1990 Ford Ranger Review

Great little truck

Written by: Josh on 05/15/2008

Vehicle

1990 Ford Ranger 2 Dr XLT Extended Cab SB

Review

I have onwned my Ranger for over a year now after purchasing from the original owner who kept detailed records and never had a major problem. I did put a motor in after an oil pump failure at 180K, I believe due to the limited mileage and it was being driven and waiting 5K miles between oil changes. I also replaced the original clutch at this time. Still gets at least 22 mpg with mosty city driving, but I could improve on that easily. Lacks power (2.3) but will haul small loads and is a joy to drive.

Favorite Features

Mileage, ease to work on, price of parts.

Suggested Improvements

Avoid 2.9 V6 there is a design flaw in the cooling system, but 3.0 and 2.3 are great engines. Also avoid automatics as most of them are prone to failure. Woul prefer a little more room in the truck, and more power out of the 2.3, otherwise good truck for the value.

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Last Ford I'll Own

Written by: Allen Sackett on 06/01/2005

Vehicle

1990 Ford Ranger 2 Dr XLT Standard Cab LB

Review

I purchased the Ranger XLT longbed new in 1990 and wish there had been a lemon law in place at that time (there is now). After a few thousand miles I had to have the dealer install a new rear axle as the old one was being worn in two! I purchased the Ford rust protection. At 270,000 miles it is now pile of rust in spite of regular waxes and washes (it was showing signs of rust at 150,000 miles)! At 133,000 miles: installed rebuilt engine: I have now put more miles into the rebuilt than the factor engine! The check engine light continues to come off in spite of having dealers look at it.

Favorite Features

The color choices were nice. I liked the two tone blue/silver exterior. The interior has worn very well. Manual transmission has had no problems.

Suggested Improvements

2.3L 4-cylinder is a wimp. I can only use overdrive downhill with the wind behind me! Lessons learned: buy a Toyota Tacoma and have it Zeibarted. It will last forever.

0 out 2 people found this review helpful

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Not for me.

Written by: Eurotuner on 02/17/2004

Vehicle

1990 Ford Ranger 2 Dr XLT Standard Cab SB

Review

I actually had an '88, but I figured 2 years wouldnt be that much of a difference. Mine was a 5 speed, and it was very difficult to drive. If you want this truck definitely get an automatic. I had the 2.3 liter engine, I would suggest the V6. The truck was pretty tough. But there were so many problems all over the truck, that I put more than it was worth to get fixed. I really wouldn't suggest the truck unless you're just going to use it every once in a while.

Favorite Features

The seats were pretty comfortable. The parts were easy to remove and install.

Suggested Improvements

If this is going to be an everyday driver... dont get it.

0 out 1 people found this review helpful

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Excellent vehicle

Written by: djdrake on 06/15/2003

Vehicle

1990 Ford Ranger 2 Dr XLT 4WD Extended Cab SB

Review

This is an excellent vehicle for the age it has on it. It still runs very well and the comfort level is great.

Favorite Features

Suggested Improvements

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Worst Truck Ever

Written by: FORD on 05/03/2003

Vehicle

1990 Ford Ranger 2 Dr XLT Extended Cab SB

Review

Worst truck ever. Two trannys within 1 year. I will never buy a Ford again. FOund On Road Dead!!!!!!!!!

Favorite Features

Suggested Improvements

sell corporation to Toyota

0 out 4 people found this review helpful

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