2004 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 2004 Ford Ranger problems
The 2004 Ford Ranger is a popular compact pickup truck, but like any vehicle, it has certain common problems that owners have reported.
One of the most common issues with the 2004 Ford Ranger is related to the oil pump. This problem is often caused by deteriorating or poor parts used in the oil pump, which can lead to an audible rattle or the oil pressure light coming on. Depending on the specific component causing the issue, replacement parts may be required to prevent further engine problems.
Transmission issues are another common problem with the 2004 Ford Ranger. Both automatic and manual transmission models have shown problems, including unusual slippage with the gearbox and transmission fluid leaks. Any slipping or dragging is a clear sign of a potential transmission issue, and concerns over the transmission should be dealt with swiftly by replacing any faulty parts.
Engine problems are also not uncommon for the 2004 Ford Ranger. Turbocharger failure and damage to the crankshaft have been reported, which can lead to a significant drop in fuel economy or unusual noises coming from the engine.
MAF sensor (mass airflow sensor) issues can also occur in the 2004 Ford Ranger, causing symptoms similar to those listed above for faulty fuel injectors. The sensor may be defective or simply too dirty to detect air levels properly, meaning that cleaning it could restore normality.
In addition to these common problems, the 2004 Ford Ranger has also been reported to have issues with the plastic thermostat housing in the 4.0L SOHC V6 engine, which can cause overheating and coolant leaks. Keeping the coolant level topped up can help prevent overheating, but if the problem is not addressed in time, it can lead to more serious engine problems.
These common problems with the 2004 Ford Ranger can be addressed by proactively maintaining the vehicle and replacing any faulty parts as soon as possible. By staying informed about these common issues, owners can take steps to extend the longevity of their vehicle and avoid more serious problems down the road.
Was 2004 a good year for the Ford Ranger?
In general, the Rangers from that era were pretty simple and if taken car of were reliable. Price/value depends on the condition. 100k miles is low for a 2004.
How many miles will a 2004 Ford Ranger last?
Buy a 2004 Ford Ranger brand new and you might well past 300,000 miles on the original transmission. But, seeing as that's no longer an option, and you can't vouch for the previous owner's driving and maintenance habits, you should expect to reach somewhere in the area of 250,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the 2004 Ford Ranger 4.0 a good engine?
Edmunds says
The 2004 Ford Ranger isn't the freshest compact pickup on the market, but it's still a solid choice thanks to a strong 4.0-liter V6 engine and a wide variety of equipment.
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.
Was 2004 a good year for the Ford Ranger?
In general, the Rangers from that era were pretty simple and if taken car of were reliable. Price/value depends on the condition. 100k miles is low for a 2004.
Is the 2004 Ford Ranger 4.0 a good engine?
Edmunds says
The 2004 Ford Ranger isn't the freshest compact pickup on the market, but it's still a solid choice thanks to a strong 4.0-liter V6 engine and a wide variety of equipment.
What is the common problem of Ford Ranger?
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.
What are the bad years for Ford Ranger?
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.
