What years do Ford Rangers come in?
The Ford Ranger is a popular mid-size pickup truck that has been in production since 1983. Over the years, the Ranger has undergone several updates and redesigns, with different model years offering unique features and capabilities. In this article, we'll provide a detailed overview of the years the Ford Ranger has been available.
The Ford Ranger's History
The Ford Ranger was first introduced in 1983 as a compact pickup truck, replacing the Ford Courier. It was designed to be a more affordable and fuel-efficient alternative to the full-size Ford F-150. The Ranger quickly gained popularity and became one of Ford's best-selling vehicles. Over the years, the Ranger has evolved to meet the changing needs of consumers, with various updates and redesigns.
The Years the Ford Ranger Came In
The Ford Ranger has been in production for over 35 years, with the following model years available:
- 1983 to 1992 (First Generation)
- 1993 to 2011 (Second Generation)
- 2019 to present (Third Generation)
The Ranger was discontinued in 2011 but was later reintroduced in 2019 with a completely redesigned model. The current third-generation Ranger features updated styling, improved performance, and a range of advanced technologies and safety features.
Key Features and Upgrades Over the Years
Throughout its history, the Ford Ranger has undergone various upgrades and improvements to keep up with the changing demands of the market. Some of the key features and upgrades include:
- Increased engine power and towing capacity
- Improved fuel efficiency and emissions
- Enhanced safety features, such as airbags and electronic stability control
- Upgraded interior design and technology, including infotainment systems and connectivity features
- Expanded trim levels and customization options
These upgrades have helped the Ranger remain a popular choice among mid-size pickup truck buyers, offering a balance of capability, efficiency, and modern features.
Conclusion
The Ford Ranger has a long and storied history, with the truck being in production for over 35 years. From its introduction in 1983 to the current third-generation model, the Ranger has evolved to meet the changing needs of consumers, offering a range of features and capabilities that have made it a popular choice in the mid-size pickup truck segment. Whether you're in the market for a reliable work truck or a versatile daily driver, the Ford Ranger is worth considering.
What year did they quit making Ford Rangers?
The last model year for the original Ford Ranger in North America was 2012, when production for the US market was discontinued. However, the model was relaunched for the 2019 model year in North America and is currently in its latest generation, with the 2024 model being the most recent version.
- Discontinuation: Ford discontinued the Ranger in the US after the 2012 model year.
- Resumption: Due to increased demand for mid-size trucks, Ford reintroduced the Ranger to the North American market for the 2019 model year.
- Current Generation: The latest generation was launched for the 2024 model year, featuring a complete redesign and new engine options.
What year to stay away from Ford Ranger?
The Ford Ranger years to avoid include the 1999, 2001, 2004, 2006, and 2019 models due to common problems like transmission issues, engine troubles, and electrical faults. Other years to approach with caution are 2002, 2005, 2008, 2011, and 2020, which may have specific issues such as timing chain problems or first-model-year bugs.
This video discusses the Ford Ranger's issues to avoid: 59sEveryman DriverYouTube · Oct 18, 2019
Key years to avoid and their common problems
- 1999: Frequently cited as one of the worst models, with issues including engine gauge problems, transmission and engine failures, and electrical and suspension issues.
- 2001: Noted for transmission problems, rough shifting, and a flashing overdrive light. It also had numerous recalls.
- 2002–2006: This period had spotty reliability and included models with timing chain problems (especially the 4.0-liter engine), automatic transmission durability issues, and front suspension wear. The 2002 and 2004 models are specifically mentioned for engine and transmission issues.
- 2019: This first-model-year for the new generation had issues like rough or shuddering gear shifts and costly transmission problems. Other reported problems include poorly fitting rear doors and flaking paint.
You can watch this video to learn about common problems in used Ford Rangers: 54sCars.co.zaYouTube · Jul 17, 2025
Other years to be cautious of
- 2000, 2005, 2008, and 2011: These years have also been flagged for various problems, including engine and transmission faults.
- 2020: Has been cited as a year to avoid due to first-model-year bugs that were later addressed, such as transmission and build quality concerns.
What is better, a F150 or a Ranger?
The Ranger is better if you want a midsize truck that's easier to park and has better fuel economy. The F-150 is better if you need more towing power, interior space, and engine options. What is the towing capacity of the Ford Ranger vs F-150? The 2025 Ford Ranger can tow up to 7,500 lbs when properly equipped.
What years did they make the Ford Ranger?
The Ford Ranger was first produced from 1983–2011 in the US, had a hiatus from 2012–2018, and was reintroduced in the US market for the 2019 model year and continues to the present. Globally, a different model was produced from 2011 to the present.
This video explains the history of the Ford Ranger, including its various models and generations: 1mAll Cars with JonYouTube · Apr 13, 2024
- First Generation: 1983–1992
- Second Generation: 1993–1997
- Third Generation: 1998–2011 (2012 in some markets)
- Fourth Generation (North America): 2019–2023
- Fifth Generation (North America): 2024–present
You can watch this video to learn more about the history of the second-generation Ford Ranger: 59sTony's Fords and MustangsYouTube · Aug 30, 2025
