Get Hotcars Premium. Start your free trial today

The 2003, 2007, and 2008 FOrd Ranger models are reportedly notorious for engine, transmission and steering issues.

Ford started manufacturing the Ranger in 1983 to enter the realm of midsize pickup trucks. Although Ford’s F-150 is the best-selling full-size pickup truck on the market, its smaller brother is also popular for buyers looking for top-tier power output in a more compact form factor.

The newest member of the Ranger family, the 2023 Ranger Raptor, offers a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 that can boast 290 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. However, older models on the used market are popular among buyers on a budget due to being considered extremely capable.

Like any other truck, the Ford Ranger had its fair share of problems throughout the years. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the third-gen Ranger’s worst model years, their reliability and longevity, and everything else you need to know before buying one used.

RELATED: Here's What We Know About The Ford Ranger Electric Truck

According to the Car Complaints website, over 70 owners have registered complaints regarding the 2003 Ford Ranger, making it one of the most problematic model years bearing the Ranger nameplate.

Many of the reports pertain to issues with the 2003 Ranger’s engine. The complaints range from clanking sound coming from the powertrain to excessive fuel consumption and loss of acceleration. On average, the problems occurred only after driving the truck for 40,000-50,000 miles.

Another frequently-reported problem with the 2003 model concern’s the truck’s automatic transmission system. According to the reports, the transmission hesitates to change gears intermittently. Most owners couldn’t find a permanent solution for this issue, while others spent over $1,000 to receive remedies from dealers and mechanics.

Several owners of the 2007 Ford Ranger have complained about clunk developing in the steering in mileages as low as 1,800. “It is definitely something that needs to be recalled. I don't believe it is a safety concern, but it is definitely annoying and worrisome. 6,000 and no problems except that clunk. It did it when it was new, so I thought it needed to be broken in,” quoted one owner in their report on Car Complaints in July 2007.

Ford recalled the 2007 Ranger several times for a problem with the frontal airbag inflators. In case of a crash, the frontal airbag could explode and strike the occupants with sharp metal fragments. However, over 200 owners commenting on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website complained about receiving letters from Ford regarding this issue and not receiving remedies in a timely manner. The same problem with the airbags plagues the 2008 Ford Ranger, too.

Many 2008 Ranger owners have complained about the air conditioning system in their truck running in all modes except “OFF” or “VENT.” Upon inspection, dealers told owners that this is the way the vehicle normally operates. Nonetheless, owners have been extremely frustrated with this issue since it heavily affects the truck’s gas mileage.

Last but not least, owners have complained about rust appearing prematurely on the 2008 Ford Ranger’s various body panels. One owner mentioned, “there are holes rusted through the bed body. The holes are located where the panels are spot welded together. They look like the paint is starting to bubble, then if you try to fleck off the paint the hole opens up from the underside.” On average, the issue occurred after roughly 68,000 miles.

RELATED: The 2022 Ford Ranger Diesel Will Pack Some Serious Muscle

According to various reputable automobile sources, the Ford Ranger has no problem hitting 300,000 miles and more on the odometer, so long as it is properly maintained. On average, a person in the U.S. drives for roughly 14,000 miles a year. That translates to over 21 years of reliable and hassle-free service for the Ford Ranger. In terms of Longevity, the Ranger is on par with its bigger brother, the F-150.

Following the Manufacturer’s regular maintenance schedule is critical to keep a Ford Ranger up and running. Some of the essential services include:

According to the RepairPal website, the annual cost of ownership for a Ford Ranger sits at around $615, which is slightly above the average of $548 for midsize trucks.

RELATED: 10 Things We Know About The New Ford Ranger Raptor

The Ford Ranger is an impressively well-built midsize truck with powerful powertrain options. If you’re in the market for a used one, it’s best if you avoid the 2003, 2007, and 2008 model years due to widespread powertrain and airbag problems.

Also, make sure the previous owner has taken care of all the recalls by checking the truck’s VIN. Finally, consult a trusted mechanic to ensure the engine and transmission are in good shape, and the previous owner hasn’t put the vehicle through too much abuse.

Hamed is a literature student, writer, musician, and car enthusiast. His favorite topics to write about are cars, tech, and gaming. When he's not writing, he's either playing music or listening to it.