Page 2 of 248
Locks and Security 53
Keys 53
Locks 53
Anti-theft system 54
Seating and Safety Restraints 60
Seating 60
Safety restraints 62
Air bags 74
Child restraints 83
Driving 96
Starting 96
Brakes 100
Transmission operation 103
Vehicle loading 118
Trailer towing 121
Roadside Emergencies 132
Getting roadside assistance 132
Hazard flasher switch 133
Fuel pump shut-off switch 133
Fuses and relays 134
Changing tires 144
Jump starting 151
Wrecker towing 156
Customer Assistance 157
Reporting safety defects (U.S. only) 166
2004 Ranger(ran)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA English (fus)
Table of Contents
2
Page 13 of 248

Four wheel drive low (if
equipped):Illuminates when
four-wheel drive low is engaged.
Four wheel drive high (if
equipped): Illuminates when
four-wheel drive high is engaged. It
may also illuminate when the 4WD LOW is engaged, refer to the Driving
chapter for more information.
Anti-theft system: Flashes when
the Securilock Passive Anti-theft
System has been activated.
Speed control: Illuminates when
the speed control is engaged. Turns
off when the speed control system
is disengaged.
Turn signal: Illuminates when the
left or right turn signal or the
hazard lights are turned on. If the
indicators stay on or flash faster, check for a burned out bulb.
High beams: Illuminates when the
high beam headlamps are turned on.
Key-in-ignition warning chime: Sounds when the key is left in the
ignition in the OFF/LOCK or ACC position and the driver ’s door is
opened.
Headlamps on warning chime: Sounds when the headlamps or parking
lamps are on, the ignition is off (the key is not in the ignition) and the
driver ’s door is opened.
Door ajar warning chime: Sounds when any door is opened (or not
fully closed).4x4
LOW
4x4
2004 Ranger (ran)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA English (fus)
Instrument Cluster
13
Page 53 of 248

KEYS
The key operates all locks on your vehicle. In case of loss, replacement
keys are available from your dealer.
You should always carry a second key with you in a safe place in case
you require it in an emergency.
Refer toSecuriLock Passive Anti-Theft System for more information.
POWER DOOR LOCKS (IF EQUIPPED)
Press the top of the control to
unlock all doors and the bottom to
lock all doors.
REMOTE ENTRY SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules and with RS-210 of
Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device
must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user ’s authority to
operate the equipment.
Your vehicle is equipped with a remote entry system which allows you to:
• unlock the vehicle doors without
a key.
• lock all the vehicle doors without
a key.
• activate the personal alarm.
If there is any potential remote keyless entry problem with your vehicle,
ensure ALL remote entry transmitters are taken to the dealership, to
aid in troubleshooting.
UNLOCK
LOCK
2004 Ranger (ran)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA English (fus)
Locks and Security
Locks and Security
53
Page 57 of 248

SECURILOCKPASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM
SecuriLock passive anti-theft system is an engine immobilization
system. This system is designed to prevent the engine from being started
unless a coded key programmed to your vehicle is used. The use of
the wrong type of coded key may lead to a “no-start ”condition.
Your vehicle comes with two coded keys; additional coded keys may be
purchased from your dealer. The dealer can program your spare keys to
your vehicle or you can program the keys yourself. Refer to
Programming spare keys for instructions on how to program the coded
key.
Note: The SecuriLock passive anti-theft system is not compatible with
non-Ford aftermarket remote start systems. Use of these systems may
result in vehicle starting problems and a loss of security protection.
Note: Large metallic objects, electronic devices that are used to
purchase gasoline or similar items, or a second coded key on the same
key chain may cause vehicle starting issues. You need to prevent these
objects from touching the coded key while starting the engine. These
objects will not cause damage to the coded key, but may cause a
momentary issue if they are too close to the key when starting the
engine. If a problem occurs, turn the ignition off, remove all objects on
the key chain away from the coded key and restart the engine.
Theft indicator
The theft indicator is located in the instrument cluster.
• When the ignition is in the OFF position, the indicator will flash once
every 2 seconds to indicate the SecuriLock system is functioning as
a theft deterrent.
• When the ignition is in the ON position, the indicator will glow for 3
seconds, then turn off to indicate normal system functionality.
If a problem occurs with the SecuriLock system, the indicator will flash
rapidly or glow steadily when the ignition is in the ON position. If this
occurs, the vehicle should be taken to an authorized dealer for service.
2004 Ranger (ran)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA English (fus)
Locks and Security
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Page 238 of 248

Peace of mind
Airbag anti-theft locks
First aid and safety kits
Full vehicle covers
Locking gas cap
Navigation systems
Remote start
Vehicle security systems
For maximum vehicle performance, keep the following information in
mind when adding accessories or equipment to your vehicle:
•When adding accessories, equipment, passengers and luggage to your
vehicle, do not exceed the total weight capacity of the vehicle or of
the front or rear axle (GVWR or GAWR as indicated on the Safety
Compliance Certification label). Consult your dealer for specific weight
information.
• The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Canadian Radio
Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) regulate the use of mobile
communications systems —such as two-way radios, telephones and
theft alarms - that are equipped with radio transmitters. Any such
equipment installed in your vehicle should comply with FCC or CRTC
regulations and should be installed only by a qualified service
technician.
• Mobile communications systems may harm the operation of your
vehicle, particularly if they are not properly designed for automotive
use.
2004 Ranger (ran)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA English (fus)
Accessories
238