1983 Ford Ranger problems

General information about Ford-Ranger
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Ford Ranger is a compact or mid-size pickup marketed globally by Ford over a series of generations, varying between both in-house or outside development and manufacturing — and with a hiatus in North America from 2011–2018.

Debuting as a compact pickup in North America in 1982 for the 1983 model year, the Ranger was later introduced in some South American countries. From 1998 to 2011, the Ranger nameplate was used for models developed by Mazda for sale outside the North American market. In 2011, Ford introduced the first Ranger based on the T6 platform. Considered a mid-size pickup truck, the model was developed in-house by Ford Australia. In that same year, the North American-market Ranger was discontinued, leaving the T6 platform-based Ranger as the sole Ranger model worldwide.

For the 2019 model year, the Ranger was reintroduced in North America using the globally-marketed T6 model. It is manufactured at the Michigan Assembly Plant at Wayne, Michigan. The Ranger is smaller than the F-150 and larger than the Maverick in the Ford North American pickup truck range, while for markets outside the Americas it is typically the only Ford pickup offered for sale.

The second generation of the T6-based Ranger was released in 2021 for worldwide markets, using a revised T6 platform.

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Common 1983 Ford Ranger problems

The Ford Ranger, introduced in 1983, has been a popular choice for those seeking a compact pickup truck. However, like any vehicle, it has faced its share of common problems over the years. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on owner complaints:

Engine Misfiring: Some Ford Ranger owners have reported engine misfiring issues, which can lead to power loss, stalling, and mild tremors. This problem can be caused by a dirty fuel injector or failed ignition coil packs due to worn-out wires. An error in the engine control module, leaking hoses, and other factors could also contribute to the misfiring engine.
Transmission Problems: Transmission issues are another common problem in the Ford Ranger. Gearbox slippage between the 2nd and 3rd, and 3rd and 4th gears, has been reported by some owners, which may be due to a faulty valve assembly. Transmission fluid leaks can also arise due to leaks in the transmission fluid. A faulty transmission can cause problems like a dragging clutch, a burning smell, and erratic shifting, especially in older models with manual transmissions.
Leak in Crankshaft Seal: Many generations of the Ford Ranger have experienced leaks in the crankshaft seal, causing oil drips. This issue can be caused by a damaged valve cover gasket or a faulty oil pan. The crankshaft seal is a car part that is subject to immense stress, making it prone to wear and tear.
Crankshaft Sensor Failure: The crankshaft sensor is responsible for reading the engine's RPM and position, feeding that data into the ECU to regulate the time of fuel injection. Intermittent crankshaft sensor failure can lead to a dip in fuel efficiency, engine misfires, and sluggish acceleration. In some cases, a faulty crankshaft sensor can prevent the engine from starting.
Fuel Injector Problems: A clogged or dirty fuel injector in the Ford Ranger can lead to an imbalance in air and fuel supply, causing problems like engine stalling, rough idling, engine misfires, a significant drop in fuel economy, and unusual Tachometer needle movements.
Airbag Deployment Issues: Many models of the Ford Ranger have historically had problems with airbag deployment in collisions, which can be a significant safety concern.
Rust and Transmission Issues: Rust is a common problem in the Ford Ranger, especially in areas with high salt content in the air. Rust can cause the frame to crack and significantly decrease the vehicle's value. Transmission issues, particularly in models with automatic transmissions, can arise due to the engine often outlasting the transmission, especially in vehicles with high mileage.

It is essential to note that the frequency and severity of these problems can vary depending on the specific model year and the vehicle's maintenance history. Proper care and maintenance can significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering these issues.

What year did Ford Ranger have problems?

Ford Ranger recent recalls

Affected model dates	Issue
01/09/18 - 31/05/19	Heavy loading could cause the rear differential to fail
01/12/16 - 28/02/19	Rear silencer may detach from the exhaust pipe creating an accident risk
01/01/04-31/12/06	Gas generator on front airbag may be defective which could cause uncontrolled inflation

How reliable is an old Ford Ranger?

The Ford Ranger has received above-average reliability ratings from JD Power and Consumer Reports. RepairPal ranks the used Ford Ranger with a 4.0/5 reliability ranking, which is #3 in its class. With few recalls and consumer complaints in its history, the used Ford Ranger is a reliable truck for sale near you.

How much is a 1983 Ford Ranger worth?

Compact, easy-to-park, and durable—the Ranger is a compelling alternative to the classic Toyota compact pickups bringing big money. With desirable options and a bargain price of $6,500, it's sure to find a new home soon.

What is the most common problem with the Ford Ranger?

