1988 Ford Ranger problems
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 1988 Ford Ranger problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Ford Ranger 1988, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:
- Transmission Problems:
- Owners have reported issues with the automatic gearbox slipping between gears, particularly between 2nd and 3rd, and 3rd and 4th. This could be attributed to a faulty valve assembly or transmission fluid leaks. Symptoms may include erratic shifting, gear loss, and a dragging clutch.
- Resolution: A thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic is necessary to diagnose the root cause and address the transmission issues effectively.
- Leak in Crankshaft Seal:
- Many Ford Ranger 1988 models have experienced leaks around the crankshaft seal, leading to oil drips. This problem could stem from a damaged valve cover gasket or a faulty oil pan.
- Resolution: Addressing this issue promptly is crucial to prevent further damage. Replacement of the damaged components may be necessary to resolve the oil leak.
- Engine Problems:
- Common engine issues reported include turbo failure and engine crank damage, resulting in excessive overheating, dark smoke from the exhaust, and reduced fuel economy.
- Resolution: Engine problems can significantly impact the vehicle's performance and longevity. Consulting a mechanic as soon as issues are detected is essential to prevent further damage.
- Crankshaft Sensor Failure:
- The crankshaft sensor, responsible for reading the engine's RPM and position, can fail intermittently, leading to issues like reduced fuel efficiency, engine misfires, and difficulty starting the vehicle.
- Resolution: A faulty crankshaft sensor requires replacement to restore proper engine function and prevent potential starting issues.
- Fuel Injector Problems:
- Clogged or dirty fuel injectors in the Ford Ranger 1988 can cause imbalances in air and fuel supply, resulting in engine stalling, rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel economy, and erratic RPM readings.
- Resolution: Replacing the fuel injector, which typically costs between $350-$500, along with any necessary labor, is essential to address this issue and restore optimal engine performance.
Addressing these common problems in the Ford Ranger 1988 promptly and effectively through professional inspection and necessary repairs can help maintain the vehicle's performance and longevity.
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 engine does a 1988 Ford Ranger have?
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.
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 year of Ford Ranger to stay away from?
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 engine does a 1988 Ford Ranger have?
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.
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 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 is the most common problem with Ford Rangers?
Intermittent crankshaft sensor failure is a common problem with a Ford Ranger. A dip in fuel efficiency, engine misfires, and sluggish acceleration are some of the aftermaths of a faulty crankshaft sensor. There is also a possibility that your Ranger won't start due to a faulty crankshaft sensor.
1988 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
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Ford Ranger vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1988 Ford Ranger
The NHTSA has received 108 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1988 Ford Ranger. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1988 Ford Ranger vehicles.
2018-09-17
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-01
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- VIN: 1FTCR10T4JU
