Living with a Ford Ranger

The Ford Ranger may not be the flashiest pickup on the block, but its blend of dependability and functionality has earned it a loyal following. Owners consistently praise its performance, comfort, and versatility. According to Edmunds, Ranger owners give the truck a solid 4.3 out of five stars. With annual sales well over 30,000 units, it's clear that the Ranger has struck a chord with truck buyers. But what do owners truly think about life with a Ranger?  

The Good

Many Ranger owners appreciate the truck’s responsive handling and comfortable interior. As one owner, Milbs, noted, “I really, really wanted to buy a Tacoma but my test drive was unimpressive. I found the Ford Ranger to be much more responsive and smooth. The inside was also more comfortable although I did buy the Lariat trim.”

The Ranger’s versatility is also a major selling point. A solar panel installer shared, “I bought the Ranger XL with the extended cab and 6-ft bed. Beautiful metallic gray. Used it to move furniture the day after getting it. Fits lots! Plenty of space for tools behind front seats.”

The Bad

While most owners have positive experiences, some have reported issues with the truck. One owner, Smitty, expressed disappointment with rust issues on their Ranger Lariat, claiming that Ford refused to honor the warranty due to stone chips.

Smitty: “We bought a brand-new Ranger Lariat Edition and within 35,000 kilometers she’s rusting. Ford won’t warranty the rust by claiming stone chips. Terrible truck even worse customer service” Ouch.

While many owners praise the Ranger for its overall performance and value, some have reported specific issues. Fuel economy in the city can be a concern, with owners reporting around 18 mpg. However, the Ranger’s highway efficiency is often praised, with some owners achieving up to 28 mpg.

Overall, the Ford Ranger appears to be a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and capable midsize pickup. Its strong performance, comfortable interior, and versatile bed have earned it a dedicated following. However, as with any vehicle, individual experiences may vary.