Last updated: 2026-05-13
Most Reliable Ford Models — Ranked in 2026
We ranked every Ford model and year in our database by reliability score. The average Ford scores 65/100 across all models and years. The 2023 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon is the most reliable Ford with a score of 78/100.
Ford Reliability Rankings
| # | Vehicle | Best Year | Score | Rating | Recalls | Complaints / 10k | Maint. Rating | Est. Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2023 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon | 2023 | 78/100 | Good | 0 | 0.0 | 3 | $775/yr |
| 2 | 2025 Ford Maverick | 2025 | 77/100 | Good | 6 | 2.0 | 4 | |
| 3 | 2024 Ford Edge | 2024 | 76/100 | Good | 2 | 5.4 | 3.5 | $611/yr |
| 4 | 2025 Ford F-150 | 2025 | 75/100 | Good | 13 | 1.2 | 3.5 | $788/yr |
| 5 | 2022 Ford Ranger | 2022 | 75/100 | Good | 5 | 6.0 | 4 | $615/yr |
| 6 | 2024 Ford Escape | 2024 | 75/100 | Good | 10 | 4.8 | 4 | $600/yr |
| 7 | 2025 Ford Escape | 2025 | 74/100 | Good | 10 | 1.1 | 4 | $600/yr |
| 8 | 2025 Ford Ranger | 2025 | 74/100 | Good | 8 | 1.6 | 4 | $615/yr |
| 9 | 2024 Ford F-150 | 2024 | 74/100 | Good | 9 | 2.8 | 3.5 | $788/yr |
| 10 | 2023 Ford Edge | 2023 | 74/100 | Good | 4 | 1.5 | 3.5 | $611/yr |
| 11 | 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E | 2024 | 74/100 | Good | 3 | 6.8 | 3.5 | |
| 12 | 2023 Ford Ranger | 2023 | 73/100 | Good | 4 | 4.9 | 4 | $615/yr |
| 13 | 2025 Ford Bronco-Sport | 2025 | 73/100 | Good | 6 | 1.0 | 3.5 | |
| 14 | 2024 Ford Explorer | 2024 | 73/100 | Good | 6 | 0.7 | 3.5 | $732/yr |
| 15 | 2025 Ford Mustang | 2025 | 73/100 | Good | 3 | 1.8 | 3.5 | $709/yr |
| 16 | 2021 Ford Ranger | 2021 | 72/100 | Good | 6 | 9.3 | 4 | $615/yr |
| 17 | 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E | 2025 | 72/100 | Good | 5 | 1.5 | 3.5 | |
| 18 | 2025 Ford Explorer | 2025 | 72/100 | Good | 14 | 2.9 | 3.5 | $732/yr |
| 19 | 2022 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon | 2022 | 72/100 | Good | 1 | 1.6 | 3 | $775/yr |
| 20 | 2024 Ford Bronco-Sport | 2024 | 72/100 | Good | 7 | 4.8 | 3.5 | |
| 21 | 2023 Ford Escape | 2023 | 72/100 | Good | 13 | 7.6 | 4 | $600/yr |
| 22 | 2024 Ford Ranger | 2024 | 72/100 | Good | 10 | 8.5 | 4 | $615/yr |
| 23 | 2023 Ford Mustang | 2023 | 72/100 | Good | 6 | 2.6 | 3.5 | $709/yr |
| 24 | 2024 Ford Maverick | 2024 | 71/100 | Good | 14 | 8.8 | 4 | |
| 25 | 2023 Ford Explorer | 2023 | 71/100 | Good | 12 | 4.5 | 3.5 | $732/yr |
| 26 | 2020 Ford Ranger | 2020 | 71/100 | Good | 7 | 10.7 | 4 | $615/yr |
| 27 | 2019 Ford Explorer | 2019 | 69/100 | Good | 4 | 13.5 | 3.5 | $732/yr |
| 28 | 2022 Ford Edge | 2022 | 69/100 | Good | 5 | 13.2 | 3.5 | $611/yr |
| 29 | 2021 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon | 2021 | 69/100 | Good | 4 | 1.9 | 3 | $775/yr |
| 30 | 2021 Ford Edge | 2021 | 69/100 | Good | 7 | 10.8 | 3.5 | $611/yr |
| 31 | 2019 Ford Escape | 2019 | 69/100 | Good | 3 | 21.0 | 4 | $600/yr |
| 32 | 2023 Ford F-150 | 2023 | 68/100 | Good | 10 | 8.1 | 3.5 | $788/yr |
| 33 | 2018 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon | 2018 | 68/100 | Good | 6 | 6.6 | 3 | $775/yr |
| 34 | 2023 Ford Bronco-Sport | 2023 | 67/100 | Good | 13 | 8.9 | 3.5 | |
| 35 | 2020 Ford F-150 | 2020 | 67/100 | Good | 7 | 10.3 | 3.5 | $788/yr |
| 36 | 2019 Ford Mustang | 2019 | 67/100 | Good | 4 | 17.8 | 3.5 | $709/yr |
| 37 | 2024 Ford Mustang | 2024 | 67/100 | Good | 10 | 13.3 | 3.5 | $709/yr |
