1992 Ford Ranger XLT SXT review from North America
"Rangers Rule: Extremely Dependable American-Built Truck"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Immediately after purchasing the truck in February 2005, the truck suffered an oil leak. I talked with the previous owner, and he reported no such incident. Next, I took it to the local Ford dealer, they wanted $825 for the repair because they said they had to remove the 4.0 L engine. Hold the phone! My truck's engine is not a 4.0, but a 3.0. I caught the Ford in a lie, probably trying to burn more of a hole in my wallet. How could I trust them with a repair of my truck, when they can't keep their facts straight?!? My other mechanic did the job efficiently for half the cost, and there's been no problem.
Replaced a faulty water pump with the oil gasket, 142K miles.
Steering wheel has a loose feel.
Otherwise, that's basically it.
General comments?
I love Rangers. It took a while to find a good first truck, and the Rangers were right up my alley.
I like the STX trim, the cloth interior seats are in great shape, and are very comfortable. All upholstery is also very good shape, considering this truck is 13 years old.
I learned how to drive a manual in this truck. I love driving the stick. This five-speed shifts rather smoothly in the higher gears.
Top speed is only 85 mph, but I don't think that my parents want me going that fast, even on the Interstate. It cruises tranquilly at 65-70 mph in overdrive gear.
For a truck of this size, it possesses some muscle. I carry a few-hundred pounds worth of building material in the back occasionally.
For a truck of this size, or any truck whatsoever, I'm impressed with the fuel economy. I can go about 420 miles with a 19 gallon tank. That's about 22 mpg average.
Usually starts right up, even when left outside for the night in below zero Montana weather.
Cool red paint job. Since it's red externally and internally, I've named the truck "Red Fury."
Extended cab is really nice to have. I can fit four people comfortably in the truck, with two getting the fold out seats.
The truck is a 2WD, rear wheel. It comes with street tires. It's HELL driving it when it's icy. You can feel the rear end slide.
As I save up more money, I plan to give this truck a lift kit, new all-season tires, a new aftermarket stereo, off road lights, a winch, and other off-roading gear. I plan to use this truck for a lot of camping and recreational activities.
Best of all, it fits in my garage.
In general, I love Rangers. I love the one I currently have. I'll never get rid of it anytime soon. I am considering restoring a first-generation Ranger standard cab, (1983-1988) when I graduate. That should be a very fun project to complete. I almost got sold on a 92 Dakota with an automatic for the same price, but the Ranger was my final answer.
Recommended reviews
| 1993 - Ranger XLT 2.3L 4 cylinder This is great truck built truly Ford tough |
| 1992 - Ranger XLT 2.9 Liter V6 Awesome tough little truck! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1992 |
| Year of manufacture | 1991 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0L V6, 5-speed OD Manual |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 140000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 143555 miles |
| Date of Entry | 24th March, 2005 |