Is the Ford Ranger body steel or aluminum?
The Ford Ranger's body is primarily steel, with some aluminum components used in select markets and trims to save weight.
Material makeup of the Ranger's body
Ford employs a steel ladder frame and steel body panels for durability, with aluminum parts added selectively where weight savings are beneficial. The exact mix can vary by market and model year.
Where aluminum may appear
In certain markets and trims, Ford has used aluminum for components such as the hood to reduce overall weight. Other panels may also incorporate aluminum in specific versions, but the core body structure remains steel in most configurations.
- Frame and chassis: steel ladder frame providing rigidity and load capacity.
- Body panels: generally high-strength steel to balance strength, cost, and durability.
- Aluminum components: lightweight parts such as the hood in select markets/trims to improve efficiency.
- Material mix: a cross-material approach to balance stiffness, safety, and fuel economy.
- Market variation: material choices can differ by region, model year, and trim level.
Overall, the Ranger's body is mostly steel, with aluminum used selectively where weight savings are most advantageous. Check the specifics for your model year and region to know the exact composition.
Summary
The Ford Ranger is built on a steel framework with steel body panels, and it uses aluminum components only in certain markets/trims. The exact materials can vary, but steel remains the dominant body material across generations.
