1994 Ford Ranger XLT 2.3L, 4 cylinder

Summary:

The most reliable vehicle I (or anyone in my family) have ever owned

Faults:

My transmission blew without warning at 150,000 miles.

Currently, I'm experiencing some engine vibrations and knocking noises.

General Comments:

This truck has been very tough. I have used it as a ranch truck, and it has survived some very hot summers.

However, it doesn't seem to like gravelly or wet roads. The wheels tend to spin out.

I have had no problems with leaks or overheating. In the time I've had it, I have only had to add coolant two or three times.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 21st January, 2003

29th Oct 2004, 20:56

My 1994 Ford Ranger XLT has over 200,000 miles, still runs smooth, and I have only replaced the radiator once and replaced the clutch twice. Good job Ford! I'll hope to drive it another 100,000 miles.

3rd Nov 2008, 22:06

I have owned 3 Rangers; an 89, 91 and 94, all with the 2.3l, dual spark. It is a very trusting engine, that can take the high mileage, and if you change the oil more than regularly, you might get 300,000! About the worst you'll get is a bad alternator or leaky radiator! And tons of rust.

Also some of these trucks have a high idle problem while driving with no check engine light. Even experts cannot figure this out!! Just stick with the 5 speeds - less maintenance.

I also want to add the 83-92 Rangers had the best body design ever in Ranger history! They should have stuck with that style to this day!

1994 Ford Ranger XLT Reg. Cab Long Bed 3.0L V6

Summary:

The best compact truck money can buy!

Faults:

At 90,000 miles the master slave bladder for the clutch burst on a cold winter night. Cost as much to fix as having a clutch fixed! Made it the whole time on 1 battery, and one exhaust with no signs of needing repair when it was sold.

General Comments:

I really used this truck, with 60,000 mile put on in the first 18 months. Hauled 400lbs. to 600lbs. the whole time, getting 26 mpg. on the highway with the cruise on. Wonderful truck!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 11th May, 2002

1994 Ford Ranger XLT 4.0 V6

Summary:

Tough truck overall, but with a few weak spots

Faults:

The biggest problem was the transmission. It died, with no warning at only 50k miles. Mechanic said the bushings are weak (should be bearings) and recommended keeping speeds below 45 mph when in four wheel drive. Since it was apart, we rebuilt the clutch also, total cost $1700.

The automatic hubs are light duty. They might be okay for a grocery getter, but not for serious snow or off-road use. I replaced them with manual lockers from Warn.

Starting at about 90k miles, the engine started to experience pre-ignition knock at highway speeds. Ford mechanics and my private mechanic have not been able to fix it and we have addressed the following already: EGR valve, dirty MAS, loose intake manifold, replace plugs/wires and cleaned carbon deposits.

I had the fuel pump die without warning at about 90k miles. It is located on top of the fuel tank, so it is a bear to replace. Ford claims the fuel pump causes interference with AM radio reception, so if you ever change it, be sure to install the noise filter at this time.

General Comments:

Despite the problems noted above, this has been a great truck. Any four wheel drive vehicle is going to be more expensive to maintain. I have hauled a lot and been all over and always been happy with the comfort and performance of the truck.

My truck is brilliant blue and the paint job and body have held up well. At 8 years old, it still looks very good.

If I can solve the engine knock, I'll be happy to drive this truck for another 8 years.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 12th April, 2002

17th Oct 2002, 21:37

I am experiencing the knocking also with my 1994 Splash 4x4.

Any more luck with the problem?

I also just replaced the right hub, but there is still a whining noise at low speeds. May be the differential or transfer case.

14th Apr 2003, 09:49

I have a 1994 Ranger XLT V6 4.0 that I bought with 94,000 miles on it. When I bought it had a mild engine knock when I hammered the gas pedal at high speeds. The knock got progressively worse. Upon my mechanics suggestion I used high-octane gas and the problem went away, except when going up steep hills. After reading this website I decided to have the MAF sensor cleaned. Now with low octane gas, and 114,000 miles on the odometer, my engine does not knock and the truck feels like it has twice the horsepower. It runs better than the day I bought it. The difference is amazing. Thanks to whoever made the previous post.

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