2002 Ford Ranger

The 2002 Ford Ranger is a compact pickup truck known for its reliability, affordability, and practicality. Available engine options included a 2.3L inline-four, a 3.0L V6, and a 4.0L V6. The 4.0L V6 produced around 207 horsepower and 238 lb-ft of torque. The Ranger was generally liked for its compact size, ease of parking, and decent fuel economy for a truck, but disliked for its somewhat dated interior and limited passenger space in the regular cab configuration.

Engine

2.3L Inline-Four

• No Issues Found

3.0L V6

• No Issues Found

4.0L V6

• Timing Chain Rattle/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise, especially on startup, can indicate worn timing chain tensioners or guides. In severe cases, the timing chain can jump, leading to significant engine damage. Can cause misfires and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Thermostat Housing Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the thermostat housing, often resulting in a noticeable coolant smell and visible drips. Can lead to overheating if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacing the thermostat housing and gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual (Mazda M5OD-R1)

• Synchro Wear/Grinding Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noises when shifting, particularly into 2nd or 3rd gear. Difficulty engaging a gear.
  • Solution: Replacing worn synchros or a full transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic (5R55E)

• Shift Flare/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable delay or “flare” in RPMs between shifts, indicating slippage within the transmission. This can be more pronounced in certain gears.
  • Solution: Can sometimes be addressed with a valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or popping noises from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Loose or excessive play in the front wheels.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sag/Broken Leaves
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the truck sitting noticeably lower than the front. Reduced load-carrying capacity. Visible cracks or breaks in the leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air blowing from the vents. Air blows only hot or only cold, regardless of the temperature setting. Clicking noises behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Windshield Wiper Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Wiper motor stops working intermittently or completely. Wipers may move erratically or not at all.
  • Solution: Replacing the windshield wiper motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Lower Body Panels/Wheel Wells
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the rocker panels, cab corners, and around the wheel wells. This is especially prevalent in areas with road salt use.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dash Pad
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, particularly in the area above the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Replacing the dash pad or using a dash cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Ford Ranger, while generally reliable, can suffer from a few common issues. Engine issues like timing chain problems in the 4.0L V6 and thermostat housing leaks can be moderately expensive to repair. Transmission problems with both the manual and automatic transmissions could be the most costly repairs. Suspension and electrical issues are fairly common and can cause inconvenience. The most prevalent exterior issue is rust, which can significantly impact the vehicle’s appearance and value.