How To Fix Powertrain Fault In Ford Ranger

The powertrain in Ford Ranger could be defective for several reasons, and you shouldn't ignore it. If your Ford Ranger has a powertrain issue, you may wonder about the cause and how to fix it. Luckily, we have done some research for you, and here is what we found.

Following this step-by-step guide to fixing the powertrain fault in Ford Ranger:

  1. Read your owner's manual
  2. Locate the source of the problem
  3. Resolve the problem
  4. See a mechanic

Read on to get detailed information on how to fix the powertrain fault in Ford Ranger.

Ford Ranger pick-up truck is off roading in the mud of the river in the mountains of Antalya, How To Fix Powertrain Fault In Ford Ranger

Fixing Powertrain Fault In Ford Ranger

With some mechanical knowledge, you might be able to repair the powertrain issue in your Ford Ranger. Though this is a complicated system, it's crucial to remember that you should only try repairs if you are confident in your skills.

Follow these procedures if you want to fix a powertrain fault:

1. Read Owner's Manual

The powertrain warning light comes on if there is an issue with the powertrain. As a result, start by looking up the meaning of the powertrain malfunction light in your Ford Ranger user manual.

You should get a clue as to what might be wrong with your car from this. A description of the system's capabilities, backup plans, and step-by-step instructions for accessing and using the system are all included in this manual.

2. Locate The Source Of The Problem

Various factors could be responsible for your Ford's powertrain issue. You can begin troubleshooting these factors once you know what they might be based on the user manual.

You should examine every component of the car that could be the source of the issue during troubleshooting. Check the engine coolant, transmission fluid, and oil levels, among other things.

If, after troubleshooting, you are still unsure about the source of the issue, you can consult online forums or call a mechanic for assistance.

3. Resolve The Problem

Upon identifying the issue, you can try to resolve it on your own or take it to a dealership. To do it yourself, depending on what you found to be the issue, you might need to change dirty oil, top up the low oil level, or stop a coolant leakage.

However, if you take your automobile to a mechanic, he will diagnose, repair your car, and replace parts if necessary. You will incur increased labor costs as a result.

4. See A Mechanic

Latin American man greeting a mechanic with a handshake while picking up his car at an auto repair shop.

In any circumstance possible, the best action to take when having an automobile issue is to consult a mechanic.

Even if you resolve the issue independently, you should still have your car inspected by a professional as soon as possible. Be aware that performing repairs on your Ford Ranger by yourself can violate the warranty on your vehicle.

Causes Of Powertrain Fault In Ford Ranger

Here are the common causes of powertrain fault in Ford Ranger:

Dirty Engine Oil

An engine needs an oil change every 3,000 miles. Oil handles the lubrication of the car's moving parts and temperature control.

If the oil is dirty or has degraded, it won't adequately lubricate your engine. Dirty engine oil causes a similar problem as when you have low oil levels in the car.

The rate at which your powertrain deteriorates is accelerated when the oil becomes contaminated with dirt, metal, and other debris. If your engine heats up due to old oil, the engine and powertrain wear out and eventually stop functioning properly.

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Transmission Problem

Another vital component that could result in your Ford Ranger powertrain problem is the transmission system. The transmission system is in charge of transferring engine power to your car's wheels.

If your transmission isn't operating correctly, the driveshaft, axles, and most of the powertrain components will all be under stress, leading to various powertrain problems.

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Leakage

Leakage in an engine will lead to a low amount of lubricating oil, resulting in inadequate lubrication of your car's mechanical components.

An engine leak can cause overheating, harming gaskets, bearings, and other powertrain components.

Apart from the powertrain, your radiator and HVAC system could also sustain severe damage due to leakage. It results in premature component wear. Additionally, leakage poses a fire and safety threat to a car.

Low Oil Level

Pouring oil to car engine. Fresh oil poured during an oil change to a car.

A low level of lubricating oil in your Ford Ranger leads to insufficient lubrication for the moving parts of your engine. The powertrain's bearings, gears, and other components may experience premature wear and perhaps suffer damage.

Additionally, your transmission system will overheat. Low oil levels can potentially destroy most of the powertrain's components.

How To Prevent Powertrain Fault In Ford Ranger

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You can prevent powertrain fault in Ford Ranger if you do the following:

Change The Oil

Regular oil changing ensures that your Ford Ranger has the proper lubrication. It also lowers the amount of heat generated by the engine.

Additionally, changing your engine's oil removes dirt and debris that slow it down. You should replace your oil regularly with a new one after a few kilometers because engine oil degrades over time.

Check The Oil Level

Regular oil level checks ensure enough oil forms a thin film of fluid between metallic parts, lubricating the moving parts and safeguarding your engine from harm.

However, if you don't maintain a sufficient oil level and the sump's - the location where your engine's oil is stored - volume decreases, it might be disastrous to the powertrain.

Perform Routine Maintenance

Cropped image of handsome mechanic in uniform is working in auto service. Car repair and maintenance.

You can avoid unexpected automobile problems by keeping your Ford Ranger in good shape. The truck is more likely to experience severe powertrain and other component problems if you neglect routine maintenance.

Routine auto maintenance assists in detecting problems before they develop into serious ones. During routine maintenance, mechanics check the transmission and other parts of the automobile to ensure they are functioning.

Keep An Eye For Engine Warning Light

Never disregard the check engine light. If your engine warning light comes on, check it out as soon as possible. Your engine could sustain severe and costly damage if you ignore it for an extended period.

Check For Engine Leaks

It's not necessary to be a mechanic to detect a leak. In most cases, all you need to do is smell even without you seeing.

Look beneath your hood to see if you can detect engine leaks by sight or smell. When parking, check under the vehicle to see if anything is dripping onto the ground below.

Cost Of Fixing Powertrain In A Ford Ranger

Powertrain diesel engine 3D rendering on white background.

The price of powertrain repairs might vary based on the model of the Ford Ranger and the severity of the issue. Replacement of a seal or gasket may be all that is required in some instances.

More severe issues can necessitate the replacement of a complete component, such as the transmission. Having your car diagnosed by a mechanic is the best approach to receive an exact estimate.

However, on average, powertrain repair costs range from $60 to $2500. Fixing powertrain issues might be expensive, so preventing them is much better.

Can I Drive With Powertrain Light On?

You shouldn't drive your vehicle with the powertrain warning light on. When your vehicle's powertrain light comes on, there is likely a problem with the powertrain.

The only time you should drive with the powertrain light on is to go to a secure area where you can obtain emergency repairs. 

The best course of action, when faced with a powertrain warning light is to call a mechanic and arrange for a tow truck to take your car there for an inspection.

How Do I Reset A Powertrain Light In Ford Ranger?

A powertrain warning light can be reset straightforwardly and uncomplicated using a hard reset. To reset your powertrain light, unplug and disconnect your battery, then wait between 30 and 60 seconds.

Next, reconnect the battery cables and make sure they are tight. The powertrain light turns itself off, and the computer resets.

To Wrap Up

If you notice that your Ford Ranger powertrain is faulty, you should fix it as soon as possible. Ignoring powertrain issues may result in more severe damage and possibly complete engine failure. To fix the problem, you must read your owner's manual, locate the source of the problem, and resolve it.

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