New 4x4 XLT buy, but immediately regretted not getting FX4

ben8jam

Well-Known Member
First Name
Ben
Joined
Nov 19, 2019
Threads
15
Messages
155
Reaction score
225
Location
Los Angeles
Vehicle(s)
2019 Ranger XLT
[Edit: came to senses, was just some buyers remorse after big purchase, but still worth making sure to trust your own judgment not online reviewers]

I read a lot of hate for the Fx4 and bounce, including an Edmunds video review where all three reviewers felt sea sick in the Fx4. I then test drove an Fx4 a few days after trying a RWD and felt the same bounce and nausea, but I don't know if that was just in my head from the reviewers saying it.

Late last night I closed on a non-Fx4 4x4 with elec diff, boards 302A, and tech package, choosing that over a Fx4 with 18" wheels, 302A, and tech which would have ended up the same price. Immediately driving off the lot I felt sick to my stomach that I didn't go with the Fx4 package.

It's been less that 24hrs and while I should be stoked at the $8k+ in rebates/incentives, I just can't stop thinking about all the extra benefits the Fx4 package comes with, especially with the larger 18's which look much better.

As others have said on here, and I wish I had read yesterday, you can always buy new shocks, but you can't add all the tech options later on.

Super happy to have the new truck, but that sinking feeling is the worst.. Moral of story, do your research and drive both extensively to make sure you don't pass up a great deal just because some people say it bounces too much.
Sponsored

 
Last edited:

FX4Offroad

Well-Known Member
First Name
Jim
Joined
Jan 21, 2019
Threads
71
Messages
930
Reaction score
2,993
Location
South Florida
Vehicle(s)
2019 Lariat FX4
I have an FX4 and I love it. The little quirks are ok.

It is bouncy but certainly not to the extent of feeling sick.

Enjoy what you have and don't keep second guessing yourself. You're the only one that will be hurting.
 

u wish u could ride

Well-Known Member
First Name
robert
Joined
Jul 30, 2019
Threads
17
Messages
290
Reaction score
445
Location
lakeland florida
Vehicle(s)
19 xlt in blue
Occupation
building maintenance
your fine I didn't "feel" the bounce but still went xlt 301A best dam deal on a fine truck !ENJOY your new ride don't look back some deals cant be past up!! if you felt the bounce is good reason !!
 

Ryan...

Member
First Name
Ryan
Joined
Oct 12, 2019
Threads
1
Messages
8
Reaction score
31
Location
Wisconsin
Vehicle(s)
2007 Range Rover Sport
Is there anything keeping you from simply purchasing a set of 18" wheels and tires? Or replacing the shocks?

There are a million wheel/tire options for these trucks, and you can always resell your OEM wheel package to recoup some of the money.

There are a ton of aftermarket shock options too, which are 2x better than Ford's OEM shocks.


Look at this way, instead of feeling sick to your stomach, use this as an opportunity to modify your vehicle a little bit, improve it's looks, handling, and comfort, while also making it unique to you :)
 

Tracy Bowman

Well-Known Member
First Name
Tracy
Joined
Apr 11, 2019
Threads
25
Messages
5,159
Reaction score
26,201
Location
Alabama
Vehicle(s)
2013 Hyundai Accent, 2001 Ford F-150, 2019 Ford Ranger FX4 Saber Lariat
I have an FX4 and it’s not bouncy at all.y
I read a lot of hate for the Fx4 and bounce, including an Edmunds video review where all three reviewers felt sea sick in the Fx4. I then test drove an Fx4 a few days after trying a RWD and felt the same bounce and nausea, but I don't know if that was just in my head from the reviewers saying it.

Late last night I closed on a non-Fx4 4x4 with elec diff, boards 302A, and tech package, choosing that over a Fx4 with 18" wheels, 302A, and tech which would have ended up the same price. Immediately driving off the lot I felt sick to my stomach that I didn't go with the Fx4 package.

It's been less that 24hrs and while I should be stoked at the $8k+ in rebates/incentives, I just can't stop thinking about all the extra benefits the Fx4 package comes with, especially with the larger 18's which look much better.

As others have said on here, and I wish I had read yesterday, you can always buy new shocks, but you can't add all the tech options later on.

Super happy to have the new truck, but that sinking feeling is the worst.. Moral of story, do your research and drive both extensively to make sure you don't pass up a great deal just because some people say it bounces too much.
Your Ranger is beautiful! Be happy you got such a great deal on a great truck. It’s so much fun to drive, I know you’ll love it!:handsinair:
 


P. A. Schilke

Well-Known Member
First Name
Phil
Joined
Apr 3, 2019
Threads
141
Messages
7,012
Reaction score
36,169
Location
GV Arizona
Vehicle(s)
2019 Ranger FX4 Lariat 4x4, 2020 Lincoln Nautilus, 2005 Alfa Motorhome
Occupation
Engineer Retired
Vehicle Showcase
1
I read a lot of hate for the Fx4 and bounce, including an Edmunds video review where all three reviewers felt sea sick in the Fx4. I then test drove an Fx4 a few days after trying a RWD and felt the same bounce and nausea, but I don't know if that was just in my head from the reviewers saying it.

