2012 Ford Ranger

The 2012 Ford Ranger marked the final year of this generation in the North American market. It was offered with two engine choices: a 2.3L Duratec I4 producing 143 horsepower and 154 lb-ft of torque and a 4.0L Cologne V6 generating 207 horsepower and 238 lb-ft of torque. The 2.3L was available with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, while the 4.0L was paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Ranger for its compact size, affordability, and reliability. However, some disliked its dated interior, lack of modern features, and relatively poor fuel economy compared to newer trucks.

Engine

2.3L Duratec I4

• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

4.0L Cologne V6

• Timing Chain Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise, particularly on startup, indicating wear or stretching of the timing chains. Can lead to poor engine performance and eventually failure if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chains, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Thermostat Housing Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak around the thermostat housing, leading to overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the thermostat housing and gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (5R55E - Typically paired with both engines, but most common with the 4.0L)

• Erratic Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, transmission not engaging properly.
  • Solution: Could be caused by low fluid, valve body issues, or internal wear. A fluid flush and filter change may help if the problem is minor. For more serious issues, a transmission rebuild or replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid/filter) to $2000 - $3500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, stalling, and poor fuel economy
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end of the truck sitting lower than usual, reduced load-carrying capacity, visible cracks in the leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Door Ajar Sensor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Door ajar light staying on even when the doors are closed, interior lights staying on.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door ajar sensor, often located in the door latch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning (speedometer, fuel gauge, etc.), display flickering or going blank.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the instrument cluster. Could be a wiring issue or a faulty cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (wiring repair) to $300 - $800+ (cluster replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage/Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the frame, suspension components, and other undercarriage parts, especially in areas with road salt use.
  • Solution: Remove surface rust, apply rust converter, and protect with undercoating. In severe cases, frame repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (DIY rust prevention) to $1000+ (frame repair/replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Upholstery Tears
  • Description/Symptoms: Tears or rips in the fabric or vinyl seat upholstery, particularly on the driver’s seat.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the seat upholstery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (DIY repair) to $200 - $500+ (professional upholstery repair/replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Ford Ranger, while generally reliable, has its share of common issues. The engine problems, especially the timing chain rattle in the 4.0L V6, can be costly to fix. Transmission issues can also be a significant expense. Suspension and electrical problems are generally less severe but should still be addressed promptly. Rust is a major concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters. Overall, prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these common issues and factor in potential repair costs.