| 38 | 2020 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon | 2020 | 67/100 | Good | 8 | 7.8 | 3 | $775/yr |
| 39 | 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E | 2023 | 66/100 | Good | 3 | 30.1 | 3.5 | |
| 40 | 2020 Ford Mustang | 2020 | 66/100 | Good | 8 | 16.5 | 3.5 | $709/yr |
| 41 | 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon | 2019 | 65/100 | Good | 8 | 11.1 | 3 | $775/yr |
| 42 | 2019 Ford F-150 | 2019 | 65/100 | Good | 6 | 16.2 | 3.5 | $788/yr |
| 43 | 2018 Ford Mustang | 2018 | 65/100 | Good | 4 | 22.7 | 3.5 | $709/yr |
| 44 | 2022 Ford Explorer | 2022 | 65/100 | Good | 21 | 10.0 | 3.5 | $732/yr |
| 45 | 2018 Ford Explorer | 2018 | 64/100 | Good | 5 | 24.9 | 3.5 | $732/yr |
| 46 | 2019 Ford Ranger | 2019 | 64/100 | Good | 11 | 28.4 | 4 | $615/yr |
| 47 | 2020 Ford Edge | 2020 | 64/100 | Good | 4 | 25.0 | 3.5 | $611/yr |
| 48 | 2022 Ford F-150 | 2022 | 62/100 | Good | 21 | 15.9 | 3.5 | $788/yr |
| 49 | 2021 Ford Explorer | 2021 | 62/100 | Good | 22 | 16.1 | 3.5 | $732/yr |
| 50 | 2022 Ford Escape | 2022 | 62/100 | Good | 20 | 23.7 | 4 | $600/yr |
| 51 | 2025 Ford Bronco | 2025 | 61/100 | Good | 16 | 2.2 | 2 | $784/yr |
| 52 | 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning | 2024 | 61/100 | Good | 4 | 5.7 | 1.5 | |
| 53 | 2025 Ford F-150 Lightning | 2025 | 60/100 | Good | 3 | 0.7 | 1.5 | |
| 54 | 2018 Ford Escape | 2018 | 60/100 | Good | 4 | 58.7 | 4 | $600/yr |
| 55 | 2023 Ford Maverick | 2023 | 60/100 | Good | 20 | 32.7 | 4 | |
| 56 | 2019 Ford Edge | 2019 | 60/100 | Good | 3 | 49.6 | 3.5 | $611/yr |
| 57 | 2022 Ford Mustang | 2022 | 59/100 | Mixed | 17 | 32.4 | 3.5 | $709/yr |
| 58 | 2022 Ford Bronco-Sport | 2022 | 59/100 | Mixed | 14 | 30.4 | 3.5 | |
| 59 | 2021 Ford F-150 | 2021 | 58/100 | Mixed | 26 | 22.0 | 3.5 | $788/yr |
| 60 | 2024 Ford Bronco | 2024 | 58/100 | Mixed | 18 | 7.5 | 2 | $784/yr |
| 61 | 2018 Ford F-150 | 2018 | 58/100 | Mixed | 15 | 30.4 | 3.5 | $788/yr |
| 62 | 2018 Ford Edge | 2018 | 57/100 | Mixed | 7 | 55.6 | 3.5 | $611/yr |
| 63 | 2022 Ford Maverick | 2022 | 54/100 | Mixed | 27 | 76.9 | 4 | |
| 64 | 2020 Ford Explorer | 2020 | 54/100 | Mixed | 29 | 47.1 | 3.5 | $732/yr |
| 65 | 2021 Ford Mustang | 2021 | 54/100 | Mixed | 18 | 71.2 | 3.5 | $709/yr |
| 66 | 2021 Ford Bronco-Sport | 2021 | 54/100 | Mixed | 15 | 57.5 | 3.5 | |
| 67 | 2020 Ford Escape | 2020 | 52/100 | Mixed | 25 | 93.4 | 4 | $600/yr |
| 68 | 2023 Ford Bronco | 2023 | 50/100 | Mixed | 27 | 23.1 | 2 | $784/yr |
| 69 | 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning | 2023 | 45/100 | Mixed | 11 | 72.4 | 1.5 | |
| 70 | 2022 Ford Bronco | 2022 | 43/100 | Mixed | 32 | 57.9 | 2 | $784/yr |
| 71 | 2021 Ford Bronco | 2021 | 41/100 | Mixed | 31 | 73.8 | 2 | $784/yr |
| 72 | 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning | 2022 | 39/100 | Risky | 9 | 179.3 | 1.5 |
Model Summaries
Ford Bronco
The Ford Bronco, covering model years 2021 to 2026, shows a mixed reliability reputation with scores ranging from 22/100 to 98/100, indicating significant improvement over time. Common issues reported by owners include electrical system malfunctions and power train concerns, particularly in earlier models, with repair costs averaging $784 annually. The 2026 model, however, achieves a high reliability score of 98/100 with no complaints, suggesting it may be better suited for buyers prioritizing reliability.
