Why does the check engine light come on when I start my Ranger?

Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. This is a sign that your vehicle is testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.

Are Ford Ranger engine noises bad?

Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Ford Ranger. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing can be traced back to a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.

What could damage my Ford Ranger engine?

Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' revving your engine while the vehicle is in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Help sustain your engine’s performance and efficiency by staying miles away from these bad driving practices.

Can I use water in my Ford Ranger radiator?

Only in emergencies. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water (or a pre-mixed) coolant is recommended. However, if you must keep driving when you're out of coolant, it's better to drive with water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.

What could cause my Ranger engine to suddenly stop?

If your Ranger car engine suddenly stops, it could be due to overheating, low fuel, a faulty ignition system, sensor problems, electrical system trouble, or mechanical issues.

Who fixes Ford Ranger engines?

Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care has you covered with expert Ranger engine repair. Schedule an appointment today and see us at one of our thousands of locations.

Reliable Repairs for 1996 Ford Ranger Engines

Learn about

1996 Ford Ranger Trim Options

Select your Ford Ranger trim level to learn more about Ford-recommended engine repair. Even Ford Ranger parts will get older and change.

L4/2.3L

V6/3.0L

V6/4.0L

1996 Ford Ranger Repair

Nothing stays the same forever. Even your Ford Ranger’s engine parts and components will change. We’re here to help when something stops working. Click on a repair below to learn more about 1996 Ford Ranger repairs.

We Know Ford Ranger Engines

Ford Ranger engines are known for their reliability. That might be why you bought it in the first place. However, even your trustworthy engine is subject to wear and tear. Sometimes plans go sideways. When they do, you might find yourself searching for 1996 Ford Ranger engine repair or replacement parts. That’s where Firestone Complete Auto Care comes in. We've serviced more than 500 million vehicles since 1926, and our technicians know Ford Ranger engines. Schedule a courtesy inspection at the first sign of engine trouble. Firestone Complete Auto Care is a top choice for professional engine diagnosis, service, and repair at an affordable price.

My 1996 Ford Ranger Check Engine Light Is On

If your Ranger check engine light is on, it’s time to get it looked at. A check engine light that’s flashing or steadily illuminated could point to problems with your or emission system, and it won’t go away by ignoring it. Causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged spark plug, a clogged catalytic converter, or a leak in the engine vacuum, to name a few potential sources. Bring your Ranger in for an on-board diagnostic check and our expert techs will get the root of the problem. rattling sounds, oil leaks, or misfiring.

1996 Ranger Engine Services

If your 1996 Ford Ranger needs engine repair, our technicians will make sure you understand what’s going on before they start working on your engine. We never do any work without your sign-off. If a repair can wait, we'll let you know. We'll also tell you if it's necessary for your safety. We want to give you all the details you need to make an informed decision about your engine repairs. By choosing Firestone Complete Auto Care for Ranger engine repairs and you can feel good knowing that we only use Ford-compliant replacement parts such as the serpentine belt, motor oil seal, fuses, or another part.

Questions About 1996 Ford Ranger Engines

Why does the check engine light come on when I start my Ranger? Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. This is a sign that your vehicle is testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
Are Ford Ranger engine noises bad? Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Ford Ranger. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing can be traced back to a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.
What could damage my Ford Ranger engine? Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' revving your engine while the vehicle is in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Help sustain your engine’s performance and efficiency by staying miles away from these bad driving practices.
Can I use water in my Ford Ranger radiator? Only in emergencies. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water (or a pre-mixed) coolant is recommended. However, if you must keep driving when you're out of coolant, it's better to drive with water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.
What could cause my Ranger engine to suddenly stop? If your Ranger car engine suddenly stops, it could be due to overheating, low fuel, a faulty ignition system, sensor problems, electrical system trouble, or mechanical issues.
Who fixes Ford Ranger engines? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care has you covered with expert Ranger engine repair. Schedule an appointment today and see us at one of our thousands of locations.