Common engine problems on a Ford Ranger include a turbo failure and engine crank damage which causes excessive overheating, dark smoke from the exhaust, and a dip in fuel economy. Engine problems can land your car in serious trouble. Thus, it is always better to consult a mechanic right after you've spotted any faults.

What is the best years for Ford Ranger to avoid?

A: Yes, some Ford Ranger model years have proven less reliable than others. It's best to avoid the following years: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2011, and 2019. These years have been subject to numerous customer complaints and issues.

What year did Ford Ranger have problems?

Ford Ranger recent recalls

Affected model dates	Issue
01/09/18 - 31/05/19	Heavy loading could cause the rear differential to fail
01/12/16 - 28/02/19	Rear silencer may detach from the exhaust pipe creating an accident risk
01/01/04-31/12/06	Gas generator on front airbag may be defective which could cause uncontrolled inflation

What is the most common problem with the Ford Ranger?

What engines came in 1983 Ford Ranger?

From 1983 to 1992, the first-generation Ranger was powered by 2.0L and 2.3L versions of the Ford "Lima" inline-4; the 2.8L, 2.9L, and 4.0L Ford Cologne V6; the 3.0L Ford Vulcan V6; and four-cylinder diesel engines sourced from Mazda (Perkins) and Mitsubishi.

1983 Ford Ranger car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Ranger problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Electrical system problems
Engine and engine cooling problems
Power train problems
Equipment problems
Service brakes problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1983 Ford Ranger vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1983 Ford Ranger complaints

The NHTSA has received 13 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1983 Ford Ranger.

2004-04-05

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2004-01-14
VIN: 1FTBR10SXDU
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE AT ANY SPEED, THE VEHICLE WOULD STALL. THIS CAUSED THE DRIVER TO DRIFT TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE CONSUMER HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *JB

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2000-01-03

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2000-01-03
VIN: 1FTCR11U6PT
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: TRANSMISSION WENT OUT DUE TO RUBBER SEALS NOT BEING RELIABLE. FAILURE CAUSED BY THE RUBBER SEAL USED TO HOLD FLUID IN THE TRANSMISSION--IT IS DRY AND CRACKS, ALLOWING FLUID TO LEAK. TRANSMISSION REPAIRED AT OWNER'S COST. *AK *ML

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1999-06-22

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1999-03-01
Fire: 1
VIN: 1FTBR10A9DU
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: BOTH FIRES OCCURRED WITHIN THE AIR CONDITIONER EVAPORATOR CORE UPPER HOUSING. BOTH APPEARED TO RESULT FROM THE AIR CONDITIONER BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR ASSEMBLY IGNITING LEAVES WHICH HAVE BEN SUCKED INTO THE SYSTEM. *AK

Add Complaint

1998-04-30

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: 1FTCR10SXDU
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: BRAKE ROTORS FAILED.

Add Complaint

1998-01-21

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: 1FTCR10A4DU
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: THERE IS BAD PRIMER ON THE CARS ALL OVER. *AK

Add Complaint

1997-04-14

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: DRIVER'S SHOULDER/LAP BELTS INOPERATIVE, MALE WON'T CONNECT WITH FEMALE PORTION. *AK

Add Complaint

1996-05-31

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-10-08
VIN: 1FTBR10C7BD
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE SAW SMOKE COMING UNDER THE DASH, TURN SIGNAL FAILED, TUNRED IGNITION OFF AND VEHICLE COMPLETELY BURNED, ELECTRICAL SHORT. *AK

Add Complaint

1996-04-30

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-04-01
VIN: 1FTCR11A3EV
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: ELECTRICAL SHORT IN THE IGNITION SWITCH, SMOKE IS COMING FROM THE STEERING COLUMN. *AK

Add Complaint

1996-04-30

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-04-01
VIN: 1FTCR11A3EV
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: ELECTRICAL SHORT IN THE IGNITION SWITCH,CAUSING SMOKE IS COMING FROM THE STEERING COLUMN. *AK

Add Complaint

1996-04-29

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: WHILE DRIVING, NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM IGNITION SWITCH, NO FIRE. *AK

Add Complaint

1996-04-29

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: WHILE DRIVING, NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM IGNITION SWITCH, NO FIRE. *AK

Add Complaint

1995-05-16

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-05-13
VIN: 1FTCR10P9DU
Components: VISIBILITY
Summary: PASSENGER SIDE WINDOW SHATTERED. TT

Add Complaint

1995-05-09

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-05-01
Fire: 1
VIN: 1FTCR10S4DU
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: PARKED VEHICLE, THREE MINUTES LATER IT WAS ON FIRE. BURNED SO BAD, COULD NOT TELL WHAT STARTED IT. TT