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING UPHILL ON HIGHWAY 152 WHEN MY SLIP YOKE EXPLODED BLOWING OUT THE REAR OF THE BELLHOUSING TO MY TRANSMISSION THROWING THE TRUCK REAR END 6 FT IN THE AIR AND THE NOSE OF THE TRUCK 3 FEET IN THE AIR THIS WAS CAUSED BY THE DRIVE SHAFT TAKING INTO THE GROUND WHEN COMING DOWN THE DRIVESHAFT SLAPPED AROUND RIPPING OUT THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD FROM THE CADILLAC CONVERTER AND PUT A LARGE GASH APPROXIMATELY 12IN TO 18 IN INTO THE GAS TANK WHEN I DROP MY TRANSMISSION TO REPLACE IT I FOUND OUT THAT THE BLOCK WAS NO GOOD DUE TO THE FACT THAT 2 SQUARE PIECES OF THE BLOCK APPROXIMATELY 2 IN SQUARE CAME WITH THE TRANSMISSION AS IT WAS PULLED LEAVING THE BLOCK USELESS BUY THIS SLIP YOKE EXPLODING WHICH I FOUND OUT ON YOUTUBE THIS HAD HAPPENED TO OTHER FORD RANGERS OF THIS PARTICULAR YEAR DUE TO THE FACT THAT THE SLIP YOKE IS MADE OUT OF COMPRESS MATERIAL IT SHOULD BE A SOLID STILL PEACE IF NOT FOR GOING UPHILL I'M SURE MY TRUCK WOULD ROLLED END-OVER-END INN MAKING THIS INCIDENT FATAL IF I HAD KNOWN I COULD HAVE MADE AN INSTANT DIDN'T REPORT ABOUT THIS SITUATION EARLIER I WOULD HAVE
2011-04-06
POWER TRAIN,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-11
- VIN: 1FTBR10T7JU
- Components: POWER TRAIN,TIRES
- Summary: 1988 FORD RANGER WAS TOWED BACK OUT HERE ON 4/1/2011 OK THIS 1988 FORD RANGER HAS NOT BEEN DROVE ANYWHERE OK IT ALSO WAS ON RECALL FOR BRAKE WORK AN THIS CAN'T BE DONE EITHER CAUSE OF OTHER ISSUE WITH POWER TRAIN AN YOU NEED BRAKE AN BE ABLE TO USE THE CLUTCH AS WILL OK AN THIS IS SITTING IN THE SIDE OD THE DRIVEWAY HERE THE 1988 FORD RANGER HAS X OUT RECALL RIGHT WITH THIS VIN NUMBER [XXX] , AN WHILE THEY WAS WORKING ON THIS 1988 FORD RANGER THERE WAS DAMAGE DONE , THEY NEVER PUT THE PART BACK AT ALL THERE BIG WHOLE THERE THIS 1988 FORD RANGER WAS A TRADE IN AT FAIRWAY FORD IN FREEPORT IL ON 2003 FORD RANGER. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
2010-07-20
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-04-05
- VIN: 1FTBR10T7JU
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 1988 FORD RANGER STILL NEEDING A NEW CAB, WELL I WENT ONLINE HERE TO SEE IF I COULD FIND SOME WHERE TO GET A 1988 FORD RANGER CAB. SO CHATTING ONLINE HERE WITH WHOLE SALE FORD RANGER SARA ASKED ME FOR A PART NUMBER FOR THE NEW CAB I SAID THAT THEY NEVER GAVE ME ONE ON THE RECEIPT. I CALLED SOME WHERE ELSE OK BRAD IS NAME AND HE SAID THAT I COULD PUT A PARCH IN THERE WHERE IT WOULD BE ROAD SAFE . BODY SHOP WOULD HAVE MY FORD RANGER BACK TO ROAD SAFE. OK, WHAT'S THE HOLD UP ON THIS NOW ? I MAILED IN THE EVERYTHING THAT WAS SAID. UPDATED IVOQ 08/05/10 UPDATED IVOQ 08/19/10*JB *TR
2010-07-18
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-17
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FTBR10T0JU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DRIVING 60 MPH, A LOSS OF POWER WAS NOTICED. THIS BECAME A LOUD EXHAUST NOISE. AFTER COASTING TO A STOP, PUTTING UP THE HOOD TO SEARCH FOR PROBLEMS, AND FINDING NO EVIDENCE OF ANY, ATTEMPTED TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE BACKFIRED, AND SMOKE BEGAN TO POUR OUT FROM THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. A FIRE STARTED WHICH COMPLETELY DESTROYED THE VEHICLE. *TR
2010-06-29
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-04-05
- VIN: 1FTBR10T7JU
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WENT TO PICK UP MY 1988 FORD RANGER TODAY AT FAIRWAY FORD FREEPORT IL AT NUMBER 1 815 232 6868 OK I WAS TOLD HERE THAT THEY HAD BEEN TRYING TO CALL ME BUT WAS UNABLE TO REACH ME CALL HAD WRONG PHONE NUMBER OK BUT I HAVE REPORT HERE THAT STATE THAT TO FIX 1988 FORD RANGER THE FIRE WALL IS UNFIXABLE THEY NEW CAB TO MATCH THE COLOR OR APAINT JOB EITHER WAY AND I WILL SETTLE ON THIS PLU THEY WILL FIX MY CHEVY FOR PART THAT WILL BUY THAT NEED TO FIX WITH , BUT THEY NEED TO KNOW TO WHERE FINE ONE AT THAT IS ROAD SAFE, THAT YOU WOULD APPROVE AN THEY WILL REPAIR THE 1988 FORD RANGER AT THERE COST. *TR
