2001 Ford Ranger

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 515 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the body and frame. It has been recalled 9 times.

Not among the Ford Ranger years to avoid. Which Ford Ranger years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
82,000 milesMedian miles at failure

281 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 75,000–90,000 miles.

Most common 2001 Ford Ranger problems

85 of the 515 complaints (17%) are about the body and frame.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Suspension49
000
Structure › Body · body and frame44
100
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration39
221
Air Bags › Frontal · airbags28
26021
Air Bags · airbags23
1209
Structure › Frame and Members · body and frame18
000
Seat Belts18
203
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · transmission15
000
Unknown or Other14
011
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip · brakes14
400

2001 Ford Ranger body and frame problems

17% of all complaints

85 of the 515 complaints are about the body and frame.

Share of the 85 body and frame complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
97,000 mi
median of 65 reports
Peak year of filing
2012
10 body and frame complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
1 · 0 · 2
in these complaints
Recalls on the body and frame
“The rear frame rusted so bad the bumper fell off and the frame actually cracked. This is a common issue with the late 1990s & early 2000s Ford Ranger, I do not understand why this isn't a recall yet as is it very dangerous. This happened on the highway. The front end frame, engine and all the components work flawlessly while the rear frame is just crumbling in rust.”
Owner complaint, filed May 5, 2022
“I noticed that there was significantly more rust than there should be. There are places where the frame has rusted through. It is a major safety concern. I researched the issue and found several others with the same concern. I also found that Toyota has previously recalled several vehicles for the same issue.”
Owner complaint, filed Jul 23, 2021

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2000: 2 complaints, 0 about the body and frame'002001: 59 complaints, 0 about the body and frame2002: 57 complaints, 2 about the body and frame2003: 47 complaints, 1 about the body and frame2004: 47 complaints, 3 about the body and frame'042005: 21 complaints, 1 about the body and frame2006: 17 complaints, 0 about the body and frame2007: 31 complaints, 1 about the body and frame2008: 29 complaints, 1 about the body and frame'082009: 9 complaints, 3 about the body and frame2010: 20 complaints, 7 about the body and frame2011: 25 complaints, 8 about the body and frame2012: 22 complaints, 10 about the body and frame'122013: 16 complaints, 7 about the body and frame2014: 19 complaints, 3 about the body and frame2015: 21 complaints, 8 about the body and frame2016: 16 complaints, 5 about the body and frame'162017: 12 complaints, 7 about the body and frame2018: 13 complaints, 7 about the body and frame2019: 12 complaints, 7 about the body and frame2020: 5 complaints, 1 about the body and frame'202021: 6 complaints, 2 about the body and frame2022: 4 complaints, 1 about the body and frame2023: 1 complaints, 0 about the body and frame2024: 0 complaints, 0 about the body and frame'242025: 2 complaints, 0 about the body and frame2026: 2 complaints, 0 about the body and frameRecall 00V394000 (body and frame)Recall 01X001000 (tires)Recall 01V227001 (seat belts)Recall 06E049000 (headlights)Recall 06E065000 (headlights)Recall 07V336000 (throttle and acceleration)Recall 09E012000 (headlights)Recall 09E025000 (headlights)NHTSA investigation EA05004NHTSA investigation RQ04011
All complaintsAbout the body and frameRecall (red: the body and frame)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2001 Ranger peaked in 2001, with 59 filed that year. Owners had filed 0 complaints about the body and frame before the first recall that covers it, 00V394000 in November 2000; 85 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 2 so far.

9 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Vehicle Speed Control09V399000
Filed Oct 13, 20094,500,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING MODEL YEARS 1995-2003 WINDSTAR, 2000-2003 EXCURSION DIESEL, 1993-1997 AND 1999-2003 F-250 SD THROUGH F-550 SD DIESEL, 1992-2003 E-150 THROUGH E-550, 1995-2002 EXPLORER, 1997 AND 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER, 1995-1997 AND 2001-2003 RANGER, AND 1994 F53 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE TEXAS INSTRUMENTS SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH (SCDS). THE SCDS MAY LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.

Risk. A VEHICLE FIRE COULD OCCUR WITH OR WITHOUT THE ENGINE RUNNING.

Remedy. FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS THAT DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS IN LINE WITH THE SCDS. ON 1999-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES WITH A LEAKING SCDS, DEALERS WILL ALSO INSPECT THE ABS CONTROL MODULE CONNECTOR AND REPAIR AS NECESSARY. REPAIRS WILL BE COMPLETED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 27, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-888-222-2751.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights09E025000
Filed May 11, 200942,540 vehiclesDope, Inc.

