2001 Ford Ranger

Ford's little Ranger has long been the most logical, domestic compact truck. It's built better than a Chevy, and less trouble than a Dodge. Though it was less powerful, and slightly smaller than its competition, the Ford Ranger offered a more comfortable interior and a stronger drivetrain. It even offered 2 access doors on it's extended cab.

Compared to a '97, this new Ranger's regular cab was 3-inches longer and allowed more legroom and storage. There was even a new 4WD system and a bigger base 4-cyl engine. The new 2.5L 4-cylinder was standard on 2-wheel-drive Rangers, but the trusty 3.0-liter V6 was still optional. That V6 was standard on 4-wheel drive models, but a 4.0-liter V6 could be ordered on any Ranger. A 5-speed manual was the standard transmission, but a 4-speed automatic was available. Trucks equipped with the 4.0-liter V6 were also available with a 5-speed automatic.

XL and up level XLT Rangers were still available, and the Splash, Edge and other sport-themed editions were also introduced. SuperCab models got two access doors and a pair of fold-down rear jump seats. While bed lengths remained 6ft and 7ft. A Flareside bed was available on any model.

The Ford Ranger is a great driving and stylish little pickup. Whether you live in the city, or the country, there's a Ranger model to suit anyone's needs. . YEAR TO YEAR CHANGES FOR THE FORD RANGER: 1999: The Splash model was discontinued, but its color-keyed grille and other trim pieces became part of the new Sport Appearance package. 2000: The new XL Trailhead joined the lineup. It was essentially a 2WD with the look of a 4x4. This option package was available on the 2WD, regular-cab, short-bed model and featured a raised suspension, 16-inch wheels, and the exterior trim used on 4WD Rangers. Also for 2000, the 4-door extended cab was now available in base level trim. 2001: The new Edge package was available on 2WD and 4WD models. It had body-colored bumpers, 4WD ride height, and available fender flares. 2WD models now had 4-wheel ABS and a new over-head-cam 4.0-liter replaced the old 4.0-liter ohv V6. The 4-cylinder was replaced midyear by the 2.5L, and XLT 4-wheel drive's got a new Premium Off-Road Package. 2002: The XLT FX4 off-road model was introduced and featured 4WD, a heavy-duty suspension, 31-inch tires, heftier skid plate, and tow hooks. Also available was a new MP3/CD audio system and a Tremor SuperCab that came with a high-powered cassette/CD system. 2003: The 2.5L and 3.0-liter V6 got 8 more horsepower, and the XLT FX4 got a Level II version with heavy-duty shock absorbers, Torsen limited-slip axle, and special wheels and tires. All models also received thicker glass and added insulation. 2004: A new grille, mildly revised interior styling, were new for '04. Leather was also a new option. 2005: None 2006: The '06 Ranger got small revisions to bumpers, grille, fenders, and lights. 2007: None . COMMON PROBLEMS FOR THE FORD RANGER: Differential Pressure Feedback EGR (DPFE) Sensor (1998-2002) - $110 Door Ajar Switches (1998-2002) - $70 Intake Manifold Gaskets (4.0L VIN E engine only) (2001) - $260 Wheel Speed Sensor(s) (2001) - $190 front, $65 rear