2010-05-01
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-04-05
- VIN: 1FTBR10T7JU
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I BOUGHT A 1988 FORD RANGER TAN GOLD IN COLOR LOVE THE TRUCK, BUT I WENT TO INDIANA TO PICK MY SON UP EVERYTHING WAS FINE BUT ON THE WAY BACK THAT'S WHEN EVERYTHING STARTED TO FALL APART HERE. OK, STARTER WOULDN'T RESTART HAD TO POP CLUTCH IT, AN THEN THE CLUTCH PEDAL ITSELF GAVE AWAY FROM THE FIRE WALL ON THE WAY HOME TO SAVANNA IL. OK, IT WAS DARK OUT SO THE NEXT DAY WENT TO LOOK AND MY SON AND I SAW THERE WAS A CRACK THERE SO WE TRIED TO FIX THIS AN SEE WHY IT WASN'T STARTING UP. I CALLED MIDAS TO SEE IF THEY WOULD WELD THIS UP FOR ME. WE HAVE TRIED CARPENTER TAPE TO TRY AND PULL THE FIRE WALL BACK IN TO RELEASE THE CLUTCH TO GET THIS TRUCK SOMEWHERE TO BE FIXED AT THE FORD DEALERSHIP IN FREEPORT IL , BUT I HAVE CALLED ON FORD TO DO SOMETHING AND NOT WAIT ON AN ACCIDENT OR RECALL. THE FLUID THAT LEAKED OUT HIT THE MOTOR GOING DOWN THE ROAD. UPDATED 5/12/10 *CN UPDATED IVOQ 05/26/10 ACCORDING TO THE SERVICE INVOICE. THE FIRE WALL COULD NOT BE REPAIRED DUE TO THE CONDITION IT WAS IN. THE DEALER RECOMMENDED A NEW CAB. UPDATED IVOQ 07/13/10 UPDATED 07/15/10.8JB *TR
2006-09-12
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-09-11
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH IN DOWNTOWN TRAFFIC AND DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP. THE VEHICLE WAS MANEUVERED AROUND TRAFFIC AND COASTED TO A STOP ON A SIDE STREET. THE CONTACT CHANGED THE BRAKE LINES AND THE DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED.
2005-08-10
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-28
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FTBR10TXJU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED 1988 FORD RANGER CAUGHT ON FIRE ON JULY 28 ,05. IT BURNED UP ALL OF THE WIRING, ENGINE, AND ONE TIRE. THE FIRE ORIGINATED FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE CAR HAD BEEN SITTING FOR ONE YEAR. THE CONSUMER HAD BEEN WORKING ON THE CAR. HE REBUILT THE TRANSMISSION, PUT A NEW REAR END UNDER IT, AND PUT ON OXYGEN SENSORS. HE ATTEMPTED TO RESTART VEHICLE AND IT QUIT. HE WENT TO START IT AGAIN IT BACK FIRED AND CAUGHT ON FIRE. HAS NOT CONTACTED FORD ABOUT THE FIRE. HE SEEMED TO THINK THE FIRE WAS FUEL RELATED. *AK
2005-08-02
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-26
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FTBR10TXJU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DT: THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE ON THE ENGINE BY THE FUEL RAIL. FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME AND EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THIS HAPPENED ON JULY 26, 2005. THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN PARKED FOR SEVERAL MONTHS. TRIED TO START IT THEN IT BACK FIRED AND CAUGHT FLAMES. *AK
2003-08-30
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-29
- VIN: 1FTCR14TXJP
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FAILURE IN THE IGNITION SYSTEM (THIRD TIME WITH THIS VEHICLE) 2-12-97 WAS THE FIRST TIME I REPLACED THE IGNITION MODULE, THEN ON 10-01-01 THE IGNITION MODULE NEEDED TO REPLACED A SECOND TIME. THIS IS QUITE A CONCERN TO ME BECAUSE THE VEHICLE COMPLETELY STALLS OUT. I LOSE ALL POWER, INCLUDING STEERING. THE MOST RECENT FAILURE WAS WHEN I WAS DRIVING HOME ON THE 55 FREEWAY DOING ABOUT 60 MPH. THIS FAILURE ALSO DAMAGED THE DISTRIBUTOR WHICH ALSO HAD TO BE REPLACED*AK.
