Market Position:
The 2008 Ford Ranger represented a continuation of Ford's long-standing tradition of offering a versatile and capable compact pickup truck, catering to both work and lifestyle needs.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with other compact and mid-size trucks of its era, including the Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, and Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon.
Key Features:
Rugged chassis, proven engine options, rear-wheel-drive and available four-wheel-drive, various body configurations (Regular Cab, SuperCab), and a reputation for durability.
Convenience:
Eliminates the need for physical manuals, offering instant access and portability across multiple devices.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, HVAC, Electrical System, Body, Chassis, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Repair Procedures, Troubleshooting
Page Count:
Thousands of pages (comprehensive digital format)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Online Software/Digital Access
Licensing:
Officially Licensed, derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials
Access Duration:
1 Year included, with discounts for renewal
Systems Covered:
Internal Combustion Engine (ICE), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Power Rack and Pinion Steering, Independent Front Suspension (IFS), Leaf Spring Rear Suspension, Climate Control, Heater, Air Conditioning (A/C), Lighting, Audio System, Instrument Cluster, Body Control Module (BCM), Security System, Wiper/Washer System, Power Windows/Locks
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, routine checks, component removal and installation, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, wiring diagrams, technical specifications, torque values, fluid specifications, seal replacement, overhaul procedures, calibration, programming
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and electrical system troubleshooting.
Electrical System Coverage:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all major systems, component location, diagnostic procedures for circuits, fuse and relay identification.
Body And Chassis Coverage:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, structural components, frame repair, corrosion protection, exterior trim, bumpers, glass replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system interpretation, trouble code (DTC) lookup, symptom-based diagnostics, component testing, circuit testing.
File Format:
Proprietary web-based application (browser accessible)
Print Quality:
N/A (Digital format)
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Access Method:
Web browser on any internet-connected device (PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet)
User Experience:
Intuitive interface, searchable content, bookmarking capabilities, easy navigation between sections.
Wheelbase Regular Cab:
109.8 inches
Wheelbase Supercab:
125.7 inches
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,500 - 4,200 lbs
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to 6,000 lbs (with appropriate configuration)
Payload Capacity Max:
Approx. 1,400 - 1,700 lbs
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (2WD) / 3 out of 5 stars (4WD)
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features:
Front airbags, available front side-impact airbags, height-adjustable shoulder belts
Infotainment Features:
Factory AM/FM/CD audio system, optional MP3 player input, available SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
Driver Assistance Features:
Mainly limited to ABS and optional TCS. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist.
Connectivity Features:
Auxiliary input jack for external audio devices.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions)
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Replace every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Spark Plug Replacement 2.3L:
Every 100,000 miles (iridium)
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil
Engine Oil Spec 2.3L:
SAE 5W-20, API SN/GF-5 certified synthetic blend or full synthetic
Engine Oil Spec 4.0L:
SAE 5W-30, API SN/GF-5 certified synthetic blend or full synthetic
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Coolant Type:
Ford Gold Coolant (or equivalent compatible with Ford Gold)
Fluid Specifications Transmission
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mercon V
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Mercon LV ATF or Motorcraft XT-9QMM5
Fluid Specifications Brake
Common Issues:
Ignition coil failure (especially on earlier models), exhaust manifold cracks (4.0L V6), rear main seal leaks, ABS sensor failures, occasional rust on frames and body panels, potential for door lock actuator failure.
Fluid Capacities Engine Oil
Engine Oil Capacity 2.3L:
5.5 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil Capacity 4.0L:
5.0 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 11-12 quarts (depending on engine and configuration)
Brand Heritage:
Ford has a long and storied history in the pickup truck market, with the Ranger being a cornerstone of its compact truck offerings for decades.
Model Evolution:
The 2008 model is part of the fourth generation of the Ford Ranger, which saw significant updates and refinements over its predecessors, including the introduction of the Duratec engine.
Production Location:
Twin Cities Assembly Plant (St. Paul, Minnesota, USA)
