1994 Ford Ranger XLT review from North America
"Tough truck overall, but with a few weak spots"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The biggest problem was the transmission. It died, with no warning at only 50k miles. Mechanic said the bushings are weak (should be bearings) and recommended keeping speeds below 45 mph when in four wheel drive. Since it was apart, we rebuilt the clutch also, total cost $1700.
The automatic hubs are light duty. They might be okay for a grocery getter, but not for serious snow or off-road use. I replaced them with manual lockers from Warn.
Starting at about 90k miles, the engine started to experience pre-ignition knock at highway speeds. Ford mechanics and my private mechanic have not been able to fix it and we have addressed the following already: EGR valve, dirty MAS, loose intake manifold, replace plugs/wires and cleaned carbon deposits.
I had the fuel pump die without warning at about 90k miles. It is located on top of the fuel tank, so it is a bear to replace. Ford claims the fuel pump causes interference with AM radio reception, so if you ever change it, be sure to install the noise filter at this time.
General comments?
Despite the problems noted above, this has been a great truck. Any four wheel drive vehicle is going to be more expensive to maintain. I have hauled a lot and been all over and always been happy with the comfort and performance of the truck.
My truck is brilliant blue and the paint job and body have held up well. At 8 years old, it still looks very good.
If I can solve the engine knock, I'll be happy to drive this truck for another 8 years.
Recommended reviews
| Wow...my next vehicle will be another Ranger... no question! |
| 1994 - Ranger XLT Supercab 4.0L 6 cylinder. Love my ranger-don't want a new one |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1994 |
| First year of ownership | 1994 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.0 V6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 6 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 114000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet S-10 |
| Date of Entry | 12th April, 2002 |