2003-06-11
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-11
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY HEADLIGHTS STARTED FLICKING ON AND OFF. CONSUMER TURNED THE VEHICLE OFF AND IT CAUGHT ON FIRE UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. *AK
2002-09-13
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-02
- Fire: 1
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE THE IGNITION SWITCH CAUGHT ON FIRE, VEHICLE WAS PULL OUT THE ROAD. DEALER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED. IF YOU HAVE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FEEL FREE TO ADD. NLM
2002-03-20
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-03-19
- VIN: THIS IS PAR
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: ALL FOUR OVERLOAD SPRINGS USED ON TWO DIFFERENT PICKUP TRUCKS USED AS PAINTER'S WORK VEHICLES HAVE FAILED IN THE PAST THREE OR FOUR YEARS. EACH TIME AN EIGHT INCH CHUNK OF HARDENED STEEL SPRING WEIGHING AT LEAST A COUPLE OF POUNDS HAS BLASTED LOOSE RICOCHETING DOWN THE HIGHWAY. SO FAR NONE OF THESE FAILURES HAVE CAUSED ME AN ACCIEDNET, BUT WITH A 100% CATOSTROPHIC PRODUCT FAILURE RATE I WOULD IMAGINE OTHERS HAVE NOT BEEN AS FORTUNATE. CAMPWAYS SHRUGGED IT OFF WITHOUT INTEREST. BOTH TRUCKS HAVE ALWAYS BEEN USED WELL WITHIN NORMAL URBAN WORK TRUCK PARAMETERS. IN MY OPINION THESE OVERLOAD SSPRINGS PRESENT A CLEAR, POTENTIALLY FATAL VEHICLE SAFETY HAZARD.
2001-10-09
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-10-06
- VIN: 1FTCR14T8JP
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH IN A 1988, FORD TRUCK, RANGER, A FIRESTONE FR480 TIRE , SIZE: P215/70R14, DOT: W2HYFR5106 EXPERIENCED TREAD SEPARATION. THERE WERE APPROXIMATELY 30,000 MILES ON TIRES, AND IT WAS NOT ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT. *AK CONSUMER STATED THAT, FIRESTONE CUSTOMER AFFAIRS CONTACTED DEALER WHO REPLACED HIS TIRE AT MINIMAL COST. *YD
2001-07-31
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-04
- VIN: 1FTBR10A4JU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: ENGINE RUNS TOO FAST WILL NOT IDLE -AIR COMPRESSER WILL NOT WORK. *AK
2001-07-16
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-11-25
- VIN: 1FTCR14T8JP
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: INTERMITTENT SUDDEN ACCELERATION WHEN STARTING VEHICLE. VEHICLE BEEN TO DEALER SHOP ON THREE OCCASIONS, AND WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION ON THIS MATTER.*AK
2001-06-07
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1991-10-11
- VIN: 1FTBR10A4JU
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: REAR BRAKES LOCK UP AFTER VEHICLE HAS SET OVERNIGHT AND ESPECIALLY DURING DAMP WEATHER. *AK
2001-04-20
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-03-14
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FTCR14T9JP
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MY HUSBAND WAS EAST BOUND ON HWY 90 BY RITZVILLE, WA WHEN HIS FORD RANGER WENT OFF THE ROAD FOR NO REASON (ACCORDING TO WITNESSES AS HE HAD JUST PASSED A TRUCK) THE TRUCK ROLLED, SEAT-BELT FAILED AND HE WAS THROWN FROM THE TRUCK. WE HAVE HAD LOTS OF PROBLEMS WITH THIS RANGER AND OUR BRONCO II STALLING OUT AT ROAD SPEEDS. I BELIEVE THIS IS WHAT HAPPENED TO MY HUSBAND. ACCORDING TO THE INVESTIGATING POLICEMAN, THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE OF ANYTHING WRONG WITH THE TRUCK SUCH AS A BLOWN TIRE, BROKEN TIE-ROD, ETC. THIS ACCIDENT OCCURED ON A STRAIGHT STRECH OF ROAD IN THE EARLY AFTERNOON UNDER GOOD WEATHER CONDITIONS. I HAVE A NUMBER OF REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT RECIEPTS RELATED TO THIS STALLING PROBLEM. AS WELL AS A BRONCO II THAT STILL STALLS AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS! PLEASE HELP BY INVESTIGATING THIS PROBLEM.*AK