Defect. DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.

Exterior Lighting09E012000
Filed Apr 7, 200916,270 vehiclesSabersport

Defect. SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

Vehicle Speed Control07V336000
Filed Aug 3, 20073,600,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, PASSENGER VEHICLES, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND MOTOR HOMES CHASSIS, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY, UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.

Risk. THIS COULD RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS. OWNERS OF THE PASSENGER CARS INCLUDED IN THIS CAMPAIGN WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN THEIR VEHICLES TO THEIR DEALERS TO HAVE THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH DISCONNECTED AS AN INTERIM REPAIR. AS SOON AS REPAIR PARTS ARE AVAILABLE (EXPECTED OCTOBER 2007), OWNERS WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN TO THE DEALERS FOR INSTALLATION OF A FUSED WIRING HARNESS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 13, 2007, AND MAILING COMPLETED BY SEPTEMBER 19, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-888-222-2751.

Exterior Lighting06E065000
Filed Jul 17, 20063,593 vehiclesAj Motorsport

Defect. CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. AJ MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AJ MOTORSPORT AT 626-618-2026.

Exterior Lighting06E049000
Filed May 24, 200627,176 vehiclesCk Motorsport, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy. CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.

Seat Belts › Front › Buckle Assembly01V227001
Filed Jul 16, 20011,400,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, PICKUP TRUCKS, AND MINIVANS. EQUIPPED WITH SEAT BELTS SUPPLIED BY TRW. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE DRIVER'S AND/OR FRONT PASSENGER'S OUTBOARD SEAT BELT BUCKLE MAY NOT FULLY LATCH. FORD CROWN VICTORIA BUILT AT ST. THOMAS ASSEMBLY PLANT FROM 4/17/00 - 5/29/01 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS BUILT AT ST. THOMAS ASSEMBLY PLANT FROM 4/17/00 - 5/29/01. LINCOLN TOWN CARS BUILT AT WIXOM ASSEMBLY PLANT FROM 3/27/00 - 5/30/01. LINCOLN NAVIGATORS BUILT AT MICHIGAN TRUCK PLANT FROM 4/11/00 - 5/31/01. FORD WINDSTARS BUILT AT OAKVILLE ASSEMBLY PLANT FROM 3/23/00 - 5/30/01. FORD RANGERS BUILT AT TWIN CITIES PLANT FROM 3/28/00 - 5/30/01, AND ALSO AT THE EDISON PLANT FROM 3/13/00 - 5/25/01. FORD F-150 TRUCK BUILT AT NORFOLK PLANT FROM 4/18/00 - 5/25/00; AT ONTARIO PLANT FROM 5/10/00 - 5/28/01; AT KANSAS CITY PLANT FROM 9/11/99 - 5/25/01; AND AT CUAUTITLAN PLANT FROM 5/16/00 - 6/9/01. FORD SUPER DUTY F-250, F-350, F-450, AND F-550 TRUCKS BUILT AT KENTUCKY PLANT FROM 4/17/00 - 5/27/01; AND AT CUAUTITLAN PLANT FROM 5/16/00 - 6/19/01. FORD EXCURSIONS BUILT AT KENTUCKY PLANT FROM 4/17/00 - 10/2/00. FORD EXPEDITIONS BUILT AT MICHIGAN TRUCK PLANT FROM 4/11/00 - 5/31/01.

Risk. IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE RESTRAINT SYSTEM MAY NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE OCCUPANT PROTECTION, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FRONT OUTBOARD SEAT BELT BUCKLES AND IF THE BUCKLE FAILS THE INSPECTION PROCESS, IT WILL BE REPLACED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JULY 25, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.

Tires › Tread/Belt01X001000
Filed May 22, 200113,000,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: FORD IS REPLACING ALL FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT 15, 16, AND 17 INCH TIRES MOUNTED ON FORD TRUCKS AND SUVS. FORD REPORTS TREAD SEPARATION CAN OCCUR DUE TO A COMBINATION OF THE SENSITIVITY OF THE TIRE DESIGN TO STRESS, AGING, AND MANUFACTURING DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PLANTS. FORD IS REPLACING THESE TIRES TO PREVENT POSSIBLE PREMATURE TIRE FAILURE. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: THE VEHICLES LISTED BELOW MAY HAVE BEEN ORIGINALLY EQUIPPED WITH FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT TIRES OR MAY HAVE HAD WILDERNESS AT TIRES INSTALLED DURING THE FIRESTONE RECALL LAUNCHED IN AUGUST 2000. CERTAIN 1991 THROUGHT 2002 FORD EXPLORER CERTAIN 2001 THROUGHT 2002 EXPLORER SPORT, AND SPORT TRAC CERTAIN 1997 THROUGH 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 2001 RANGER CERTAIN 1999 THROUGH 2001 EXPEDITION CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 1994, AND 1997 MODEL YEAR F-SERIES CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 1994 BRONCO NOTE: BOTH ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT AND REPLACEMENT TIRES ARE AFFECTED.

