1988 Ford Ranger
Should You Buy a 1988 Ford Ranger?
The 1988 Ford Ranger is a compact truck that offers a reliable and straightforward driving experience. Powered by a 2.3L I4 engine, it delivers 90 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque, making it suitable for light-duty tasks. With a rear-wheel drive layout and a 4-speed automatic transmission, it provides decent handling for urban and rural driving alike. However, potential buyers should be aware of its history, as it has received 117 complaints to the NHTSA, with notable issues related to the electrical system and fire incidents. Despite these concerns, the Ranger boasts a high reliability score of 98.9/100, indicating that many owners have found it dependable over the years.
The 1988 Ford Ranger is best suited for budget-conscious individuals seeking a reliable, no-frills truck for light-duty tasks and urban commuting.
Strengths
- +High reliability score of 98.9/100
- +Compact size makes it easy to maneuver in urban settings
- +Affordable maintenance and parts availability
- +Decent towing capacity for light-duty applications
- +Simple and straightforward design with minimal electronics
Weaknesses
- -Limited horsepower and torque for heavy-duty tasks
- -Known electrical issues that may require attention
- -Lack of modern safety features compared to newer models
- -Unknown fuel economy may deter efficiency-focused buyers
- -Seating capacity and comfort may be limited
Known Issues (NHTSA Data)
The 1988 Ford Ranger has a total of 117 complaints filed with the NHTSA, with 27 related to fire incidents and 6 crash incidents. The most frequently reported issues involve the electrical system, particularly the ignition switch and wiring. While these issues are concerning, the overall reliability score suggests that many owners have had positive experiences with the vehicle. No significant NHTSA complaints on record regarding mileage patterns or major mechanical failures.
Performance
- Horsepower
- 90 hp
- Torque
- 135 lb-ft
- Engine
- 2.3 L
- Cylinders
- I4
- Transmission
- 4-speed manual
- Drive Type
- rear wheel drive
Efficiency
- MPG Combined
- –
- Fuel Type
- regular unleaded
Dimensions
- Length
- 175.6 in
- Width
- 66.9 in
- Height
- 64.2 in
- Wheelbase
- 107.9 in
- Curb Weight
- 2,705 lbs
- Ground Clearance
- –
Capacity
- Doors
- 2
- Seating
- –
- Cargo
- –
- Max Cargo
- –
- Max Towing
- –
- Max Payload
- –
Estimated Value
Value estimate unavailable. MSRP data not available for this vehicle.