Last updated: 2026-07-26

Most Reliable Ford Models — Ranked in 2026

We ranked every Ford model and year in our database by reliability score. The average Ford scores 66/100 across all models and years. The 2026 Ford Ranger is the most reliable Ford with a score of 83/100.

Ford Reliability Rankings

#VehicleBest YearScoreRatingRecallsComplaints / 10kMaint. RatingEst. Repair Cost
12026 Ford Ranger202683/100Excellent14$615/yr
22026 Ford F-150202682/100Excellent03.5$788/yr
32026 Ford Maverick202680/100Excellent20.04
42023 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon202378/100Good00.03$775/yr
52026 Ford Mustang202678/100Good10.03.5$709/yr
62025 Ford Maverick202577/100Good62.04
72026 Ford Bronco-Sport202677/100Good20.03.5
82026 Ford Escape202677/100Good11.64$600/yr
92024 Ford Edge202476/100Good25.43.5$611/yr
102024 Ford Escape202475/100Good104.84$600/yr
112022 Ford Ranger202275/100Good56.04$615/yr
122025 Ford F-150202575/100Good131.23.5$788/yr
132022 Ford Ecosport202274/100Good23.43.5$775/yr
142024 Ford F-150202474/100Good92.83.5$788/yr
152025 Ford Ranger202574/100Good81.64$615/yr
162023 Ford Edge202374/100Good41.53.5$611/yr
172026 Ford Mustang Mach-E202674/100Good23.5
182024 Ford Mustang Mach-E202474/100Good36.83.5
192025 Ford Escape202574/100Good101.14$600/yr
202023 Ford Ranger202373/100Good44.94$615/yr
212025 Ford Bronco-Sport202573/100Good61.03.5
222025 Ford Mustang202573/100Good31.83.5$709/yr
232024 Ford Explorer202473/100Good60.73.5$732/yr
242024 Ford Bronco-Sport202472/100Good74.83.5
252021 Ford Ranger202172/100Good69.34$615/yr
262023 Ford Mustang202372/100Good62.63.5$709/yr
272025 Ford Mustang Mach-E202572/100Good51.53.5
282023 Ford Escape202372/100Good137.64$600/yr
292022 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon202272/100Good11.63$775/yr
302024 Ford Ranger202472/100Good108.54$615/yr
312025 Ford Explorer202572/100Good142.93.5$732/yr
322024 Ford Maverick202471/100Good148.84
332020 Ford Ranger202071/100Good710.74$615/yr
342025 Ford Expedition202571/100Good53.13$861/yr
352020 Ford Fusion202071/100Good315.94$581/yr
362026 Ford Expedition202671/100Good13$861/yr
372023 Ford Explorer202371/100Good124.53.5$732/yr
382026 Ford Explorer202670/100Good43.5$732/yr
392019 Ford Escape201969/100Good321.04$600/yr
402019 Ford Explorer201969/100Good413.53.5$732/yr
412022 Ford Edge202269/100Good513.23.5$611/yr
422021 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon202169/100Good41.93$775/yr
432021 Ford Edge202169/100Good710.83.5$611/yr
442024 Ford Expedition202468/100Good78.23$861/yr
452018 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon201868/100Good66.63$775/yr
462019 Ford Fusion201968/100Good322.34$581/yr
472018 Ford Fusion201868/100Good224.74$581/yr
482023 Ford F-150202368/100Good108.13.5$788/yr
492020 Ford F-150202067/100Good710.33.5$788/yr
502020 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon202067/100Good87.83$775/yr
512024 Ford Mustang202467/100Good1013.33.5$709/yr
522023 Ford Bronco-Sport202367/100Good138.93.5
532023 Ford Expedition202367/100Good88.43$861/yr
542019 Ford Mustang201967/100Good417.83.5$709/yr
552026 Ford F-150 Lightning202666/100Good10.01.5
562020 Ford Mustang202066/100Good816.53.5$709/yr
572023 Ford Mustang Mach-E202366/100Good330.13.5
582019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon201965/100Good811.13$775/yr
592018 Ford Mustang201865/100Good422.73.5$709/yr
602022 Ford Explorer202265/100Good2110.03.5$732/yr
612019 Ford F-150201965/100Good616.23.5$788/yr
622020 Ford Edge202064/100Good425.03.5$611/yr
632018 Ford Explorer201864/100Good524.93.5$732/yr
642019 Ford Ranger201964/100Good1128.44$615/yr
652022 Ford Escape202262/100Good2023.74$600/yr
662021 Ford Explorer202162/100Good2216.13.5$732/yr
672022 Ford F-150202262/100Good2115.93.5$788/yr
682025 Ford Bronco202561/100Good162.22$784/yr
692024 Ford F-150 Lightning202461/100Good45.71.5
702022 Ford Expedition202261/100Good1217.13$861/yr
712018 Ford Escape201860/100Good458.74$600/yr
722021 Ford Ecosport202160/100Good362.73.5$775/yr
732023 Ford Maverick202360/100Good2032.74
742019 Ford Edge201960/100Good349.63.5$611/yr
752025 Ford F-150 Lightning202560/100Good30.71.5
762022 Ford Mustang202259/100Mixed1732.43.5$709/yr
772022 Ford Bronco-Sport202259/100Mixed1430.43.5
782026 Ford Bronco202659/100Mixed22$784/yr
792024 Ford Bronco202458/100Mixed187.52$784/yr
802020 Ford Ecosport202058/100Mixed364.43.5$775/yr
812019 Ford Ecosport201958/100Mixed274.43.5$775/yr
822021 Ford F-150202158/100Mixed2622.03.5$788/yr
832018 Ford F-150201858/100Mixed1530.43.5$788/yr
842018 Ford Edge201857/100Mixed755.63.5$611/yr
852021 Ford Expedition202157/100Mixed1226.13$861/yr
862018 Ford Ecosport201856/100Mixed2132.53.5$775/yr
872020 Ford Explorer202054/100Mixed2947.13.5$732/yr
882021 Ford Mustang202154/100Mixed1871.23.5$709/yr
892021 Ford Bronco-Sport202154/100Mixed1557.53.5
902022 Ford Maverick202254/100Mixed2776.94
912019 Ford Expedition201953/100Mixed1152.63$861/yr
922020 Ford Expedition202052/100Mixed1647.53$861/yr
932018 Ford Expedition201852/100Mixed1265.53$861/yr
942020 Ford Escape202052/100Mixed2593.44$600/yr
952023 Ford Bronco202350/100Mixed2723.12$784/yr
962023 Ford F-150 Lightning202345/100Mixed1172.41.5
972022 Ford Bronco202243/100Mixed3257.92$784/yr
982021 Ford Bronco202141/100Mixed3173.82$784/yr
992022 Ford F-150 Lightning202239/100Risky9179.31.5

