1991 Ford Ranger Problems & Reliability

When it comes to classic trucks, the 1991 Ford Ranger often pops up in conversations among enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. Known for its rugged charm and compact design, this little workhorse has carved out a niche for itself in the world of pickup trucks. But like any vehicle that’s been around for a few decades, it’s not without its quirks and issues. Whether you’re a nostalgic owner reminiscing about your first ride or a curious buyer considering adding a vintage touch to your driveway, understanding the common problems and overall reliability of the 1991 Ford Ranger is key to making an informed decision. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of what makes the 1991 Ford Ranger tick—and what might make it stall. From engine hiccups to transmission troubles, we’ll explore the typical issues that have cropped up over the years. But it’s not all doom and gloom; we’ll also highlight the aspects that have contributed to its enduring reputation for reliability. So, buckle up as we take a trip down memory lane, exploring the highs and lows of this iconic truck, and help you decide if it’s the right fit for your automotive adventures.
Body Components

Parts Assessed:

Windows, power locks, manual locks, doors, trunk, tailgate, mirrors, power and manual seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defects.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake lines, brake master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, brake sensors, regenerative braking system (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Engine Buck/Misfire at Freeway Speeds

Analysis:

The 1991 Ford Ranger seems to have some issues with engine bucking or misfiring, especially noticeable at freeway speeds. This problem can be pretty frustrating, as it affects the smoothness of the ride and overall driving experience. While the Ranger is generally known for its durability, this particular issue might require some attention to ensure a reliable performance on longer trips.

Parts Assessed

Air conditioning compressor, AC condenser, AC evaporator, heater core, blower motor, automatic climate control system, refrigerant leaks, HVAC electrical components, temperature sensors, ventilation system.

Reported Problems:

  • 1991 ford ranger bogging down when accelerating to much

Analysis:

The 1991 Ford Ranger is known for being a sturdy and reliable truck, but some owners have reported issues with it bogging down when accelerating too much. This problem can be frustrating, especially if youre relying on the truck for heavy-duty tasks. Overall, while the Ranger is generally dependable, its important to keep an eye on the engine and fuel system to ensure smooth performance.

Parts Assessed

CV joints, driveshaft, axles, differential, limited-slip differential (if applicable), traction control system, electronic stability control (ESC), four-wheel-drive (4WD) components, all-wheel-drive (AWD) components, transfer case, driveline vibration.

Reported Problems:

  • Hard to Start Cold, Stalling at Idle

Analysis:

The 1991 Ford Ranger seems to have some reliability issues, especially when it comes to starting in cold weather and stalling at idle. These problems can be pretty frustrating, particularly if you rely on your truck for daily commutes or work. While it’s a solid vehicle in many respects, these specific issues might require some extra attention or maintenance to keep it running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Infotainment system, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen display, phone pairing, backup camera, rear entertainment system, head-up display, instrument cluster, digital gauges.

Reported Problems:

  • Higher Than Normal Engine Idle

Analysis:

The 1991 Ford Ranger is known to have a few quirks, and one of the common issues reported is a higher than normal engine idle. While this problem can be a bit annoying, it’s generally not a deal-breaker for most owners and can often be resolved with some basic maintenance or adjustments. Overall, the Ranger is still considered a reliable truck for its age, as long as you keep up with regular upkeep.

Parts Assessed

Radiator, radiator hoses, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, engine coolant reservoir, overheating prevention system, intercooler (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Rough Idle and Stalling

Analysis:

The 1991 Ford Ranger is known to have some issues with rough idle and stalling, which can be pretty frustrating for drivers. These problems often stem from things like a faulty idle air control valve or issues with the fuel system. While it’s a solid truck in many ways, these hiccups can definitely impact its overall reliability.

Parts Assessed

Alternator, battery, ignition switch, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, engine control module (ECM), electronic ignition system, auto stop/start function, battery cables, engine wiring harness, fuse box, relays, starter motor.

Reported Problems:

  • Reseal engine if oil leaks from gaskets/seals

Analysis:

The 1991 Ford Ranger is known for being a sturdy little truck, but like any vehicle of its age, it can have its quirks. One common issue is oil leaks from gaskets and seals, which might require resealing the engine to keep things running smoothly. While this can be a bit of a hassle, addressing it promptly can help maintain the overall reliability of the truck.

Parts Assessed

Engine rebuilds, cylinder head, head gasket, timing chain, timing belt, camshaft, crankshaft, connecting rods, turbocharger or supercharger (if applicable), valve train, piston rings, oil control system, engine knocking, engine misfires.

Reported Problems:

  • Updated Differential Clutch Kit Available if Rear End Noise is Heard

Analysis:

The 1991 Ford Ranger seems to have some issues with rear-end noise, but there’s an updated differential clutch kit available to address this problem. While this might be a bit of a hassle, it’s good to know there’s a fix out there. Overall, if you’re hearing some noise from the back, getting this kit might help keep your Ranger running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, exhaust pipes, oxygen (O₂) sensors, resonator, exhaust leaks, emissions control system.

Reported Problems:

  • Temperature gauge may give incorrect readings

Analysis:

The 1991 Ford Ranger seems to have some issues with its temperature gauge, which might not always give accurate readings. This could be a bit annoying if you’re trying to keep an eye on your engine’s temperature, especially on long drives. Overall, while it’s a solid truck in many ways, this particular problem might require a bit of extra attention or a check-up to ensure everything’s running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel gauge sensor, evaporative emissions system, EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve, charcoal canister, fuel filter, fuel tank, vapor leaks.

Reported Problems:

  • Front Brake Caliper Pins Can Corrode and Cause Brakes to Stick

Analysis:

The 1991 Ford Ranger has a known issue with the front brake caliper pins, which can corrode over time and cause the brakes to stick. This problem can affect the overall reliability of the vehicle, as it may lead to decreased braking performance and increased wear on the brake components. Regular maintenance and inspection of the brake system can help mitigate this issue and keep the Ranger running smoothly.

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Onboard & Powertrain Electronics

Parts Assessed

Cruise control, keyless entry system, push-button start, wiper motor, warning lights, power mirrors, interior lighting, exterior lighting, dashboard indicators, electronic parking brake, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), alarm and security system, remote engine start, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad.

Reported Problems:

  • Battery Light Due to Damaged Alternator Wire Harness Connector

Analysis:

The 1991 Ford Ranger is generally a reliable truck, but one common issue to watch out for is the battery light coming on due to a damaged alternator wire harness connector. This problem can lead to charging issues, so it’s a good idea to check the connector if you notice the battery light flickering. Overall, while this issue can be a hassle, it’s usually a straightforward fix and doesn’t overshadow the truck’s overall dependability.

Parts Assessed

Dashboard rattles, squeaks, wind noise, door seals, weather stripping, water leaks, air leaks, excessive road noise, suspension noise, drivetrain noise, exhaust rattles, engine bay noises.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Paint durability, clear coat protection, rust prevention, corrosion resistance, body panel alignment, door seals, window trim, plastic trim, metal finishes, fading, cracking, peeling.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, power steering pump, power steering fluid leaks, electronic power steering (EPS), steering rack and pinion, steering linkage, alignment issues, torsion bars, springs, air suspension (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Transmission rebuild, transmission replacement, torque converter, transmission solenoids, gear selector, gear shifting, transmission control module (TCM), transmission fluid leaks, clutch (manual transmission), automatic transmission valve body, CVT (continuously variable transmission) components, dual-clutch transmission (DCT) components.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Conclusion

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