My TOP pick: The BEST small truck on the road today!

Dependability is a HUGE factor when owning a vehicle. This 2002 is at the top of my list for small pickups on the road today! Let me tell you why. ➡️➡️➡️ Don't forget to check out ‪@MrsWizardsWays‬ she's making my favorite candies: • Candy Making Made Supe... ⬅️⬅️⬅️
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[@EyePatchGuy88]

The 'small trucks' of the 90s to 00s, from the American Ranger to the Japanese Hilux, are some of the best vehicles ever made.

[@slednecksification]

My little 95 ranger is a absolute amazing little truck! Simple to fix i mean i did a transmission in it myself granted i did have a car lift luckily but very straight forward simple little trucks!

[@Roberto-de8xv]

​@@slednecksificationtransmission after how many miles

[@slednecksification]

@@Roberto-de8xv 170k but the previous owner beat the piss out of it i got it for dirt cheap had a parts truck and fixed it all up on my spare time great little truck now!

[@user-im6fy4qp6m]

makes you wonder why they dont make them anymore. people want long lasting economical 4 cylinder pickups that cost $10,000 new and yet nobody makes them today. i dont need satellite radio or GPS or 20" folding flat screens for each passenger i just want a cheap work truck why wont they listen to customers?

[@Roberto-de8xv]

@user-im6fy4qp6m Toyota still makes the 70 Series standard Landcruisers but they're like 80k. Emissions, safety, & fuel mileage standards makes it difficult to sell just a standard 4/6 cylinder without any options..it also would be a niche market. You & I would buy one but majority of consumers would not.

[@chrisp7652]

I had a little 98 Ranger for 20 years. Almost 400k miles with a 4 cylinder manual. 1 water pump and timing belt, 2 clutches, new brakes once are all it ever needed. I would still be driving it if some clown didn’t wreck it. Greatest truck I ever owned.

[@diablocls55]

Hank Hill would approve

[@dwartfarquart9590]

My 87 has 352k when it was t-boned. I am approaching 300k on my 97. Crossing my fingers that I can get 500k.

[@DL-ry3qg]

Are you calling yourself a clown:)

[@rickc303]

As opposed to a big 1998 Ranger?

[@KinoTechUSA69]

Goddamn bro rebuild your suspension.

[@bluemodelt]

It's the truck we wanted back and failed to get.

[@mentat1341]

I think in 20 years people might be talking about the Maverick in a similar way. It really is a great truck

[@derekisthematrix]

​Only options are a turbo or a hybrid. Doubt either version will be around after 20 years. P.S. love the profile picture and username. The sleeper has awakened! 😁 ​@@mentat1341

[@JSAFIXIT]

The Maverik is pretty damn close I think. It's small, cheap, useful, and simple.

[@volvo09]

​@@JSAFIXITif only you could get a 2 seater / or extended cab maverick. The 4 door design steals bed space.

[@JSAFIXIT]

@volvo09 Even most full size trucks sold today have a short bed.

[@rhigh100]

My friend had one. 2.3 4 cyl. He worked 3rd shift. 100 mile round trip. Then when he got home his wife drove it to her job. 125 mile round trip. 5 days a week for years.

[@ghomerhust]

the 2.3 and 5 speed is the ultimate bulletproof build on those old rangers. several hundred thousand is what you expect. 250k is average from the ones i see in the wrecker yards, and most of those are actually from crashes, and the drivetrain looks like it's still fine. rugged simple little trucks

[@wcurtin1962]

Brought mine new in 1994, still driving it.

[@Wedge_lord]

That’s over 50k miles per year assuming 2 weeks vacation and 5 days per week. Imagine doing an oil change every month just based on miles…

[@GreenBeats11]

I mean that's cool but it begs the question why weren't they driving a Civic or Corolla? That 2.3l ranger gets 21 mpg highway if it has the 5-sp auto. The older 4-sp gets 19. A similar aged Corolla/Civic will probably get 34 mpg and also available manual transmission. if you factor in some city driving we're probably talking a 15mpg split. We're talking ~1300 gallons save per year. Assume $3.00 gas and we get close to 4 grand in after-tax savings per year. They could afford to buy another car, including owning a Ranger + eco Japanese car.

[@DonnieDarko727]

​@@Wedge_lord 780,000 on a 2012 Hyundai Elantra here. 400 miles 6 days a week

[@patricklinkous]

So glad you mentioned King of the Hill in a Ranger review. Hank Hill was a devoted Ranger enthusiast!

[@Shiznit304]

Hah I barely caught that reference

[@patricklinkous]

​@@Shiznit304I'm not actually sure it was on purpose 😂

[@JamesThomas-kx5sj]

That's honestly one of the reasons I chose a Ranger

[@nathanmcdonald610]

He did upgrade to a Super Duty in later seasons though.

[@michaelkulman7095]

"I'll tell you what..."...

[@stuartpickles6907]

My grandfather had one arm since he was 11. He taught me how to drive a standard on an 88 ranger. He bought it a year old and had it until it was destroyed in the Joplin tornado. 288k miles

[@artstudent1237]

He steered and shifted having only one arm? The things a person can do when they are set on it and/or have no choice despite the obstacles always amazes me.

[@geekfreak618]

Good for him! Yeah, that tornado was a trip and a half. So powerful.

