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1993-1997 Ford Ranger Full Review
Date Published: 2/20/08
Our in-depth review covers everything you need to know about this generation Ford Ranger. Get the latest news, find a local dealer, and get a free price quote for this generation Ford Ranger.
1993-1997 Ford Ranger Review
Ford restyled its compact pickups for 1993. Wheelbases and cargo-bed sizes and engines were unchanged for the reworked Rangers, but overall body lengths grew by 4.5 inches and rear tracks were 1.4 inches wider. Center high-mount stoplamps were added. All models could be ordered with either 2- or 4-wheel drive. For the first time, 4WD Rangers got a unique grille and front valance panel, fender flares, and standard 15-inch tires. Rear antilock brakes again were standard, operating only in 2-wheel drive. A 3-place bench seat was standard and bucket seats were optional. SuperCabs could have an optional pair of fold-down rear jump seats. Engines were the same as before: a 2.3-liter four, and 3.0- and 4.0-liter V6s. Five-speed manual transmissions were standard and 4-speed automatics optional.
Year to Year Changes
1994 Ford Ranger: For 1994, an extended-cab (SuperCab) Splash joined the regular-cab lineup. Starting this year, Mazda dealers began to sell a variant of the Ranger as the B-Series.
1995 Ford Ranger: Rangers gained a fresh interior complete with a driver-side airbag, plus a new grille and 4-wheel antilock brakes for both 2- and 4-wheel-drive models. The base 4-cylinder engine jumped from 98 to 112 horsepower, and extended-cab models could be fitted with a power driver's seat.
1996 Ford Ranger: An optional passenger-side airbag was added for '96, complete with a key-operated disabling switch--a "first" in the industry. XL and XLT models could now be ordered with the flare-fender cargo bed.
1997 Ford Ranger: A new 5-speed automatic transmission, derived from last year's 4-speed unit was added as a new option for Rangers equipped with the 4.0-liter V6.
1993-1997 Ford Ranger Road Test
Pros Cons
Acceleration (V6) Fuel economy (V6)
Reliability Control layout
Ride
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Acceleration is about the same as in the prior generation. Though adequate with a 5-speed, the 4-cylinder engine labors under a heavy load and generally feels lethargic with automatic. Ranger's 4.0-liter V6 uses only slightly more fuel than the 3.0-liter, and delivers good low-speed punch; but the 4.0 is somewhat coarse and noisy. A 4.0 should perform most tasks with relative ease, and it works well with the automatic to furnish prompt passing power. We averaged 16.5 mpg in a 4WD Splash SuperCab with the 4.0-liter V6. Rangers ride nicely and handle well (for a truck, that is). The suspension absorbs most big bumps without jarring, and the truck is stable in turns. Steering feedback and response are top-notch, and the Ranger has a notably solid feel overall. Gauges are unobstructed, and the climate controls and radio are grouped efficiently. However, some buttons on optional stereos are too small, and climate controls demand quite a reach around the steering wheel. A regular-cab interior lacks space behind the seat. Also, the steering wheel protrudes too far, leaving no surplus of space for larger drivers.
Value for the Money
Ford sought a more carlike look and feel for its Ranger--and succeeded. Some rugged truck characteristics may have been gone, but we view the changes as improvements. Ranger remained one of the best in its class, but we recommend that you shop all three domestic brands--including the Dodge Dakota and Chevrolet S-Series--before deciding.
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Ford Ranger 4.0-liter ext. cab Rating
Performance 5
Fuel Economy 3
Ride Quality 3
Steering/Handling/Braking 3
Quietness 3
Controls/Materials 5
Interior Room 6
Room/Comfort (rear) 2
Cargo Capacity 2
Value within Class 8
Total: 40
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room, Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
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.
1993-1997 Ford Ranger Prices
Prices Good Average Poor
1993
Ranger $1,500-2,400 $1,000-1,600 $200-300
Ranger SuperCab $1,900-2,700 $1,300-1,900 $300-400
1994
Ranger $1,700-2,800 $1,100-1,900 $300-400
Ranger SuperCab $2,100-3,200 $1,500-2,200 $400-600
1995
Ranger $1,900-3,300 $1,300-2,300 $300-500
Ranger SuperCab $2,400-4,000 $1,700-2,900 $500-800
1996
Ranger $2,100-3,700 $1,500-2,600 $600-1,000
Ranger SuperCab $2,700-4,500 $2,000-3,400 $600-1,000
1997
Ranger $2,400-4,200 $1,700-3,000 $500-800
Ranger SuperCab $3,300-5,200 $2,600-4,100 $800-1,300
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings; engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo, etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from region to region.
1993-1997 Ford Ranger Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification ext. cab reg. cab long bed reg. cab short bed
Wheelbase, in. 125.2 113.9 107.9
Overall Length, in. 198.2 196.3 184.3
Overall Width, in. 69.4 69.4 69.4
Overall Height, in. 64.1 64.0 64.0
Curb Weight, lbs. 3300 3010 2970
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. -- -- --
Standard Payload, lbs. 1550 1650 1650
Fuel Capacity, gals. 20.5 17.0 17.0
Seating Capacity 5 3 3
Front Head Room, in. 39.3 39.1 39.1
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 42.4 42.4 42.4
Rear Head Room, in. 35.6 -- --
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 41.2 -- --
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Powertrain Options and Availability
Ford dropped the former 2.9-liter V6 engine, but otherwise the powertrains were largely carried over. Base engine was a 100-horsepower, 2.3-liter 4-cylinder. A 145-horsepower, 3.0-liter V6 went into STX models and all 4WD Super Cabs (optional for Splash). Any model could have the 4.0-liter V6 instead, delivering 160 horsepower. Rangers might have 5-speed manual shift or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Electronic shift controls went into a new automatic for 1995, which also gained an interlock that prevented shifting out of "park" until the brake was applied. Touch Drive on-demand 4WD, standard on 4x4s, is not for use on dry pavement. It has automatic-locking front hubs and allows shifting on the fly between 2WD and 4WD High, by pressing a dashboard button. Some Rangers have a floor-mounted transfer-case lever and manual-locking hubs, which was a credit option. Horsepowers dropped in 1994 for the 2.3- and 3.0-liter engines, to 98 and 140, respectively. A year later they rose again, to 112 and 145. For '97, the 4.0-liter V6 was provided with a 5-speed OD automatic in place of the previous 4-speed OD unit in an effort to give the Ranger better low-speed acceleration.
Engines Size liters /
cu. in
Horse- power Torque Transmission:
EPA city/hgwy
Consumer Guide Observed
ohc I4 2.3 / 140 98-112 130-135 5-speed manual: 22/27
4-speed automatic: 20/25
5-speed manual: --
4-speed automatic: --
ohv V6 3.0 / 182 140-147 162-170 5-speed manual: 19/25
4-speed automatic: 18/24
5-speed manual: 17.8
4-speed automatic: --
ohv V6 4.0 / 245 160 220 5-speed manual: 18/23
4-speed automatic: 17/23
5-speed automatic: 16/22
5-speed manual: 16.5
4-speed automatic: 14.2
5-speed automatic: --
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Test 1997 Ranger
Front Impact, Driver 4
Front Impact, Passenger 4
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or 4-wheel drive
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