1997 Ford Ranger XLT review from North America

Replaced the clutch at 132k.

Replaced the starter at 145k.

Replaced the radiator at 170k.

Replaced the rear drum brakes at 178k.

Other than routine maintenance, the four things I have listed above are the ONLY things I have ever done to repair this "invincible" Ford Ranger. I bought it new in 1997, and traded in my 1989 Ranger, still running strong, with 304k miles, which I also bought new. My 97 Ranger doesn't burn or leak oil, gets the same fuel mileage as when it was brand new, and has never, and I mean never, left me stranded. Always starts on the first crank, never has spit, sputtered, or showed any signs of quitting. This is the 4x4 model with the off-road package, and all the transfer case components still work like a charm.

The engine itself is a powerhouse. I have pulled many extremely heavy things that a compact pickup should never pull, yet it has done it without any hesitation. And getting 24 mpg highway/19 city, what more could a guy ask for?

The 89 Ranger was my first vehicle I purchased myself after high school, and drove it 2 states away to college, where I racked up 180k of the 304k I put on it. This 97 I will keep driving til she blows, and I expect another 200-300k miles. I will always stick with Ford because I haven't a reason in the world not to.

Here are some other interesting mileage facts about Fords:

My grandma owns a 2000 Taurus, 270k

My dad, 1995 F-150, 340k

My mom, 1998 Escort, 240k

My friend: 1998 F-150, 250k

My college professor: 1999 Taurus, 355k.