Ford Ranger reliability
The Ford Ranger fails its MOT more often than most cars up to 5 years old: 20.3% of 40,010 tests failed in 2023, against 14% on average.
41 DVSA recalls for the Ford Ranger
Most cover a batch of cars built in a set period, and dealers fix them free. Sweep’s check shows the recalls for a car’s age and whether the DVSA has one outstanding.
26S35 – Ranger – Engine failure
On affected vehicles it may be possible that one or more engine camshaft roller finger followers were not properly installed at the time of assembly. An improperly installed camshaft roller finger follower may result in engine failure resulting in a no-start condition or a loss of motive power.
Fix: Replace the engine.
Recalled models: RANGER · 2 vehicles
26S10 - Kuga Ranger - Potential Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve Failure
On affected vehicles the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve may fail leading to weak acceleration engine vibration a no start condition or a loss of power.
Fix: Replace the EGR valve.
Recalled models: RANGER · 414 vehicles
26S19 Ranger PHEV - High Voltage Battery Tray Retaining Bracket Replacement
Affected vehicles may experience a fracture of the High Voltage Battery front mounting bracket lower legs potentially causing the battery to drop onto the chassis frame.
Fix: Replace the High Voltage Battery which contains the retaining brackets
Recalled models: RANGER · 1 vehicles
25S19 Ranger – Automatic Transmission no reverse
Ford constantly monitors production processes and vehicles in service. While monitoring vehicles in operation we have become aware of a number of Ranger automatic transmission vehicles where you may experience no reverse motion when the gear selector is placed in reverse due to a potential issue with the transmission main control valve body. The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) and Wrench light will illuminate when this malfunction occurs. The vehicle could roll forward despite the gear selector being in the reverse position depending on where parked. Unexpected vehicle motion can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Replace the transmission main control valve body
Recalled models: RANGER · 2 vehicles
Ranger: 10R80 Transmission Oil Pump Gears Software Update
On affected vehicles the software repair for previous recall 20S10 may not have been delivered properly and vehicles may exhibit an issue where the transmission lubricant pump gear could fail.
Fix: Update the Power Control Module and Transmission Control Module and perform an additional verification process to ensure the configuration has been installed correctly.
Recalled models: RANGER · 83 vehicles
25S98 Ranger - Rear Brake Caliper Anchor Bolts Torque Inspection
On affected vehicles the correct tightening torque was not reached on some of the rear brake caliper anchor bolts during manufacturing. If one or both caliper mounting bolts are missing or fail the caliper may become dislodged from the axle and interfere with the wheel assembly and surrounding components.
Fix: Inspect both rear brake calipers and replace any parts if necessary.
Recalled models: RANGER · 1 vehicles
Frozen Rearview Camera Screen
On affected vehicles there is a potential software issue causing the rear-view camera not to function as intended.
Fix: Update the Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) software to the latest level.
Recalled models: RANGER · 985 vehicles
CrossCar: Sync3 Rear-View Camera Software Update
On affected vehicles a software problem may result in issues with the rear-view camera that reduce the driver’s view or with it remaining on after a reversing event.
Fix: Update the vehicle software to the latest level.
Recalled models: RANGER · 2 vehicles
25S77 – Ranger – Potential loss of brake assist
Affected vehicles could experience loss of brake boost and extended brake pedal travel and stopping distance.
Fix: Update the Electric Brake Boost module software to the latest level.
Recalled models: RANGER · 13,952 vehicles
25S39 Ranger - Potential Camshaft Sprocket Failure
On affected vehicles the left-side camshaft sprocket on the engine could fracture due to a manufacturing defect resulting in an engine stall.
Fix: Inspect the left-side camshaft sprocket and replace if necessary.
Recalled models: RANGER · 12 vehicles
24S68 – Ranger Driver Seatbelt Webbing Inspection
On affected vehicles the driver’s seatbelt webbing may have been incorrectly routed through the rubber anchor trim sleeve only instead of being routed through both the rubber and the metal anchor eyelet increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Fix: Inspect driver’s seat belt routing replace as necessary.
Recalled models: RANGER · 2,095 vehicles
Ranger Idler Gear Failure
A small number of Ranger vehicles that have been manufactured with an incorrectly assembled engine idler gear. An improperly installed engine idler gear may cause an engine stall with sudden loss of power whilst driving increasing the risk of crash or injury. A noise is typically observed from the engine in advance. In the event of a failure the vehicle will stall and/or not start.
Fix: Replace Idler assembly
Recalled models: RANGER · 3 vehicles
23S67 – Ranger Platinum Child Lock
Ranger Platinum vehicles where the electronic child lock system may show as engaged on the orange light on the window switch pack on the door trim but the rear doors could be opened from the interior door release handle. A Child Lock Malfunction message in the cluster or a warning flash on the activation button may or may not illuminate.
Fix: Modification to system wiring and system reset.
