1993 Ford Ranger

1993 Ford Ranger

The 1993 Ford Ranger was a compact pickup truck available with several engine and transmission options, including:

• 2.3L I4 (105 hp, 135 lb-ft torque) with 5-speed manual transmission
• 2.3L I4 (112 hp, 140 lb-ft torque) with 5-speed automatic transmission
• 4.0L V6 (160 hp, 225 lb-ft torque) with 5-speed manual transmission
• 4.0L V6 (160 hp, 220 lb-ft torque) with 4-speed automatic transmission

Drivers appreciate the Ranger’s affordability, ruggedness, and maneuverability. However, it also has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of.

Engine

• 2.3L I4
  • Intake manifold gasket failure: Symptoms include coolant leaks, overheating, and engine misfires. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Timing chain tensioner failure: Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, engine misfires, and reduced power. Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Water pump failure: Symptoms include coolant leaks, overheating, and a squealing noise from the engine. Solution: Replace the water pump. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• 4.0L V6
  • Head gasket failure: Symptoms include coolant leaks, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust. Solution: Replace the head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Intake valve seat recession: Symptoms include loss of power, rough idle, and engine knocking. Solution: Replace the intake valve seats. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Fuel injector failure: Symptoms include rough idle, engine misfires, and reduced power. Solution: Replace the fuel injector(s). Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per injector

Transmission

• 5-speed manual transmission
  • Synchronizer failure: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises when shifting, and popping out of gear. Solution: Replace the synchronizer(s). Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Clutch failure: Symptoms include slipping, chattering, or difficulty engaging gears. Solution: Replace the clutch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
• 5-speed automatic transmission
  • Transmission slipping: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, delayed engagement, and loss of power. Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Torque converter failure: Symptoms include shuddering, slipping, and loss of power. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+
• 4-speed automatic transmission
  • Valve body issues: Symptoms include harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and slipping gears. Solution: Replace or repair the valve body. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Band failure: Symptoms include slipping gears, delayed engagement, and failure to engage reverse gear. Solution: Replace the band(s). Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+

Suspension

• Leaf spring failure: Symptoms include sagging in the rear, poor handling, and reduced ride comfort. Solution: Replace the leaf springs. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Control arm bushings: Symptoms include clunking or squeaking noises when turning or braking, and reduced handling. Solution: Replace the control arm bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Ball joint failure: Symptoms include clunking or popping noises when turning or braking, and excessive tire wear. Solution: Replace the ball joint(s). Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Symptoms include dim headlights, difficulty starting, and battery discharge. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Starter failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting, grinding noises when starting, and a clicking sound from the starter. Solution: Replace the starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Ignition switch failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting, intermittent power loss, and no power to accessories. Solution: Replace the ignition switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Exterior

• Rust on body panels: Symptoms include rust spots, bubbling paint, and holes in the body. Solution: Repair or replace the affected body panels. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per panel
• Headlight switch failure: Symptoms include intermittent headlight operation, flickering headlights, or no headlights. Solution: Replace the headlight switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Interior

• Dashboard cracking: Symptoms include cracks forming on the dashboard. Solution: Replace the dashboard. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• HVAC blower motor failure: Symptoms include no air flow from the vents, intermittent air flow, or a squealing noise from the blower motor. Solution: Replace the blower motor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Power window failure: Symptoms include difficulty rolling up or down the windows, intermittent window operation, or a clicking sound from the window motor. Solution: Replace the window motor or switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window

Summary

The 1993 Ford Ranger is a capable and affordable compact pickup truck, but it is not without its issues. While some problems, such as intake manifold gasket failure, are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others, such as head gasket failure and transmission failure, can be more severe and costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in the potential repair costs when considering the purchase of a 1993 Ford Ranger.