concerns About 2007 Ford Ranger

The 2007 Ford Ranger has some major issues, especially with its steering, transmission, and airbags.

People have reported problems with the steering making clunking sounds and the transmission not shifting smoothly, which makes driving unsafe.

There are also concerns about the airbags not working properly in crashes.

Steering System Issues

Owners of the 2007 Ford Ranger have reported several steering problems, including strange gear shifts and clunking noises. These issues raise serious safety and reliability concerns. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received 282 complaints about these problems, indicating potential hazards and maintenance difficulties.

Key steering issues include:

1. Erratic Shifting: Unexpected gear changes that affect control.
2. Clunking Sounds: Noises that may indicate mechanical failures.
3. Safety Concerns: Higher risk of accidents due to steering problems.

Understanding these steering issues is important for buyers to make informed decisions about avoiding the 2007 Ford Ranger, so they don’t face these significant reliability problems.

Transmission Shifting Problems

When looking at the steering system problems, it’s also important to note another big issue with the 2007 Ford Ranger: problems with the transmission shifting. Many owners have reported that the transmission shifts erratically, often slamming into gear and making the ride jolt. These shifting issues are more than just annoying; they can be dangerous. Unpredictable gear changes can lead to unexpected driving behavior, increasing the risk of accidents.

Regular maintenance is crucial. If you own or are thinking about getting a 2007 Ford Ranger, be ready for potential transmission repairs. Keeping the fluid levels right and getting timely service might help with some of the shifting issues, but the model still has some significant flaws.

Airbag Defects

In 2007, many Ford Ranger owners had serious problems with faulty airbags, raising big safety concerns and leading to slow recall actions. This model year had 282 complaints to the NHTSA, with airbag issues being a major problem. The danger became clear when airbags didn’t work right and caused injuries in crashes.

The late recalls in 2017 and 2021 made things worse, leaving many owners worried about:

1. Airbag functionality: Whether the airbags would work correctly.
2. Safety implications: The risks during crashes because of bad airbags.
3. Poor safety scores: The 2007 Ranger’s safety ratings dropped due to ongoing airbag problems.

These issues made the 2007 Ford Ranger a model year to avoid.

Avoiding the 2008 Ford Ranger

The 2008 Ford Ranger is not a good choice due to serious safety problems and many customer complaints. This model had several issues with its airbags, including failures and injuries during accidents. Owners also reported ongoing problems with the air conditioning, windows that vibrate, and not enough heat in the cabin. There are a total of 293 complaints about this model.

Issue	Description
Airbag Issues	Failures and injuries during accidents
AC Problems	System not turning off
Window Issues	Persistent vibrations
Heating Issues	Not enough cabin warmth in cold weather

Given these problems, the 2008 Ford Ranger has major drawbacks in terms of safety and reliability.

Transmission Issues Over the Years

Transmission problems have been a common issue for many Ford Ranger models over the years, affecting their reliability and performance.

Here are some specific years to be aware of:

1. 1999: Many owners reported problems with shifting gears, with a total of 963 complaints.
2. 2000: There were frequent reports of transmission failures and 853 complaints overall.
3. 2001: Rough shifting and transmission failures were often mentioned, with 682 complaints.

These issues often involve erratic shifting, rough gear changes, and sometimes complete transmission failures. These problems not only make driving less enjoyable but can also lead to expensive repairs.

If you’re thinking about buying a used Ford Ranger, be particularly cautious with these model years to avoid potential problems. Knowing about these recurring transmission issues can help you make a smarter choice.

Rust and Frame Problems

When checking out Ford Rangers from 1999 to 2003, make sure you look closely for rust on the frame rails and suspension parts.

Use a flashlight and a mirror to spot any hidden rust that might weaken the vehicle.

It’s really important to do a detailed frame inspection to ensure the vehicle is safe and lasts a long time.

Common Rust Locations

Checking a Ford Ranger for rust is really important, especially in spots like the frame, wheel wells, bed, and cab corners.

