How high off the ground is a Ford Ranger?
The Ford Ranger in most markets sits around 8.7 inches (about 22 cm) of ground clearance in its standard configuration. Off‑road variants raise that height, with higher figures for models like the Tremor/FX4 and especially the Ranger Raptor, depending on year, trim, and tire choices. This article explains those numbers and what can cause them to change.
Ground clearance basics
Ground clearance is the gap between the lowest point of a vehicle’s undercarriage and the ground. For pickup trucks like the Ranger, it directly affects approach and departure angles and determines how well the truck can handle rough terrain without scraping.
- Standard Ranger (2WD or 4WD, non‑Raptor): about 8.7 inches (approximately 222 mm) of ground clearance.
- Ranger Tremor/FX4 off‑road variants: typically higher, roughly 9.0–9.5 inches depending on year and tire sizing.
- Ranger Raptor (high‑performance off‑road version): generally higher still, about 9.8–11 inches depending on configuration and model year.
In practice, you’ll see a range from about 8.7 inches up to around 11 inches across the current Ranger lineup, with the exact figure set by trim, tires, and suspension tuning.
Ground clearance by model year and notable trims
To provide a clearer sense of how much the height can vary, here are the typical figures you’ll encounter for recent US‑market Rangers. Keep in mind that tire size and any aftermarket changes can shift these numbers slightly.
- 2020–present base Ranger (XL/XLT, standard configurations): ~8.7 inches (222 mm).
- Ranger Tremor/FX4 off‑road variants: ~9.0–9.5 inches, influenced by factory tires and suspension tuning.
- Ranger Raptor: ~9.8–11 inches, reflecting its purpose‑built off‑road setup and larger tires.
When evaluating a Ranger for off‑roading or highway use, always verify the exact ground clearance listed for the specific model year and trim in your region, as Ford updates specs and wheel/tire packages can shift the figure.
How tires, wheels, and suspension affect height
Several practical factors can change the measured ground clearance without changing the chassis itself. Understanding these helps explain why two Rangers can feel different in height even if they share the same basic design.
- Tire size: Larger diameter tires raise the body higher, increasing ground clearance by roughly a fraction to over an inch, depending on the change in overall diameter.
- Wheel and tire package: Wider or taller tires and different offsets can alter stance and undercarriage clearance.
- Suspension tuning and off‑road packages: Off‑road trims often use taller springs or specialized shocks to gain height for better obstacle clearance.
Owner modifications, such as aftermarket lifts or oversized tires, can further increase ground clearance beyond factory figures, but they may affect ride quality, handling, and warranty coverage.
Summary
For the typical US‑market Ford Ranger, ground clearance starts around 8.7 inches in standard form. Off‑road variants push higher heights—generally into the 9.0–11 inch range—depending on the trim and the tire/suspension setup. Always check the exact specification for the model year and trim you’re considering, and account for any tire changes or aftermarket modifications that could alter clearance.
Summary of key figures
Quick reference: standard Ranger ~8.7 inches; Tremor/FX4 ~9.0–9.5 inches; Ranger Raptor ~9.8–11 inches. These figures are guidance and can vary with year, market, and wheel/tire choices.
What is the ground clearance of a Ford Ranger?
The ground clearance of a Ford Ranger varies by model year, trim, and drivetrain, but typically ranges from 8.8 to 9.3 inches for standard models and up to 9.7 inches for models with off-road packages. For example, the 2025 Ranger has a 4x2 model with 8.8 inches and a 4x4 model with 9.3 inches of clearance. Models with off-road packages, like the Tremor Off-Road Package, offer more clearance, with some reaching 9.7 inches.
- Standard models: Ground clearance is typically around 8.8 to 9.3 inches.
- Off-road packages: Models with packages like the Tremor Off-Road Package have higher clearance, often around 9.7 inches.
- Specific examples:
- 2025 Ranger: 8.8 inches for 4x2 and 9.3 inches for 4x4.
- 2022 Ranger: 8.9 inches for 4x4, with up to 9.7 inches with the Tremor package.
- 2024 Ranger: A maximum of 9.3 inches.
Is a Ford Ranger a high clearance vehicle?
Exceptional ground clearance
With impressive ground clearance of 237mm, the Ford Ranger is built to go where other pickups won't.
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.
What is the height of the Ford Ranger?
The height of a Ford Ranger varies by model and year, but for recent models, it typically ranges from approximately 71.8 to 74.4 inches (1824 to 1884 mm). For example, a 2025 Ranger XL is about 73.9 inches high, while a 2025 Lariat is about 74.4 inches high, and some 2023 models are around 71.8 inches.
| Year | Approximate Height |
|---|---|
| 2025 XL 4x2 | 73.9 inches (1877 mm) |
| 2025 LARIAT 4x4 | 74.4 inches (1890 mm) |
| 2024 | 71.5 to 74.4 inches (1816 to 1890 mm) |
| 2023 | 1848 to 1884 mm (72.8 to 74.2 inches) |
| 2021 | 71.8 inches (1824 mm) |
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