Ford Ranger Problems

A number of owners seem to be having troubles that relate to the so-called Smart charging system. The system is designed to keep the battery charged to a sufficient level to keep the car going, but as you say there is little reserve and that can result in a flat battery. It’s also important when fitting accessories to the vehicle that connected in a way that allows the ECU to identify that there is greater draw on the system and the alternator needs to work harder. Ford can disable the system for you if that’s what you prefer, and lots of owners are doing that.

Before he can repair it he has to find out what is wrong with it, and that’s what he’s charging you for. The hourly rate most dealers charge is around $150, and he seems to be charging you for one hour, which is probably his minimum charge. If you don’t want to stump up $150 take it someone who charges less.

At 170,000 km there is plenty of life left in it, but it is higher than average for a 2013 model, and the price is on the high side.

They are indicators that show work was done on the differential, but they're not anything should be on concern. Cars have all sorts of marks on them from production, they usually indicate a check has been done along the way.

Ford offer their Ranger commercial utes in 4x4 or two-wheel drive. The 2WD models are rear-wheel-drive, while the 4x4 models will drive around town using just their rear wheels, engaging all four wheels once 4WD is selected. There are no front wheel drive Rangers.

Ford's 4x4 Ranger models have become quite well-regarded as off-road vehicles. Once fitted with a suspension lift, good off-road tyres, locked diffs, and other minor revisions they can go most places a traditional 4x4 (like a Patrol or LandCruiser) could go. Stock 4x4 Rangers are quite good on sand and in light off-road conditions, too.

Yes, no and maybe, all at once.

Ford's T6-generation Rangers are generally a reliable machine so long as they're treated with mechanical sympathy, and are serviced by the book. There have been a few issues reported by some owners, with engines and transmissions replaced under warranty.

However, compared to other vehicles in this class the Ranger is highly reliable and the best pick.

They are an excellent vehicle in the market they're competing, but are terrible at being a supercar or hot hatch.

Honestly, they're well-built, well-finished and the only downside is they're a bit pricey in my opinion.

Like any modern diesel vehicle, T6 Rangers need to be taken on regular long drives of a few hundred kms to clean out the DPF filter. The DPF tends to clog up with soot in metro driving or on short trips, but can be blown clear by loading up the Ranger and taking it miles out of town for a good long trip. There have been a raft of problems with Rangers recently brought to light, including engines needing replacement, leaking engine oil from the rear main seal, split intercooler pipes, and even harsh transmission shifts. These aren't unique problems, however, as the Toyota HiLux, Nissan Navara, Mitsubishi Triton and others have all had reported problems of their own. The solution is to buy a Ranger with a comprehensive service history, with low mileage and get it professionally inspected before spending your hard earned. It should last years then.

Two-door T6 Rangers are 5110mm long in total, while four-door (dual cab) Rangers are 5351mm from nose to tail. The extra length comes from the extended cab length between the single cab, crew cab, and dual cab variants.