Risk. SHOULD THE TREAD SEPARATE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.

Remedy. THE REPLACEMENT/REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM FOR THIS CAMPAIGN EXPIRED ON MARCH 31, 2002. HOWEVER, CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT FORD AT 1-877-917-3673 OR GO ON-LINE TO WWW.FORD.COM FOR POSSIBLE ASSISTANCE.

Structure › Body › Hood › Hinge and Attachments00V394000
Filed Nov 28, 2000137,700 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES WITH STEEL HOODS AND CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH SHEET MOLDING COMPOUND HOODS. A WIRE FORMED HOOD STRIKER COULD BE SUSCEPTIBLE TO FATIGUE FRACTURES. IF THE HOOD STRIKER FRACTURES, THE HOOD COULD FLY OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN.

Risk. A HOOD FLY-UP WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING OPERATED COULD RESULT IN REDUCED DRIVER VISIBILITY.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HOOD STRIKER.

All 9 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 2 name the 2001 Ranger.

FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLYEngineering analysis EA05004Closed
Opened Feb 17, 2005Closed Jul 6, 2005seat belts

During the initial recall campaign in 2001, the subject vehicles were inspected by FORD dealerships using a test tool that would detect a defective front seat outboard seat belt buckle assembly.approximately one million vehicles passed the inspection test for one or both front buckles.subsequent to the recall service action, odi received 15 consumer reports alleging that a passed inspection buckle subsequently failed to latch or inadvertently unlatched during use.in addition, FORD has identified 543 owner and field reports alleging buckle failure subsequent to passing the inspection test.FORD …

FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLYRecall query RQ04011Closed
Opened Oct 22, 2004Closed Feb 17, 2005seat belts

Under recall campaign (01v227), FORD recalled approximately 1.3 million vehicles to inspect and if necessary replace the front driver and/or passenger seat belt buckle.approximately 1.1 million owners responded by taking their vehicles to a dealer for inspection of the buckle using a specialized buckle test tool.FORD reported that 829,927 vehicles had both buckles pass the tool test and another 167,336 vehicles had one buckle pass.odi and FORD received complaints alleging seat belt buckle failure shortly after passing the original recall inspection service.complainants alleged that the buckle …

Technical service bulletins

204 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2001 Ranger. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

engine 60transmission 47electrical system 21brakes 9body and frame 8equipment 8suspension 6throttle and acceleration 5
02M01Service campaignJun 1, 2004engine

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAM 02M01 SUPPLEMENT #4. CERTAIN FORD 2000 THROUGH 2003 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A TUBE-MOUNTED EGR PRESSURE SENSOR - ADDITIONAL EGR PRESSURE SENSOR WARRANTY COVERAGE. *TT SUPPLEMENT #3. *MJ SUPPLEMENT #6. *TT

TSB 20-2233Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJul 13, 2020body and frame

This article supersedes TSB 19-2026 to update the vehicle model years affected. Some 2000 and newer Ford/Lincoln/Mercury vehicles equipped with aluminum body panels may exhibit corrosion concerns appearing as bubbled and/or peeling paint with or without accompanying white dust. Panel replacement is recommended.

TSB 19-2026Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsFeb 7, 2019body and frame

Some 2000 and newer Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles equipped with aluminum body panels may exhibit corrosion concerns appearing as bubbled and/or peeling paint with or without accompanying white dust. Panel replacement is recommended. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition

04251Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsDec 27, 2004body and frame

ALUMINUM CORROSION - SERVICE TIP. *TT

03231Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 24, 2003body and frame

INOPERABLE LATCHES, LOCKS AND/OR LIFT STRUTS ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A HARD TONNEAU COVER. *TT

03235Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 24, 2003body and frame

BED EXTENDER COMPONENT REPLACEMENT SERVICE TIP. *TT

02232Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 25, 2002body and frame

FRAME MOUNTED FRONT BUMPER BRACKETS SERVICE KIT. *TT

Showing the newest 6 of 8 bulletins about the body and frame, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2001 Ford Ranger Supercab———★★★★★—

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Apr 6, 2026226,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2001 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop. The contact stated that there was smoke coming from underneath the hood. The brakes and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact referenced an unknown recall with a similar failure; however, the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 226,000.

Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Mar 24, 2026297,515 milesOR

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2001 Ford Ranger. It was later discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the mileage was 153,244; however, at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 297,515.

Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Jul 11, 2025109,999 milesOR

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2001 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving the vehicle to the residence, it was discovered that the gauge on the odometer was not working. There was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the mileage was 109,999 and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was unknown. The contact called the previous owner, who confirmed that the odometer gauge was inoperable, and was not repaired.

Electrical System › Ignition › Anti-theft › Control Module
Filed Feb 12, 2025200,000 milesNE

The contact owns a 2001 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, it was discovered that the anti-theft system was inoperable and failed to function as designed. The anti-theft warning light was illuminated. The contact had to remove the key fob several times to start the vehicle. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 200,000.

Engine
Filed Feb 3, 2023TX

The contact owns a 2001 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle failed to restart. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the contact's family member's residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Suspension
Filed Nov 23, 2022NY

So I recently purchased this truck thinking it was all safe, the pictures were too good to be true thats for sure, When I brought the truck back the old owner even drove with me knowing what he just sold me. The next day I was so happy so I get it registered and insured and I was so eager to hope in and drive around in my new "safe" truck I also went out with my loved one and it sickens me that the old owner was ok with selling me a not so safe truck and I could have died if the frame bracket broke or the frame cracked while i was driving but when I started to look under I saw the problem and I was scared I saw that the upper control arm bracket mount was rusted and the strut tower as well it had a Hole forming and a crack on the strut tower. I also found out that there was a crack in the frame and i've looked up online and it seems that the frame and other components rust I don't know what to do. Im also a college student who is trying to get into the mechanic world and this scares me with how many trucks like this are out on the road.

Structure › Body
Filed May 5, 2022NY

The rear frame rusted so bad the bumper fell off and the frame actually cracked. This is a common issue with the late 1990s & early 2000s Ford Ranger, I do not understand why this isn't a recall yet as is it very dangerous. This happened on the highway. The front end frame, engine and all the components work flawlessly while the rear frame is just crumbling in rust.

Suspension
Filed Apr 28, 2022MO

The rear leaf spring shackle rust causing the leaf spring to go through the bed. When going highway speeds the vehicle shakes and not safe to drive over 60.

Suspension
Filed Mar 4, 2022MI

The frame has rusted so bad it has completely separated from the body. The Ranger frame rusting is a known problem but it has not been recalled like the Toyota Takoma has been.

Seat Belts
Filed Dec 17, 2021200,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2001 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that the front passenger’s side seat belt would not latch properly. The contact also stated that the vehicle would hesitate upon the depression of the accelerator while driving at various speeds. The contact noticed that the temperature gauge would indicate the vehicle was hot once the hesitation started. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic where both failures were linked to recalls. The mechanic linked the seat belt failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 01V227001 (Seat Belts) and the overheating failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V399000 (Vehicle Speed Control). The dealer was notified of both failures and informed her that the VIN was not included in either recall. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.

Structure › Body
Filed Oct 15, 2021MA

The frame is rotted and broken on both side in the rear

Suspension
Filed Jul 24, 2021VA

Frame rusted in several places behind the cab at the rear spring shackles. Frame cracked both sides and bed is up against the cab and ready to break in two. Ford will not do anything. 145 k miles and the rest of the truck is in very good shape everything works except the cruise and is a loaded edge…..very upset just had a transmission rebuilt in it. Love the truck all the one I have looked at have the same issues over several years on fb marketplace and cannot find a good frame in any salvage yard. Didn’t Toyota’s have the same issues and they had a recall. Why doesn’t Ford have one? Call Ford directly and they won’t do a thing. Tried selling as is and replacing but can’t get a buyer for what I have in the truck. Trying to find a good frame to fix it now, but there are none out there. Very Dissatisfied.

Structure › Body
Filed Jul 23, 2021IA

I noticed that there was significantly more rust than there should be. There are places where the frame has rusted through. It is a major safety concern. I researched the issue and found several others with the same concern. I also found that Toyota has previously recalled several vehicles for the same issue.

Seat Belts
Filed Mar 1, 2021169,000 milesTN

PASSENGER SEATBELT RELEASES RANDOMLY FOR NO REASON.