2004 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:
- Air bags problems
- Structure problems
- Suspension problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Ford Ranger vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2004 Ford Ranger
The NHTSA has received 400 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Ford Ranger. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2004 Ford Ranger vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
- VIN: 1FTYR10U44P
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: I dropped the vehicle off in April, Bought it off facebook marketplace in March. Since then, I have dropped the vehicle off at Big Star Ford in Pearland texas, and it has been there until today [XXX]. They FINALLy called me to tell me they cannot get parts for this 2017, or the 2023 recall that must be performed, and that I was "Free to come pick my vehicle up from them" It has been over six months with lack of communication, and me sacrificing time to complete in person visits, this is insane. I cannot believe they are still allowed to service vehicles INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-13
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: See attached document for complaint
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-17
- VIN: 1FTYR44U74P
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: See attached document for complaint
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-22
- VIN: 1FTZR45E64P
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Ford Ranger. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V0810000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-26
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FTZR15E34P
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: My husband was involved in a single-vehicle accident where he left the highway at around45 mph, went downhill for 50+ feet where he crashed into a concrete culvert, front impact. The airbags did not deploy. We bought the Ranger from friends, who believed that the Takata recall was completed before we bought it. There have been no accidents since the recall. The truck remains at the service lot where it was towed. It appears to be a total loss.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-14
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FTYR10U34P
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owned a 2004 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that his daughter was involved in a head-on collision; however, the air bags failed to deploy. The contact's daughter sustained injuries to her knee and received medical attention. A police report was filed. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-15
- VIN: 1ftzr45e44p
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The since weld behind the cab on drivers side frame completely rotted the frame away this was verified as a defect from a reputable welding shop since then I've not driven it as they said it could snap and cause a very bad accident or cause death or multiple deaths
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FTYR10U24P
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owned a 2004 Ford Ranger. The contact stated while driving at 10-15 MPH and making a right turn, a vehicle from the opposite lane crashed into the driver's side of the vehicle and the vehicle rolled over about 10 ft in the air, rolled over in a ditch, and landed on its wheel. The air bags did not deploy. The emergency units were unable to assist the contact out of the vehicle as the roof had caved in and was resting on her head. The contact crawled out of the vehicle and was transported to the hospital. The contact sustained a concussion and severe pain in the neck between her shoulder blade which has limited her movements. Additionally, the contact sustained damaged nerves on the left hand and left leg, and chronic lower back pain. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot where it was totaled. A police report was filed. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V081000 (Air Bags). The manufacturer also informed the contact that she did not receive a recall notification because recall notifications were not sent to each vehicle owner of the affected vehicles. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-28
- VIN: 1FTZR11U64P
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: TRUCK SURGED FORWARD WHILE BRAKING AT RED LIGHT IF SOME ONE WAS IN FRONT OF ME I WOULD HAVE HIT THEM.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-18
- VIN: 1ftzr15e54p
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Rear frame rusted and rotted..spare tire fell off entire evap can also..both sides rear frame shock and spring shackles rotted and broke off. Entire frame rotted and broke while driving ..on rear driver side frame rusted rotted and broke ..value of truck is not worth what estimates are ..gas tank hangers rusted and rotted many other pieces of frame rusted rotted through..truck is now unsafe to drive an probably unsellable due to broken rusted rotted frame..
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-28
- VIN: 1FTZR15E24P
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Ford Ranger. The contact stated while doing routine maintenance at a local mechanic, the mechanic found that the rear sub-frame assembly was rusted through and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 04V331000 (Structure) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 129,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-30
- VIN: 1FTYR11U64T
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Rotted sub-frame-will not pass NY State inspection-This truck has 27,817 miles
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-03
- VIN: 1FTYR10UX4T
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: RUSTED AND ROTTEN OUT FRAME. THE REST OF THE VEHICLE IS IN REAL GOOD CONDITION. FRAME IS CRACKED THRU IN A FEW PLACES AND CLOSE TO WERE THE SPRING IS MOUNTED TO THE FRAME.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-12
- VIN: 1FTZR45E54P
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 2004 FORD RANGER EDGE HAS RUSTED ROTTEN REAR FAME, SHACKELS RUSTED, SHOCKS RUSTED, BED RUSTED UNDER BEDLINER BUMPER FELL OFF. BEAUTIFUL TRUCK WITH NO BODY RUST. THE REAR SECTION OF FRAME IS ROTTEN. FRAME WILL CERTAINLY BREAK DOWN TO MAKE THE TRUCK NOT DRIVEABLE SHORTLY. IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND A USED FRAME IN THE SALVAGE YARD, BECAUSE THEY ARE ALREADY RUSTED THROUGH. HELP!!!!