Average score: 51/100. Best year: 2025 (61/100). 6 years tracked.
Ford Bronco-Sport
The Ford Bronco-Sport, covering model years 2021 to 2026, has an average reliability score of 67/100, indicating a good reliability rating according to Auto Reliability Index standards. Common issues reported by owners include electrical system failures, powertrain problems, and service brake malfunctions, with complaint rates decreasing significantly over the years, from 57.5 per 10,000 sold in 2021 to none in 2026. The vehicle's reliability has improved over time, with the latest models showing fewer complaints and higher reliability scores, making it potentially more suitable for buyers seeking a vehicle with fewer reported issues.
Average score: 65/100. Best year: 2025 (73/100). 6 years tracked.
Ford Edge
The Ford Edge, covering model years 2018 to 2024, has an average reliability score of 67/100, placing it in the "Good" category according to Auto Reliability Index standards. Common issues reported by owners include powertrain and engine problems, particularly in earlier models, with transmission shuddering and coolant intrusion being notable concerns. Repair costs are generally moderate, with a reliability rating of 3.5/5, suggesting the Ford Edge may be best suited for buyers who prioritize safety features, as evidenced by consistent 5-star NHTSA safety ratings, but who are also prepared for potential mechanical repairs.
Average score: 67/100. Best year: 2024 (76/100). 7 years tracked.
Ford Escape
The Ford Escape, covering model years 2018 through 2026, holds an average reliability score of 68/100, indicating good reliability with variations across specific years. Data reveals common issues such as engine and power train problems, particularly in earlier models like 2018 and 2019, with a significant decrease in complaints and recalls in later years, notably 2025 and 2026. With an estimated annual repair cost of $600, slightly above the compact SUV average, the Ford Escape is best suited for those prioritizing newer models with fewer reported issues.
Average score: 66/100. Best year: 2024 (75/100). 8 years tracked.
Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer, with an average reliability score of 65/100 from 2018 to 2026, shows mixed reliability, particularly in the 2020 model year with a score of 54/100 and high complaint rates. Common issues reported by owners include structural and powertrain problems, especially in earlier models, while electrical system concerns are noted in newer versions. With an estimated annual repair cost of $732, higher than the midsize SUV average, the Explorer is best suited for those who prioritize its features over potential maintenance costs.
Average score: 66/100. Best year: 2024 (73/100). 9 years tracked.
Ford F-150
The Ford F-150, covering model years 2018 through 2026, holds an average reliability score of 66 out of 100, categorized as "Good" by the Auto Reliability Index. Common issues reported include power train and engine problems, particularly with the 10-speed transmission and cam phasers, while the 2024 and 2025 models show improvements with lower complaint rates and fewer recalls. With an estimated annual repair cost of $788, below the full-size truck average, the F-150 is suitable for those prioritizing cost-effective maintenance, though potential buyers should be aware of specific model year concerns.
Average score: 66/100. Best year: 2025 (75/100). 9 years tracked.
