Why the Ford Ranger Sold so Well During the Money for Junkers Program

The Ford Ranger was nearly sold out in Orlando when we went looking for a vehicle during the Money for Junkers trade in initiative this past fall because of the price, vehicle warranty program, driver comfort and that useful ability to carry a load. But is that enough to please future drivers? This look at the truck features of the Ford Ranger should help future automobile buyers decide.

Truck Features that Make the Ford Ranger Comfortable for the Driver

The first truck feature I noticed about the Ford Ranger was the comfortable bench seat that allowed the driver and the passenger to adjust their distance from the steering wheel and glove compartment separately. Both passenger and driver seats have airbags.

The second truck feature on the Ford Ranger I encountered was the automated lock and unlock capability on the key.

Other nice truck features included a washable floor, full capability Audiophile AM/FM CD/MP3 Satellite compatible stereo system single CD, cruise control and air conditioning. In Florida, I was told, driver's don't buy a vehicle without air conditioning. The heating system works efficiently too which helped in the past cold days. I was sad to find out Microsoft Sync was not a standard feature because I like the hands free telephone use.

Truck Sticker Price Value for the Ford Ranger

When looking for an automobile, we found the Ford web page very easy to use and providing a wealth of information including what models of automobile are available at what dealer. Here's the link for the Ford Dealership page, simply select the manufacturer and enter your zip code, then read all the listings. In the Orlando area new Ford Ranger Truck models are currently listing from $18,000-26,000.

Truck Vehicle Warranty Program on the Ford Ranger

Ford offers a 3 year or 36,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty on the Ford Ranger truck. The power train and safety restraint system is warranted for 5 years or 60,000 miles. The engine is warranted for 5 years or 100,000 miles. The body is insured against corrosion for 5 years for unlimited miles. A booklet comes with the vehicle explaining the warranty and who to call.

Truck Load Capacity in the Ford Ranger

The carrying load of the Ford Ranger is smaller than the larger trucks built by Ford and other companies. It is sufficient to carry about a half yard of mulch and drives better when loaded. A booklet documents the varying load ranges depending on the model-some are built for better off-road handling and some for carrying loads and pulling trailers. Most have a load maximum of either 4800 lbs or 7000 lbs.

Trucker Fuel Economy on the Ford Ranger

Fuel economy on the Ford Ranger truck is about 19 mpg. It takes unleaded gasoline or unleaded gasoline with 10% ethanol, only. Choosing a manual transmission model can improve the fuel economy.

Overall, many will find the features of the Ford Ranger truck makes it a comfortable fit for commuter and around town driving and for hauling small household loads.