How safe is a Ford Ranger?

The Ford Ranger is generally a strong safety pick in its class, offering solid crash-test results and a broad suite of driver-assistance features. Exact ratings depend on model year, trim level, and regional market, so buyers should check the specific configuration they’re considering.

Safety ratings and what they mean

Crash-test results from major authorities provide a benchmark for protection in a collision, but ratings can vary by year, trim and region. The Ranger’s safety performance is usually evaluated by three main sources:

• NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration): Overall star ratings and individual category scores, which can differ across model years and configurations. Higher trims with more safety tech often align with better results.


• IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety): Crashes tests such as frontal, side, and small overlap, plus headlight and other criteria. In recent years, Rangers with the recommended headlights and safety systems have earned strong ratings, including Top Safety Pick status in some configurations.


• ANCAP (Australian New Car Assessment Program): In markets like Australia, the Ranger has typically earned high marks (often 5 stars) for its crash protection and safety equipment, though ratings still depend on the exact model and equipment level.

In practice, what these ratings say is that the Ranger generally performs well in protecting occupants in common crash scenarios, especially when equipped with the latest safety technology. Always verify the exact year and trim you’re considering to see the precise scores.

What to look for by market

Safety equipment and scores can differ between the United States, Australia, and other regions. Some markets include more standard safety features on base trims, while others require higher trims for the same level of protection. Always review the specific model year, regional ratings, and which safety systems are standard or optional in your area.

Safety features and technology

Across recent Ranger generations, Ford bundles a comprehensive set of active safety aids under its Co-Pilot360 umbrella. The availability of features can vary by trim and year, but the core elements are widely present in modern Rangers:

• Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and Pedestrian Detection


• Lane-Keeping System with Lane-Centering Assist (where equipped)


• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go (on higher trims or optional packages)


• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert


• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and a Rear-View/360-degree camera on higher trims


• Stability control, traction control, and multiple airbags for occupant protection


• Electronic parking aids and, in some models, a high-strength steel frame for improved crash protection

These features aim to mitigate crashes and reduce injury in the event of one. As with any vehicle, the level of protection you get depends on the year and trim you choose, so confirm the exact equipment list before buying.

Regional and model-year variations

Regional differences influence which safety systems are standard or optional. For example, U.S.-market Rangers may emphasize Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite as standard or available, while Australian or European models might include a slightly different mix of safety tech and headlights that affect ratings. If you’re comparing models across markets, map out:

• Which safety features are standard vs. optional on each year/trim


• The exact NHTSA or ANCAP/IIHS scores for that configuration


• Any regional recalls or service campaigns that affect safety systems

In short, the Ranger’s safety profile remains competitive globally, with strong protection and a robust set of driver-assistance features, but the specifics are year-, trim-, and market-dependent.

Recalls and ongoing safety maintenance

Like all vehicles, the Ranger can be subject to recalls that affect safety-related systems. It’s important to verify current recall status for the exact model year and VIN. Check reliable sources such as NHTSA (USA), Transport Canada, RACQ/ANCAP region, or Ford’s official owner sites to confirm open recalls and recommended service actions.

• Always review the latest recall notices for your specific Ranger year and trim


• Follow Ford’s recommended service schedule to ensure safety systems are functioning correctly


• Keep airbags, seatbelts, and camera/sensor-powered systems calibrated and up to date

Recalls are not a reflection of the entire model’s safety capability, but addressing them promptly is essential to maintaining overall safety performance.

Bottom line

The Ford Ranger remains a solid safety choice within its class, backed by modern driver-assistance technology and strong crash-test performance in many markets. While the exact ratings and features vary by year and region, upgrading to newer trims generally brings more comprehensive safety equipment and improved protection. Prospective buyers should check the specific model year, trim, and regional safety scores to make an informed decision.

Summary

Summary of safety takeaways:

• Ranger safety is generally strong in modern generations, with good crash-test performance in many configurations.