Air Bags
Filed Feb 24, 2021150,000 milesAZ

THE PASSENGER SEAT BELT DOESN'T LATCH AND THE AIRBAG LIGHT ILLUMINATES SPORADICALLY. OCCASIONALLY FOR THE ENTIRE TRIP AND SOMETIMES IT GOES ON AND OFF THROUGHOUT THE TRIP, YET OTHER TIMES IT FUNCTIONS PROPERLY!

Structure › Body
Filed Nov 20, 2020113,902 milesIL

REAR FRAME HAS RUSTED THROUGH. REAR DRIVER SIDE SPRING MOUNT HAS RUSTED AND BROKEN FROM THE FRAME. REAR BUMPER MOUNTS AND SPARE TIRE MOUNTS ARE RUSTED OUT. VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY WHEN PROBLEM WAS DISCOVERED .

Seat Belts
Filed Aug 17, 2020TN

SEAT BELTS CONSTANTLY COMING UNBUCKLED. WHILE DRIVING AND STOPPED

Engine
Filed Jun 10, 2020CA

MY 2001 FORD RANGER 3.0 HAS A IDLE WHEN IM DEPRESSING THE CLUTCH IDLE WOULD STAY AROUND 1,300 RPM. HAPPENS USUALLY MORE WHEN AC IS ON. *TR

Seat Belts
Filed Jun 8, 2020180,000 milesAZ

DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD MY SEAT BELT POPS OUT RANDOMLY ANY PHASE OF DRIVING AFTER I LATCHED IT AND PULLED ON IT TO CHECK. THIS HAS HAPPENED NUMEROUS TIMES NOW. *TR

Unknown or Other
Filed May 25, 2020WV

THE FRAMES ON THESE VEHICLES ARE PURE JUNK, THEY BREAK USUALLY ON THE DRIVERS SIDE RIGHT IN FRONT OF THE REAR SPRING SHACKLE OR AT IT, MINE IS BROKE JUST IN FRONT OF THE REAR SPRING SHACKLE OF THE REAR PART OF THE FRAME. IF YOU GO SEARCHING FOR A FRAME, AS I HAVE, YOU WILL FIND ALMOST ALL OF THESE VEHICLES IN DESCRIPTION WILL SAY THE FRAME IS SHOT WHICH IS THE CASE OF MOST FORDS IT SEEMS ANYMORE. IT WOULD HAVE BEEN A GOOD TRUCK IF NOT FOR THE FRAMES RUSTING DOWN AND POSSIBLY CAUSING SOMEONE TO HAVE AN ACCIDENT AND LOSE THEIR LIFE OVER THIS IF THEY DON'T KEEP CHECK ON THESE TUCKS. THIS TRUCK WAS AN EVERY DAY WORK VEHICLE AND I ENDED UP HAVING TO PARK IT AND FIND ANOTHER ONE BEFORE THE CHAOS STARTED WITH IT.

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 11, 2019122,996 milesNY

FRAME ROT ,STRUCTURAL CRACK IN LEFT SIDE REAR, DID NOT PASS NYS INSPECTION

Structure › Body
Filed Sep 3, 201976,619 milesOH

THESE ARE PICTURES OF THE FRAME ON MY RANGER. THE FRAME IS RUSTING OUT AND IT ONLY HAS 76,619 MILES ON IT. MY MECHANIC FOUND THIS WHEN I WAS HAVING THE BRAKE LINE REPAIRED AND HE LIFTED THE TRUCK.

Structure › Body
Filed Aug 19, 2019GA

TAKATA RECALL. MY VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY WHEN I GOT TO WORK I NOTHING MY REAR BUMPER FELL OFF WITH NO GIVEN WARNING AND I DIDN'T HEAR IT HIT THE GROUND I GOT HOME AND LOOKED UNDER THE FRAME AND NOTICED THE WHOLE FRAME WAS ROTTEN AWAY AND IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE

Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 6, 2019155,123 milesMD

BACK LEAF SPRING RUST OUT.

Structure › Body
Filed Jul 25, 2019WV

I PURCHASED A USED 2001 FORD RANGER, WENT TO HAVE IT INSPECTED AND THERE WAS SEVERE RUST UNDERNEATH OF THE FRAME TO THE POINT THE INSPECTOR SAID IT WAS HIGHLY DANGEROUS TO BE DRIVING MY VEHICLE AROUND. WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF THERE WAS ANY RECALLS FOR THE TRUCKS FRAME UNDERNEATH? WILL PROVIDE PICTURES IF NEEDED.