2001-01-30
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-27
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FTCR14T5JP
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS PARKED, KEY WAS NOT IN IGNITION AND IT WAS IN GEAR , IT CAUGHT FIRE AND ROLLED ABOUT 50 FT WHERE IT HIT A BUILDING. $ AMOUNT OF DAMGE NOT KNOWN AT THIS TIME. *AK
2000-12-12
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-12-12
- VIN: 1FTCR11T4JU
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION VIBRATES AND MAKES A LOT OF NOISE- GEARS SOUND LOOSE. *AK
2000-10-23
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-05
- VIN: IFTCRI5TIJP
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THIS PROBLEM OF THE ENGINE SUDDENLY STOPPING FIRST OCCURRED DURING THE SUMMER OF 1990. I WAS ON INTERSTATE 70 DRIVING TO IN THE MOUNTAINS WHEN THE ENGINE SUDDENLY STOPPED. THIS WAS THE FIRST OF A SERIES OF ENGINE SHUTDOWNS THAT HAVE OCCURREDS CONTINUALLY SINCE THAT FIRST INCIDENT. THE SHUTDOWNS HAVE OCCURRED AT SPEEDS RANGING FROM 25 MPH TO 75 MPH. THE USUALLY HAVE OCCURRED AT THE HIGHER SPEEDS ON A HIGHWAY DURING WARMER WEATHER, BUT THEY HAVE ALSO OCCURRED AT LOWER SPEEDS IN THE CITY---ALTHOUGH LESS FREQUENTLY. WHEN I FIRST CHECKED WITH A MECHANIC ABOUT THE PROBLEM I WAS TOLD THAT IT WAS PROBABLY THE FUEL FILTER. REPLACING THESE DID NOT SOLVE IT. I ALSO HAD THE VEHICLE TUNED HOPING THAT WOULD SOLVE IT. SEVERAL TUNE UPS HAVE NOT HELPED. FINALLY, IN 1996 I WAS TOLD BY A FORD TRRAINED TECHICIAN WHOM I MET WHILE ON VACATION THAT IT WAS PROBABLY THE TFI MODULE. JUST THIS SEPTEMBER I DECIDED TO HAVE THE UNIT REPLACE ( I HAD FOUND A GOOD FORD TRAINED MECHANIC WHOM I HAD BEEN TAKING THE VEHICLE TO FOR SERVICING AND A MINOR REPAIR THE PAST YEAR). HE REPLACED THE ORGINAL TFI MODULE AND THE STATOR ASSEMBLY WITH FORD FACTORY PARTS---TFI MODULE E6SZ-12A297-A AND THE STATOR ASSEMBLY E8PZ-12A112-A). TWO DAYS AFTER REPLACING THESE PARTS THE ENGINE QUITE WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 30 MPH IN DOWNTOWN BOULDER, CO. I DID NOT LEARN THAT THE CAUSE OF THE ENGINE SHUTDOWN WAS THE RESULT OF THE TFI MODULE GETTING TOO HOT UNTIL I READ ABOUT THE PROBLEM IN THE NEWSPAPER. THE APPARENT CAUSE OF THE SHUTDOWNS IS THAT THE TFI MODULE IS MOUNTED TOO CLOSE TO THE ENGINE BLOCK. THE MECHANIC SHOWED ME THAT AFTER 1995 FORD MOVED THE UNIT TO UNDERNEATH THE FENDER AWAY FROM ENGINE. I READ ABOUT THE JUDGE IN CALIFORNIA WHO ORDER A RECALL OF ALL FORD VEHICLES WITH THIS PROBLEM (AUG 8, 2000) I WROTE FORD AND ASKED FOR A REFUND OF THE MONEY I SPENT REPLACING THE UNIT. I ALSO REQUESTED THAT IF REPLACING THE UNIT DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM THAT FORD SHOULD MAKE THE NECESSARY MODIFICATIONS TO FIX IT
2000-04-12
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-08-25
- VIN: 1FTBR10C9JU
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: BOTH DRIVER'S SIDE AND PASSENGER'S SIDE MIRRORS FAILED AT ANY SPEED. I HAVE REPLACED THEM TWICE BECAUSE THERE WAS NO TENSION ADJUSTMENT TO PREVENT THE MIRRORS FROM BEING BLOWN BACK TO A USELESS POSITION. I KNOW OF 4 OTHER OWNERS WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. BUT JUST TRAVELING DOWN THE ROAD EVERY 1988-1989 FORD RANGER OUTFITTED WITH THE BLACK ABS PLASTIC "FLAG" STYLE MIRROR HAS THIS PROBLEM. *AK
