There are few vehicles out there that have earned the same reliability ratings as the Ford Ranger. It’s not uncommon to see a Ranger with 200,000-300,000 miles on it, still running strong. However, this doesn’t mean it didn’t have any recalls.
How many recalls did the Ford Ranger have?
There are 53 in total, including:
- Exterior lighting decreasing visibility for other drivers
- Vehicle speed control failing to deactivate
- Airbag inflators rupturing without warning
- Cracking of the brake rotors around stud holes
In this article, we’ll cover these four important recalls issued for the Ford Ranger in detail. It’s not possible to cover all 53 recalls in one article, and it’s important to be aware that there are more than just the four recalls addressed here for the Ford Ranger.
Then you will be able to take the steps provided to ensure a qualified professional repair your vehicle correctly to make it safe and secure.
Exterior Lighting Decreasing Visibility for Other Drivers
NHTSA Recall ID: 06E065000
Exterior lighting is a very important part of the Ford Ranger and helps other drivers see the vehicle easily. Whether the lighting is stock or aftermarket, it has to be meet specific guidelines for safety and security.
Some exterior lighting components on the Ford Ranger may not have the proper color and design to be visible to other drivers. There is a lack of amber side reflectors in the lamps, which decrease the ability to be seen by others around them. That can increase the risk of a crash and bodily injury to the occupants.
The company that made the lights, AJ Motorsports, will offer reimbursement for the lights to compensate Ranger drivers.
Vehicle Speed Control Failing to Deactivate
NHTSA Recall ID: 95V231001
Speed controls, more commonly called cruise controls, are designed to keep the vehicle at a constant speed as it’s being driven down the road. Drivers can activate and deactivate this control at their will, for safety and convenience.
With speed controls in some Ford Rangers, there is a problem with deactivation due to cold climates and ice forming in the engine’s throttle body. The failure of this system to deactivate at the driver’s request may cause the vehicle to continue at a speed that could result in a crash and cause occupant harm.
Dealers will replace the valve assembly and air intake duct with revised units to solve the problem.
Airbag Inflators Rupturing Without Warning
NHTSA Recall ID: 16V384000
Airbags are part of the passive restraint system on Ford Rangers and many other vehicles. These airbags are designed to protect occupants and make sure they don’t come into contact with the steering wheel, dashboard, and other solid components of the passenger compartment during a crash.
In some Ford Ranger vehicles, the airbag inflators may degrade in more humid climates or those with significant temperature fluctuations. This happens because the propellant in the inflators breaks down, causing them to detonate unexpectedly.
This pushes shrapnel into the passenger compartment at a high rate of speed, and may cause serious injury or even death to the occupants.
Dealers will replace the airbag inflator to correct the problem and eliminate the risk.
Cracking of the Brake Rotors Around Stud Holes
NHTSA Recall ID: 98E010000
Brakes need to be reliable, especially when it comes to sudden stops and collision avoidance. Having proper braking can help keep a vehicle’s occupants safe and protected, and also help give them more peace of mind when they’re traveling.
Some Ford Rangers have aftermarket brake rotors that have cracked castings. This can cause cracks around the stud holes and throughout the outer rotor hat diameter. These cracks raise the risk of the brakes failing, which can increase the risk of a crash.
The company that made the components, Aimco, will reimburse consumers or installers for the cost of replacing and installing the new rotors.
How to Work Through a Ford Ranger Recall
If you’re unsure about the kinds of recalls on your Ford Ranger, visit the NHTSA website and put your vehicle’s VIN in the search box. You could also input the year, make, and model to see the listed recalls.
Having a recall on your Ford Ranger means you’ll want to call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 to learn what to do next. You’ll find out where you should take your vehicle, and what you can expect as you move through the recall process.