[@ghomerhust]

your gampa just may have been a badass! a buddy of mine lived by joplin when that rolled through, but he was one of the lucky ones. hopefully the pickup was the worst of their losses

[@lockandloadlikehell]

That was before this gen redesign in 93

[@70stastic]

My father ran his '96 2.3 low on coolant and overheated it, warping the head and the head gasket failed between cyl 3 and 4. He drove it 500 miles home on the remaining 2 cylinders. I got the head machined down for $120, put a head gasket on it, and it still runs great today. Rangers are the epitome of "good enough"

[@kirkreed8547]

Lol.. The GED of trucks

[@jamesfranko5098]

How are they good enough if they're a great reliable truck? Good enough is some shit box that just about makes it.

[@trevagraham1605]

@@jamesfranko5098 I thinks he means it has no bells or whistles, but it will always get you from A to B. You know minus the nonsense like heated mud flaps and digital bumper temperature gauges.

[@frankkeel8410]

2003 v6 exten ded cab rust bucket like all Fords. At 80,000 miles.

[@oldred9122]

This generation of Ranger was actually built until 2011. If you're looking to pick one up, I always tell people to look at the leaf spring shackles. Those are the first pieces to break due to rust.

[@skruloos1]

And even that's not hard to fix..

[@Ntmoffi]

Thankfully I don't have that problem in my state.

[@lockandloadlikehell]

2wd sucked in snow even with snow or ATs and 400 lbs of cement blocks in the bed.

[@michaelkulman7095]

Yes, the shackles rust away, at least in Minnesota...

[@RigepFroggit]

Had a 2000 Ranger that lasted a bit over 423k miles. When I sold it the old girl had lost some of her pep but everything still worked. You are absolutely right about that generation of Rangers being one of the best small trucks out there.

[@volvo09]

When I was a teen my friend had a 98 (back in 02) he gave that thing a whoopin burning tires off and revving the snot out of it and chirping 2nd gear whenever he could. He had that truck for years and it just kept going, even once we grew out of the abusive teen years.

[@alexo1226]

You had 2.5 liter or the v6 ?

[@RigepFroggit]

@@alexo1226 3.0l v6. Thing just kept going. I abused that truck way more than I really should have and it just never quit.

[@enricopolazzo33]

4.0L 4wd is a great truck

[@bradlopez3681]

Just got one I’m in love

[@markcomeau3236]

I got a 09 4l 5spd 4x4 with Ranchos and skid trays

[@MartinScreeton]

I own a 1998 Ranger XLT 4x4 3.0, best damn little truck I've ever owned! I drove it to florida and back from Indiana @243,000 miles and it did not use a quart of oil! it's now going on 250,000 without any major problems.

[@derrickdollar9038]

I got 01 4.0 18 years just hit 260k runs like a champion

[@DSP1968]

I had a '97 Ranger XLT with the 4.0 V-6. What an anvil! Sold it with 208K miles and it had at least that much life left in it. I have a friend with a 2004 with close to 500K on it, and the engine has not been apart! She is very consistent with maintenance, and I think that is the secret to these, as I was too.

[@skruloos1]

Cant stress that enough about maintenance...

[@calvinkirk1638]

You're right on about the Rangers durability. I have a 2010 with 4X4, 4.0 engine and manual transmission. It now has 215, 000 miles and has been a good vehicle. As a retired auto mechanic I maintained it myself and it pays off. I wish they had continued this old style and updated it with the times.

[@Bekindifnot...]

The New style I think is ugly. I had a 2011 Ford Ranger and I drove it across state 6 times and never had any problems. I assure you, I regret ever selling it. I liked how there's kinda a clear distinction between 90's retro and modern cars trying to be too futuristic.

[@applesauce1680]

My old 4 banger dutifully hauled home an overloaded face cord of firewood yesterday as well as it has the last 30 years. Looking forward to it continuing to do so as long as I can still load and unload it.

[@aniquinstark4347]

I love my little 2001 Ranger. It's dependable, reasonably fuel efficient and super practical as a work truck. You can get a whole lot done with just a Ranger and a toolbox.

[@Flies2FLL]

I had a Ford Aerostar with that 3.0 liter "Vulcan" V6 engine. They give no problems whatsoever and just run and run and run. They have a tendency toward oil leaks, but that's about it.

[@cdos9186]

In the winter and salt prone areas I've seen where the oil leaks actually help prevent rusting haha. The parts that were all dry tended to rust really bad due to the salt, and the areas where the oil coated everything was spotless underneath. I guess the oil leaks aren't so bad if you watch the oil level lol.

[@kamryn7496]

I put a brand new 3.0L in my ranger an it still wanted to leak something lol the rear main is leaking on it talk about bad luck lol

[@sorrowcat2724]

I beg to differ. These all start to gush coolant from the timing cover around 180k and the rear main seals go at about 150k.

[@M_Phipps0520]

The ranger 3.0 is prone to valve seat collapse

[@gregedmand9939]

I had a Mercury Sable with the 3 litre. It was a pretty sweet ride.

[@user-rl9dz1kz2r]

I totally agree with your assessment of the ranger. I own a 2008 with the 3.0 engine. Base hp for this year is 155, torque values aren't given but I suspect sub-200 pound feet. It's no powerhouse, but with the addition of cai and tuned exhaust the difference is noteworthy. It does all I ask of it, including towing way beyond what you'd think it could. At 155,000 miles I have every expectation of seeing 250k or more. Just keep on top of maintenance and fluids and they provide years of trouble free service

[@user1hacker622]

Yo id like to know more about this

[@user-rl9dz1kz2r]

The exhaust is from MBRP, a cat-back single that bolts right up and uses existing hanger brackets. All I had to do was cut the pipe to the proper length(different bed sizes and cab options mean different tube length). No welding or other cutting needed. Easiest exhaust work I've ever done. The intake is from AFE power and is just as easy to install. Power gains are claimed as 25 hp for exhaust and 15 for intake, IDK but the throttle response is excellent now, so there's something there. I went to larger tires to balance out the package.your neighbors might not appreciate the exhaust note, it is noticably louder, but very pleasing to the ear!

