Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2004 Ford Ranger
The 2004 Ford Ranger has multiple airbag-related recalls and a notable number of complaints about airbags and structure. There are fewer complaints about suspension and powertrain issues. However, the evidence is limited and issues should be generally monitored during inspections.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2004 Ford Ranger has 12 NHTSA recall campaigns and 405 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #23V306000 Replacement Air Bag Inflator Incorrectly Installed NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V125000 Replacement Air Bag Inflator Incorrectly Installed NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V076000 Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V081000 Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V788000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V787000 Driver Side Air Bag Inflator May Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V036000 Driver Side Air Bag Inflator May Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V322000 Passenger Front Air Bag Inflator May Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #11V352000 STEERING COLUMN MULTIFUNCTION SWITCH/FMVSS 108 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09E025000 FMVSS 108/REPLACEMENT HEADLAMPS/AMBER REFLECTOR NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #06E065000 FMVSS 108/AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V331000 FORD/FRAME NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Air Bags 189 complaints
- Structure 46 complaints
- Suspension 29 complaints
- Power Train 27 complaints
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic 19 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 19 complaints
Of the 405 complaints on file, 42 report a crash and 3 a fire; across all 405 complaints, owners report 35 injuries and 2 deaths (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Airbag inflator rupture
How to check: Inspect for recall repairs related to airbag inflators.
Frame underbody issues
How to check: Check frame for any unusual rust or damage.
General suspension problems
How to check: Inspect suspension components for wear or damage.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking sounds.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Feel for smooth suspension over bumps.
Red flag: Excessive bouncing or noises.
- 04
Steering maneuvers
What to check: Test steering response and alignment.
Red flag: Drifting or delayed response.
- 05
Braking
What to check: Ensure brakes stop smoothly without pulling.
Red flag: Brakes feel spongy or unresponsive.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag recall been completed?
- Any structural repairs done?
- How is the suspension condition?
- Any recurring electrical issues?
- Is there a complete service history?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall completion documentation
- Vehicle service history
- Title and registration
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2004 Ford Ranger at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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