Late last night I closed on a non-Fx4 4x4 with elec diff, boards 302A, and tech package, choosing that over a Fx4 with 18" wheels, 302A, and tech which would have ended up the same price. Immediately driving off the lot I felt sick to my stomach that I didn't go with the Fx4 package.

It's been less that 24hrs and while I should be stoked at the $8k+ in rebates/incentives, I just can't stop thinking about all the extra benefits the Fx4 package comes with, especially with the larger 18's which look much better.

As others have said on here, and I wish I had read yesterday, you can always buy new shocks, but you can't add all the tech options later on.

Super happy to have the new truck, but that sinking feeling is the worst.. Moral of story, do your research and drive both extensively to make sure you don't pass up a great deal just because some people say it bounces too much.

Hi Ben,

I made the FX4 brand back way back then...(other threads here on these forums) It is what may be called the DNA...it is an off road package and not an on road package, so look at your anticipated usage. If it is on road, you may have made the right decision as the FX4 really shines off road. Many here complain of its bouncy ride...It is a compromise for on road acceptability and much better off road performance.

Do not kick yourself for your purchase, and if you wish to improve off road performance, there are Ford Performance Parts that are Ford tested that you can install. I cannot vouch for Aftermarket parts as they are beyond what Ford could test and approve. Caveat emptier for the aftermarket. Lot of junk out there and some really nicely designed pieces. Your choice... Ranger has a heritage of toughness and robustness and I hope you enjoy many years of enjoyment with your choice.

Best,
Phil Schilke
Ranger Vehicle Engineering
Ford Motor Co. Retired
 
OP
OP
ben8jam

ben8jam

Well-Known Member
First Name
Ben
Joined
Nov 19, 2019
Threads
15
Messages
155
Reaction score
225
Location
Los Angeles
Vehicle(s)
2019 Ranger XLT
Is there anything keeping you from simply purchasing a set of 18" wheels and tires?
Yeh I can. It was just I liked those 18s and I essentially got running boards and elec diff instead of 18s, shocks, engine tech, skid plates, and the coveted bed sticker ;) for the same price.

This whole buying new was a lot more work than I imagined (dealers having inventory on website across multiple locations). Also didn’t expect the timeshare level hard sell on extended warranties from AutoNation. Which I finally caved on which only added $1500 on to price. Gotta go try and cancel those...

So it’s been a process!

Need to go find some trails to drive - will feel better afterwards I’m sure.

Thanks all.
 

RoadBoss

Well-Known Member
First Name
Travis
Joined
Apr 6, 2019
Threads
18
Messages
484
Reaction score
755
Location
Lakewood, CO
Website
www.TJAoutfitters.com
Vehicle(s)
95 Isuzu trooper, AE86 corolla, 19 ranger XL
Occupation
video/film, small business owner
I chose a non-FX4, 75% of the reason I got this truck is for offroad use, and have no regrets.

you got the locking diff, that's the most important part.

Imho (I'm sure some people aren't gonna like to hear this),
the FX4 skid plates are hardly worth mentioning, and the terrain management/trail control is more of a gimmick than anything else. I'm sure there are some benefits to new drivers, but I'd be willing to bet that most people that take their truck offroad more than a couple times a year will stop using that technology after the novelty wears off.

These trucks are super capable without any of the 'offroad technology', so don't feel like not having that stuff is holding you back in any way.

Just get out there and enjoy your new ranger! there's really nothing it needs, except maybe some better tires! (also 17's are better)
 

PNW_Ranger87

Well-Known Member
First Name
Erik
Joined
Oct 10, 2019
Threads
3
Messages
552
Reaction score
672
Location
Renton, WA
Vehicle(s)
2019 Ranger XLT 4X4
Occupation
Parts Specialist
I chose a non-FX4, 75% of the reason I got this truck is for offroad use, and have no regrets.

you got the locking diff, that's the most important part.

Imho (I'm sure some people aren't gonna like to hear this),
the FX4 skid plates are hardly worth mentioning, and the terrain management/trail control is more of a gimmick than anything else. I'm sure there are some benefits to new drivers, but I'd be willing to bet that most people that take their truck offroad more than a couple times a year will stop using that technology after the novelty wears off.

These trucks are super capable without any of the 'offroad technology', so don't feel like not having that stuff is holding you back in any way.

Just get out there and enjoy your new ranger! there's really nothing it needs, except maybe some better tires! (also 17's are better)
^^^ All of this. The ONLY thing I'm missing out on IMO is a locking diff which I will someday remedy with an LSD. The skid plate on the XLT is fine, I'm honestly not sure what I'm missing out on with the FX4 skid plate up front...? No t-case plate but I'm not going THAT crazy just yet so I feel like with the deal I got I'm definitely happy with the money I saved and I can put that towards suspension I was going to upgrade anyway and other off-road bits I more than likely would have switched out too.

I'm also pretty surprised that the FX4 got 18s to be honest. I feel like the tires (type and size) for 17" wheels on these mid-sized trucks are way more off-road worthy and MUCH more comfortable too when you air-down on higher volume tires. Kind of counter-intuitive to have lower profile tires on the "Off-Road" package trucks if you ask me.
 