[@donvito2682]

I just bought a 2008 Ford Ranger. It has 112,000 miles on it and drives like a dream.

[@donswier]

Had a 98 up to 333k miles. 4cyl 2wd 5spd 2.5 Lima engine. Original clutch. Head never off. Just got tired of small items giving out (A/C, cruise) All the major stuff tough as nails though👍

[@sidviscous5959]

I have a 97 with the 4 cylinder 2.3 Lima engine with 8 spark plugs. It's "only" at 220k miles. An old mechanic told me the 4 cyl with 4 plugs has more power and gets better mileage. BUT he also said the ones with 8 plugs will last waaaay longer. Apparently they are somewhat legendary.

[@seahawks1912]

I have that same 2.3 8 plug engine in a 94 Mazda B2300. I bought it 15 years ago for 1300 for dump runs. After I totaled my daily Mazda 3 last year, I drive the truck now as daily. Been eyeing something newer, but hard to justify 30-40K prices, especially as the old one still drives OK.@@sidviscous5959

[@bigshow5173]

I have my fathers 2009 with v6 he hardly drove it before he passed. Extremely clean in and out with only 35k miles.

[@Pyrrhus0331]

My father recently passed and mom is giving me a 2008 v6 4x4 . Gotta drive it from Seattle to the SF Bay Area so I’m learning what I can, never owned a ford truck just Tundra’s

[@volvo09]

Wow, what low mileage!

[@yogisfriend7869]

I own a 1998 Ranger 4.0 that I purchased new after owning a 1990 4.0. This rig has left me stranded only once, and that was in front of my house. A corroded crank position sensor was the culprit. Other than some oil consumption at 257K mi due to what I believe to be worn valve guides I have no complaint. I own some classics and yet this Ranger is the one that constantly gets notes on the windshield. "would you consider selling?....."...nope. I'm honestly considering a restoration if/when it dies. I'll have a dependable rig at the size I prefer and parts that won't break the bank

[@alb12345672]

I have a 96 Explorer with the 4.0L OHV it is limited with every toy, digital climate, basically the same dash as a ranger. I put in a 7" Nav radio and I love it. 4.10 gears. Actually used the 4 low off road had a ton of fun with it. 200K miles. It is a second truck but always starts on the first crank. My neighbor bought a new Jeep a few years ago, it was a POS, he said he can't believe how reliable mine is. He thought it rode much better too. I picked him up from the dealer a few time :lol:. The Jeep is long gone. He has an older Ranger now.

[@bendino9016]

do some research on oil and additives and maybe you can bring the oil consumption down or help the piston rings or valve guides. guys like you that take care of their vehicles are hard to find. great job! i have a 2011 silverado with 240k miles, and its all original except brakes and some suspension components.

[@Chrissurfs]

That 4.6 Ford engine you praised was also from this era. Thank you Mr. and Mrs. Wizard.

[@EyePatchGuy88]

That 4.6 Coyote is one of the best engines ever made.

[@chrisdaigle5410]

@@EyePatchGuy88 Ford calls the 4.6L engine the modular family. The mod engine was even turned into the V10 engine in the Ford trucks. The Coyote is an offshoot of that family.

[@hank1556]

I have 400k miles on my 2005 F150 4.6. Great engines. Just bought a ZF5 4x4 F250 2V 6.8 V10. Very happy with it

[@kokocostanza2036]

Just a little info, the back seats in this sit sideways, too. They just fold up that way to clear the area for the rear doors. They lower down forward, but the backs then raise up towards the door when closed.

[@hughbrackett343]

On my vehicles with failed coil packs, I also found plugs worn way out of spec or bad wires. If you jump on it at the first sign of misfire, you might avoid killing the coil pack. One tip on these trucks: Take a hard look at the rear frame. They like to rust out on Northern trucks.

[@zachlafond2652]

My first vehicle was a 1985 ford ranger regular cab 4x4, no power steering, lock out hubs, 5 speed manual and the 2.3 efi 4cyl. I loved that truck...but rust got it. Would regularly get 25mpg.

[@ericschulze5641]

They wouldn't run if it was raining

[@jimshoe402]

!986 Toyoda CHEAPEST out the door 50K watt $7k.15 years 1 clutch $600 by Dealer 250K .SOLD No Air bag. Pure Love started at-25F and -100F wind chill in Parking Lot.😁😁😁😁😁

[@md2k8]

These older Ranger's are great compact pickups from Ford.

[@TheJmich2001]

Thats why I have three of them.......thank you for affirming my theory Mr Wizard!

[@JSFGuy]

Where are they? You've got a channel you could upload to.

[@ruben3305]

I had a 94’ 4 banger power Range and I loved that thing. The OG owner kept a detail log of maintenance and fuel. I’ve hauled 2.5k lbs of bricks for a home project and that little 5 speed truck ran like a champ. The rust is what killed it since living in Iowa can really destroy vehicles within 5-10 yrs. I miss that little truck.

[@jundialhaqiqa9907]

I agree that this and their Mazda counterparts are great trucks. I still see them all the time even ones from the 90's.

