2013 Ford Ranger
Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2013 Ford Ranger, organized by category and component, based on available data. The 2013 Ford Ranger is a compact pickup truck known for its reliability and affordability. For the 2013 model year, it was available with two engine options: 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 truck could be configured with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, depending on the engine. Owners often praise the Ranger for its simple design, compact size (making it easy to maneuver), and decent fuel economy (especially with the 2.3L engine). Common complaints include the lack of modern features, a relatively outdated interior, and limited towing capacity compared to larger trucks.
Engine
2.3L Duratec I4
- Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket, causing a burning smell and potential oil loss.
- Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, potential for engine damage if the tensioner fails completely leading to slack in the chain.
- Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner and possibly the timing chain.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
4.0L Cologne V6
- Thermostat Housing Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak from the thermostat housing, leading to overheating.
- Solution: Replacement of the thermostat housing. It is often recommended to replace the thermostat at the same time.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, stalling, check engine light illumination.
- Solution: Replacement of the camshaft position sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Manual (Mazda M5OD-R1)
- Shift Tower Bushing Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Sloppy shifter feel, difficulty engaging gears.
- Solution: Replacement of the shift tower bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Clutch Master Cylinder Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, soft or spongy clutch pedal feel.
- Solution: Replacement of the clutch master cylinder.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Automatic (5R55E)
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears.
- Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Stalling, shuddering at low speeds, poor acceleration.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Ball Joint Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, loose steering.
- Solution: Replacement of the ball joints.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Leaf Spring Sagging
- Description/Symptoms: Rear of the truck sitting lower than the front, reduced load-carrying capacity.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Door Ajar Sensor Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Door ajar light staying on even when the doors are closed.
- Solution: Replacement of the door ajar sensor or cleaning/lubricating the door latch mechanism.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Instrument Cluster Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working, dim or flickering display.
- Solution: Replacement of the instrument cluster.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust (Especially in Northern Climates)
- Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the body panels, frame, and undercarriage.
- Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the severity and location.
- Tailgate Handle Breakage
- Description/Symptoms: Tailgate handle breaking or becoming difficult to operate.
- Solution: Replacement of the tailgate handle.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Airbag Clockspring Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Horn not working, airbag light illuminated on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacement of the airbag clockspring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Upholstery Tears (Fabric Seats)
- Description/Symptoms: Rips and tears in the fabric seat upholstery, especially in high-wear areas.
- Solution: Seat upholstery repair or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
Summary
The 2013 Ford Ranger is generally a reliable vehicle, but it is not without its common issues. Many of the reported problems are related to age and wear, especially in areas with harsh climates. Issues with the engine and transmission, while less frequent, can be more costly to repair. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for rust, suspension wear, and any signs of transmission or engine problems. Addressing these issues proactively can help ensure a more enjoyable and trouble-free ownership experience. The severity of these issues varies, but most are repairable, although some could have relatively high costs.