Convince Me To Buy One

[Msfitoy]

So I have a Ranger on order, and am either having second thoughts or just have too much time on my hands to research other options in more depth/detail. I don't want to get anyone offended here or play favorites, but these are MY opinions based on MY life experiences while on this planet.

Pros:
Actual "mid sized" truck (although this was considered FULL size about a decade ago)
Metal bumpers/not plastic skinned
Good HP and MPG for a truck in this class
Still an actual transmission vs some CVT garbage
Bare bones features (i don't want or like too many upgraded gadgets as my belief is: the more gadgets=the more problems)
Nice ride quality (I only was able to test ride a two year old, 20K, version and that was enough to convince me)
Price (obviously this is subjective to features and trim levels, but FORD is on average a $2,000 below to similar trim levels of others)
Looks (looks like a real truck IMHO)
Aftermarket accessories available

Cons:
Dependability (again, not trying to bash anyone, but I owned a few FORDs and a GM in the past that really burned me bad enough to strictly go Japanese for the last 20 years. All very good experiences. Again...MY EXPERIENCES).
Test drove the new Nissan Frontier last night...and impressed with the revamp (won't go into details, but impressed me to think twice about my Ranger)

I guess after comparing my list here, it's pretty obvious I still have strong reservations about the dependability of a FORD. I like the Ranger and obviously enough that I placed an order for one. BUT, after doing more research here and other forums, and speaking with other FORD owners, I'm getting the feeling I might have made a mistake based on my dependability needs. While most here I'm sure enjoy their vehicles, and those that didn't , probably left this forum, I was hoping the people left here could convince me or other that FORD is just as dependable as anyone else.

Yes, I know every auto manufacturer has issues, some more than others. I've been used to driving vehicles for the last twenty years with only worrying about gas and oil. Yes, wear and tear items were replaced, and a recall or TSB may have popped on the radar, but as a whole, I have had a very pleasant experience with Japanese brands. The vehicles were stored outside 24/7 from +100 degree summers to -20 degree winters. Snow, rain, hail, even had a tree fall on one. When it was time to trade up, the vehicles held their value very well, which was a big savings moving into a new vehicle.

I'm a hands on guy, and don't mind maintaining or tinkering with my vehicles if need be. I consider myself a professional parts changer and am comfortable working on a carbureted motor to an EFI. Brakes, hoses, some electrical, trim etc....I've either done it or attempted to do it and learned in the process.

So now that you know a bit more of my background, please convince me that my future Ranger was a good call to make?? Thank you in advance to those that will contribute. I will take your feedback to heart

87K miles...never been back to dealership...zero issues...your luck may vary...my wife's 2011 Explorer, 200K...maintained...never left her stranded...I've worked at Ford for many years and owned many many of them...all dependable...

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[awd.nv]

OP,

I'm giving you the benefit of the doubt and not calling you out for trolling ... but, daaang!

I read and reread your original post and am still not sure what you want from the forum. There are no perfect automobiles out there. You seem to understand this but then want reassurance that a Ranger is going to be the be-all-end-all car/truck.

I haven't read through the five pages of replies, but, good grief, what are your expectations of the Ranger -- or any vehicle for that matter?

Buyer's remorse is usually indicative of feeling that one has spent too much money on an impulse buy. If you truly wanted a great new truck, then enjoy the shite out of it when it comes in. If you have misgivings, then cancel and free your soul of the burden altogether. Presently, there aren't any "bad" trucks out there. Only the ones with the aesthetics and features you either want or don't want. Problems are inherent in automobiles.

Same here, haven't read through all the pages but agree with your statement.

--
I know I felt good about the Ranger because it is a matured platform. Mine is a 2021 so hopefully Ford worked out the USA kinks by now but otherwise it has been out longer globally. About 15k miles trouble free on our Tremor. I have to say AT LEAST 3000miles towing (Yeah should probably log it) our 19ft travel trailer. Beat on it a little in the dirt too, not enough to be honest but she has been great off-road too.

My only issues are the spots where Ford tried to save on my XLT Tremor. Example only the drivers side floor mat has the retaining clips, not the passenger. Only driver has one touch open/close, at least give me both front windows. The gap in the ignition switch to column (purchased the plastic trim from forum member) , only 4 bed tie downs and not all 6. Stupid stuff like that to only save a couple bucks.

