Does Ford Ranger have coil suspension?

The Ford Ranger uses coil springs on the front suspension, but rear suspension varies by model: most standard Rangers use leaf springs, while the high-performance Ranger Raptor uses a coil-sprung rear setup.

Front suspension: how the Ranger handles the road

The Ranger’s front suspension is independent and relies on coil springs to absorb bumps and maintain wheel contact with the road. This configuration helps improve ride quality and handling compared with traditional solid-axle designs on rugged trucks.

Before exploring the details below, note that the following points summarize the common setup across most Ranger variants and highlight the notable exception in the lineup.

• Independent front suspension with coil springs

In practice, the front suspension arrangement provides a smoother ride and better steering feel, which is especially noticeable on paved roads and light off-road conditions.

Rear suspension by model variant

The rear suspension configuration changes depending on the trim and market. This matters for ride comfort, towing capacity, and off-road articulation.

• Standard Ranger variants (non-Raptor): leaf springs on a live rear axle


• Ranger Raptor: rear multi-link suspension with coil springs

The majority of everyday Ranger models use a traditional leaf-sprung rear axle designed for load carrying and durability. The Ranger Raptor, tuned for high-speed off-roading, switches to a more compliant coil-sprung, multi-link rear setup to improve wheel travel and ride quality on rough terrain.

Why the difference matters for buyers

If you prioritize payload and towing, the leaf-sprung rear is typically favored for its load-carrying stability. If you want enhanced off-road articulation and a smoother ride over rough terrain, the Raptor’s coil-sprung rear suspension offers advantages in those situations.

Ranger Raptor: a notable exception

The Ranger Raptor represents a performance-focused variant that rethinks the rear suspension to maximize off-road capability. Its coil-sprung, multi-link rear suspension, combined with specialized dampers, provides greater wheel travel and resilience on uneven surfaces compared with standard Rangers.

For context, the Raptor’s suspension design changes are part of Ford’s approach to balancing everyday practicality with off-road prowess in the same model line.

Summary

In brief, the Ford Ranger’s front suspension uses coil springs, while the rear suspension is mostly leaf-sprung except in the Ranger Raptor, which uses a coil-sprung, multi-link setup for enhanced off-road performance. This combination means the Ranger lineup offers both solid load-carrying capability and targeted off-road handling depending on the model you choose.

Does a Ford Ranger have struts or shocks?

About Ford Ranger Shocks and Struts
They reduce stress on other vehicle systems such as the steering system and increase their lifespan. With age, shocks tend to wear out and lose their characteristics, so they need to be replaced. If you need replacement Ford Ranger shocks, AutoZone has you covered.

What is the most common problem with Ford Rangers?

The most common problem with Ford Rangers is transmission issues, including rough shifts, hesitation, and loss of power. Other frequent problems include engine misfires, stalling, oil leaks, and issues with the A/C blend door, especially in certain model years.
 
Powertrain problems 
This video explains several problems with Ford Ranger engines, including overheating and oil leaks: 59sFuel ForceYouTube · Oct 13, 2025

• Transmission: Many owners report rough or delayed shifting, hesitation, and power loss. Newer models with the 10-speed transmission have been particularly noted for these issues. 
• Engine: Misfires, hesitation, and stalling are frequently reported, sometimes caused by issues like exhaust valve recession or failing sensors. 
• Oil leaks: Oil leaks from the valve cover and oil pan gaskets can lead to low oil levels and premature engine wear. 

Other common issues

• A/C blend door: The blend door actuator is a common failure point that can cause the A/C to blow cold on one side and hot on the other. The fix is often expensive as it requires removing the dashboard. 
• Steering: Some models have reported clicking or clunking noises while steering. 
• Brakes: "Spongy" brakes are a recurring complaint on some models. 

Potential solutions

• Transmission: A custom tune or software update may help improve shifting performance on some models. 
• Engine: Replacing sensors or addressing the underlying cause of misfires and stalls is necessary. Regularly changing engine oil is critical to prevent damage from leaks. 
• A/C: For blend door issues, replacing the actuator and door assembly is the most permanent fix. While costly, there are updated parts available to prevent future failure. 

What type of suspension does a Ford Ranger have?

Ford Ranger front suspension is by coil springs and wishbones, while the Ford Ranger rear suspension consists of a live (solid) axle with leaf springs. Both these set-ups are tough and serviceable. The most common upgrade is the Ford Ranger suspension upgrade for towing.

What year of Ford Ranger to stay away from?

You should generally stay away from the 1999, 2001, 2002, and 2004-2006 Ford Ranger model years due to significant reliability issues like transmission, engine, and other mechanical problems. The 2019 model is also a year to be cautious of, as it had first-year kinks for the newer generation that are still being worked out. 
Older models to avoid

• 1999: Considered one of the worst years, with problems in the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. 
• 2001: A continuation of the problems from the previous year, with added issues related to airbags and wiring. 
• 2002: Had a high number of recalls and complaints, particularly related to engine and transmission issues. 
• 2004–2006: These years had frequent engine problems and other issues, with 2004 and 2006 seeing a higher number of recalls and complaints. 

Newer models to approach with caution

• 2019: As the first model year for the current generation, it had some "first-year kinks" and issues that were being addressed. While not a complete lemon, it's a year to be aware of when shopping for a newer used Ranger.