1998 Ford Ranger XLT from North America - Comments

I bought my 98 Ranger brand new, I now have 170,000 miles on it. The only major repairs I have done on it were replace the transmission (5 speed auto) $1800.00 after core return and one upper right ball joint ($300.00) Everything else has been just general maintenance... I wouldn't give this truck up for the world, it barely even has any rust on it! I Love my Ranger!!!

Have had a ford ranger for not to long got it with 110000 on it. Over all it is a very good vehicle.

But then again it needs work, also, but then again what high mileage vehicle doesn't other than the 02 sensor going up which I fixed myself with no cost. And the 4 wheel low it got stuck in it, but anything can be fixed. So the 4.0L is the only engine they should offer. 2.5L Why bother? 3.0L Such a tease. And the 4.0L is just right.

Love the ranger!

I have a 99 ford ranger 4.0L xlt, 4x4 ext cab. 125000kms, clutch makes an awful squawking noise, ball joints are done, wheel bearing whines and probably needs replacing, rear springs squeak over every little bump, transfer case was replaced, all 02 sensor went dead. I don't go off roading, I live and drive on the west coast, no snow, no salt, I use full synthetic oil. I don't tow anything either. Lots of weird noises.

Looking to buy a Ranger, I always wanted to get another full size Chevy, but today I test drove as ranger 3.0L with a 5-speed. like the truck a lot and I was very impressed with the way the truck handled and the stance of the truck. tomorrow I am heading over to hopefully pick up a 98 4.0L ext cab flair side XLT ranger. it has 98K on it with good tread let. seems like a good deal, any ideas?

Have a 98 Ranger 2 wheel drive, auto, ext cab xlt. LOVE IT. It now has 132,000 miles on it and needs to have the front ball joints replaced. Of course you can't just replace the upper's, but you have to replace the whole control arm. Will cost me $600. Is it worth it? I think so. Only owe $600 on it yet and am planning on going for the most miles record. 500,000 miles. Will always be a Ford man.

Have 1998 Ranger also 155000 miles love it. Replaced upper ball joints also.. You do not have to buy control arm if it is 2wd.. just take upper arms off and push out joint and went to O'riely parts and got 2 new moog joints for don't remember 55.00 apiece? and had them pressed in. local wielding shop charged me total of 20.00 bucks...

But when will I have to replaced the clutch???

I have owned 2 Rangers in the past 20 years and only had to do the usual repairs, brakes, oil change -tune-ups etc. I only put about 6,000 miles a year on the vehicle. I live and work near the ocean_ plenty of Salt spray and the roads in my town are horrible, full of potholes.

I just replaced the upper ball joints at 55,000 miles, seems a bit unusual to have to replace them so soon. Only other problems have been with the door locks and interior light.

The INTERIOR light won't go off (I removed the bulb) and I can't unlock either door SO I NEVER LOCK IT.

I would rather have a Toyota but I can't afford one. I think the Ranger is a great truck and a good value for the money. Next time I will buy a 4 cylinder, man. trans and save some $ on fuel.