Hi, I found a great deal on a 2004 Ford Ranger reg. cab 3.0l automatic about a week ago. The truck sits up like a 4x4, but is 2wd. It has the factory color fender flares, bumpers, and the white faced instrument cluster. But it has no decals saying that is an Edge model. It had been in a minor accident involving the passenger side bumper, part of the grill, and headlight. Other than the truck was in excellent shape. Rides and drives like a new one The airbags did deploy b/c it was hit right where the airbag sensor was located.


I ordered replacement airbags from a salvage yard at a very good price. The guy I spoke with at the salvage yard said the replacement bags will also come with a control module. I have been researching the removal and installation of the airbags seem pretty straight forward. I have been viewing videos on how to do the job, but I haven't found any on the 2004-2006 Ford Ranger models. So, I do not know exactly to replace them. I have seen many videos on 2001-1998 Ranger models. But I know the 2004 model airbags are different. I know where the control module goes.


This truck came with a salvage title and has to be inspected by the HWY patrol before I can register it or get a tag. I can do the necessary body work, but removing and installing the airbags has me worried.


My question is what are some things I can expect to run into replacing the 2004 airbags. They will be in next week and I want to have everything fixed and just have to remove and replace the airbags. I am not sure about the computer aspects of the truck and I am not sure if having just the airbags and control module is all I need.


Sorry for such a long post. Any information, reference to installation for the 2004 model literature or videos, or just some advice would be gratefully appreciated. I cannot afford to have them installed by anyone.


Thanks,


brc

 

You also need to replace the crash sensor that made the airbags deploy. I'm not sure if a 2004 has seatbelt pretensioners or not, but if they do, then those need to be replaced too.

 

I know the crash sensor needs to be replaced for safety reasons, but if you do not replace it will the computer still reset the airbag system when the airbags are installed? What are seatbelt pretensioners? Is that where the seatbelt will lock in certain positions? Thanks

 

I have researched online and this forum, but I cannot find exactly what I need. I see this question asked a lot online. I need to know the location of the airbag sensor on the passenger side of a 2004 Ford Ranger or other year models that have the same design? I have seen pics and diagrams of older Ranger models.


I took off the grill, grill assembly, and headlights. Then I pulled out the pushed in bumper on the passenger side. Tomorrow I will be removing the bumper to straighten the mounting bracket and other things. This would be a great time to know and see what the airbag sensor looks like b/c it deployed the airbags. That way know what the part looks like so I can order a new one.


Thanks,


brc

 

The 2004 Ranger is under factory recall for airbags and possibly the dealer could replace them free, if they haven't been swapped, point out the sensor for you.Just a thought...

 

I actually did know the guy I bought the truck from told me and even give me the recall card. But I figured since it was in a accident they would not do it for free. But it doesn't hurt to ask.

That is why I have so much trouble finding anything on the 2004 airbags. Evey search mainly brings up the recall

Thanks,

brc

 

Just wanted to give an update on my airbag install project. With the help of this forum and a little just learn as you go. I installed both new airbags, airbag module, and seatbelt pretensioners yesterday.


Everything worked and the airbag light went off. Just wanted to thank this forum and everyone who responded to my post. Now I just have to put the bumper, grille assembly, headlights back in, and off to the HWY Patrol station for inspection.


Thanks,


brc