[@lanceripplinger8352]

I've been driving my 2004 Ranger since I bought it brand new. I have the 4.0L SOHC, and it has been fine, along with the 5 speed auto. The 4WD system is a bit finicky at times, but works. The truck has never let me down.

[@mikep490]

Excellent! You got one of the 4L SOHC engines that didn't develop the death rattle. Repairing the chains/guides requires yanking the engine. Fortunately the engine comes out ralatively easy.

[@lanceripplinger8352]

@mikep490 Yeah, I've been very fortunate. I'm sure it helps I am religious about oil changes, too.

[@mikep490]

@@lanceripplinger8352 As I recall, it was the guides that wore out. The SOHC had a timing chain to power the center shaft, which powered a front and rear sprocket via 2 additional chains. Ford used a single head design, thus the cause for "death rattle" in some. Then some of the models of the engine had a 4th chain to drive a counter shaft, but I don't know if that model was installed in Rangers.

[@odinporter8011]

​@@mikep490 Yes 4x4 4.0 sohc rangers got a balance shaft bringing the total number of timing chains to 4.

[@paulhooker516]

My dad had a couple rangers over the years. Good trucks. I find it hilarious that people just love to overload the things. They get the job done... somehow.

[@imaldon1]

My 98' Ranger is approaching 190K miles. Super bullet-proof reliability! Today's vehicles have turned into 4-wheel PC boards with flaky reliability and repair bills even requiring hefty bank loans when not covered by the warranty. Outrageous 😬. Thank you Car Wizard for an excellent car review.

[@brianwaldo2642]

My 2002 Explorer Sport 4.0L with only 180,000 kms is still going strong and running well. I did have the tranny rebuilt a couple of years ago and valve cover gaskets last year. Other than that, it’s been normal scheduled maintenance. It’s the perfect vehicle for me here in 🇨🇦 and gets me around in the snow effortlessly.

[@IanFrancisco-CAPianoman]

I have a 2000 Nissan Frontier with the KA24DE and 5spd. It has 214k miles and many original parts; clutch, rear brake shoes, water pump, radiator, engine transmission. Runs good as new. All I've done under the hood is an alternator and radiator hoses and thermostat. Kept the fluids replaced including transmission and differential oils. It's really helped that this has lived its entire life in California!

[@thecuss6817]

I have 1998 and 2004 Frontiers with same KA24DE (timing chain) and 5spd, the best combination. These trucks (at 274K and 116K miles) have great AC (Arizona), get 26 mpg, and fit in a garage. With 143 hp (compared to 82hp in my 1988 Mazda B2200 Cab Plus truck), much better driveability too. And 2004 and earlier Frontiers fit in my garage.

[@trevagraham1605]

Bought my 93 Ranger with the 2.3 in it in 2004 with 120k miles on it for $1000. It currently sits at 328k miles. Its been the best purchase I've ever made.

[@user-bq4un2zx1s]

Almost the same story here: I bought my 94 Mazda (same truck) in 2002 with 120k miles. It’s got the 4.0 v6. Paid more ($5,500) but I’m still daily driving it with 335k on the clock. Like you, it was the best money I’ve ever spent. Was offered $3k for it last year.

[@trevagraham1605]

​@@user-bq4un2zx1sthat 4.0 Cologne motor is the holy grail for the Ranger/B series. You scored a major gem!!

[@maxseed4730]

I still have my 98 ranger that I bought new in June of 98 .. has the 2.5 5 speed.. 167k on it.. still great running

[@dannyvernon1098]

I still have sitting in my driveway the 1996 Ranger XLT Supercab I bought brand new. 2.3l 5 speed. It has about 250,000 miles on it and after putting a little money in it back in the spring, is running great. I don't drive it daily, but I could. The only 2 major things I've e done to it is replace the ball joints a couple years ago, and new clutch at about 160,000 miles, and it didn't need it then, turned out to be a bad throw out bearing, clutch itself was in great shape but went ahead and replaced it anyway (with an upgraded clutch pack). Pretty much everything else has been basic maintenance. I checked the mileage on it when I got it out of the shop back in the spring, and was getting 30+ mpg. I still have people to this day asking if I would sell it. It's been a great little truck and I hope it outlasts me, and it just might.

[@dog8nut]

I have a 94 extended cab with the 4.0 V-6 and 5 speed . I have owned it since 99 and has only 325,000 miles on it ! Here in Arizona the paint is crap but other than the headliner the interior is still in good shape. The 4.0 has all the power you could want but around town with the AC on about 15 or so MPG. Has towing package so lower rear axle gear,65 MP on road 20-21 MPG. Used this old truck as a pilot car for OS loads for about 6 years so quite a few road miles.

[@michaelbenoit248]

When I used to work at an independent automotive shop we had these in all the time. Mostly for basic stuff. They’re pretty tough trucks. These things refuse to die. Everything else on the truck was falling apart around the truck itself.

[@JBishop25]

I bought a 99 Ranger, single cab, 2wd, 5 speed manual with factory 2/65 air. That thing was bulletproof. I’ve been looking for one lately to run errands in and toss stuff in, but here in central NY, they are all rotted out now because of the salt.

[@courtney5796]

My son scored a 2002 Mazda B4000 for $2000. 115K and ZERO leaks from the motor or trans. My mouth literally dropped open when we went to look it over. What 21 year old vehicle has no leaks at all. Crazy to me.

[@gixxer750r3]

I am on my third Ranger. My current one is a 2011 (the last year of this body style) and I love it. Yes, they do last forever. Best of all they have a longer bed than most newer midsize trucks, albeit at the expense of four doors, although it does have those little access doors that give me ability to get to my tools I keep behind the seats. Overall I have put well over 250,000 miles on my Rangers.

