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Ford Ranger Loss Of Power: Causes & Solutions

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Ford Ranger Loss Of Power: Causes & Solutions

The Ford Ranger is a versatile and reliable truck that is perfect for a variety of jobs. However, like all vehicles, the Ranger can sometimes experience problems. One such problem is a loss of power. This can be a frustrating experience, especially if it’s not clear why it’s happening.

There are a few potential causes of a loss of power in Ford Rangers. Some common causes include faulty sensors and valves, a weak battery, and a faulty fuel pump. If you suspect that one of these might be causing the problem, you should take care of it as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your engine.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the common causes of a loss of power in Ford Rangers and what you can do to fix it. 

Ford Ranger loss of power (6 common causes)

ford ranger truck
Photo by: Pixabay

Faulty fuel pump

One of the most common causes of power loss in Ford Rangers is a faulty fuel pump. The fuel pump is responsible for delivering fuel from the tank to the engine, and if it isn’t working properly, the engine won’t be able to function at full capacity.

This will result in a loss of power, and you may also notice that the engine is running rough or misfiring. The fuel pump is an important component, and if starts to fail, it could cause serious engine damage if not fixed.

Faulty EGR valve

Another potential cause of power loss reported by Ford Ranger owners is a faulty EGR valve. The EGR valve recirculates exhaust gases back into the combustion chamber. If it’s not working properly, it can cause the engine to run lean (too much air and not enough fuel). This can lead to reduced power and performance.

Symptoms of a faulty EGR valve include loss of power under load and excessive engine vibration.

Faulty o2 sensor

Another reason Ford Ranger owners experience loss of power is due to a faulty oxygen sensor. The oxygen sensor is responsible for monitoring the amount of oxygen in the exhaust fumes and sending a signal to the engine control unit (ECU). If the oxygen sensor is not working properly, it can cause the engine to run lean, which can lead to power loss. 

Faulty DPFE sensor

The DPFE sensor is responsible for monitoring the pressure differential between the exhaust gases and the atmospheric pressure. If the DPFE sensor is not working properly, it can cause the engine to run rich, which can also lead to power loss

The DPFE sensor usually fails at around 50,000 miles on a Ford Ranger. If you’ve reached this mileage and haven’t had the sensor replaced, it’s a good idea to do so.

Catalytic converter failure 

Another common reason for loss of power in Ford Rangers is catalytic converter failure. The catalytic converter is a part of your exhaust system that helps to convert harmful pollutants into less harmful ones. Over time, the catalytic converter can become clogged with soot and other deposits. This can restrict exhaust flow and lead to a loss of power.

When the catalytic converter is at the end of its life it may start to break up, which can block the exhaust completely and cause the loss of power.

Clogged fuel injectors

Fuel injectors spray gasoline into the cylinder head intake ports just before the intake valves open. Over time, deposits can build up on the injector nozzles, causing them to become clogged. This can restrict the flow of gasoline to the engine and cause reduced power and performance.

Symptoms of clogged fuel injectors include reduced power under load and rough idle. Ford fuel injectors are designed to last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. If your Ranger has high mileage, it’s a good idea to have the injectors cleaned or replaced.

Solutions for a Ford Ranger loss of power

ford ranger under the hood
Photo by: Pixabay

There are a few different things you can do to fix a loss of power in your Ford Ranger. Depending on the cause of the problem, you may be able to solve it yourself.

Check for error codes

If you’re experiencing a loss of power in your Ford Ranger, the first thing you should do is check for any error codes. You can do this by connecting a code reader to the OBDII port and reading the codes that are stored in the ECU. This will give you a good idea of where to start your diagnosis.

If you don’t have a code reader, you can take your Ranger to a mechanic or dealership and they can check the codes for you.

Check the sensors

If you have a loss of power and your Ranger is throwing an o2 sensor or DPFE sensor code, the first thing you should do is check these sensors. You can do this by unplugging the sensor and seeing if the engine runs any differently. If the engine runs better without the sensor, it’s most likely that the sensor is faulty and needs to be replaced.

Clean or replace the catalytic converter

If your Ranger is throwing a catalytic converter code, it’s likely that the converter is at the end of its life and needs to be replaced. However, if you’re experiencing a loss of power but don’t have any codes, it’s possible that the converter is just clogged and needs to be cleaned.

The easiest way to clean a catalytic converter is to add a bottle of catalytic converter cleaner to your gas tank. This will help to break down any deposits that are clogging the converter and restore it to its original efficiency.

Replace the fuel pump

If your Ranger has a faulty fuel pump, it will need to be replaced. Fuel pumps usually fail around 100,000 miles, so if your Ranger is getting up there in mileage, it’s a good idea to have the pump checked.

FAQ

How reliable is the Ford Ranger?

The Ford Ranger is generally a reliable truck, but like all vehicles, it can have its share of problems. The most common issues with the Ranger are related to the transmission, fuel system, and electrical system. The Ford Ranger has a loyal following of owners and has been one of the most popular trucks in America for decades.

How long do Ford Rangers last?

With proper maintenance, a Ford Ranger can last for over 200,000 miles. The key to making your Ranger last is to keep up with regular maintenance and to fix any issues that come up as soon as possible.

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