Ryan...

Member
First Name
Ryan
Joined
Oct 12, 2019
Threads
1
Messages
8
Reaction score
31
Location
Wisconsin
Vehicle(s)
2007 Range Rover Sport
Yeh I can. It was just I liked those 18s and I essentially got running boards and elec diff instead of 18s, shocks, engine tech, skid plates, and the coveted bed sticker ;) for the same price.

This whole buying new was a lot more work than I imagined (dealers having inventory on website across multiple locations). Also didn’t expect the timeshare level hard sell on extended warranties from AutoNation. Which I finally caved on which only added $1500 on to price. Gotta go try and cancel those...

So it’s been a process!

Need to go find some trails to drive - will feel better afterwards I’m sure.

Thanks all.
Well, I hope you find a solution and get out and enjoy the truck!

I chose a non-FX4, 75% of the reason I got this truck is for offroad use, and have no regrets.

you got the locking diff, that's the most important part.

Imho (I'm sure some people aren't gonna like to hear this),
the FX4 skid plates are hardly worth mentioning, and the terrain management/trail control is more of a gimmick than anything else. I'm sure there are some benefits to new drivers, but I'd be willing to bet that most people that take their truck offroad more than a couple times a year will stop using that technology after the novelty wears off.

These trucks are super capable without any of the 'offroad technology', so don't feel like not having that stuff is holding you back in any way.

Just get out there and enjoy your new ranger! there's really nothing it needs, except maybe some better tires! (also 17's are better)
I agree, the terrain management stuff is very gimicky, I used it one time on my F150 then never even considered using it again. The locking diff is most important, but I was definitely appreciative of the skid plates as well. They're not as solid as aftermarket pieces, but they did a good job protecting my truck.
 
OP
OP
ben8jam

ben8jam

Well-Known Member
First Name
Ben
Joined
Nov 19, 2019
Threads
15
Messages
155
Reaction score
225
Location
Los Angeles
Vehicle(s)
2019 Ranger XLT
I'm also pretty surprised that the FX4 got 18s to be honest. I feel like the tires (type and size) for 17" wheels on these mid-sized trucks are way more off-road worthy and MUCH more comfortable too when you air-down on higher volume tires. Kind of counter-intuitive to have lower profile tires on the "Off-Road" package trucks if you ask me.
Good point. The 18s were a factory option on this specific truck. But the dealer had a bigger discount on that one so they were basically included.
 

MattInFla

Member
First Name
Matt
Joined
Oct 15, 2019
Threads
1
Messages
24
Reaction score
49
Location
Casselberry, FL
Vehicle(s)
2019 Ranger XLT 4x4
Vehicle Showcase
1
I read a lot of hate for the Fx4 and bounce, including an Edmunds video review where all three reviewers felt sea sick in the Fx4. I then test drove an Fx4 a few days after trying a RWD and felt the same bounce and nausea, but I don't know if that was just in my head from the reviewers saying it.

Late last night I closed on a non-Fx4 4x4 with elec diff, boards 302A, and tech package, choosing that over a Fx4 with 18" wheels, 302A, and tech which would have ended up the same price. Immediately driving off the lot I felt sick to my stomach that I didn't go with the Fx4 package.

It's been less that 24hrs and while I should be stoked at the $8k+ in rebates/incentives, I just can't stop thinking about all the extra benefits the Fx4 package comes with, especially with the larger 18's which look much better.

As others have said on here, and I wish I had read yesterday, you can always buy new shocks, but you can't add all the tech options later on.

Super happy to have the new truck, but that sinking feeling is the worst.. Moral of story, do your research and drive both extensively to make sure you don't pass up a great deal just because some people say it bounces too much.
Buyer's Remorse. It's a natural thing after a big purchase. If you'd bought the FX4, you'd probably be having the same feeling in reverse.

And let's be honest - for 99% of us, the truck sees far more pavement than dirt. And even then, rarely if ever do we see the kind of terrain where the FX4 can go that non-FX4 can't.

Enjoy your new truck. And if need be, you can always mod it to overcome any real shortcomings you discover on your journey.
 
OP
OP
ben8jam

ben8jam

Well-Known Member
First Name
Ben
Joined
Nov 19, 2019
Threads
15
Messages
155
Reaction score
225
Location
Los Angeles
Vehicle(s)
2019 Ranger XLT
Buyer's Remorse. It's a natural thing after a big purchase. If you'd bought the FX4, you'd probably be having the same feeling in reverse.
Yup my wife said the same thing, that and I should STFU or she’s taking the truck and I have to drive her Jetta. Lol.
 

VAMike

Well-Known Member
First Name
Mike
Joined
Feb 22, 2019
Threads
1
Messages
3,270
Reaction score
4,145
Location
Virginia
Vehicle(s)
2019 Ranger Lariat SuperCab
FWIW, I have 18 inch wheels because there wasn't a way not to get them with my mix of packages, and I think they're stupid--I would greatly prefer a 16 inch option for those who want function over appearance.
Sponsored

 
 



Top