The Tailgate handle on my 04 Ranger keeps breaking. Does anyone know if this is a common problem since the local ford dealer stocks the plastic and metal latches? If this is a common problem what can be done to fix it?

 

I bought a metal handle from Underdog Performance after mine broke. I would suggest going that route.

 

Get an older metal one, I broke my plastic one within 2 months of owning it.

 

I broke 2 plastic ones before finally going with a metal one. The metal ones are thinner and a bit shorter in length (as they don't fill the handle area as much as the plastic ones did), but they look pretty good after it's on. Ford dropped the ball with the plastic ones. I got mine off eBay for a few bucks. Shop around, you can get them for cheap.