Structure › Body
Filed Jul 7, 201976,559 milesOH

I BOUGHT THIS TRUCK USED. THIS IS THE FIRST VEHICLE THAT I'VE HAD THE FRAME RUST OUT. I JUST HAD SOME WORK DONE TO THE TRUCK AND MY MECHANIC SAID THAT A CHUNK OF THE FRAME FELL OFF WHEN HE LIFTED THE TRUCK TO DO WORK TO THE BRAKE LINES. I'VE ALREADY HAD WELDING WORK DONE TO THE TRUCK RIGHT AFTER I BOUGHT IT BECAUSE IT WASN'T DISCLOSED THAT THE FRAME WAS RUSTING OUT. THIS HAS BEEN AN ON GOING ISSUE. THE ATTACHED IMAGE IS FROM WHEN I HAD THE WELDING WORK DONE THE FIRST TIME.

Structure › Body
Filed May 31, 2019136,092 milesPA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH OVER A RAILROAD TRACK, THE SPARE TIRE LOOSENED FROM THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD, LOOKED UNDERNEATH, AND NOTICED NOTHING BUT RUST WHERE THE FRAME FOR THE SPARE TIRE WAS LOCATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 136,092. *BF *TR

Suspension
Filed May 6, 2019136,500 milesNY

THE FRAME ON THIS TRUCK HAS RUSTED TO THE POINT WHERE IT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE REAR BUMPER ACTUALLY FELL OF THE VEHICLE WHILE IT WAS BEING DRIVEN. I TOOK OFF THE BED AND CUT OFF THE REAR PART OF THE FRAME AND WELDED ON A NEW REAR SECTION AND PUT ON NEW LEAF SPRING HANGERS AND RE INSTALLED THE BUMPER A FEW YEARS AGO AND RE COATED THE FRAME WITH PAINT BUT NOW IT HAS GOTTEN WORSE TO THE POINT WHERE I CAN NO LONGER DRIVE IT AS THERE ARE ACTUAL HOLES RUSTED THRU. IT NEEDS A FRAME REPLACEMENT OR IT JUST A PARTS VEHICLE.

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 29, 2019100,000 milesNC

THE SALT ON THE ROADS RUSTED THE FRAME HORRIBLY CAUSING HOLES AND WEAK POINTS THROUGH THE BODY.

Structure › Body
Filed Mar 19, 2019WI

ALL 4 REAR SHACKLES HAVE BEEN REPLACED DUE TO RUSTING AWAY. ALSO DRIVERSIDE REAR SHOCK WHERE IT ATTACHES FRAME RUSTED OFF. THE BED HAS RUSTED OFF OF THE FRONT 2 BED MOUNTS

Seat Belts
Filed Feb 8, 2019176,000 milesCO

I CAN'T BUCKLE MY SEATBELT. THE MECHANISM JAMES WHEN I ATTEMPT TO BUCKLE MY SEAT BELT.

Suspension
Filed Jan 9, 2019OH

FRAME IS ROTTED EVERYWHERE FOR THE MOST PART SPARE TIRE IS ABOUT TO FAIL OFF ISN'T SAFE TO HAUL ANYTHING IN THE BED

Structure › Body
Filed Oct 21, 2018PA

2001 FORD RANGER FRAME IS RUSTED OUT BAD. THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL ON THIS SINCE SO MANY PEOPLE ARE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM. FORD SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF THEMSELVES FOR MAKING A VEHICLE THAT THE FRAME ONLY LASTS 15 TO 17 YEARS!

Structure › Body
Filed Aug 18, 2018143,751 milesOH

BODY FRAME RUSTED TO THE POINT I NOTICED THE BUMPER WAS HANGING DOWN ON DRIVERS SIDE, AS I LOOKED UNDER THE TRUCK IN MY DRIVEWAY I HAD SEEN THE SHACKLE WAS BROKEN AND THE PLATE OVER THE SPARE TIRE WAS CRACKED WHICH COULD HAVE CAUSE THE TIRE TO FALL OUT FROM UNDER THE TRUCK OR BUMPER WHICH WAS NOT CONNECTED ON DRIVERS SIDE BECAUSE OF RUST ALSO FRAME HAD TO BE REPAIRED THESE ARE THE REPAIRS I HAD DONE, REPLACED REAR FRAME SECTION FROM REAR AXLE SNUBBERS TO BUMPER, REPLACED REAR SHACKLES-REPLACED RIGHT SIDE REAR FRAME SHACKLE MOUNT REPAIRED CROSSMEMBER FOR GAS TANK RIGHT SIDE-REPAIR RIGHT FRONT FRAME RAIL ROUND CONTRO; ARM TO TRANS CROSSMEMBER COST WITH LABOR $973.69

Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator PedalCrash1 injured
Filed Jun 8, 2018WV

S10 DIRECT REPLY - A LETTER ADDRESSED TO PRESIDENT TRUMP REGARDING AN INCIDENT WITH A STUCK ACCELERATION PEDAL ON A 2001 FORD RANGER. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL STUCK TO THE FLOOR CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO CRASH THROUGH 2 BUILDINGS AND INTO A BRICK WALL. THE CONSUMER ATTEMPTED TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL BUT, IT DID NOT SLOW THE VEHICLE DOWN. THE VEHICLE'S ACCELERATOR PEDAL REMAINED STUCK TO THE FLOOR AFTER THE CRASH ENDED. THE CONSUMER SUFFERED MULTIPLE INJURIES THAT REQUIRED EMERGENCY SURGERY. *JS

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 28, 2018135,000 milesNY

FRAME IS RUSTING AWAY. BOTH REAR SHOCK MOUNTS. GAS TANK HOLDING STRAPS. BOTH CHASIS RAILS ARE RUSTING AWAY WITH BIG CHUNKS OF STEEL FALLING OFF. TRANS CROSS MEMBER RUSTING AWAY

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 28, 2018135,000 milesNY

CHASSIS IS SEVERELY RUSTED. YOU CAN BREAK CHUNKS OF METAL OFF WITH BARE HANDS.BOTH REAR SHOCK MOUNTS HAVE RUSTED OFF. STRAPS THAT HOLD GAS TANK HAVE RUSTED THROUGH. CROSS MEMBER HOLDING TRANNY IS SEVERELY RUSTED. GAS TANK FILL TUBE IS SEVERELY RUSTED GAS VAPOR RETURN TUBE RUSTED OFF. WHOLE CHASSIS. THE WHOLE FRAME IS SO RUSTED I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE THE TRUCK. TRUCK ONLY HAS 155,000 ON IT AND HAS ALWAYS BEEN MAINTAINED (HAVE ALL SERVICE RECORDS)

Vehicle Speed ControlCrash
Filed Apr 3, 2018120,000 milesNV

FORD SENT OUT RECALL NOTICES FOR FAULTY TEXAS INSTRUMENTS SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH. MY 2001 FORD RANGER WAS INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. I TOOK MY 2001 FORD RANGER TO A CERTIFIED FORD DEALERSHIP. I PICKED UP MY 2001 FORD RANGER FROM THE DEALERSHIP, AND NOW THE TRUCK STALLS OUT IN HOT WEATHER. IF I USE A/C, IT STALLS OUT. ONE DAY IT STALLED ON A CITY STREET, AND I WAS FORCED TO DRIVE INTO A IRON FENCE. PLEASE HELP. [XXX]. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Seat Belts
Filed Feb 25, 201899,668 milesKY

THE DRIVER SEAT BELT BUCKLE UNEXPECTED UNLOCKS WHILE DRIVING. IT HAS BEEN HAPPENING MULTIPLE TIMES BEFORE.

Structure › Body
Filed Feb 10, 201842,000 milesNY

FRAME HAS EXCESSIVE RUST/CORROSION.

Suspension
Filed Feb 9, 2018143,000 milesIN

FRAME RUSTED EVEN THOU WE PAID FOR UNDERCOATING NO ACCIDENT TRYING TO PREVENT ACCIDENT WITHOUT SCRAPING THE VEHICLE CAN SEND PICTURES, BUT THIS FORM DOES NOT WORK

Structure › Body
Filed Jan 19, 201882,000 milesPA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD RANGER. UPON INSPECTION, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE FRAME EXPERIENCED SEVERE CORROSION. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE WAS NO LONGER OPERABLE. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 82,000. *TT *TR

Structure › Body
Filed Jan 15, 2018135,000 milesNC

FRAME IS RUSTED BADLY AT POINTS WHERE CONTROL ARM CONNECTS TO FRAME AND CROSS MEMBERS WHERE HOLDS GAS TANK. BODY IS IN PERFECT CONDITION AND ONLY ISSUE IS IN THE FRAME . IT'S UNSAFE TO DRIVE ANY LONGER. IF CONTROL ARM BREAKS OFF THE FRAME COULD CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO PASSENGERS AND OTHERS ON HIGHWAY.