The truck is amazing otherwise. Any vehicle can have issues, even Toyotas haha

 

[Aonarch]

Nissan = Japanese Chrysler

No thank you.

It's not up to us to convince you to do anything.

You are presumably an adult. Make your own decision.

 

[TheRoushRanger046]

OP—

Ever thought about going with an upgraded Ranger? Tremor, Raptor(next year), ROUSH or even the RTR?

Makes you stand out via stock off the dealership from the basic Nissan or Toyotas. ??

 

[mailbox4449]

How do you plan on using the truck? After having owned mine for a little over 2 years and having been on the forum and reading others experience this truck behaves best when you actually drive it daily and somewhat spirited. If you plan on buying it to just sit in the garage and only put 5-6K miles a year on it; it may not be the best vehicle to buy. I'm at 37K miles on my 2019 and have had zero issues that were caused by the assembly line. only thing i have replaced were the tires at 32K because the alignment was knocked out from the fantastic Florida roads we have and caused abnormal wear. If i can get 160-200K out of this truck and it lasts for the next few years until the vehicle market volatility levels off, I'll consider it a win.

Thanks for input . It will be my daily driver (estimate 15k per year).

 

[mailbox4449]

OP—

Ever thought about going with an upgraded Ranger? Tremor, Raptor(next year), ROUSH or even the RTR?

Makes you stand out via stock off the dealership from the basic Nissan or Toyotas. ??

Wallet isn't THAT big. But I can dream.

 

[mailbox4449]

Oh I think most get cold feet especially when you have time on your hands and start reading about problems like the fuel in the oil. Just break it in right and do the required maintenance and hopefully you'll have many trouble free miles with it. It is a very fun truck to drive and out of all of the ones I've had it's definitely my favorite. I'm still super impressed with the 2.3 and like a few others it's my first turbo. I liked it so much I got the 2.0 turbo in my new Jeep. I second guessed myself with my Jeep purchase several times but so far I love it and it does have a warranty which I hope to not have to use.


There are two dealers who sell extended warranties for a very reasonable price. They're both very close in price and you're better off getting it through them when it comes time. Some have been lucky and have had their dealers match the price but most cant come close. My 3 years is up towards the end of July and will most likely be getting one myself. I'll most likely get the next gen Ranger but will want to wait a couple years since it complete redesign.


These are Ford dealers and you're getting a Ford warranty not a 3rd party one.


https://www.floodfordesp.com


There's a discount code for Zeigler "payinfull" which brings the price down to match Flood Ford.

https://www.zeiglerfordesp.com

Thanks for the info. I will keep it in mind and use it.

 

[OrangeStreak]

Congrats on getting your VIN! I'm a die hard Ford guy and hav owned 8 F150's along with my Ranger. All have treated me great through the years and the F150's I used for work and they've never let me down. I've hauled my snowmobiles from MA to Canada with them and have never had one single problem.

My only vehicle I regret buying was my '16 Tacoma. Once the Ranger came back I shipped the Taco on down the road and have ZERO regerts. ? I use my Ranger for work daily and it's tuned and I drive it hard at times with no problems. Now it's possible you could get a lemon as several here have had one but I wouldn't worry yourself about something that "might" happen. As far as the extended warranty I would wait because you have until the 3/36 is up to purchase one. By then you'll know if it's a keeper.

The only thing you'll have to worry about is all of us helping you spend your money. If I were you I would delete your account here as soon as it comes in otherwise say goodby to you savings. ?

Those hands are shriveled! . Obviously he's been using a Damper too long ?. He needs atrophy therapybefore it's too late

KOOL DAMPER KLUB member since Jan, 2022

 

[mailbox4449]

OP,

I'm giving you the benefit of the doubt and not calling you out for trolling ... but, daaang!

I read and reread your original post and am still not sure what you want from the forum. There are no perfect automobiles out there. You seem to understand this but then want reassurance that a Ranger is going to be the be-all-end-all car/truck.

I haven't read through the five pages of replies, but, good grief, what are your expectations of the Ranger -- or any vehicle for that matter?