[@donsab-xz4so]

Yeah, the new generation body is too big--might as well get an F150

[@arnoldschmidt2753]

Nothing last forever except God's Word.

[@Doc1855]

We’re on our 4th Ranger. It too is a 2011 4WD with the 4.0L , but ours has only 36K miles

[@CGF101]

My neighbor bought one of these with 200k miles we thought he was crazy… it’s going on 425k miles😂

[@mikep490]

Thanks for the tip on the coil pack. I'll give that a try. I bought mine 8 years ago, a 1994 because I prefer the older suspension and the 4L pre-SOHC engine. (The SOHC 4L had problems with "death rattle" from its multiple timing chains.) This truck's option packs were set for towing; Ford's 3 ton tow rating, more than double the 4 cylinder. That's come in handy.

[@rcole1981]

Great video again! I love how you are an honest mechanic/ technician! Hope your healing up good man! Take care

[@nickprioletti7221]

My 2006 2.3 has 390,000 miles! It's my daily driver/work truck.

[@mikemenze1043]

I agree! My 07 has the 2.3 manual, I’m at 161k…knock on wood, no issues, thermostat was the only repair I’ve made. 26mpg consistently. Love it!

[@user-cd3hv2hz8f]

I Have a 04 b2300 no options manual. rear seal leaks oil but still runs and shifts great. luckly, the orignal owner never drove it in the winter so just surface rust no rot. my dad had an 01 xlt brings me back to my childhood

[@waiting4aliens]

I have a 94 Ranger, x cab, 4.0, 5spd, 4wd, out of Wyoming, 80k miles, one family. Came with a broken brake line, dead battery. No rust. My third ranger. Glad I saved the FSM. If you are knowledgeable, and have the skills and tools, old cars are doable. Remember, Mr. Wizard has to charge you the same money per hour for your beater to keep the lights on in the shop that he charges for something newer and nicer. There may be logistical hiccups, and nobody wants their lot full of dead cars. The Mazda B series are it's twin. I had a b 3000 3.o v6 LB that would get 27 highway. Sorry I sold that truck. There is perhaps one model to avoid. Rarely found diesels. A decade ago they were hard to source parts for. I am particularly in tune with Mr. Wizard because my DD is a 88 240 Volvo. Good video, thanks.

[@cliff4ever]

I daily an ‘09 2wd Ranger Sport w/125k miles she’s completely rust free. Love my Ford Ranger. Tows my ultra lite 22’ camper with the 4.0 and tow pckg. Thanks Wizard for affirming my choice.

[@iannelli2448]

Great video and absolutely agreed! Recently, I set out to find the "newest 3rd generation 4x4 Ford Ranger with the least amount of miles" that I could find, with the intention of it being my "forever" truck. I'm a late 20s homeowner who works from home and has a lot of hobbies and interests that involve hauling heavy stuff. I also have a big family and want to be someone they can depend on when they need to move, etc. I found a 4x4 2011 Ford Ranger XLT with the 4.0L V6 with only 52k miles. Dealership had it listed for $17.9k. When it was new, with the options included, it was about a $26k truck. So, kind of expensive for a 12 year old vehicle, but... truly the last of its kind. It was manufactured in Tennessee and spent its life in the south, meaning... no rust! I snatched it up within moments of the listing being posted and got it delivered to my home. It's such a joy to drive! So simple, so dependable, so fun. Gas mileage sucks, but that's basically the only downside. I think I will drive this sucker for 20 years. It fits in my garage, too! "They don't make 'em like they used to."

[@iLupi]

I love these Rangers so much! They’re so small, dependable, and capable. Grandfather’s manual Ranger is well over 300k miles by now and is still chugging along 20 years later! Probably will for at least another 20 years at this point too, haha! 😂❤it eventually replaced the Aerostar and Escort they had. Good times with all of those cars.

[@Handsomemangame]

Had a 94 best vehicle ever owned

[@adjacentchannel]

I've got an '03 Mazda B2300 with a manual, exact same model as the Ranger 4cyl with the 2.3l engine. I have had it parked as a standby vehicle for my household just in case something else were to break down on me. Could have sold it during the inflated pandemic used market but I knew it would have been a pain to find a replacement vehicle. If gas prices go crazy again, I'll park my E150 and drive the B2300 again. It easily kept the mpg in the 30-40 range.

[@raybonecrusher4516]

I have a 2007 ford ranger 4X4 off road p/u with 119000 miles on it. Runs great but the ride is stiff. It gets 20 mpg. I also have a EXT 2007 escalade p/u and it gets 17 mpg. It is the most comfortable truck I've every owned.

[@user-rz2th4rp8w]

I had a 92 with the 4.0. it was great. Had it for years. My youngest son has it today. It was the best vehicle that i ever had.never put much into it. Cluch,brakes, batteries. For years i drove it everyday. Got a nice big car and gave my truck away. I have regretted that ever sense but we do what we think is right at the time

[@terry3193]

Great truck! I have a ‘98 Ranger XLT 4x4, super cab w/3.0 v6 and automatic. It has 265K miles and it’s all original….engine, transmission, differentials, exhaust, etc….never have had a problem. It runs and drives like new….smooth and tight. AC blows ice cold. No leaksIt really is a dog with power but it gets me from a to b and use as an extra truck around the property. I love it. People will random routinely ask me if I want to sell it. It looks great.

