Last updated: 2026-03-04

2019 Ford Ranger Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2019 Ford Ranger scores 64/100 ("Good"). With 11 recalls and 237 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2019 is the first model year of the Fourth generation (2019–present).
Recalls
11
Complaints
237
Complaint Rate
28.4
per 10k sold
Above avgEst. Annual Cost
$615
Above avgMajor Repair Risk
12%
NHTSA Rating
4/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
11 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is the first model year of the Fourth generation (2019–present).
- First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
- Redesigned for the 2019 model year.
- 4th generation Ranger (US).
What this means for buyers
First-year models carry more risk — early production issues are common. Consider waiting for the second year if reliability is a priority.
Compare 2019 pricing and recall counts against 2020+ before deciding.
Fourth generation (2019–present)
Should You Buy the 2019 Ford Ranger?
The 2019 Ford Ranger scores 64/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.
Its complaint rate (28.4 per 10k sold) is above the Truck segment average of 21.1. The most common reports involve power train (76).
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to power train (76). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2020 Ford Ranger, which scored 7 points higher.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- Low major repair risk (12%)
Cons
- Above-average repair costs for its class
- Above-average recall count
- Above-average complaint rate for Truck
Compare 2019 Ford Ranger With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 11 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- POWER TRAIN (76)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (32)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (21)
- SERVICE BRAKES (13)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (11)
- ENGINE (11)
- VISIBILITY (11)
- SUSPENSION (10)
- SEATS (8)
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (7)
- BACK OVER PREVENTION (5)
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (5)
- STEERING (5)
- WHEELS (4)
- SEAT BELTS (4)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (4)
- STRUCTURE (2)
- LANE DEPARTURE (2)
- AIR BAGS (2)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2)
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1)
- TIRES (1)
Recall Overview
11
recalls on record
The 2019 Ford Ranger has 11 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
28.4
per 10k soldSegment avg: 21.1
Safety Incidents
Crashes
12
Fires
2
Injuries
3
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 Ford Ranger Recall Details
11 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Ford Ranger. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
EQUIPMENT
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
Consequence
An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed December 3, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated February 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Lincoln MKC, Mustang, F-350 SD, F-250 SD, F-450 SD, 2015-2017 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, 2015-2018 Edge, Transit Connect, 2016-2019 F-550 SD, Transit, 2017-2019 Econoline, and 2019 Ranger vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, inverted, or blank image when the vehicle is in reverse.
Consequence
A rearview camera that displays an inverted, distorted, or blank image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 13, 2026. Ford owners will receive letters in phases, beginning January 2026 and May 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S89. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 25V270. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning September 8, 2025.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.
Consequence
A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
Showing 10 of 11 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →
2019 Ford Ranger NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 25.6%
Safety Technologies
Ford Ranger Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$615
vs $548 avg for midsize trucks
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.2
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
12%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
When Buying a Used 2019 Ford Ranger
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Test transmission for hard shifting and gear slippage
- Inspect HVAC system for clicking noises and temperature control issues
- Check rear leaf springs for cracks or breaks
- Verify engine oil for fuel contamination
- Test brakes for sponginess and unintended acceleration
- Check rearview camera functionality
- Inspect for water intrusion in engine components
Check Any 2019 Ford Ranger's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2019 Ranger in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Ford Ranger with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2019 Ford Ranger Common Problems by Component
237 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
76 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the 2019 Ford Ranger's power train, particularly involving the 10R80 transmission. Common symptoms include erratic and delayed shifting, gear slippage, and a loss of power, often accompanied by a burning smell. Complaints frequently mention these issues occurring around 73,000 to 94,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, with multiple reports of sudden power loss and violent gear shifts potentially leading to loss of control, contributing to three crashes and one injury. These patterns suggest potential risks for used car buyers considering this model.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
32 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Ford Ranger frequently report issues with the vehicle's HVAC system, including malfunctioning blend doors and blower motors, leading to problems with temperature control and defrosting capabilities. Symptoms such as clicking noises behind the dashboard, hot air blowing from vents, and inability to adjust temperature are commonly described. These issues often arise within the original warranty period but persist beyond, with some owners noting problems as early as 20,000 miles. Additionally, complaints highlight electrical failures affecting turn signals, brake lights, and rearview cameras, with some instances linked to corroded or improperly connected electrical components. Safety concerns include visibility issues due to HVAC failures and potential accidents from non-functioning lights, with one report involving a fire related to a heated seat malfunction. This information may be relevant for used car buyers assessing potential maintenance needs and safety risks.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
21 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Ford Ranger frequently report issues with the HVAC system, including failures leading to inconsistent air temperatures and defrosting problems. Complaints often describe symptoms such as hot air blowing on one side and cold on the other, ticking sounds from the dashboard, and windshield defrosting failures. Transmission issues are also noted, with symptoms like hesitation, hard shifting, and unexpected power loss, sometimes occurring around 74,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with two complaints involving crashes due to unintended acceleration and brake failure. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring issues, as they may affect vehicle performance and safety.
