Where are the airbags in a Ford Ranger?
Airbags in a Ford Ranger are typically found in the front, along the sides, and above the windows with roofline-mounted curtains. The exact arrangement varies by model year and regional market, so checking the owner’s manual for your specific vehicle is the best way to confirm.
The Ranger safety system has evolved across generations. This article explains where airbags are typically found in recent Rangers and how configuration can differ by trim and region, so consult the owner's manual for your exact vehicle.
Front airbags
Below is an overview of the primary front-airbag components and their usual locations in Ranger models.
Locations and function
- Driver front airbag — housed in the steering wheel and deploys upward and forward to cushion the driver’s upper body during a frontal impact.
- Front passenger airbag — mounted in the dash panel above the glove box, designed to inflate toward the front passenger in a frontal collision.
- Knee airbags — sometimes included beneath the instrument panel to reduce leg injuries; not standard on all trims or markets.
Front airbags are broadly standard across most recent Ranger variants, with knee airbags varying by year and trim.
Side and curtain airbags
These systems protect occupants from lateral impacts and, in some cases, during rollovers.
Areas protected
- Seat-mounted side airbags — usually built into the outer edge of the front seatbacks to protect the chest and hips in a side impact.
- Curtain airbags (head airbags) — run along the upper edge of the door frame (A-pillars to C-pillars) to shield heads in side impacts or rollover; coverage can extend to rear seats on higher trims or regional configurations.
These systems are commonly included on mid- to high-level Ranger variants; verify for your exact model year and market.
Model-year and market variations
Airbag configurations can differ by year, trim level, and global market.
Variant coverage
- In generations sold in North America and many other markets since 2019, front airbags are standard; side airbags are commonly included; curtain airbags are offered on most trims, but exact coverage varies by country and option packages.
- Older generations or base trims in some regions may have fewer airbags (for example, missing curtain airbags or knee airbags). Always check the vehicle’s Safety Information label and the owner's manual for your VIN.
To know for sure, consult the official Ford documentation or your vehicle's safety label; the manual is the definitive source for your exact configuration.
How to verify on your Ranger
Practical steps you can take to confirm your exact airbag setup.
- Look for labels: airbags are marked with "SRS" or "AIRBAG" on the steering wheel, dashboard, seat seams, and roofline areas.
- Check the owner's manual and Safety Information label in the glove box or door jamb for the specific configuration and coverage.
If you’re unsure, contact a Ford dealer or certified technician for confirmation and a VIN-specific build sheet.
Summary
Ford Ranger airbags are distributed across front, side, and curtain systems, with exact coverage varying by model year and market. The owner’s manual and safety labels are the definitive references for your vehicle’s specific airbag configuration. Regular maintenance and safe seating practices help maximize protection.