[@sohackitj]

I've had a 1999 Mazda B2500 5MT since 2004. In 19+ years I've only had the check engine light twice. Once for a bad egr pressure feedback sensor, and once for a bad injector. The original coil packs lasted 23 years. The truck is still a daily driver with a bit over 243000 miles. No major repairs. I've had multiple people asking if I'm interested in selling it, not anytime soon.

[@MattLikesGaming]

I have a 2001 gmc sonoma and get asked every so often if I want to sell. They just dont make small trucks like they used to.

[@dgraddy1359]

I had a 4.0L V6 5 speed regular cab Ranger. Never had any major issues. It had nearly 300k miles on it and was nearly 25 years old when a tree fell on it. I miss that truck. 😢

[@ngtflyer]

Up until earlier this year, I had a 2011 Ranger XLT with the 4.0L SOHC motor. Had it from new for 11 years, took good care of it. Finally it failed emissions this year and the shop I took it to quoted me $9300 to make it right. Both cats were bad and it needed upper and lower control arms. And the rear timing chain was starting to intermittently rattle. I said no and traded it back in April. No regrets, it treated me well for those 11 years. Did lots of hauling, daily drive, road trips and plenty of good memories. 2011 was the final year for this platform/body style. They truly are great small trucks.

[@Mr.Mopar.23-7]

My first ranger, 88 regular cab 2wd shorty. I sold it at 20 years, and everything still operated normally. 287k miles. I purchased an 08, exactly the same 2wd shorty. I installed an eaton tru-trac, "posi differential." I live in snow country. I still own it, and it still looks new. I would buy another, someday, except the price doubled when the new model came out.

[@pcthayer]

I had a 1998 and a 2005 Ranger both 4x4 (4.0 engine 1 manual and 1 automatic). Had good luck with them other than rust problems here in New England, but they sat a lot since I only used them on occasion.

[@behindthewolfseyes]

I daily a 2008 with the 4.0 and 236k miles. Rust is the only enemy. We had a 2003 that was a lemon, possibly from sitting in the driveway for weeks at a time (elderly driver's second vehicle). The 4.0 Rangers have surprisingly good acceleration, but suffer from traction issues when unladen, as much as any truck I've ever driven.

[@williamstone4334]

That's why, when I ordered my 2008/4.0 /5 speed I added the limited-slip ($300). Didn't want the useless jump seats so deleted for a credit ($255). Love it. $18,5 out the door, only has 47,000 miles. Rust no problem in SOCAL.

[@soccerfreak22222]

2011 Suzuki Equator 308,000 on the clock. Oil, filters, and batteries are the only thing you have to worry about. Swapped a steering rack in at 285,000 and swapped the rear suspension at 270,000.

[@sesapup]

I have a 96 3.0, and valve cover gaskets are on the agenda for the spring, plus suspension bushings and maybe a steering gear (twin I-beam). It's not pretty, the white paint is flaking off (common for mid 90s Fords) and the headliner needs a replacement covering, but everything works perfectly.

[@MrSupro]

The main problems with these trucks are the plastic interior and exterior trim just decomposes from the sun. Otherwise they are fine. So cheap that if it does do its final fall apart you just dump it and find another. Otherwise they just keep running as long as you don’t abuse it.

[@alb12345672]

I have a 96 Explorer limited, same dash as ranger, if I detail it up it can look showroom new. I put in new cruise control switches for $20. Quality is excellent, maybe better than new stuff.

[@dhalvorson8622]

I have an 03 Ranger XLT I bought brand new. I don’t drive it very much so it only has 25,000 actual miles on it. Good truck!

[@DoktorJeep]

I still drive the one I bought new over 20 years ago. It has not given me much trouble beyond wear and tear stuff. It's big enough to get stuff done, small enough to fit in a 1 car garage. Full frame too. I love my ranger and am even planning on finding some short blocks for it so that I can drive it another 20 years.

[@wjack4728]

Totally agree! Had a 1996 Ranger with the 4.0v6 and auto trans. Drove it all over US, Alaska, Canada, and Mexico, and it's still running everyday. My Nephew has it now, and uses it in his Bee Keeping business. The thing that is so remarkable is that for about 10 years it's had a intake leak, I think, that causes a antifreeze leak, and the antifreeze looks dark, from oil getting into it I guess. The Ranger still runs about everyday.

[@ronwinkles2601]

I bought a 1999 Ford Ranger XLT extended cab 2 X WD automatic with a 4.0 ltr engine and 3.52 rear end. I bought it two years ago for $2000. I spent another $2000 on it mechanically doing everything to put it in 1st class shape. The body was perfect with no rust. It runs like a top, gets 18 to 22 mpg every day and even peals rubber. Today, it has 177K on it. The little thing runs so good, and it is so easy to park, drive and work with compared to my 2019 Ram 1500. I pick it every time I need to do a small job or just run around town. To reward it for being such a good little truck, I had it painted back its original Amazon Green with extra high gloss clear coat. Every where I go it gets comments. I have invested $5700 in it since I bought, and I could get that back in a minute, so I've been driving for two years for free. On the other hand, my 2019 Ram 1500 has depreciated $20,000 in the last four years.

[@rdallas81]

My 2004 Ram Hemi has 300,000+ on it.

[@thesonofmousefitzgerald2598]

My truck is a ‘99 Ranger. I love that little thing. Just slightly more than my old Tacoma. I like the ride height. A lot of fun with the 4 speed manual w/OD.

