Common Issues: Check your potential used Ranger or B-Series for rust at the rear cab corners, lower portions of the doors, driver’s floor board, around the wheel-wells, on the bottom of the tailgate, and on the corners of the roof. Owner’s forums also suggest checking for cracks or leaks from the differentials and transfer case, and noting any damage beneath the vehicle that could have been caused by off-roading.
Ensure the transfer case switches between its various drive modes as outlined in the owner’s manual, and note that any unwelcome vibrations or sounds from beneath the vehicle could be the result of a worn out or damaged suspension component or driveshaft.
Be sure the passenger side floor carpeting is dry. If it’s wet, the truck’s heater core may be leaking coolant.
Finally, note the quality of the gear shift between second and third on models with the automatic transmission. If the transmission feels like it’s slipping or ‘flaring’ during said shift, there’s likely a problem with a gearshift solenoid in the transmission.
The Verdict: Search for as new a used model as possible, and note that a Ford or Mazda mechanic will be familiar with how to search for any potential issues. The low price of a used Ranger or B-Series, as well as its overall value and looks will be its biggest draw—and a healthy and well-maintained model should prove fairly reliable for the long term, too.
Ensure the transfer case switches between its various drive modes as outlined in the owner’s manual, and note that any unwelcome vibrations or sounds from beneath the vehicle could be the result of a worn out or damaged suspension component or driveshaft.
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| 2007 Mazda B -Series (Photo: Mazda) |
Be sure the passenger side floor carpeting is dry. If it’s wet, the truck’s heater core may be leaking coolant.
Finally, note the quality of the gear shift between second and third on models with the automatic transmission. If the transmission feels like it’s slipping or ‘flaring’ during said shift, there’s likely a problem with a gearshift solenoid in the transmission.
The Verdict: Search for as new a used model as possible, and note that a Ford or Mazda mechanic will be familiar with how to search for any potential issues. The low price of a used Ranger or B-Series, as well as its overall value and looks will be its biggest draw—and a healthy and well-maintained model should prove fairly reliable for the long term, too.