Ford F-150 Lightning
Data indicates that the Ford F-150 Lightning, covering model years 2022 through 2026, has an average reliability score of 61 out of 100, classified as "Good" on the Auto Reliability Index. Initial years, particularly 2022 and 2023, show significant issues with the power train and electrical systems, leading to high complaint rates and recalls, while later years, especially 2025 and 2026, demonstrate improved reliability with fewer complaints and recalls. The vehicle suits those prioritizing newer models, as improvements in later years reduce the likelihood of encountering early issues such as unintended acceleration and electrical malfunctions.
Average score: 51/100. Best year: 2024 (61/100). 5 years tracked.
Ford Maverick
Covering model years 2022 to 2026, the Ford Maverick shows a mixed reliability record with an average score of 63/100. Data indicates significant improvement over time, with initial years marked by frequent issues in power train and electrical systems, particularly in 2022 and 2023, which had scores of 20/100 and 50/100 respectively. By 2026, the model achieves a score of 98/100 with zero complaints, suggesting substantial enhancements in reliability, potentially making it more suitable for buyers prioritizing long-term dependability.
Average score: 66/100. Best year: 2025 (77/100). 5 years tracked.
Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang, spanning from 2018 to 2026, maintains an average reliability score of 69/100, with models from 2021 showing a notably lower score of 55/100 due to increased complaints about electrical and powertrain issues. Data indicates common problems across these years include electrical system failures, particularly with infotainment and instrument clusters, and powertrain concerns, especially in models from 2018 to 2022. Owners report repair costs averaging $709 annually, higher than the midsize car average, suggesting potential buyers should consider both the vehicle's performance appeal and its maintenance demands.
Average score: 65/100. Best year: 2025 (73/100). 9 years tracked.
Ford Mustang Mach-E
The Ford Mustang Mach-E shows a mixed reliability reputation from 2023 to 2026, with scores ranging from 78/100 to 98/100. Common issues reported by owners include electrical system malfunctions and powertrain problems, particularly in earlier years, while the 2026 model sees a significant improvement with a score of 98/100 and no complaints. This data suggests prospective buyers should consider the model year when evaluating reliability, as the 2026 model demonstrates a strong safety record and reduced issues.
Average score: 71/100. Best year: 2024 (74/100). 4 years tracked.
Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger, spanning model years 2019 to 2026, holds an average reliability score of 78/100, categorized as "Good" by the Auto Reliability Index. Data indicates persistent issues with the power train, particularly the 10R80 transmission, across multiple years, alongside electrical system concerns, with a notable improvement in complaint rates from 28.4 per 10,000 sold in 2019 to 1.6 in 2025. With an estimated annual repair cost of $615, slightly above the midsize truck average, the Ranger is best suited for buyers who prioritize mid-range reliability and are attentive to potential maintenance needs.
Average score: 72/100. Best year: 2022 (75/100). 8 years tracked.
Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon
Data from the Auto Reliability Index indicates that the Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon, covering model years 2018 to 2023, has an average reliability score of 70/100, categorized as "Good." Common issues reported by owners include power train and service brake problems, particularly in earlier model years, with a notable improvement in reliability by 2023, which has no complaints or recalls. Repair costs are rated average, making it a consideration for those who prioritize gradual reliability improvements over time.
Average score: 70/100. Best year: 2023 (78/100). 6 years tracked.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the most reliable Ford?
- Based on our data, the 2023 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon is the most reliable Ford with a score of 78/100 ("Good"). It has 0 recalls and 0 owner complaints.
- Are Ford vehicles reliable?
- Ford vehicles have an average reliability score of 65/100 across all models and years in our database. Individual models vary, so checking the specific model year you're considering is important.
- Which Ford models should I avoid?
- Based on our data, these Ford model-years are statistical outliers within their lines: 2019 Ranger (64/100), 2023 Maverick (60/100), 2022 Bronco-Sport (59/100), 2021 F-150 (58/100), 2018 F-150 (58/100), 2018 Edge (57/100), 2022 Maverick (54/100), 2020 Explorer (54/100), 2021 Mustang (54/100), 2021 Bronco-Sport (54/100), 2020 Escape (52/100), 2023 F-150 Lightning (45/100), 2022 Bronco (43/100), 2021 Bronco (41/100), 2022 F-150 Lightning (39/100). These have higher recall counts and complaint volumes relative to their siblings.
- How do Ford repair costs compare?
- Repair costs vary by model. Check the detailed rankings table above for estimated annual repair costs for each Ford model year.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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