Recalled models: RANGER · 291 vehicles
23C27 - Ranger - Front wiper motor linkage inspection
Ranger vehicles have been manufactured using a front wiper motor linkage that could potentially fracture due to a manufacturing quality issue. In some circumstances a fractured wiper arm linkage will reduce the visual performance through the passenger side of the windshield below levels required to maintain vehicle compliance.
Fix: Inspect and replace if required
Recalled models: RANGER · 578 vehicles
The incorrect Front Propeller Shaft may have been installed.
The incorrect Front Propeller Shaft may have been installed.
Fix: Replace Front Propeller Shaft
Recalled models: RANGER · 3 vehicles
Ranger vehicles where the High Pressure (HP) Pipes connecting with the Fuel Pump may not have been correctly tightened to specifications. Incorrectly tightened HP Pipe joints/nuts may loosen over time resulting in a fuel leak.
Ranger vehicles where the High Pressure (HP) Pipes connecting with the Fuel Pump may not have been correctly tightened to specifications.� Incorrectly tightened HP Pipe joints/nuts may loosen over time resulting in a fuel leak.
Fix: Inspect connections. If no leak present retorque connections. If leak found replace pipework.�
Recalled models: RANGER · 152 vehicles
Ranger vehicles that may have been produced with incorrect bolts for the rear axle ring gear. In some circumstances the incorrect ring gear bolts may become loose under severe driving conditions causing knocking or whining noises from the rear axle. In very extreme cases the vehicle may experience rear axle lock-up due to the bolts detaching and getting stuck in the rear axle gears.
Ranger vehicles that may have been produced with incorrect bolts for the rear axle ring gear. In some circumstances the incorrect ring gear bolts may become loose under severe driving conditions causing knocking or whining noises from the rear axle. In very extreme cases the vehicle may experience rear axle lock-up due to the bolts detaching and getting stuck in the rear axle gears.�
Fix: The dealer will replace the complete rear axle assembly on all of the affected vehicles.�
Recalled models: RANGER · 3 vehicles
Affected vehicles may have been produced with the propeller shaft flange to transmission bolts loose and / or missing.
Affected vehicles may have been produced with the propeller shaft flange to transmission bolts loose and / or missing.
Fix: Check and rework the bolts if necessary.
Recalled models: RANGER · 8 vehicles
Ranger vehicles that have a manual rear door child lock which is activated near the rear door latch may have been incorrectly fitted with a switch pack that includes a rear window/rear door child lock button that illuminates when actuated.
Ranger vehicles that have a manual rear door child lock which is activated near the rear door latch may have been incorrectly fitted with a switch pack that includes a rear window/rear door child lock button that illuminates when actuated.
Fix: Remove and replace the driver door window control switch with the correct version.
Recalled models: RANGER · 785 vehicles
When the turn signal / hazard lamp audible indicator is activated an Event Warning Chime will not be audible at the same time
While monitoring vehicles in operation when the turn signal / hazard lamp audible indicator is activated an Event Warning Chime (e.g. Seat Belt warnings Lane Keeping warnings) at the same time will not be audible.
Fix: Affected vehicles need to receive updated Instrument Panel Cluster Software
Recalled models: RANGER RAPTOR · 163 vehicles
On the affected vehicles the Brake Fluid Level Low warning message will not appear on the Instrument Panel Cluster when the brake fluid level falls below a pre-determined level
On affected vehicles the Brake Fluid Level Low warning message will not appear on the Instrument Panel Cluster when the brake fluid level falls below a pre-determined level.
Fix: Affected vehicles need to be returned to a Ford Authorised Dealer to have a software update that will restore feature functionality.
Recalled models: RANGER · 18 vehicles
The driver s seat belt might have the webbing routed through the anchor rubber trim sleeve instead of being routed through the metal anchor eyelet.
The driver�s seat belt might have the webbing routed through the anchor rubber trim sleeve instead of being routed through the metal anchor eyelet.
Fix: Carry out a visual inspection of the driver seat belt at the pre-tensioner. Any vehicle that has failed this inspection will be retained and the affected part will be replaced.
Recalled models: RANGER · 13 vehicles
The vehicle could develop a crack around the exhaust muffler flange
It is possible that the exhaust muffler flange weld could crack and in extreme circumstances the exhaust muffler could detach from the vehicle.
Fix: Replace the exhaust muffler.
Recalled models: RANGER · 20,370 vehicles
On several Ranger vehicles an incorrectly configured Headlamp Control Module (HCM) is causing the Static Bending Light (SBL) feature to not work as intended.
On several Ranger vehicles an incorrectly configured Headlamp Control Module (HCM) is causing the Static Bending Light (SBL) feature to not work as intended.
Fix: Affected vehicles need to be returned to a Ford Authorised Dealer to have a new software update to restore feature functionality.
