Mike's Ranger experience

[RANGER_MARC]

The Hmmm, is 2 parts.

1. Would I get an XL or XLT instead of the Lariat? Probably an XLT, but maybe XL. The reason I didn't was because of the seats which on my short test drive, the Lariat seats seemed comfortable and and I wasn't impressed with the cloth seats (plus at the time, I didn't think the 4 way seats adjusted in height). Seats are now not a differentiator (explained in #2). I really like the dash layout in the XL/XLT so knowing what I know now, I'd probably have gone with one either of those.

2. The seats. I'm serious in that right now, I'm bummed about the seats. They just are not agreeing with my lower back at all. Tried many different positions on the seat and just can't get comfortable. For me, it needs a firmer/more supportive bottom cushion (my 2013 Jeep JK seats were great for me as is our Rogue seats). That softer bottom cushion is creating an angle my crappy lower back doesn't like (I go to the doc tomorrow to discuss my recent back MRI). Quite possible I would have not ordered had I known it would be this uncomfortable. Just initial impression and maybe I'll be able to find a position that works. Who knows, maybe I'll take it to an upholstery shop and look in to some different foam for the bottom cushion.

Dear Mike:

As someone who has had back surgery and knows how important support in the right places is for sitting and driving comfortably, I can tell you that there are aftermarket seating products that can make a world of difference. (I do not work for any such company; am just a fellow sufferer of back pain trying to help....) This is one of the most expensive solutions, but it works great for trips long and short! https://relaxtheback.com/products/mccartys-sacro-ease-car-back-support

Don't ditch a great truck--just find some other ways to support your back!

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[mike]

Dear Mike:

As someone who has had back surgery and knows how important support in the right places is for sitting and driving comfortably, I can tell you that there are aftermarket seating products that can make a world of difference. (I do not work for any such company; am just a fellow sufferer of back pain trying to help....) This is one of the most expensive solutions, but it works great for trips long and short! https://relaxtheback.com/products/mccartys-sacro-ease-car-back-support

Don't ditch a great truck--just find some other ways to support your back!

Thanks RANGER_MARC. There is a thread talking about the uncomfortable(for some) seats and one of the members found out something interesting. Under the passenger side cushion is a flat pressure sensor that sits on the springs. The driver side cushion just sits on the springs. There really is a significant difference in the support level on both sides.

Unfortunately, with all the electronics and hardware, I can't see where to take the cushion off to at least make that change.

Even the passenger seat still has a strange dip in the cushion. Not sure if its the cushion or the design with that wedged stitched area in the back. We have a great upholsterer here that I will probably go to and figure out a complete solution.

Doc said my problem(and MRI showed clearly) is at L4 L5. Not bad enough for surgery yet. Physical therapy and injections for now

 

[NVHoonigan]

My dealer tries to sneak in the $180 glass etching as well and it is very annoying. I'm curious about the $950 Paint Protection. Is that a clear bra they install or another product? I know the clear bra was something I wanted on my truck from the start but cannot believe they just put it in the contract undisclosed.

 

[mike]

My dealer tries to sneak in the $180 glass etching as well and it is very annoying. I'm curious about the $950 Paint Protection. Is that a clear bra they install or another product? I know the clear bra was something I wanted on my truck from the start but cannot believe they just put it in the contract undisclosed.

It was just some kind of liquid application. I didn't get into the details as I figured it was the same scam every dealership tries to pull.

I too will be interested in a clear bra and there is another thread here where one of the members tried out a ceramic product you apply yourself that I'll probably apply as soon as I get the seat situation figured out.

 

[Anthony]

Thanks for the write up! The fan sound at low speeds is indeed the fan. But usually should only do it right after starting up before the clutch fan warms up (or of course when it is running). I hear it all the time for the first minute or so after the truck has been sitting, but after that, the "roar" goes away.

 

[mike]

Thanks for the write up! The fan sound at low speeds is indeed the fan. But usually should only do it right after starting up before the clutch fan warms up (or of course when it is running). I hear it all the time for the first minute or so after the truck has been sitting, but after that, the "roar" goes away.

I'm used to it at this point. One thing I REALLY like is the power on reserve. I drive fairly easy but there are places like one 0-merge lane on my way home that's nice to be able to get on it when needed. I've detected no turbo-lag either..just smooth power delivery when needed. So far, happy with the powertrain.

 

[RedlandRanger]

I'm used to it at this point. One thing I REALLY like is the power on reserve. I drive fairly easy but there are places like one 0-merge lane on my way home that's nice to be able to get on it when needed. I've detected no turbo-lag either..just smooth power delivery when needed. So far, happy with the powertrain.

I kind of like the noisy fan at startup. Makes me feel like I'm driving a big rig.

The powertrain and power on demand in this truck is one of its best assets I think. I LOVE it.

 

[MTB-BRUH]

I agree your dealer sucks. But holy smokes you’re one picky fella. To each there own though. I do have to agree with you on the gauges of the lariat. I bought a XL and absolutely love the display setup

 

[mike]

I agree your dealer sucks. But holy smokes you’re one picky fella. To each there own though. I do have to agree with you on the gauges of the lariat. I bought a XL and absolutely love the display setup

Lol. Picky? Sure, whatever. Actually, if you have been reading the forums since folks have been receiving their Rangers you would realize I was sort of comparing how my Ranger was delivered to those other Rangers. Point of reference for others.

On the contrary, I would say that overall I am pretty easy going with the truck and pretty clear I am happy with the majority of the truck. The seats ARE a real issue, but I will address that soon.

 

[Anthony]

Lol. Picky? Sure, whatever. Actually, if you have been reading the forums since folks have been receiving their Rangers you would realize I was sort of comparing how my Ranger was delivered to those other Rangers. Point of reference for others.

On the contrary, I would say that overall I am pretty easy going with the truck and pretty clear I am happy with the majority of the truck. The seats ARE a real issue, but I will address that soon.

I agree with the seats on long rides. My wife's Edge (and heck even my old Focus) both had leather seats which are much more firm than the Ranger's. Its very comfy at first (like sitting on a couch) but after a while that makes it a bit tiresome on the back and legs.

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