Rust is a big problem for Ford Rangers from the late 1990s and early 2000s, and it can seriously weaken the vehicle. Here’s where to look for rust:

1. Frame: Rust on the frame can make the truck unsafe to drive.
2. Wheel Wells: These spots rust easily because they get hit with water, mud, and road salt all the time.
3. Cab Corners and Bed: Rust in these areas can spread fast and lead to expensive repairs if not taken care of quickly.

Frame Inspection Tips

Look closely at the Ford Ranger’s frame for any rust damage, especially if it’s a 2000, 2001, or 2003 model, as these years are known for frame problems. When checking the frame, focus on areas near the suspension, around the wheel wells, and underneath the truck.

Be on the lookout for any signs of frame rot or cracks, which could weaken the truck’s structure. Pay extra attention to the back part of the frame because rust here can lead to expensive repairs and safety issues.

Make sure to do a detailed frame check before buying to avoid safety risks and costly fixes. Spotting rust and frame issues early can save you a lot of trouble down the road, particularly with early 2000s Rangers.

Airbag Safety Concerns

In the 2007 and 2008 Ford Rangers, faulty airbags were a big safety problem. They caused injuries during crashes and made people question how reliable the vehicle was. The issue was made worse because the recalls to fix the airbags didn’t happen until 2017 and 2021. This delay left many drivers unaware of the dangers.

On top of that, the trucks got poor safety ratings, which highlighted the widespread airbag problems.

Here are some key points:

1. Delayed Recalls: Important airbag recalls for the 2007 and 2008 models were issued almost ten years later.
2. Non-deploying Airbags: There were reports that the front airbags often didn’t work during crashes.
3. Safety Ratings: Low safety scores showed ongoing problems with the airbags and the overall reliability of the vehicle.

These factors make these model years particularly troublesome.

Electrical System Failures

While airbag safety was a big issue for the 2007 and 2008 Ford Rangers, many other years had problems with their electrical systems, especially from 1999 to 2008.

The 1999 model had 963 complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), mostly about electrical issues.

The 2000 Ford Ranger had 853 complaints, also pointing to electrical system failures, including airbag problems.

The 2001 model had 682 complaints about similar electrical issues.

In 2007, the Ford Ranger had 282 complaints about erratic shifting and electrical problems.

The 2008 model had 293 complaints, mainly about heater and air conditioning issues in the electrical system.

These ongoing problems across different years show how important it’s to check the electrical reliability of these models.

Steering and Handling Issues

Steering and handling problems are common in some Ford Ranger models, especially the 2007 version. These issues can make driving unsafe and less enjoyable. Often, drivers notice unpredictable gear changes and a clunking noise in the steering system. These problems can cause serious safety risks, like the transmission suddenly shifting into gear.

Here are some typical issues:

1. Unpredictable Shifting: Gears change inconsistently, making the drive less smooth.
2. Clunking Noise: A sound that hints at possible mechanical problems.
3. Poor Responsiveness: Less control and precision when steering.

It’s important to fix these steering and handling problems in your Ford Ranger quickly to keep your vehicle safe and reliable.

What to Look for in a Used Ranger

When checking out a used Ford Ranger, it’s really important to look for rust on the frame, especially in older models. Rust can weaken the structure and lead to expensive fixes.

It’s a good idea to have a mechanic check for fuel leaks and problems with the drive components since these are key for safety and reliability.

Be wary if the engine is already warm when you go for a test drive; this could hide starting issues.

Aim to find a Ranger that has been well taken care of and hasn’t been in any accidents for more peace of mind.

Use CarFax to get detailed vehicle history reports and see if there are any issues you should know about.

When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Ford Flex, Ford F 250, Ford F 150 and Ford Raptor. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.

Conclusion

If you’re thinking about buying a Ford Ranger, it’s a good idea to avoid the 1999-2003 and 2007-2008 models due to major reliability and safety problems. For example, the 2001 model had over 1,200 complaints with the NHTSA, which shows there were many issues.

To make sure you have a safer and more reliable truck, focus on newer models and make sure to do a thorough check before buying. This way, you can avoid big problems like airbag issues and transmission failures, making you happier with your purchase.