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-11
- VIN: 1FTYR14U44P
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V081000 (AIR BAGS). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO STEARNS FORD INC., (602 ALAMANCE RD, BURLINGTON, NC 27215) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE AIR BAGS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 160,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-17
- VIN: 1FTZR45E14P
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AFTER RECEIVING SEVERAL RECALL NOTICES, WE MADE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE RECALL PERFORMED. THE ONLY APPOINTMENT AVAILABLE WAS SEVERAL MONTHS OUT. WHEN THE TIME CAME, WE WENT TO DROP OFF THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER, CORWIN FORD IN RENO, NV DIDN'T HAVE THE PARTS AND HADN'T EVEN ORDERED THEM. SERVICE WRITER MICHAEL MCNALLY SAID THAT THEY WOULD ORDER PARTS AND WE WOULD NEED TO BRING VEHICLE BACK. WE EXPRESSED DISPLEASURE THAT THEY HADN'T NOTIFIED US OF A DELAY. WE WERE TOLD THAT THEY WOULDN'T DO THE RECALL AND WE WOULD NEED TO TAKE IT TO ANOTHER DEALER. WE NOTIFIED THE MANUFACTURER, FORD, BUT RECEIVED NO RESPONSE. WE FEEL THAT THIS IS A DENIAL OF THE RECALL.*DT*JB
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-30
- VIN: 1FTZR15E24P
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE FRAME BROKE IN TWO ON SAID VEHICLE.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-09
- VIN: 1FTZR45EX4P
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: FRONT SUBFRAME CROSSMEMBER THAT HOLDS SUSPENSION COMPONENTS HAS BROKEN DUE TO RUST.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-09
- VIN: 1FTZR45EX4P
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THEFRONT SUBFRAME THAT HOLDS ALL THE SUSPENSION COMPONENTS HAS BROKEN DUE TO RUST.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-02
- VIN: 1FTZR45EX4P
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE FRONT SUBFRAME WHERE THE LOWER CONTROL ATTACHES HAS SEPARATED OR BROKEN DUE TO RUST. I WAS HEADED HOME FROM WORK, UNDER NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS, WITH NO EXTRA LOAD ON VEHICLE. I HIT A BUMP GOING THRU PARKING LOT N HEARD A POP. I HAD STOPPED AT GAS STATION N SEEN THAT DRIVER SIDE WHEEL N TIRE WERE NOT STRAIGHT UP N DOWN, IT WAS AT A DEGREE OR ANGLE. GOT UNDERNEATH N SEEN THAT SUBFRAME WAS RUSTED ALL THE WAY THRU WHERE LOWER CONTROL ARM WAS ATTACHED
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-16
- VIN: 1FTYR10D14P
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: INCREDIBLE AMOUNTS OF PREMATURE RUST ON FRAME AND SUSPENSION PARTS, SHACKLE BRACKETS RUSTED AWAY COMPLETELY AND HAD TO BE REPLACED. FRAME IS RUSTING AT AN UNPRECEDENTED PACE!?
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-20
- VIN: 1FTZR15E44P
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THERE HAS BEEN A RECALL ON THESE FOR SEVERAL YEARS, BEEN TO DEALER ON APPOINTMENTS AT LEAST 3 TIMES. THEY WILL NOT DO THE REPAIR, TELL ME IT'S BACKORDERED, NO PARTS, THEY'LL CALL ME WHEN IT'S THERE...
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-15
- VIN: 1FTZR45EX4P
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS AT SOLOMON FORD, LLC (502 NATIONAL PIKE W, BROWNSVILLE, PA 15417 (724) 785-5500), THE TECHNICIAN INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE SUBFRAME WAS RUSTED AND MAY DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE SOON. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 21,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-23
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FTYR10D44P
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: FORD RECALLED THE AIR BAGS TO GET FIXED ON MY TRUCK. I TOOK THE TRUCK IN TO A LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP, THEY SUPPOSEDLY FIXED THE RECALL. MY SON WAS INVOLVED IN ROLL OVER CRASH AND THE AIR BAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY. I HAVE A POLICE REPORT AND PHOTOS TO PROVE THAT. I ALSO HAVE THE PAPERWORK FROM THE DEALERSHIP SHOWING THE REPAIR. MY SON SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES. I AM UPSET AND I WANT ANSWERS. FORD SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE, ESPECIALLY IN A SAFETY MATTER.THIS OCCURRED IN ALBUQUERQUE, NM.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-10-04
- VIN: 1FTZR15E94T
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: EXCESSIVE FRAME RUST. RAILS AND CROSS BED SUPPORTS. 2 OF THE BED MOUNTING BOLTS RUSTED OFF AND ALSO THE RUST ATE THROUGH WHATEVER WAS HOLDING THE SPARE TIRE ON. NOT SURE WHERE OR WHEN THAT FELL OFF. I WAS READING MANY ARTICLES ABOUT THE 04 FORD RANGER WITH THE SAME FRAME ROT ISSUES.
