Another month in Denver and a few more compliments, and complaints, about Edmund's only long-term truck.

Our computer hack, John Davis, enjoys driving the Ranger because of its attractive looks and smooth highway ride. He feels that the Ranger has an authentic truck feel despite its relatively small size when compared to, say, a Caprice Classic. That smaller size makes for easy parking, but reduced utility when loading up the diminutive bed with its side-step design.

Speaking of bed, the plastic bedliner continues to twist and warp like a slice of bologna in a microwave. John thinks a spray-on type of bedliner would probably be better suited to the cold temperatures of Colorado. The other aftermarket pieces, particularly the side steps, make the Ranger a hit with fellow drivers in the Rocky Mountain area.

The four-door design continues to please staffers. It makes loading and unloading the rear seat area a simple job rather than the difficult task it is in two-door models. The cargo space is capable of hauling additional items best kept out of the elements and is useful for most normal-sized adults. The cloth interior has also picked up the always-pleasant odor of burned tobacco this month, though no one is claiming responsibility. C'mon people, no smoking in the long-termers!

The truck's most serious problem to date is also found inside. Besides the aforementioned creaks and groans from under the dash when cold, the Ranger's passenger-side electric window is showing resistance when being lowered. Specifically, it acts like the glass isn't properly seated with a "slip-slip-slip" sound and visible shuddering. This is in addition to the problem of not having illuminated window switches, which makes nighttime operation a lock-unlock-lock-roll-down-the-window procedure.

Engine noise and rough idling is another concern noted by our online editor. The Ranger still displays an abundance of power and is getting adequate mileage, but the squeaky sounding engine, along with the jumpy window and creaking dash, are on our list of items to be checked at the 5,000-mile service (which is coming up fast).