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: 52/100. 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: 67/100. Best year: 2026 (77/100). 6 years tracked.

Ford Ecosport

The Ford EcoSport, covering model years 2018 to 2022, has an average reliability score of 61 out of 100, with a notable improvement in 2022 reaching a score of 74. Common issues reported by owners include engine and powertrain problems, particularly in earlier models, with complaint rates declining significantly over time from 132.5 per 10,000 in 2018 to 3.4 in 2022. With an estimated annual repair cost of $775, the EcoSport's medium reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 indicates moderate maintenance costs, making it suitable for those prioritizing budget-conscious ownership.

Average score: 61/100. Best year: 2022 (74/100). 5 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: 68/100. Best year: 2026 (77/100). 8 years tracked.

Ford Expedition

The Ford Expedition, spanning model years 2018 to 2026, shows a mixed reliability record with an average score of 61/100, indicating varied performance across different years. Common issues reported by owners include power train problems, particularly with the 10-speed transmission, and electrical system malfunctions, which are more prevalent in earlier models. With an annual repair cost of approximately $861, higher than the full-size SUV average, potential buyers should consider these factors when evaluating the vehicle's long-term reliability and maintenance needs.

Average score: 61/100. Best year: 2025 (71/100). 9 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: 67/100. 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: 68/100. Best year: 2026 (82/100). 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: 54/100. Best year: 2026 (66/100). 5 years tracked.

Ford Fusion

The Ford Fusion, covering model years 2018 to 2020, receives an average reliability score of 69 out of 100, indicating a "Good" rating according to Auto Reliability Index standards. Common issues reported by owners include engine problems related to coolant intrusion, powertrain failures, and electrical system malfunctions, with annual repair costs estimated at $581, slightly above the midsize cars average of $526. This model, with its medium reliability rating of 4 out of 5, is best suited for buyers aware of potential repair costs and familiar with the specific issues documented in technical service bulletins.

Average score: 69/100. Best year: 2020 (71/100). 3 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: 68/100. Best year: 2026 (80/100). 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: 67/100. Best year: 2026 (78/100). 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: 72/100. Best year: 2026 (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: 73/100. Best year: 2026 (83/100). 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.

Also Compare

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most reliable Ford?
Based on our data, the 2026 Ford Ranger is the most reliable Ford with a score of 83/100 ("Excellent"). It has 1 recalls and 0 owner complaints.
Are Ford vehicles reliable?
Ford vehicles have an average reliability score of 66/100 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: 2023 Mustang Mach-E (66/100), 2019 Ranger (64/100), 2023 Maverick (60/100), 2021 F-150 (58/100), 2018 F-150 (58/100), 2018 Edge (57/100), 2018 Ecosport (56/100), 2020 Explorer (54/100), 2021 Mustang (54/100), 2021 Bronco-Sport (54/100), 2022 Maverick (54/100), 2020 Expedition (52/100), 2018 Expedition (52/100), 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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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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