Why did Ford stop selling the Ranger?
The Ford Ranger, once a staple in the compact pickup truck market, disappeared from the U.S. market in 2011, leaving many fans wondering why Ford made this decision. As an experienced auto service provider, I’ve seen firsthand how vehicle trends and market demands influence automakers' decisions. Let’s dive into the reasons behind Ford’s move and what it meant for the automotive industry.
1. Declining Demand for Compact Trucks
In the years leading up to the Ranger's discontinuation in the U.S., consumer preferences shifted significantly. Many buyers began favoring larger trucks like the Ford F-150, which offered more power, towing capacity, and interior space. Compact trucks, including the Ranger, saw a steady decline in sales as a result.
2. Overlap with the F-150
Ford’s flagship truck, the F-150, became increasingly popular and versatile, effectively overshadowing the Ranger. The price gap between the two models narrowed, making the F-150 a more attractive option for buyers who wanted more truck for their money. This overlap in the market made it harder for the Ranger to justify its place in Ford’s lineup.
3. Rising Production Costs
As safety and emissions regulations became stricter, the cost of updating the Ranger to meet these standards increased. Ford decided that investing in the Ranger’s redesign for the U.S. market wasn’t financially viable at the time, especially given its declining sales.
4. Focus on Global Markets
While the Ranger was discontinued in the U.S., it continued to thrive in international markets. Ford shifted its focus to producing the Ranger for regions like Europe, Asia, and Australia, where demand for midsize trucks remained strong. This global strategy allowed Ford to allocate resources more effectively.
5. The Return of the Ranger
After nearly a decade, Ford reintroduced the Ranger to the U.S. market in 2019. This decision was driven by a resurgence in demand for midsize trucks, as well as competition from models like the Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado. The new Ranger was redesigned to meet modern standards and cater to a new generation of truck buyers.
- Ford discontinued the Ranger in the U.S. in 2011 due to declining demand for compact trucks.
- The F-150’s popularity and narrowing price gap made the Ranger less competitive.
- Rising production costs and stricter regulations influenced Ford’s decision.
- The Ranger continued to succeed in global markets during its absence in the U.S.
- Ford brought the Ranger back to the U.S. in 2019 to meet renewed demand for midsize trucks.
The story of the Ford Ranger highlights how automakers must adapt to changing market trends and consumer preferences. While its absence was felt by many loyal fans, the Ranger’s return has proven that there’s still a place for midsize trucks in today’s market. If you’re considering a Ranger or any other vehicle, feel free to reach out to Kevin’s Autos for expert advice and maintenance tips!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the 2024 Ford Ranger built?
Michigan Assembly Plant
DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 19, 2024 – Ford Motor Company announced plans to create nearly 900 new jobs as part of a new third crew at Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne to meet demand for the popular Bronco and Bronco Raptor and the all-new Ranger and Ranger Raptor.
Is Ford in trouble in 2024?
The truth is, Ford's stock declined 18% in 2024 because it has a lot of problems it needs to fix. It needs to continue improving quality until leading the industry in recalls is a distant painful memory. It also needs to continue developing EVs, matching supply and demand, while bringing costs down significantly.
Why were Ford Rangers discontinued?
Ford hopes that rather than switching to another brand in search of a small pickup, buyers will instead opt for the V-6 F-150, the company's most fuel-efficient full-size pickup. While I'll miss the Ranger, it's easy to understand Ford's reasoning behind the move: The compact pickup segment is dwindling.
What year was the Ford Ranger bad?
Although the 1999 Ford Ranger has the most overall complaints, we rate the 2019 model year as worse.
What years did the Ford Ranger have transmission problems?
In very early-build examples of the Ranger (from 2011 and 2012) there was a problem with the gearbox output-shaft speed sensor that could cause the transmission to shift back to first gear with a distinct clunk.
What is the major issue with the Ford Ranger?
Common engine problems to watch out for with this model Ranger engines include failed EGR coolers, contaminated and even blocked inlet tracts, worn turbochargers, DPF problems and failures, leaking and faulty fuel injectors and coolant leaks.
When can I buy a 2024 Ranger?
The 2024 Ford Ranger release date is late summer 2023, which means this powerful new truck is on its way to our nearby Ford dealer. In fact, by the time you read this, it might already be here. The 2024 Ford Ranger lineup is redesigned, upgraded, and ready for adventure.
Is Ford bringing back the Ranger?
Review: 2024 Ford Ranger is new, improved, and comes as a Raptor. Ford redesigned the Ranger pickup truck for the 2024 model year, pushing it into its fifth generation.
What is the difference between the Ford Ranger 2024 and 2023?
In contrast, the 2023 Ranger sports a design characterized by a pronounced hood slope and a rounded front end. The sides feature a beltline, defined contours, and rounded fenders. In 2024, the Ranger exhibits a taller hood, an enlarged and redesigned grille, and C-shaped LED elements encircling the headlamps.
What was the best year for the Ford Ranger?
What is the best year for a used Ford Ranger?
- 2021 Ford Ranger - Notable for its turbocharged engines and impressive safety/infotainment features.
- 2020 Ford Ranger - KBB score of 4.4/5, 4.1/5 from Edmunds.
- 2009 Ford Ranger - 4.4/5.0 from Edmunds.
- 2010 Ford Ranger - 4.4/5 from KBB.