• Key active-safety features (AEB, BLIS, lane-keeping, and adaptive cruise when available) are common across trims, improving real-world protection.


• Ratings vary by year, trim, and market; always verify NHTSA/IIHS/ANCAP results for the exact configuration you’re considering.


• Check for recalls and service campaigns before purchase and maintain systems in line with Ford’s recommendations.

Is the Ford Ranger safe in a crash?

NHTSA 5-Star Overall Safety Rating: The 2023 Ford Ranger proudly boasts a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), showcasing its outstanding performance in various crash tests and safety assessments.

How secure is a Ford Ranger?

FIVE-STAR SAFETY
Euro NCAP is Europe's leading independent safety organisation. It evaluates the safety of any new vehicle using a series of stringent measures. As a measure of Ford's commitment to safety, the Ford Ranger has received the highest rating of five stars.

What is the #1 safest car?

There is no single "number one" safest car, as safety rankings vary by organization and vehicle class. However, many 2025 models, like the Mazda3, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Toyota Camry, and Toyota Prius, consistently earn top "Top Safety Pick+" ratings from the IIHS and 5-star ratings from the NHTSA. The 2025 Genesis GV60 and 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV are also recognized as leaders in the SUV category. 
Top-rated cars from 2025 

• Mazda3 Sedan and Hatchback: Earns both the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and NHTSA 5-Star ratings. 
• Mercedes-Benz C-Class: A 2025 model with top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA. 
• Toyota Camry: Achieves both IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and NHTSA 5-Star ratings. 
• Toyota Prius: Recognized for top scores in all major crash tests and strong pedestrian crash avoidance systems. 
• Honda Accord: Consistently earns both the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star overall NHTSA score. 
• Genesis GV60: An electric SUV that receives high marks from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with a high safety score in its class. 
• Mazda CX-90 PHEV: A 2025 model that earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating. 
• Genesis GV80: A luxury SUV noted for its excellent performance in crash tests and standard safety features like a front center airbag. 

Which Ford Rangers to stay away from?

You should be wary of Ford Rangers from the 1999, 2001, 2004, 2006, and 2019 model years, which have been associated with numerous issues including transmission problems, engine failures, and airbag concerns. Other model years to be cautious of are the 2002, 2005, 2016, and the years with the introduction of the 10-speed transmission in 2015-2017, as these have also been linked to significant problems.
 
This video discusses reasons to be cautious when buying a Ford Ranger, including potential issues with the exhaust system and airbags: 59sSpeed SpectrumYouTube · Oct 25, 2024
Specific model years to avoid

• 1999, 2001: These years are frequently mentioned for having significant reliability problems, including transmission issues. 
• 2002: This model year had multiple recalls and is known for engine and transmission problems. 
• 2004: This model year had a high number of recalls and is associated with transmission and engine issues. 
• 2005–2006: These years had engine and fuel system problems. 
• 2015–2017: The first-year models of the aluminum body and the introduction of the 10-speed transmission are linked to issues. 
• 2019: This model year is noted for potential reliability concerns. 

Common problems to watch for

• Transmission: Rough shifting, slipping, and delays are common across several of these model years. 
• Engine: Some model years are known for having engine problems, including those from 2002, 2004, and 2006. 
• Fuel System: Issues with the fuel system were reported for the 2005 and 2006 models. 
• Rear Axle: The 2016 model year is known for potential sudden and unexpected rear axle failures. 
• Airbags: The 2001 model is linked to airbag and wiring problems. 

This video explains some potential problems with Ford Ranger engines and transmissions: 55sReDrivenYouTube · Oct 10, 2025
Recommendations

• Do your research: Before buying any used Ranger, check its specific model year and vehicle history report from a service like CarFax. 
• Consider better years: Models like 2003, 2007, 2009, 2011, and 2021 or newer are often regarded as more reliable choices. 
• Inspect thoroughly: When buying used, check for common issues like rust, which is a frequent problem with older models.