2000 Ford Ranger 4x4 4.0 from Chile

Summary:

Tough on/ off road truck. A pleasure to drive, but very thirsty

Faults:

Nothing - It has never broken down.

However the vacuum system that connects the front drive to give four wheel drive was malfunctioning. It would go into lower gear range, and this confused me into thinking that the traction was functioning.

I soon realised that I didn't have 4x4 drive when it got stuck climbing a muddy hill. Got out by building tracks with rocks, lumber and corrugated tin!

Anyway I replaced the vacuum hubs with manual locking (rugged ridge) ones, which are excellent.

General Comments:

It's a very strong truck, steel panels are noticeably thicker than my previous Nissan Hardbody.

It's unstoppable offroad; climbs high ridges with a confident swagger. Hauls full loads of timber and sometimes rocks up the muddy hill to the farm no sweat - but burns mucho bencina in the process.

On road it drives like a car: smooth, powerful and fast.

The four litre engine is quite thirsty - never gets more than 18 miles per gallon. On the plus side, it's got the power you need and it's pretty indestructible.

Very comfortable cabin - useful air con. Very durable grey hard plastic lined interior.

A great work truck, but too expensive on gas for long distance trips and commuting. I think I need another vehicle to fill that role.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 7th July, 2012

2000 Ford Ranger XLT 2.5L from North America

Summary:

Very reliable truck with the 2.5L

Faults:

Replaced the stuck open engine thermostat last year.

Driver side seat frame broke a small support bar inside.

Tail gate never latched properly on one side, so I installed my own sliding bar hardware so it would not fall open.

Paint along the roof seam above the doors started pealing within the first year. Same thing on the back of the hood.

I did not consider any of these problems a big deal, even though I purchased it new. Never brought it back to the dealer for anything.

General Comments:

I like this extended cab truck, which I have now owned for 10 years. It has the 2.5L engine with 68K miles.

I have a manual transmission with a 4:10 rear axle. It seems like there is a lot of shifting without going very far with this axle, but it makes up for that by climbing hills easily.

The 2.5L engine is fine to move this somewhat heavy truck, until you load it to the max with retaining wall blocks. Then it's best to take back roads if possible, rather than the freeway.

At one time, the truck sat for two years, and then started right up with a battery jump start. Very reliable engine.

I have only changed the oil about 3 times, but the engine does not seem to care, and still runs smooth and quiet.

I have kept this vehicle longer than any other so far. It is fun to drive, reliable, tough, and useful.

The compact size is just right for my needs. I will be sorry to see it discontinued. Although the new 2011 F-150 is looking pretty good with the V6 engine and 300hp. I may be tempted to trade in my Ranger on one.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 4th November, 2010

2000 Ford Ranger LX Trailhead from North America

Summary:

A beast!

Faults:

Not a single thing.

General Comments:

This truck is not fast by any means, but it starts up every time, and gets me where I need to go.

I have never owned a Ford product before. After this Ranger I am sold on Ford. This is my 11th vehicle and 3rd truck.

This Ranger is a Trailhead version, which means it has a 3" lift from factory. As far as I know, the Trailhead version is quite rare. The Trailhead predates the EDGE.

AT 170,000 thousand miles this truck runs amazing, idles perfectly and shifts overall well. A VERY basic truck; this Ranger doesn't even have carpet, but it does have a tachometer, which is a plus. I am very happy with the purchase.

BTW, 3.0L Flex and a 5-spd.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th June, 2010