One problem related to rear suspension springs has been reported for the 2002 Ford Ranger. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2002 Ford Ranger based on all problems reported for the 2002 Ranger.
I bought my Ranger new, it currently has 232,000 miles. Frame rust is so bad it is unsafe to drive. Rear spring shackle mounts rusted away, bed is resting on springs. Rust rains from underneath when hood is allowed to close. Brake line mounts are nearly gone, as is gas tank straps. I have never seen frame rot this bad, even in northern states where road salt is used.