1996 Ford Ranger Gets stuck in reverse

MAMA13

MEMBER
1996 FORD RANGER
3.0L
6 CYL
RWD
AUTOMATIC
100,000 MILES

I recently had the heater core replaced as there was moist air coming from vents and windshield even when fan turned off. Oil was also changed. After leaving the reputable mechanic, I ran several errands until home about 15 miles, but each time going in reverse felt like it grabbed and was tight. Only happens in reverse and not steering issue. It finally made a pop sound and found a bolt under the truck. I did not see any fluid leaking. Any ideas please? Thank you!

5 Replies

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,937 POSTS

I would start with checking that all the brake callipers are still bolted up correctly, binding in reverse is often a brake related problem, start here.

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Tuesday, December 23rd, 2014 AT 9:40 PM

MAMA13

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Hello Mhpautos!
Thank you for the quick response! I am not sure how to get the truck back to the mechanic as far as driving it, but maybe should have it towed? Maybe I should also use a different mechanic? Is there something I can look for with the hood popped open or under the truck that is a clear sign it is the brakes? I do not have a man of the house to help me so am not sure what to do with this. Thanks again and Merry Christmas!

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Wednesday, December 24th, 2014 AT 5:25 AM

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,937 POSTS

If you know what to look for, you can inspect each brake, but to be on the safe side, I would get it towed, it is easy to over look something critical if you are not trained to recognised problems, and if we do have a brake problem, it is not worth messing with if you are not sure, get it towed and be safe.

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Thursday, December 25th, 2014 AT 3:24 AM

MAMA13

MEMBER
2 POSTS

You are right indeed! The driver tire would not go forward or backwards, then went flat. Tow came and when he took off wheel the brake fell off! The one bolt that was found was one of the 2 missing bolts! Towed to different shop where they fixed the brake and put on the spare. It drives great and will get tire after the holiday. Scary to think if I was on the freeway. Angels took care of us! Thank you for pointing me in right direction with your knowledge - very appreciated. Merry Christmas and have a blessed New Year!

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Thursday, December 25th, 2014 AT 1:46 PM

MHPAUTOS