2004 Ford Ranger recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 12 recalls for different components of the 2004 Ford Ranger.
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2004-2006 Ranger vehicles that received replacement front passenger air bag inflators under a previous recall. The replacement front passenger air bag inflators may have been installed incorrectly.
- Consequence: An incorrectly installed inflator may not properly inflate the passenger air bag, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and reinstall the front passenger air bag inflator, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 22, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S08. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 23V-125.
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2004-2006 Ranger vehicles that received replacement front passenger air bag inflators under a previous recall. The replacement frontal passenger air bag inflators may have been installed incorrectly.
- Consequence: An incorrectly installed inflator may not properly inflate the passenger air bag, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and reinstall the front passenger air bag inflator, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 5, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S08. This recall has been fully superseded by recall 23V-306.
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2004-2006 Ranger vehicles that may be equipped with a driver or passenger frontal air bag inflator used as a replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the frontal air bag, an inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the driver and passenger air bag module, and replace either the module or the inflator, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 17, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S05.
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2005-2014 Mustang, 2004-2011 Ranger, 2009-2011 Mercury Milan, 2006 Ford GT, 2008-2012 Fusion, 2007-2010 Edge and Lincoln MKX, and 2009-2010 Lincoln MKZ vehicles. These vehicles may be equipped with a driver or passenger frontal air bag inflator used as a replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the frontal air bag, an inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the driver and passenger air bag module, and replace either the module or the inflator, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 17, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S05.
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is superseding a previous recall for certain 2004-2006 Ford Ranger trucks to implement a final repair. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants, potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger's frontal air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 16, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S42. Note: This recall supersedes recall 15V322 which was an interim repair. Vehicles that received a replacement air bag inflator under the previous campaign need to return to a dealer to have an alternate inflator installed. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S42.
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Park It: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is superseding a previous recall for certain 2004-2006 Ford Ranger trucks to implement a final repair. Upon deployment of the driver side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 16, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S42. Note: This recall supersedes recall 16V-036 which was an interim repair. Vehicles that received a replacement air bag inflator under the previous campaign need to return to a dealer to have an alternate inflator installed.
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 Ranger vehicles manufactured March 24, 2003, to May 4, 2006. Upon deployment of the driver side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S03. Note: This recall supersedes 14V-343 and only applies to Rangers manufactured in North America.
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 Ranger trucks manufactured March 24, 2003, to May 4, 2006. The affected vehicles are equipped with a passenger side frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on December 4, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S22. Note: This recall partially supersedes recall 14V-787.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS
- Summary: FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 RANGER TRUCKS BUILT FROM JANUARY 25, 2011, THROUGH APRIL 25, 2011 AT THE TWIN CITIES ASSEMBLY PLANT, AND SERVICE PARTS DISTRIBUTED TO DEALERS FOR CERTAIN 2004 THROUGH 2011 MODEL YEAR RANGER TRUCKS, 2002 THROUGH 2005 MODEL YEAR EXCURSION VEHICLES, AND 2002 THROUGH 2007 MODEL YEAR F-250, F-350, F-450, AND F-550 TRUCKS FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THE MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH WAS SHIPPED WITH A SUBCOMPONENT (SLIDER) THAT MAY EXPERIENCE DEFORMATION. A MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH WITH A DEFORMED SLIDER MAY MALFUNCTION CAUSING THE TURN SIGNAL, TAIL LIGHTS, HAZARD WARNING SIGNAL FLASHERS AND/OR BRAKE LIGHTS NOT TO ACTIVATE.
