Ford Ranger Review

I own a 1997 Ford Ranger XLT, with 180,000 miles on it. It is one of the most durable trucks I have ever had. I have literally tried to break this thing off roading in the woods or by neglecting it but it keeps on trucking. I believe it would make it across the whole country right now and all I would have to do is add a full tank of gas.

It's a 5 speed manual and I also have never had to replace the clutch either. Ford Rangers are one of the most durable compact pick up trucks outs there. It is also great on gas. It drives really well and the handling is great for a truck. I have also driven other Rangers from the 80's and early 90's and they are great trucks. I have not driven any of the newer ones, I actually hear the older ones are more durable.

The truck is a smooth ride, I love the handling and the ability to make really sharp turns if I need to. It also accelerates like a car, and I have no problem passing people on the highway or in traffic with ease. It drives more like a car then a truck.

The engine is a 2.3 4 cylinder, and it gets about 20-22 miles to the gallon driving around town and 25-27 miles per gallon driving on the highway. I have overheated and beat on this engine a lot and I have not had to do any repairs to it at all.

The only things that ever broke were a headlight when out, I had to replace the breaks one time, I replaced the starter and when I was off roading I damaged a small piece of the muffler. Of course I had to replace other small things like the wiper blades or a small thing here or there but besides regular maintenance and the other small repairs it has been great.

The one problem I do have with the truck is that it is terrible in the snow because it is rear wheel drive. I would not recommend driving any pick up truck that is rear wheel drive without having sufficient weight in the back. I do not have a problem however on any trails or going through the woods in fact it has quite a bit of power for only a four cylinder. I am probably never going to get rid of this truck and keep it around as a second vehicle, it has been such a great truck I feel like I need to keep it around for a while and I owe it something.

It's definitely a good buy for someone who wants a good reliable vehicle that won't break down and is good on gas. One time I was on the highway thirty miles from my house without any money, and the fuel gauge reading below empty and I made it home with no problem. In fact I am so amazed with the way I have driven it that it has not broken down and needed a major repair, I tell everyone who is looking for a compact pick up truck to buy one. I definitely give it a 9/10 overall. It was worth every penny I paid for it.