1987 Ford Ranger Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
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Quick Facts · 1987 Ford Ranger
- Has 5 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the seat belts:front:anchorage.
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1985 Ford Ranger earns a 78.
- The system most likely to surface first: rust and body integrity (critical severity).
The 1987 Ford Ranger at a glance
- Is the 1987 Ford Ranger reliable?
- Autojunket rates the 1987 Ford Ranger 72/100 (grade C+), categorized as moderate risk. A bare-bones, workhorse truck demanding a meticulous inspection for rust and age-related wear, especially the automatic transmission.
- Should I buy a used 1987 Ford Ranger?
- Autojunket recommends reading the full reliability report before buying a 1987 Ford Ranger. While these trucks possess a strong utilitarian spirit and can be incredibly rewarding for the right owner, the 1987 Ford Ranger requires significant caution. Its age and the pervasive threat of rust, coupled with the known vulnerabilities of the A4LD automatic transmission, mean a casual purchase is a recipe for re…
- Which Ford Ranger years are the most reliable?
- Best model years to buy: Later first-gen models (1989-1992) or second-gen models (1993+) generally offer improved reliability and rust protection.. Years to avoid: Any year with significant, unaddressed frame rust or an automatic transmission showing signs of slippage/hard shifting..
- What are the most common problems with the 1987 Ford Ranger?
- The top failure points on the 1987 Ford Ranger are Rust and Body Integrity (typically around All mileages, worsens with age/climate miles), Automatic Transmission (A4LD) (typically around 80,000-120,000 miles), Electrical System (typically around 100,000+ miles). Autojunket's full report includes repair-cost ranges and inspection checklists for each.
- At what mileage do problems start on the 1987 Ford Ranger?
- The first major mileage danger zone for the 1987 Ford Ranger is around 30,000. Low Risk Zone — At this mileage, a 1987 Ranger would have seen very little use. The primary concern here shifts from wear to age-related degradation of rubber components, fluids, and seals, even if the odometer is low.
Every answer is generated from real repair, recall, and ownership data — full breakdown in the report.
Read the full free reportShould You Buy the 1987 Ford Ranger?
The 1987 Ford Ranger represents a rugged, no-frills compact pickup that can still deliver utilitarian value, provided you understand its significant age-related challenges. While mechanically simple and easy to repair, advanced rust and the potential for a tired automatic transmission make careful pre-purchase inspection absolutely critical to avoid costly surprises.
While these trucks possess a strong utilitarian spirit and can be incredibly rewarding for the right owner, the 1987 Ford Ranger requires significant caution. Its age and the pervasive threat of rust, coupled with the known vulnerabilities of the A4LD automatic transmission, mean a casual purchase is a recipe for re…
Best Model Years
Later first-gen models (1989-1992) or second-gen models (1993+) generally offer improved reliability and rust protection.
Years to Avoid
Any year with significant, unaddressed frame rust or an automatic transmission showing signs of slippage/hard shifting.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust 2.3L 'Lima' engine (manual transmission)
- Simple, repairable mechanicals
- Excellent parts availability
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 1987 Ford Ranger, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The frame, cab mounts, bed supports, rocker panels, and wheel wells are highly susceptible to severe corrosion, compromising structural integrity and safety. Brake and fuel lines also corrode.
The A4LD automatic transmission is notorious for failing prematurely, often experiencing issues with solenoids, bands, and clutch packs leading to delayed shifts, slipping, or complete failure.
Due to age and exposure, wiring harnesses degrade, grounds corrode, and connections become intermittent. This leads to issues like flickering lights, gauge failures, or non-functional accessories.
1987 Ford Ranger Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 1987 Ford Ranger most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, a 1987 Ranger would have seen very little use. The primary concern here shifts from wear to age-related degradation of rubber components, fluids, and seals, even if the odometer is low.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage would typically see a truck approaching its first major service intervals for spark plugs, belts, and potentially some fluid changes. Rust, however, remains an ever-present concern regardless of mileage.
Elevated Risk Zone
Around this mileage, the original automatic transmission (A4LD) often begins to show signs of wear or failure. Suspension bushings and steering components will likely be fatigued and require attention.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, every major system is likely to have significant wear. Expect advanced rust, potential engine leaks or head gasket issues (2.9L), and full suspension/steering overhauls. This is where deferred maintenance truly comp…
1987 Ford Ranger Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 1987 Ford Ranger on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600 (basic service, fluids, minor repairs)
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., suspension work, major leaks, electrical diagnosis)
How Long Does the 1987 Ford Ranger Last?
For a 1987 model, age and condition are far more critical than mileage; a low-mileage truck that sat neglected in a salty environment can be worse than a high-mileage, well-maintained example. Focus on comprehensive inspection over the odometer reading.
What 1987 Ford Ranger Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Utilitarian design, capable of hauling and light off-roading.
- Simple mechanics make it easy for DIY repairs with basic tools.
- Abundant and inexpensive parts supply due to long production run.
- Compact size makes it maneuverable and easy to park.
Common Frustrations
- Significant rust issues, especially in northern climates, often compromising structural integrity.
- The A4LD automatic transmission is a known weak point and frequent failure item.
- Rough and unrefined ride quality compared to modern vehicles.
- Lack of modern safety features and conveniences.
Who Should Buy the 1987 Ford Ranger?
Best For
- DIY mechanics with welding skills or a mechanic on speed dial.
- Owners needing a cheap, simple utility truck for light hauling or farm work.
- Enthusiasts looking for a classic compact truck project.
Not Ideal For
- Anyone expecting modern comforts, safety, or a refined driving experience.
- First-time drivers or those with limited mechanical knowledge.
How the 1987 Ford Ranger Compares to Rivals
The 1987 Ranger holds its own against domestic and some import competitors of the era in terms of ruggedness and simplicity, but it often lags behind Toyota in terms of overall longevity and rust resistance.
More Reliable Than
- Subaru Brat (less utility, more complex Boxer engine)
- Volkswagen Rabbit Pickup (smaller, less robust drivetrain)
Comparable To
- Chevrolet S-10 (first generation)
- Nissan Hardbody (first generation)
NHTSA Recalls
5 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
THE BUCKLE PORTION OF THE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY MAY NOT HAVE BEEN PROPERLY ANCHORED TO THE FLOOR.
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
STICKERS CONCERNING HANDLING AND MANEUVERABILITY WHICH ARE AFFIXED TO DRIVERS SUN VISOR SLEEVES DO NOT MEET CRITERIA FOR PERMANENT ADHESION.
What breaks on the 1987 Ford Ranger?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
Autojunket OSC · OSC Transfer
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Ford Ranger by Year
Compare AutoScores across nearby years of the Ford Ranger. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by AutoScore.
Relevant Products for Your 1987 Ford Ranger
Parts and accessories matched to your 1987 Ford Ranger
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Where the 1987 Ford Ranger report beats Carfax + CR
Carfax tells you if it crashed. Consumer Reports rates the whole nameplate. Autojunket tells you what will actually break on this specific year — and how to negotiate it.
Year-specific reliability score
Common problems + repair costs
Mileage danger zone map
AI negotiation script + walk-away price
Single report price
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
Sell your 1987 Ford Ranger for what it's actually worth.
Log every service on your Ford Ranger. When it's time to sell, hand the buyer a signed PDF — every receipt, mileage-verified, close the deal at your price.
- OSC Transfer PDF — every receipt
- Snap-a-receipt AI log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Shareable buyer view link
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