Add Complaint

1983 Ford Ranger recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 1983 Ford Ranger.

2007-08-27

Manufacturer: FEDERAL-MOGUL CORPORATION
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Summary: CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMPS SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF CARTER, ACCUFLOW, NAPA, TRUFLOW, PARTS DEPO, AND PARTS MASTER, SHIPPED BETWEEN AUGUST 2006 AND JULY 2007 FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM IN CERTAIN PRODUCTION RUNS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED OR INADEQUATELY TESTED WHICH MAY CAUSE THE FUEL PUMP TO LEAK.
Consequence: A LEAKING FUEL PUMP COULD CREATE A VEHICLE FIRE HAZARD.
Remedy: FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 15, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL AT 248-354-7700.

1998-04-08

Manufacturer: AIMCO PRODUCTS INC.
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:DISC:ROTOR
Summary: EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: AFTERMARKET BRAKE ROTORS FOR USE ON CERTAIN FORD AND MAZDA TRUCKS. CRACKED CASTINGS CAUSED CRACKS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER DIAMETER OF THE ROTOR HAT OR AROUND THE STUD HOLE.
Consequence: LOSS OF BRAKING CAN RESULT.
Remedy: AIMCO WILL REIMBURSE CONSUMERS/INSTALLERS FOR THE COST OF REPLACEMENT ROTORS AND INSTALLATION. CONSUMERS ARE REQUESTED TO RETURN TO THE LOCATION WHERE THE ROTORS WERE ORIGINALLY PURCHASED/INSTALLED FOR REPLACEMENT.

1984-09-25

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: THE FLEXIBLE HOSE CONNECTING THE FUEL PUMP TO THE CARBURETOR FUEL LINE MAY SEPARATE FROM THE FUEL PUMP.
Remedy: THE EXISTING FUEL HOSE WILL BE REPLACED AND TWO NEW HOSE CLAMPS WILL BE INSTALLED.

1984-09-25

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
Summary: SECONDARY HOOD LATCH COMPONENTS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY POSITIONED DURING ASSEMBLY. IF THE HOOD IS NOT CLOSED TIGHTLY, OR IS INADVERTENTLY RELEASED, THE SECONDARY LATCH MAY NOT WORK AND THE HOOD MAY FLY UP WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Remedy: THE HOOD ASSEMBLY WILL BE INSPECTED AND THE HOOD AND LATCH COMPONENTS WILL BE ADJUSTED, IF NECESSARY, WITHOUT CHARGE TO THE OWNER.

1984-07-09

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
Summary: IF TRUCK IS STRUCK FROM THE SIDE, THE CAP ON THE FUEL TANK COULD BECOME UNSEALED, ALLOWING UNSAFE LEAKAGE OF FUEL. THIS IS A FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY". LEAKAGE CAN BE CAUSED BY AN ORANGE-COLORED PLASTIC DIESEL FUEL INFORMATION RING WHICH IS FOUND AROUND THE FUEL TANK NECK, OR BY THE TETHER.
Remedy: UPON INSPECTION, FUEL CAP TETHERS WILL BE REPLACED OR DIESEL FUEL INFORMATION RINGS WILL BE REMOVED.

1983-03-22

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
Summary: SOME OF THE INVOLVED VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH IMPROPERLY HEAT TREATED FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER SPRING SEAT ATTACHING STUDS. THESE STUDS COULD FRACTURE DURING VEHICLE OPERATION, ALLOWING THE LOWER SPRING SEAT TO MOVE AND POSSIBLY SLIDE OFF THE AXLE.
Remedy: THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE LOWER SPRING SEAT STUDS ON BOTH THE LEFT AND RIGHT SIDES OF THE VEHICLE AT NO CHARGE TO OWNERS.

1982-04-12

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
Summary: ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES, THE MUFFLER GRASS SHIELDS WERE INADVERTENTLY OMITTED DURING MANUFACTURE. WITHOUT THE GRASS SHIELD, AND DURING CERTAIN OPERATING CONDITIONS, THE MUFFLER SURFACE TEMPERATURES COULD BECOME HOT ENOUGH TO EXCEED SPECIFIED STANDARDS AND CREATE THE POTENTIAL FOR IGNITING TALL GRASSES IF THEY WERE PRESENT BENEATH A STANDING VEHICLE.
Remedy: DEALER WILL INSTALL GRASS SHIELDS ON ALL AFFECTED VEHICLES AT NO COST TO OWNER.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1983 Ford Ranger problems:

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https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1095231-bought-a-1999-ford-ranger-xlt-176k-few-problems.html

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