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1993-1997 Ford Ranger Reliability
Date Published: 2/20/08
Our reliability study for this generation Ford Ranger includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Ford Ranger.
1993-1997 Ford Ranger Reliability
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner: Water may drip onto the floor when the air conditioner is operated because the evaporator strip seals were not properly positioned at the factory. (1995-96)
Brakes: Brakes may be grabby after being parked in damp weather due to moisture absorbed by linings. Revised rear shoes are offered. (1993-97)
Hard starting: If the engine does not want to start or cranks for a long time then stalls, the idle air control valve may be sticking. (1995-96)
Heater core: Installing a restrictor in the heater inlet hose may repair heater cores leaks. (1993-97)
Radiator: The radiator may leak in cold weather because of a bad seal between the tank and core. (1995-96)
Vehicle noise: A chattering noise that can be felt coming from the rear during tight turns after highway driving is caused by a lack of friction modifier or over-shimming of the clutch packs in the Traction-Lok differential. (1993-96)
Vehicle noise: Loose frame rivets should be replaced with bolts (welding is not approved). (1993-96)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.
Item Name Repair Cost
A/C Compressor $425
Alternator $280
Automatic Transmission or Transaxle $745
Brakes $300
Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing $390
Exhaust System $215
Radiator $340
Shocks and/or Struts $285
Timing Chain or Belt $395
Universal Joints $90
NHTSA Recall History
1993-94 sold or registered in specified southern California counties: Studs that attach master cylinder to power-brake-booster assembly can develop stress corrosion cracking after extended period; if one or both studs fractures, master cylinder could separate from booster when brakes are applied, preventing brakes from activating.
1993-94 w/2.3-liter engine, registered in AK, ME, MI (upper peninsula), MN, MT, ND, NH, NY, VT, or WI: During extreme cold in northern winters, ice can form in throttle body, causing throttle plate to remain in highway cruising position after accelerator is released or speed control is deactivated.
1993-94 w/V6 engine: Flexible hose in front fuel line is susceptible to cracking.
1993-94 w/manual shift: Parking brake might not hold.
1996: Certification label shows incorrect rear-tire-inflation pressure.
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