Four problems related to dash wiring have been reported for the 1999 Ford Ranger. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
1999 Ford Ranger. Windshield wipers activated for no reason and made shorting sound when turn signal lever was used. 2 days later while traveling home from PA. Rear of truck caught fire and in a matter of 3-4 seconds was a total loss traveling into the cab area. Interior was so burnt even the metal for the steering wheel was destroyed. I believe the was a short circuit in the wiring.
Truck was stopped & left running, driver and passenger got out to see if road too muddy to drive on. When opened door less than 1 minute later, truck filled with smoke. Fire smelled electrical, battery unhooked, vehicle towed to Ford dealership. Apparently wire on power window on passenger side touched metal and started the fire. This vehicle has never been wrecked and door or windows worked on. What would make it short out and start fire if not factory defect. Dt.
Widshield wipers start unexpectedly ,cycle between 1 and 3 times can find no patteren at this time I do beleive some are caused by turning on directional lights. Some time just going down smooth stright road they will start. When they do cycle it is not at fast rate. Concerned it could be short some place in steering column.
An electrical problem in the dash control module, causing windshield wipers to work intermittently/ headlights to flicker on/off, and vehicle does not idle properly. Dealer has been contacted.