What are the most common Ford Ranger problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1992-1992 Ford Ranger has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Automatic transmission slips out of Park (safety recall 91V189000), A4LD 4-speed automatic transmission failures, Camshaft synchronizer chirp and failure (3.0L/4.0L OHV V6). Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Ford Ranger reliable?
The 1992-1992 Ford Ranger has 5 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Automatic transmission slips out of Park (safety recall 91V189000) and A4LD 4-speed automatic transmission failures. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Ford Ranger problems?
Repair costs for known Ford Ranger issues range from $0 to $2,800, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Automatic transmission slips out of Park (safety recall 91V189000), typically costs $0-$300 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 1990-1994 Ford Ranger Automatic transmission slips out of Park (safety recall 91V189000)?
On Rangers with the A4LD 4-speed automatic, when the shift lever is placed in Park the park pawl does not always abut/engage the park gear. The driver believes the truck is safely in Park, but the pawl can slip, allowing the vehicle to roll away on a slope or move unexpectedly wh… Repairs typically run $0-$300. Severity: high.
What is the 1990-1995 Ford Ranger A4LD 4-speed automatic transmission failures?
The A4LD automatic (used through the mid-1990s before the 4R44E/5R55E) has a long, well-documented history of driveability and durability problems. Common failure points are the two shift/lockup solenoids, the overdrive sprag, worn bands, and a governor on the output shaft that s… Repairs typically run $1,500-$2,800. Severity: high.
What is the 1990-1999 Ford Ranger Camshaft synchronizer chirp and failure (3.0L/4.0L OHV V6)?
The 3.0L Vulcan and 4.0L Cologne OHV V6 engines use a camshaft synchronizer (a cassette that replaced the old distributor) which houses the camshaft position sensor and also drives the oil pump via a gear on its shaft. The aluminum housing receives no forced (pressurized) lubrica… Repairs typically run $150-$400. Severity: medium.
What is the 1990-1993 Ford Ranger 2.3L Lima I4 oil pan gasket leak and oil-pump-related knock?
The 2.3L Lima four-cylinder in early-1990s Rangers has two documented age/wear issues. First, the factory cork oil pan gasket on 1990-1992 engines grinds up as the pan and block expand at different rates; debris falls into the pan and can clog the oil pickup screen. Second, some… Repairs typically run $150-$600. Severity: medium.
What is the 1990-1999 Ford Ranger 3.0L Vulcan timing cover coolant leak leading to overheating/cracked heads?
The 3.0L Vulcan V6 is notorious for a coolant leak at the aluminum front timing cover. The dissimilar-metal joint (aluminum cover against a steel block) plus pitting/corrosion of the aluminum cover causes the gasket to fail and weep coolant. If the leak is ignored and coolant run… Repairs typically run $400-$1,000. Severity: medium.
