What is the Best Ford Ranger Year?

Buyers in the market for a used compact pickup truck: Look no further than the reliable Ford Ranger. But with nearly 40 years in production, which model year is best?
Written by Kerry Gibson
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
A red Ford anger off-roading on some large rocks
While buying new ensures that you always get the most updated features, owner satisfaction data is not available yet. Used models are often just as reliable and more affordable. When it comes to the beloved compact pickup truck, reviewers have determined the best Ford Ranger year.
Ford
started production of the Ranger in 1983. After a seven-year hiatus, it has been back on the market since 2019. Now in its fourth generation, the Ford Ranger still exudes the charm and durability that gives it a significant edge over the competition.

But first, the years to avoid

With a few decades of models to choose from, there’s bound to be some lemons in the bunch… Unfortunately, the 2019 Ford Ranger makes that list. The first year of its relaunch saw many hiccups, with the power equipment and transmission among the biggest problem areas.
The 2011 model also did not make the cut for best Ford Ranger year, and neither did 2010. Both models scored very low for owner satisfaction, as reported by
MotorBiscuit
. Seatbelt and airbag issues in 2008 made it another year for buyers to avoid.
Going back even further now, the 1999 Ford Ranger is also not recommended for purchase. This model was known for having major problems with the engine, brakes, electrical and wheels. All issues that surely didn’t age well.
The small pickup certainly had its undesirable moments, but Ford remains a renowned brand when it comes to trucks, especially in North America.
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The best Ford Ranger year

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Not surprisingly,
MotorBiscuit
believes that exceptional safety ratings will always outweigh the comforts and style of a brand new vehicle. For this reason, the best Ford Ranger year is not necessarily the most recent model, but it certainly comes close. The 2020 Ford Ranger has the highest combination of safety features, reliability, and owner satisfaction.
Most advanced safety systems, like forward collision warning, are a relatively new concept. The 2020 Ford Ranger comes with automatic emergency braking, just like the 2019 version, but without that model’s aforementioned issues. Of course, the 2021 model continues to improve on the features of previous years, but is relatively more expensive.
Reviewers recommend the latest generation of Ford Rangers because of the large gap in production prior to 2019. Dated interior aside, 2020 remains the best Ford Ranger year for those looking to invest in a used compact truck. It ranks high for safety and performance within its segment.

Old school Ford Rangers

Overall, Ford Rangers have an excellent reputation, save a few years. If you’re looking for a small used pickup at an affordable price, there are some high-quality, well-maintained options from the past. Compared to today’s standards, they’re not as fuel-efficient, but definitely durable. They are also easy to modify if you’re looking at upgrading certain features.
First and second generation models are highly capable of keeping up with newer trucks. The 1988 Ford Ranger may not have been speedy, but it could manage rocky terrain with ease.
HotCars
highlights a few more of the best Ford Ranger years, including the introduction of four-wheel drive in 2003. Or, the 2010 model with a towing capacity of over 5,000 lbs. These small but mighty trucks were available in various combinations, including your choice of manual and automatic gearboxes.

Insuring your used truck

MORE: Is It a Bad Idea to Buy a Used Car With Lots of Miles?
The Ford Ranger is known to last up to 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. Whether you drive the best Ford Ranger year, or another used pickup truck altogether,
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