Air Bags
Filed Jan 7, 2018TN

"TAKATA RECALL" I HAVE BEEN HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE AIR-BAGS ON MY 2001 FORD RANGER EDGE 2WD EXTENDED CAB SMALL PICKUP TRUCK. I AM AFRAID THEY'RE AIR DEFECTIVE AND NEED TO BE REPAIRED OR REPLACED. COULD YOU PLEASE INFORM ME WHAT I NEED TO DO. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). PLEASE TELL ME WHAT I NEED TO DO *PM

Suspension
Filed Jan 3, 2018182,000 milesIN

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE MADE A NOISE BY THE WHEEL BEARING. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A CERTIFIED MECHANIC AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE WHEEL BEARING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CERTIFIED MECHANIC ALSO STATED THAT THE FRAME AND THE LEAF SPRINGS WERE SEVERELY RUSTED, CAUSING THE LEAF SPRINGS TO DETACH. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 182,000.

Structure › Body
Filed Dec 20, 201780,000 milesNJ

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD RANGER. WHILE DRIVING, ONE OF THE VEHICLE'S SPARE TIRES AND HALF OF THE REAR BUMPER DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE FRONT FRAME WAS ROTTED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE FRONT FRAME NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000.

Steering
Filed Dec 13, 201767,000 milesMS

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 FORD RANGER. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN A PARKING LOT, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT PARTS OF BOTH THE RIGHT AND LEFT SIDE OF THE STEERING WHEEL WERE MELTED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AT 800-424-9393 AND ASKED THE CONTACT TO CALL NHTSA. A CASE NUMBER WAS NOT PROVIDED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 67,000.

Structure › Body
Filed Nov 10, 2017200,000 milesPA

BACK HALF OF FRAME RUST OUT CROSSMEMBERS AND GAS TANK BRACKET. BECOMES UNSAFE

Suspension
Filed Sep 28, 2017PA

FRAME BAD.SPARE TIRE FALL OFF AND BACK BUMPER FALL OFF.SPARE TIRE FALL OFF WHEN I WAS PARKING IN A PARKING SPACE.FRAME IS IN VERY BAD CONDITON.

Engine
Filed Sep 8, 2017TX

INTERMITTENT STARTING AS IF THERE IS NO FUEL GOING TO THE ENGINE. SHUT OFF VALVE CHECKED, BASIC TROUBLE SHOOTING DONE, AS I UNDERSTAND DOING RESEARCH, THIS HAS BEEN ON-GOING ISSUES WITH FORD RANGERS DOING THIS. IS THERE A FIX FOR SUCH?

Complaints 1-50 of 515, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 1999
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20269800Routine
2025451300Routine
2024961300Routine
202318410Do not drive
202238500Routine
2021119630Routine
2020130710Routine
20192711120Above average
20171000Routine
20161000Routine
20141000Routine
2011235610Do not drive
2010156900Do not drive
2009169801Do not drive
2008326611Do not drive
2007270610Do not drive
20062721224Do not drive
20052891150Do not drive
20044051232Do not drive
20032435111Fatalities reported
20023467122Fatalities reported
2001 — this page515994Fatalities reported
20006708122Fatalities reported
199975510140High concern
199857611297Fatalities reported
1997411781Fatalities reported
199641381810Fatalities reported
1995321791Fatalities reported
199443811151Fatalities reported
199323210152Fatalities reported
19921896320High concern
19911326210High concern
19901055152Fatalities reported

Compare every Ranger year →

2001 Ford Ranger: questions buyers ask

Is the 2001 Ford Ranger a good car?

It is not among the Ranger years to avoid. Owners filed 515 complaints, against about 271 for a typical Ranger year. The most common complaint is about the body and frame (17%).

What is the most common problem with the 2001 Ford Ranger?

The body and frame: 85 of the 515 complaints (17%) are about it. The typical report comes at 97,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2001 Ford Ranger have?

9 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Oct 13, 2009. The largest, 01X001000, covered 13,000,000 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2001 Ford Ranger problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 82,000 miles. For the body and frame the midpoint is 97,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2001 Ford Ranger?

Yes, 2 times. The latest, EA05004 ("FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLY"), was opened Feb 17, 2005 and closed Jul 6, 2005.

Are there service bulletins for the 2001 Ford Ranger?

The manufacturer filed 204 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (60), the transmission (47) and the electrical system (21). They include a service campaign, 02M01, filed Jun 1, 2004. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

4 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Oct 13, 2009. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.