[@snbrown100]

Very reliable and they go for a long time. I did find when replacing my sons this summer (someone ran a stop sign, and totalled his 99 ugh) that wanting 4WD and the 4.0 as he did, it was much harder to find and more expensive here in Maryland. We finally found one at a shady dealer for 8K and so far so good. I couldn't talk this dealer down from the price to save my life. We looked for a month and they were going for 6 to 10K consistently and going fast.

[@kevinfalkner1624]

I bought. 1994 mazda b2300 or ford ranger with 2.3 liter . Bought it brand new had it 12 yrs as main vehicle for family of 4. Great truck no problems . Put new timings belt clutch and ujoints at 200,000 not because i had to just because it was time. She was a little tired but still ran great when i sold it in 2006.

[@hpymnky]

I have a 2010 Ranger XLT with the 4.0 and 4x4 that currently has 316k on it and is still on the original running gear. Was a former fleet vehicle that lived on the freeway.

[@MiamiZombie2012]

My 94 Ranger 4x4 with the 3.0 is still kicking ass. Picked it for $2K and it had a new set of 31s. Figured it's already sitting higher might as well put a 4 inch lift on it. Hasn't leaked a drop of oil. Only problem it had was the transmission doing that hard shifting. Shift kit mostly fixed it. Other than that it's just unbearably slow with the 3.0.

[@billwisse5594]

Great Video. These type of video help. I just inherited a similar one. A 2002 3.0L 5-speed, White. No extra cab. 26K miles. (yes, that is correct) It sat for years, outdoors. I'm starting to perform inspections, deep cleaning and rust scraping. Then tune-up and needed part replacements. It's a fun and proud little truck.

[@IamGroot786]

WOW, that's a clean little Ranger! Last September, I bought a 2004 XLT from my neighbor with 163,000 miles on it. Mainly for my middle boy to have as his first vehicle and for the both of us to have a project to bond over in the garage. It's a 4.0 V6 with the 5-speed manual. It's great to see him learn to drive a stick shift and being underneath the truck as we work together replacing pretty much all of the major fluids such as the transmission and differential. You're right, the darn thing runs like a clock! Next spring I'm hoping to find a new bed for it since the rust here in the snow belt has taken its toll on the original one.

[@logo8976]

Not surprised haha I have a few neighbors who have had these for YEARS 😎 I’ve never had a truck before but this will always be my ideal truck if I go that route

[@lightedfirecracker]

Got a 97 ranger with the 2.3 and a 5 speed. Been a great truck can’t go wrong for 2k. Put about 50k miles on it so far with no issues. Good gas mileage too!

[@ralphturner3798]

The best truck I ever had was a 1931 model A Ford. I lived in Schenectady NY where it got very cold and the bolt-on manifold heater would almost prevent a passenger for being in the passenger seat, it got so hot. But the truck ran well, and I paid only $300 for it.

[@johnbarnes6832]

I owned an '87 Ranger Club Cab w/ dual tanks-to quote John Cameron Swayze,"Took a licking and kept on ticking." The only thing that drove me nuts was the tilt reset switch buried under the dash on the passenger side, after jacking it up to change the oil unbeknownst to me it partially reset. Sometimes it would start, and sometimes not. Not till my father told me about a co-worker's new F-150 with the same switch did the light dawn. After resetting it the Ranger started and ran flawlessly.

[@RobsNeighbor]

As a 25 year tech I agree 100%

[@mveno123]

Thanks Wizard for showing the Ranger some love. Great trucks. I’ve got a ‘99 XLT 3.0L w 155k miles and I’m in love with it. Very easy to work on, as you say. Lots of rust on my New England truck so I POR-15ed it. Good as new. Just have to keep an eye on those rear leaf spring shackles, a common failure point and when they go, they will damage the bed.

[@spikymikie]

Thats just true. I have a 1998 that I bought new. 4x4, super cab, and the 4.0 (OHV). 347,562 miles on it as I type. I can fix anything that breaks on it. Parts are EVERYWHERE. So as long as Cleetus McFarland doesnt buy them all up for his Danger Ranger series, there will be lots of them at wrecking yards for parts. Best purchase I have ever made.

[@scottimusgarrett15]

These are great trucks, but they're hard to find where I live, because no one sells them! This is a fine example of one of these. If anyone's interested, Sarah n Tuned did a full resto of one of these puppies, and it turned out fantastically! Thanks, Mr. and Mrs Wizard!

[@stavroslask1292]

What’s better is the single cab short bed version. Looks nicer in my opinion

[@user1hacker622]

2004 ranger single cab short bed 2nd 3.0 3.73 axle

[@CharlesWilson-zs3vd]

Right on!

[@EdKy101]

Ford switched the grills to the honeycomb style in 2003 as well as some updated interior pieces. Source: I owned one in 2003 with that sweet 4.0, 5 speed and 4wd

[@gcanada3005]

Just retired my exploder 4.0L 5spd auto. Motor still ran great as did everything else even air conditioning. Tranny needed servicing and steering pump blew. My wife wanted a new car. Made me take hers because it was 5 years old. If someone put $1500 into my old Exploder, +$500 I got. Hell of a truck for $2k. It would tow 4000 pounds no problem had the Eddie Bauer so the seats were great. Sad to see it go. But it’s cheaper than a divorce

[@turk71385]

Actually the honeycomb was introduced in 2001 on the 4x4 and Edge (torsion bar 2wd) Rangers pared with the "domed" (powerdome) hood. This style grill ran from 2001-2003 on the 2wd coil spring Rangers and was pared with the "flat" hood. Source: Ranger enthusiast (and TRS member) since getting my first around 2000, my dad owns a 2001 4.0L 4x4, and I intend to swap my 99 4.0L 4x4 to the later 01-03 nose along with a drivetrain swap from an Explorer.

