1997 Ford Ranger steering problems

Filed Jul 18, 2014 · Brakes, Steering · 145,000 miles · NJ

Reporting numerous serious safety problems with vehicle since purchased used ---original occurrence date not certain but over a number of years mechanical failures occurred that could have resulted in serious injury or fatalities. The failures include but not exclusive to entire brake system failure due to brake lines corroded and leaked all hydraulic fluid --rear body support system gave out during driving and rear wheels and axles not attached to body ---vehicle lost control and went off into shoulder--radial axial arm rusted away and steering system failed while driving. Gas leaks from top of tank if filled to full --leaks on to ground and could result in gas fire and explosion --do not fill tank more than 3/4 ! All brake lines should be replaced and frequent checks of steering and suspension. I am reporting this to make owners aware and take precaution to prevent injury or death..

Filed Aug 13, 2010 · Steering · 85,000 miles · NM

Tl*the contact owns a 1997 ford ranger. While traveling 10 MPH attempting a left hand turn the contact noticed that the steering wheel would no longer respond causing the contact to lose control of the vehicle. The steering wheel could be turned in any direction but the wheels would not respond to the movement. The vehicle was towed to a local mechanic where the contact was informed that the steering box had separated from the vehicle. There were no prior warnings and the failure was not diagnosed. The current and failure mileages were 85000.

Filed Apr 22, 2005 · Steering · NY · crash · 2 injuries

The consumer vehicle lost control of the vehicle and rolled over. Please provide any further information.

Filed Apr 6, 2005 · Steering · 70,000 miles · NY · crash · 1 injury

While driving 55 MPH vehicle lost control and rolled over. As a result, the roof crushed in and broke the driver's neck. Vehicle was considered a total loss.

Filed Aug 5, 2003 · Steering · 120,380 miles · MI

I have a 1997 ford ranger xlt supercab, 2.3l 4x2. I was pulling out of my parking lot at work, and 2 of the 3 bolts that hold the steering column to the steering gear box broke, causing loss of steering to the right. The steering was very loose, and I could eventually turn to the right, when the gear box lodged against the frame. I've noticed 3 other incidents in searching this website. I think this is an age issue with ranger. Bolts shouldn't just break in two. I didn't take this to a dealership, but my friend is a mechanic and did the work for me. However, I'm concerned about safety, because if this happens on a highway, serious fatalities can occur.

Filed Feb 11, 2003 · Body, Steering · 76,000 miles · IA

Bolts which hold the steering sector to the frame all broke or snapped. I was lucky that I was sitting in a parking lot and started to turned the steering wheel, there was a snap and I was unable to turn the wheels of the truck a 97 ford ranger. I sent an email to for on january 28, 2003 about this item and they have not responded, the tracking id is kmm2029449c0km case id 688902. I am normally out on the highway traveling at over 65 MPH on weekend and had the bolts snapped while moving at this speed I would probably be dead. Is there any records of this problem reported by anyone that is still alive? Thanks for you help. Just wanted t o inform you of this happening. I have never heard of this happening on a vehicle. As far as I can determine this vehicle has not been in an accident. Most of the 76,000 miles has been driven on the highways. Thanks again.

Filed Jul 25, 2002 · Steering · MS

Consumer states while driving approx 70mph another vehicle pulled in front of consumers.

Filed May 17, 2002 · Electrical, Engine · IL

At the speed of 25mph suddenly heard a noise and lost total control of steering wheel. Managed to merge suddenly to right side of road. Battery, engine, and power steering light went on. While looking at vehicle noticed that belt broke and dolley fell off.

Filed Jan 28, 2002 · Steering · GA

While driving 55-60 MPH steering suddenly jerked vehicle to the right. Consumer was unable to steer vehicle. Vehicle was towed to dealer, it was determined that right spindle had broken. Part was replaced.

Filed Jul 3, 2001 · Steering · CA

Consumer states gear and sector shaft are excessively worn, the steering wheel had excessive play when turning in either direction, the wheels did not turn as the steering wheel is turned, instead when the play was out of the steering wheel the front wheels would then turn.