Recalled models: RANGER · 163 vehicles
Vehicles could suffer a differential drive pinion failure
A small number of Ford Ranger vehicles could suffer a differential drive pinion failure caused by micro cracks created during the production process.
Fix: Inspect and replace rear differential parts as necessary.
Recalled models: RANGER · 14,717 vehicles
There is a possibility that the steering column bolt may not be correctly tightened to specification
On the affected vehicles there is a possibility that steering column bolt may not be correctly tightened to specification.
Fix: Inspect the bolt that secures the intermediate shaft to the steering column and tighten to specification.
Recalled models: RANGER · 433 vehicles
Airbag inflator may rupture upon deployment
Air bag inflators may not operate as intended
Fix: Replace air bag inflator
Recalled models: RANGER · 211,055 vehicles
Takata air bag inflator may rupture on deployment
Air bag inflators may not operate as intended
Fix: Replace air bag inflator
Recalled models: RANGER · 2,966 vehicles
Over time the function of the takata nadi airbag inflator can degrade due to air and moisture ingress into the inflator material
The function of the driver airbag inflators can degrade due to air and moisture ingress.
Fix: Replace Driver air bag inflator
Recalled models: RANGER · 3,339 vehicles
Transmission fluid pump gear failure can cause a loss of hydraulic fluid pressure in the transmission
Transmission fluid pump gear failure
Fix: Update the Transmission Control Module (TCM) and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software
Recalled models: RANGER · 6,330 vehicles
Air bag inflator may rupture on deployment
Driver and passenger air bags may cause injury if deployed.
Fix: Replace Driver and Passenger air bag inflators.
Recalled models: RANGER · 16,520 vehicles
Air bag inflator to be replaced
Driver & Passenger air bag may deploy incorrectly if activated
Fix: Replace the passenger air bag inflator
Recalled models: RANGER · 41,475 vehicles
Ruptured flexible front brake hoses may occur during suspension and steering articulations
Ruptured flexible front brake hoses may occur from cyclic fatigue.
Fix: Replace the front brake hoses with a redesigned component.
Recalled models: RANGER · 28,780 vehicles
Side airbag initiator may be defective
Affected vehicles may have been fitted with a defective side airbag initiator. This may cause the side airbag not to deploy in an accident.
Fix: On affected vehicles fit new side airbags.
Recalled models: RANGER · 50 vehicles
Rear driveshaft may become damaged resulting in loss of drive
On affected vehicles the clip that retains the gearshift cables may not be fully engaged with the metal portion of the handbrake cable.
Fix: Inspect the gearshift cables and driveshaft for signs of contact damage and replace if required. Also the dealership will inspect the gearshift cables clip to ensure it is correctly aligned and fully engaged.
Recalled models: RANGER · 3,277 vehicles
Automatic transmission may not operate as intended
It is possible for the automatic transmission to shift from 6th to 1st due to an incorrect signal from the output speed sensor. The unintended down shift will cause an abrupt wheel speed reduction.
Fix: On affected vehicles carry out a TCM recalibration
Recalled models: RANGER · 51 vehicles
Engine may cut out
A batch of fuel injector may have been assembled correctly. The internal valve can fail and cause reduced fuel pressure and engine shutdown shutdown with no restart.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and check the injectors. If the injectors of concern are fitted they will be replaced.
Recalled models: RANGER · 13,853 vehicles
Seatback may not engage correctly
On affected vehicles the seatback latch may fail to engage correctly resulting in the rear seatback not being positively secured to the body striker.
Fix: Dealers will fit a new hog ring securing the strap to the latch mechanism.
Recalled models: RANGER · 478 vehicles
Gearbox may not perform correctly
The bracket that secures the automatic transmission shift cable to the transmission casing may crack and break. This is as a result of unnecessary welding. Should the bracket fail then gear selection witl be extremely difficult or in extreme cases impossible.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and check the bracket. If the bracket has been welded then replacement of the bracket is required.
Recalled models: RANGER · 784 vehicles
Possible casting defect in front steering knuckles
Steering knuckle casting may crack
Fix: Recall affected vehicles and using dye penetrant inspection techniques check the steering knuckles for the presence of a crack. Replace with new any part failing the above test.
Recalled models: RANGER · 386 vehicles
Throttle may not return to idle when cruise control is disengaged
Certain of the affected vehicles could be fitted with a cruise control cable that may interfere with the cruise control servo pulley and not allow the throttle to return to idle when disengaging the cruise control.
Fix: Phase 1 - Write to owners advising them to immediately stop using the cruise control system and offering them the option of dealers disabling the system should they so wish. Phase 2 - As soon as replacement cruise control cables become available recall all affected vehicles for replacement of the cable.
Recalled models: RANGER · 5,363 vehicles
Checking a Ford Ranger before you buy
Look at the parts above at the viewing, and read the car’s own MOT history: advisories for the same parts suggest the problem is already starting. Sweep’s free check shows every MOT, advisory and mileage reading for a registration.