- Consequence: NON-FUNCTIONING LIGHTS COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SWITCHES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 15, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332.
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Manufacturer: AJ MOTORSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: AJ MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AJ MOTORSPORT AT 626-618-2026.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, THE FRAME MAY HAVE A CENTER RAIL SECTION FLANGE THAT WAS NOT FORMED PROPERLY.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A SIDE IMPACT CRASH, THE FRAME RAIL SCOULD PUNCTURE THE FUEL TANK, RESULTING IN A FUEL LEAK. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FRAME TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE FRAME WAS INCORRECTLY MANUFACTURED. IF THERE IS A PROBLEM, THE VEHICLE WILL NOT BE REPAIRED. FORD AND THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE VEHICLE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 19, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Negative 2004 Ford Ranger car reviews
Positive 2004 Ford Ranger car reviews
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I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your 2004 Ranger! While it may not be the most comfortable vehicle you've owned, it sounds like it's been very dependable and cost-effective. It's impressive that it's still going strong after 150,000+ miles. I agree that it would be great if FORD brought back the Ranger in an affordable package with a crew cab option. I understand that the back seat in the Supercab isn't very spacious, but it's good to hear that you still think it's a great little truck overall!
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My family has a history with Rangers, and I never thought I would own one. However, when the Edge came around, I couldn't resist and now I am a proud owner. The dealership provided a great buying experience, and the driving experience has been fantastic. I believe it is the best value for the price. It is multifunctional, reliable, and I have not encountered any problems so far. My family members who also own an Edge have had the same positive experience. My father has already put over 10,000 miles on his Edge and has not complained about a thing. I am excited to see how it handles in the snow!
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The Edge 4wd Supercab with 4L/ 5 spd manual is a great truck overall. It has never let me down, except for recently when the clutch slave/master cylinder started to go. Despite this, it has been a great daily driver and has never had any problems when I drove to/from school. It handles freeway driving, offroading, and snow driving with ease. It has also hauled plenty of stuff, including kegs, plywood, and mulch, without any complaints. Last summer, it even towed my boat, which was borderline overweight, with no problems. Although I had to spend $1000+ for a new slave/master/clutch, it has been a reliable and versatile truck. Overall, I highly recommend it!
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This is the 3rd Ford 4x4 that I have owned. I purchased this mainly for my wife to use. I absolutely love everything about the truck, except for the gas mileage which is absolutely terrible, 8-10 city and 11-14 highway. The dealer told me that the mileage will get better after a few thousand miles, but I don't believe that.
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Your Ranger sounds like a great vehicle! With a 3 liter engine, 5 speed automatic transmission, and 3.73 rear axle ratio with limited slip, it's no wonder you've never been stuck even with many off-road miles. Plus, with a gas mileage of 19/24, it's both powerful and efficient. And I'm glad to hear that the 5 speed automatic transmission provides a smooth ride. Thanks for sharing!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Ford Ranger problems:
2004 Ford Ranger; 150k miles, seller wants 8k; what do the experts ...
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Common Problems with 2004 Ford Ranger: Expert Q&A
May 2, 2013 ... Ranger: 2004 Ford Ranger getting water into SJB. Where does… ... Steve : The most common problem is the windshield leaks in the corner seal and ...
Other years of Ford Ranger
Are you having problems with your 2004 Ford Ranger?
Keagan Altenwerth 2024-07-18
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to chat with you about your 2004 Ford Ranger XLT 2.3 16v with a 5-speed manual. It sounds like it's driving fine, but you mentioned that it's lacking in horsepower. I can definitely understand how frustrating that can be. You mentioned that it has 143 horsepower, but it feels more like 115 horsepower. Have you considered any upgrades or modifications to boost the power? Let me know if you need any suggestions or recommendations!
Hans Durgan 2024-03-16
It seems like the gas mileage could be improved.