What is the weakness of the Ford Ranger?

On-road comfort and interior feel

Before examining specific complaints, it helps to understand how the Ranger behaves in daily use, especially on pavement and inside the cabin.

• Ride quality can feel firm on common road surfaces, particularly with larger tires or when equipped for off-road use, leading to more road feel than some rivals offer.


• Interior materials and refinement are not always class-leading; lower trims may employ harder plastics and visible switchgear, while noise levels can rise at highway speeds.


• Rear-seat space and comfort are not universal strengths—tall passengers may find legroom and shoulder room at the back limits, depending on cab configuration (SuperCab vs. SuperCrew).


• Infotainment and controls, while functional, can vary by model year and market; some drivers find screen response or menu organization less intuitive than competing pickups.

Overall, buyers prioritizing a plush on-road experience or premium interiors should evaluate higher-trim cabins or consider rivals with more refined interior ambiances. In contrast, those focused on rugged capability often accept these trade-offs as part of the Ranger’s value proposition.

Performance, payload and versatility

Detailing how the Ranger performs when loaded, hauled, or pushed hard helps differentiate between daily driving and work-day demands.

• Power and acceleration: The available EcoBoost engine offers strong torque for a mid-size pickup, but some drivers feel it becomes noticeably strained when heavily loaded or climbing steep grades, especially with older transmissions or in lower trims.


• Payload and towing: Payload capacity and bed utility vary by cab style and drivetrain; in some configurations, the Ranger’s payload sits in the mid-pack for its class, which can limit how much you can haul in a typical workday.


• Rear suspension and handling: A traditional leaf-sprung live rear axle in many markets can deliver robust off-road performance but can trade some on-road ride quality and steering feel compared with independent-suspension rivals.

For buyers who need maximum payload or the silkiest highway ride, these factors are worth weighing against the Ranger’s off-road prowess and overall cost of ownership. Choosing a cab, bed, and option package carefully can mitigate some of these limitations.

Ownership costs and long-term reliability considerations

Market differences aside, how the Ranger holds up over time influences total ownership costs and resale value.

• Maintenance and repair costs: Routine service is widely available, but parts pricing and labor can vary by market and trim. Some owners report higher repair costs after warranty expires, depending on the specific drivetrain and options.


• Reliability and warranty coverage: Ford offers standard warranties with regional variations; reliability can vary by model year and market, so prospective buyers should review ongoing reliability feedback for the exact configuration they’re considering.


• Fuel economy and operating costs: Real-world fuel economy often sits near or slightly below EPA estimates, influenced by payload, terrain, and driving style; diesel options in some markets can alter costs and maintenance needs.

These cost considerations underscore the importance of examining local dealer support, maintenance plans, and expected resale values when comparing the Ranger to rivals with different ownership economics.

Summary

The Ford Ranger remains a compelling choice for buyers who prioritize capability, durability, and value, particularly in off-road contexts or when a rugged work truck is needed. Its acknowledged weaknesses—on-road ride quality, interior refinement, and payload nuances—vary by trim, cab style, and market. Prospective buyers should assess how these trade-offs align with daily commuting needs, work duties, and total ownership costs. In the right configuration, the Ranger remains competitive within the midsize pickup segment.

What Ford Ranger 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. 

• 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. 

• 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. 

What year does the Ford Ranger have problems?

A: The Ford Ranger years you should steer clear of are 1999 and 2001. These model years have been reported to have numerous problems and consumer complaints.

Which is better, Ford Ranger or Toyota Tacoma?

The better truck depends on your priorities: the Ford Ranger is generally better for performance, towing, and technology, with a more powerful engine and higher towing capacity, while the Toyota Tacoma is a top choice for buyers who prioritize proven reliability, resale value, and standard safety features. The Ranger has a more modern and upscale interior, whereas the Tacoma often provides a more traditional, utilitarian feel.
 
This video compares the interiors of the 2024 Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma: 36sM.G. ReviewsYouTube · Sep 21, 2024
Ford Ranger

• Performance and towing: Offers more raw power with its turbocharged engines and boasts a best-in-class towing capacity of up to 7,500 lbs. 
• Technology and comfort: Features a more premium interior, a large touchscreen with advanced SYNC 4 infotainment, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a smoother ride. 
• Off-road: The Ranger Raptor is a standout performer with advanced off-road features. 

• Reliability and resale value: Has a long-standing reputation for dependability and higher resale value. 
• Standard safety features: Comes standard with a more comprehensive suite of driver-assistance and safety technologies on its entry-level models. 
• Powertrain options: Offers a hybrid powertrain option for those who want to maximize efficiency. 

• Choose the Ford Ranger if you prioritize engine power, best-in-class towing, and modern interior technology and are looking for the most potent performer in the midsize truck class. 
• Choose the Toyota Tacoma if long-term reliability, higher resale value, and a more comprehensive set of standard safety features are your top concerns. 

Which Ford Ranger has the least problems?

The Ford Ranger's reliability score is solid, with few reports of serious transmission or engine failure problems. So far, models from 2009, 2010, and 2021 to 2024 are the most reliable Ford Ranger years.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.