2000-02-03
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-10
- VIN: 1FTBR10T8JU
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY ALL OF A SUDDEN THE REARVIEW MIRROR LOST TENSION AND FELL OFF. CONTACTED DEALER WHO KNEW THAT THERE WAS A PROBLEM. MIRROR WAS ATTACHED WITH TWO SCREWS. HAS BEEN REPLACED 9 TIMES. *AK
1999-12-20
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1FTCR14A3JP
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: IGNITION SWITCH IS VERY WARM TO THE TOUCH AFTER OPERATION. I UNDERSTAND SOME FORDS WITH THIS SWITCH HAVE BEEN RECALLED, BUT NOT MINE. WHY? *AK
1999-08-10
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE SHOULDER HARNESS DOES NOT RETRACT AFTER YOU LEAN FORWARD,LEAVING IT LOOSE AND USELESS AS A RESTRAINT .
1988 Ford Ranger recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1988 Ford Ranger.
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.
1987-09-04
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
- Summary: TRUCKS WERE BUILT WITH INCORRECT REAR BRAKE ASSEMBLIES. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: A TENDENCY FOR REAR BRAKE LOCKUP WOULD EXIST PARTICULARLY DURING HEAVY BRAKE APPLICAION WITH A LIGHTLY LOADED TRUCK. ALSO, INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCE WOULD BE REQUIRED IF THE BRAKE MODULATION (PUMPING THE BRAKES) IS USED TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE DURING A HARD BRAKE STOP.
- Remedy: REPLACE REAR BRAKE ASSEMBLIES.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1988 Ford Ranger problems:
Common Problems with Ford 2.9 V6 | Q&A on 1988 Ford Ranger ...
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/8mwbo-1988-ford-ranger-2-9-v6-will-not-start-unless-use.html
Aug 30, 2014 ... Be sure to recheck the fuel pressure, it is probably the most common cause of this type problem on an 88 ranger. You can still have fuel ...
1988 Ford Ranger Problems & Recalls - The Ranger Station
https://www.therangerstation.com/ford-rangers-buyers-guide/1988-ford-ranger-problems-recalls/
1988 Ford Ranger Problems & Recalls · 2.9L starts running rough and stalls. · Faulty fuel pump inertia switch. Switch is located in the passenger side firewall ...
Q&A: 1988 Ford Ranger Problems & Solutions
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/0d4kt-two-problems-1988-ford-ranger-2-3l-first-chugs.html
Sep 11, 2006 ... U could have a bad mass air flow sensor. Or the snorkle from the mass air flow sensor to the throttle body could be ripped. Both are very common ...
1988 Ranger fuel pump problems - Ranger-Forums - The Ultimate ...
https://www.ranger-forums.com/general-technical-electrical-18/1988-ranger-fuel-pump-problems-152864/
Dec 10, 2017 ... General Technical & Electrical - 1988 Ranger fuel pump problems - Ive got a 88 ranger 4x4, ive replaced the in tank fuel pump, both fuel ...
Common Ford Ranger Ignition Control Module Problems - Q&A
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/196ue-1988-ford-ranger-2-9-v6-manuel-tranny.html
Jun 15, 2008 ... fuel pressure..ecm… i have 1988 ford ranger 2.9 v6 manuel tranny it has a starting problem cranks but wont start every time you shut it off in ...
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