SERVICE BRAKES (13 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
13 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Ford Ranger frequently report issues with the service brakes, with common symptoms including the brake pedal traveling unusually close to or past the gas pedal, resulting in unintended acceleration. Many describe the brake pedal feeling spongy or requiring multiple pumps to engage properly, often extending stopping distances. These issues appear across various mileages, with some reports as early as 950 miles and others around 50,000 miles. Notably, two complaints involve crashes attributed to these braking problems, highlighting potential safety risks. Used car buyers should be aware of these brake-related symptoms and consider them when evaluating this vehicle model.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (11 complaints)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
11 complaintsOwners report persistent issues with the exterior lighting of the 2019 Ford Ranger, particularly involving the rear lights. Complaints frequently mention intermittent failures of tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals, with some owners experiencing these issues after driving for 30-60 minutes. A recurring problem is related to a recall (19V839000), where parts are often unavailable, leaving vehicles unrepaired for extended periods. Safety implications are notable, as multiple owners describe near-miss rear-end collisions due to non-functioning rear lights. These issues are reported across various mileage ranges, with some owners noting problems occurring as early as 41,000 miles.
ENGINE (11 complaints)
ENGINE
11 complaintsOwners report several engine-related issues with the 2019 Ford Ranger, primarily involving unintended deceleration, stalling, and misfiring due to water intrusion in the engine. Complaints frequently mention rainwater causing rust and malfunction in spark plugs and associated components, often linked to the absence of an upper engine cover. These issues typically manifest around 35,000 to 45,000 miles. Additionally, some owners describe problems with the crank position sensor, leading to complete loss of power and system failures while driving at high speeds, posing potential safety risks. Buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly regarding water ingress and sensor failures, as they may require costly repairs.
SUSPENSION (10 complaints)
SUSPENSION
10 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Ford Ranger frequently report issues with the rear leaf springs, particularly breaking or cracking at the forward mounting points. Typical symptoms include undetected failures until routine maintenance, with some owners noticing clunking noises or a visible lean on one side of the vehicle. The complaints often involve vehicles with mileage under 100,000, with one report at approximately 21,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, as some owners express concerns about potential loss of control due to compromised rear axle stability. Prospective buyers should be aware of these recurring suspension issues, especially when evaluating vehicles with no recent suspension inspections or repairs.
SEATS (8 complaints)
SEATS
8 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Ford Ranger frequently report issues with the rear seat latch mechanism, which often fails to lock securely. This can result in the seat back moving forward during braking or in a collision, posing a potential injury risk to passengers. Additionally, complaints highlight problems with the heated seats, including incidents of overheating and short-circuiting that have led to burns and, in one case, a fire. These seat-related issues are reported at various mileages, with some incidents occurring around 40,000 miles. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential safety concerns, particularly regarding the functionality of the seat latches and heated seats.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (7 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
7 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report issues with the 2019 Ford Ranger related to unintended acceleration and cruise control malfunctions. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle accelerating unexpectedly, often when attempting to brake or when cruise control is engaged. Symptoms include the vehicle lunging forward, requiring maximum brake pressure to stop, and cruise control failing to set and causing continuous acceleration. These issues are noted at various mileages, with some occurring around 6,000 miles and others near 40,000 miles. One incident involves a crash without injuries when the vehicle accelerated in a driveway. These patterns suggest potential safety implications regarding loss of vehicle control.
STEERING (5 complaints)
STEERING
5 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Ford Ranger frequently report issues with the steering system, particularly involving power steering assist failure. Symptoms commonly described include the sudden loss of power steering, which can lead to difficulty in steering and, in some cases, the vehicle swerving unexpectedly. Several complaints note this issue occurring around 16,000 to 37,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as one report mentions the vehicle veering off the road, and others highlight the disabling of multiple safety systems, including antilock brakes and traction control. These patterns suggest potential safety risks for prospective buyers, especially if the vehicle has not undergone necessary repairs or part replacements.
When Do 2019 Ford Ranger Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Ford Ranger Years
Best Ford Ranger Years to Buy
The best Ford Ranger year is 2022 with a reliability score of 75/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2025 (74/100) and 2023 (73/100).
Ford Ranger Years to Avoid
The worst Ford Ranger year is 2019 with a score of 64/100, primarily due to power train (76) issues.
2019(this page)
11 recalls · 237 complaints
Ford Ranger Reliability Score Trend
Ford Ranger reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 72/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 64/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 73/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 74/100 | Good |
Ford Ranger Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Ford Ranger reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Ford Ranger?
How many recalls does the 2019 Ford Ranger have?
Is the 2019 Ford Ranger expensive to maintain?
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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