[@turk71385]

@@gcanada3005 "cheaper than a divorce" IMO that's questionable. Wife wanting a new car, that's fine. Taking wife's car because you want to, that's fine. Wife MAKING me take her car, not happening. Choosing to drive wife's old car and keep your old one as a a toy/project/backup, that's fine. Wife MAKING me get rid of my vehicle, not happening. Of course, this is coming from someone perpetually single with a car and 4 trucks. 4 vehicles registered, insured, and drivable. Three of the trucks could be considered projects, though the parked one is paitently waiting for its turn. If a woman comes into my life and says something's got to go, it's going to be her. So, maybe there's a reason I'm perpetually single.

[@gcanada3005]

@@turk71385 Wow no wonder you are single. That truck was 20 years old and a winter beater. It needed work and got 14 MGP. My “new” car needs nothing and gets 52MPG since new, still under PHEV warranty and paid for. I drive a 2014 Mustang Roush stage 3 in summer. Last of the old style. So I’m good big shot. No need for multiple junker trucks, to “feel” cool. No need to call my right hand “honey”. I’m sure you’ll die happily alone.

[@5556ranger]

I bought my XLT Ranger supercab brand new in 99. Now with over 200,000 Mi on it runs perfectly.

[@stevegabbert9626]

I have a 2003 Ranger, 156K miles on it, and have loved it since I bought it. The dealer was using it to get parts. 4L V6 and garage stored has kept it looking nice. I was given a thumbs up while putting gas in it. "Worth" is the key, but I'll be driving it until it crumbles to dust, or until I crumble to dust. Doesn't drip a drop of oil anywhere.

[@bajamadness9411]

In 2019, I bought a 2003 Ranger XLT extended cab stepside. Has the 4.0 V6 , automatic, and 4x4. Payed $500 for the truck running and driving. However, with frame damage, it wouldn't pass NYS inspection. So I put $1500 into it over the course of 2 years as a project. After another 2 years, It's still my daily driver. They're awesome little trucks and will keep going as long as they're maintained.

[@smoothboye4203]

How dare you submit a Ranger to New York

[@kamryn7496]

a hurst short throw shifter is a good upgrade on these

[@nicholasbeane6414]

My grandfather has this exact year and color but the 4 cylinder. He bought it used with 24k miles 20 years ago and is his daily. I surprised him by pulling a rear bumper in great condition at a junkyard after his old one was damaged in an accident and helped make that pickup feel complete again and made his day.

[@steverollins4690]

Exactly right Wizard, my 2001 Ranger has been an excellent light duty truck.

[@furmanmackey5479]

IF a potential buyer could find one of those in "daily driver/beater" condition in our area it would sell for stupid money since folks around here are not buying the current Ranger because that truck is way bigger than what they want or need. Size and overly complicated are the main reasons I purchased a high mileage '05 Chevy Colorado LS 4X4 pickup back in 2019 rather than a newer model Chevy OR Ford pickup. RAM dropped the ball, big time, when the Dakota (my favorite midsize pickup to date) with the V-8 Magnum engine was discontinued.

[@markleuck]

Can't agree more, my first Ranger was a 99 with a 2.5 4-cylinder lasted 245k miles before the computer died, lasted almost 15 years, just traded off my 2nd a 2008 with V6 that currently has 265k miles

[@riolaflare7180]

I have an 05 4.0 sohc extended cab, 93k mikes. Just took it to Florida & back to Chicago without a hiccup. Super solid truck 💯 🔥

[@gregwalker8612]

I've still got my little 98 Ranger in the backyard, waiting to be rebuilt. The 2.5 Lima engine blew at over 476,000 miles. I replaced the manual transmission at 250,000. The greatest beauty of this truck is the plentiful supply of good replacement parts new and at the junk yard for cheap!

[@Vincent-ke5zn]

A good interior detail would have that great truck looking like new again, I would love to have a truck like that with the 4x4

[@truckertae9725]

My neighbor had 2 ford rangers One was a silver one the rear bumper fell off by rust, he made a wood one then it got totalled by a drunk driver crashing into it i remember that last one Now he has a blue one no rust and he always keeps it on top shape

[@325xitgrocgetter]

I live in the Twin CIties, MN area. Ford had an assembly plant in St. Paul that made Rangers. I think around 2011 or so, they were winding down manufacturing. Our local dealer got a batch of Ranger 4x4 extended cabs with manual transmission. I thought that would be a great little pickup to have...and I regret not checking it out a bit more.

[@cliff4ever]

My ‘09 has the window sticker denoting its Twin City build.

[@R3TR0R4V3]

That's right, 2011 is the last year.

[@cleonmain1291]

I had a 2005 2wd ranger for several years, I was saving money for retirement and other uses. It was the most trouble free reliable vehicle I've ever owned. In 5 years of ownership I put 90,000 miles on it and the only repair it needed was the rear u joint failed at 60,000 miles and the automatic transmission got stuck in park one very cold day. It was also the most uncomfortable riding truck i've ever had as well as having the worst interior. Completely miserable on any drive over 2 hours. I'd buy another one if I could.

[@HerculesCoronaBorealis]

Owned two Mazda B4000s (1988, 2001). Just a beautiful vehicle. Loved the rear window in the cab. When you start it. You just knew it was super solid.