FORD RANGER (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 3,172 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
71%
Total Tests (2024)
3,172
Avg Mileage
129,164 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 2004 FORD RANGER reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 11 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the FORD brand average of 85%.
At 20 years old, 71% of FORD RANGERs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 3,172 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 129,164 miles.
How does the 2004 FORD RANGER compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 FORD RANGER has 129,164 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a FORD RANGER?
The most reliable year is the 2022 model with a 91% MOT pass rate, while the 2001 model has the lowest at 69%. The 2004 sits between the two at 71%.
How much does a 2004 FORD RANGER cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
FORD RANGER by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 91% | 967 | 32,819 mi |
| 2021 | 90% | 32,078 | 42,374 mi |
| 2020 | 88% | 26,002 | 51,136 mi |
| 2019 | 87% | 32,194 | 60,576 mi |
| 2018 | 85% | 30,840 | 70,638 mi |
| 2017 | 85% | 24,406 | 77,528 mi |
| 2016 | 84% | 23,861 | 84,947 mi |
| 2015 | 82% | 13,304 | 92,388 mi |
| 2014 | 80% | 8,731 | 99,756 mi |
| 2013 | 81% | 6,759 | 105,713 mi |
| 2012 | 77% | 4,297 | 114,166 mi |
| 2011 | 75% | 2,933 | 121,273 mi |
| 2010 | 74% | 2,829 | 126,349 mi |
| 2009 | 73% | 4,443 | 124,979 mi |
| 2008 | 73% | 4,040 | 132,830 mi |
| 2007 | 72% | 5,314 | 137,199 mi |
| 2006 | 69% | 4,591 | 131,558 mi |
| 2005 | 72% | 3,699 | 126,004 mi |
| 2004 | 71% | 3,172 | 129,164 mi |
| 2003 | 73% | 1,933 | 132,237 mi |
| 2002 | 72% | 1,316 | 137,535 mi |
| 2001 | 69% | 1,043 | 140,075 mi |
| 2000 | 73% | 824 | 129,560 mi |
| 1999 | 70% | 580 | 131,890 mi |
Checking a specific FORD RANGER?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 FORD RANGER
The 2004 FORD RANGER is a large car with a 2500cc diesel engine. 3,172 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2004, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 129,164 miles at 20 years old, FORD RANGER owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 FORD RANGER Fuel Costs
The 2500cc diesel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2004 FORD RANGER?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,050 (£171/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 71% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
FORD RANGER Reliability Trend
Newer FORD RANGERs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 12 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 FORD RANGER
At 20 years old, the FORD RANGER is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2022 model has the highest pass rate at 91%.
Alternatives to the 2004 FORD RANGER
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- HONDA CIVIC (2006) 71% pass rate (same) from 28,045 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2005) 78% pass rate (+7%) from 24,924 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2006) 73% pass rate (+2%) from 23,355 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2006) 78% pass rate (+7%) from 17,245 tests