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.

Accessory belt: Squealing serpentine drive belt due to faulty water pump pulley on 4.6L V6 engine. (2001)

Air conditioner: The air-conditioner hose may rub against the radiator hose and one, or both, develop leaks. (1998)

Audio system: The in-tank fuel pump causes a whining or buzzing noise to come through the radio speakers. (1998-99)

Battery: The battery tray may have burrs that cut into the battery causing it to leak and eventually fail. (1998)

Engine misfire: The truck may feel like it is thumping or jerking under acceleration due to a problem with the driveshaft requiring replacement. (1998-99)

Engine misfire: Hesitation or surging when accelerating is caused by a faulty mass airflow sensor. (1998-99)

Heater core: Installing a restrictor in the heater inlet hose may repair heater cores leaks. (1998-2002)

Timing belt: The timing chain on 4.0-liter V6 may make noise in hard acceleration. A repair kit is available. (1999-2000)

Transmission problems: Transmission flare when shifting from 2nd to 3rd gear is due to shift solenoid malfunction. (1998-2001)

Vehicle noise: A hammering noise occurs due to steam forming in the cooling system requiring a coolant-bypass retrofit kit. (1998-00)

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.

1998 Ranger 4-wheel drive w/off-road option: Tire and rim identification information is incorrect.

1998 Ranger w/4.0-liter engine: Flexible section of chassis-mounted fuel line on some trucks could contact exhaust manifold; might potentially result in damage to fuel line or, in some cases, cause a fuel leak.

1998-02 Ranger w/speed control system: The speed control deactivation switch may, under certain conditions, leak internally and then overheat, smoke, or burn. This could result in an underhood fire. Dealers will install a fused wiring harness.

1998-99 Ranger: Cruise-control cable can interfere with servo pulley and not allow throttle to return to idle.

1999 Ranger w/3.0-liter engine: O-ring seal in fuel-injection pulse damper to fuel-rail joint could be damaged, allowing fuel leakage.

2000 Ranger w/2.5-liter engine: Engine-coolant circulation through heater circuit is prevented by plugged return tube at water pump.

2000-01 Ranger: Hood striker could fracture causing the hood to fly open while the vehicle is being driven.

2001 Ranger: Driver's and/or front-passenger's outboard seatbelt buckle may not fully latch. In the event of a crash, the restraint system may not provide adequate occupant protection.

2002 Ranger w/manual transmission and FX4 Package: The rear-axle differential case could fracture, possibly resulting in wheel lock-up.

2004 Ranger: Center rail section flange on frame may not have been formed properly; in side-impact crash, frame rail could puncture the fuel tank, resulting in leakage.

2006 Ranger: Windshield wiper motor may not be greased enough, causing loss of wiper function. Dealer will inspect and grease the motor, if necessary.