general problems of the 2003 Ford Ranger

Difficulty in filling gasoline in 2003 Ford Ranger. It seems to be a systemic problem that many Ranger owners experience. Not only is it a safety hazard because of the constant splash-back of gasoline when filling, but it's also an environmental hazard with all the spilled gasoline on the ground.

While stationary at a traffic light, a smell of gasoline entered the passenger compartment followed a few seconds later by a muffled explosion in the engine compartment followed quickly by black smoke and flames pouring out from under the hood and under the front of the vehicle. The vehicle was completely destroyed forward of the truck bed.

The first time the car engine started racing uncontrollably I was at a stop sign. The second time, the same day 3/10/2010 I turned a corner and we took off at a very high speed. Both times I put the vehicle in neutral and "goosed" the gas pedal and the engine settled down to a normal speed. 2003 Ford Ranger.

The inertia switch located at the top of the passenger floor board engages at the slighted bump. I've had this car for 5 years and continue to get false information from the Ford dealership about avenues of recourse or rectification. Its a faulty design for the inertia switch to be located near possible contact with a passenger. Legal recourse will be pursued.