Buyer's remorse is usually indicative of feeling that one has spent too much money on an impulse buy. If you truly wanted a great new truck, then enjoy the shite out of it when it comes in. If you have misgivings, then cancel and free your soul of the burden altogether. Presently, there aren't any "bad" trucks out there. Only the ones with the aesthetics and features you either want or don't want. Problems are inherent in automobiles.

Not trolling, just looking for some sort of reassurance, guidance. After having 20 years of basically trouble free vehicles with OTHER brands, and having bad experiences in the past with FORD brand, I just want to see if FORD has finally come to par with most other reliable brands these days. I don't think it's too much to ask?

And yes, if I plan to drop =$40k on a new vehicle, what's the harm in asking people on a forum "WHO ACTUALLY OWN ONE" on their experiences. I'm sure you did your research before you made your purchase?? I'm just doing the same. I'm old enough to know better to not drop money down on a vehicle because it looks so new and shinny. I'm on a fact finding mission. I'm not here to piss anyone off. I try and "like" or "thank" anyone who has given me good, bad, other advise here so they realize I'm actually reading the posts and appreciate their time to answer. So if you feel I'm trolling you by asking questions....sorry I hurt YOUR feelings by asking questions about the Ranger on a Ranger forum....Go pound sand!

 

[mailbox4449]

87K miles...never been back to dealership...zero issues...your luck may vary...my wife's 2011 Explorer, 200K...maintained...never left her stranded...I've worked at Ford for many years and owned many many of them...all dependable...

Thanks for the input, appreciate it

 

[mailbox4449]

Same here, haven't read through all the pages but agree with your statement.

--
I know I felt good about the Ranger because it is a matured platform. Mine is a 2021 so hopefully Ford worked out the USA kinks by now but otherwise it has been out longer globally. About 15k miles trouble free on our Tremor. I have to say AT LEAST 3000miles towing (Yeah should probably log it) our 19ft travel trailer. Beat on it a little in the dirt too, not enough to be honest but she has been great off-road too.

My only issues are the spots where Ford tried to save on my XLT Tremor. Example only the drivers side floor mat has the retaining clips, not the passenger. Only driver has one touch open/close, at least give me both front windows. The gap in the ignition switch to column (purchased the plastic trim from forum member) , only 4 bed tie downs and not all 6. Stupid stuff like that to only save a couple bucks.

The truck is amazing otherwise. Any vehicle can have issues, even Toyotas haha

Thanks for the input. I agree with the small stuff missing too.

 

[GSD4EVR]

Not trolling, just looking for some sort of reassurance, guidance. After having 20 years of basically trouble free vehicles with OTHER brands, and having bad experiences in the past with FORD brand, I just want to see if FORD has finally come to par with most other reliable brands these days. I don't think it's too much to ask?

And yes, if I plan to drop =$40k on a new vehicle, what's the harm in asking people on a forum "WHO ACTUALLY OWN ONE" on their experiences. I'm sure you did your research before you made your purchase?? I'm just doing the same. I'm old enough to know better to not drop money down on a vehicle because it looks so new and shinny. I'm on a fact finding mission. I'm not here to piss anyone off. I try and "like" or "thank" anyone who has given me good, bad, other advise here so they realize I'm actually reading the posts and appreciate their time to answer. So if you feel I'm trolling you by asking questions....sorry I hurt YOUR feelings by asking questions about the Ranger on a Ranger forum....Go pound sand!

Ten points for irony.

 

[mailbox4449]

Ten points for irony.

Thank you for your input...as always. I appreciate it

 

[GSD4EVR]

Thank you for your input...as always. I appreciate it

I appreciate it as well and apologize for the tone of my original reply. I have to remind myself that a sense of humor is essential, especially these days in the world.

 

[WNCblueridge]

Absolutely agree, a test drive and getting out and kickin the tires were part of my process as well. Looks like we both took the same route in making a decision. I guess the "waiting" (which i really don't mind within reason) is making me second guess

I can see how transition and waiting would cause some minor buyer's remorse however once the time comes for your walk around and assuming there are no factory mishaps you should be a happy camper and satisfied with the new Ranger

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