Last updated: 2026-03-04

2024 Ford Ranger Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2024 Ford Ranger scores 72/100 ("Good"). With 10 recalls and 44 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
10
Complaints
44
Complaint Rate
8.5
per 10k sold
Below 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
10 recalls on record
Should You Buy the 2024 Ford Ranger?
The 2024 Ford Ranger scores 72/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory.
With 44 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to power train (11). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2025 Ford Ranger, which scored 2 points higher. See also the 2023 Ford Ranger for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- Low major repair risk (12%)
- Below-average complaint rate for Truck
Cons
- Above-average repair costs for its class
- Above-average recall count
- POWER TRAIN: Unexpected shifts into different drive modes without driver input (11 complaints)
Compare 2024 Ford Ranger With
2024 Chevrolet Colorado
Score: 76/100
2024 Toyota Tacoma
Score: 55/100
2024 Honda Ridgeline
Score: 85/100
2024 Ford Maverick
Score: 71/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 10 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- POWER TRAIN (11)
- SERVICE BRAKES (5)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
- STRUCTURE (5)
- AIR BAGS (3)
- STEERING (3)
- VISIBILITY (2)
- SUSPENSION (2)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1)
- ENGINE (1)
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (1)
- SEATS (1)
- WHEELS (1)
Recall Overview
10
recalls on record
The 2024 Ford Ranger has 10 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
8.5
per 10k soldSegment avg: 7.2
Safety Incidents
Crashes
1
Fires
0
Injuries
1
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2024 Ford Ranger Recall Details
10 recalls have been issued for the 2024 Ford Ranger. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
VISIBILITY
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024 Ranger and 2024 Lincoln Nautilus vehicles. When closing the windows with the global closing feature, the windows may not automatically reverse after detecting an object. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems."
Consequence
A closing window may exert excessive force by pinching a driver or passenger before retracting, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will update the driver door module (DDM) and the passenger door module (PDM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 13, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C24.
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.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024 Bronco and Ranger vehicles. The bolts securing the high pressure fuel pump may not be tightened properly, which can result in a fuel leak.
Consequence
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the high pressure fuel pump mounting bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S90.
2024 Ford Ranger NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 27.9%
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 2024 Ford Ranger
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Test drive to check for unexpected drive mode changes
- Inspect brake pedal for excessive travel before engagement
- Check for distorted windshield visibility
- Verify availability of load box reinforcement brackets for bed rails
- Test steering for resistance or failure to return to center
- Check for any error messages related to steering assist
- Ensure rear window defroster does not cause glass damage
Check Any 2024 Ford Ranger's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2024 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.
2024 Ford Ranger Common Problems by Component
44 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
11 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the 2024 Ford Ranger's power train, particularly involving unexpected shifts into different drive modes without driver input. Complaints commonly describe the vehicle spontaneously switching from two-wheel drive to various four-wheel drive modes, including at highway speeds, which can unexpectedly alter handling and speed. Additionally, some owners experience transmission problems, such as the vehicle falling out of gear, difficulty downshifting, and delayed acceleration, often occurring at low speeds or during turns. These issues are reported at relatively low mileages, typically between 2,000 and 4,200 miles, and pose potential safety risks due to sudden changes in vehicle dynamics and the possibility of losing control. Buyers should be aware of these power train concerns when considering this model.
SERVICE BRAKES
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2024 Ford Ranger report issues with the braking system, including error codes related to safety systems and ABS malfunctions. Symptoms frequently mentioned include brake pedals that travel excessively before engaging and ABS systems that fail to slow the vehicle effectively, with one report of a crash occurring under these conditions. Complaints often arise at low mileages, such as 400 miles, with ongoing issues like excessive brake dust and rapid rear brake pad wear noted by some owners. Safety implications are highlighted by instances of near-accidents due to insufficient brake response and a crash involving ABS failure on a snow-covered road. These issues may be of particular concern to potential buyers assessing the vehicle's reliability and safety performance.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
5 complaintsOwners report several electrical system issues with the 2024 Ford Ranger. Complaints frequently mention malfunctioning steering wheel buttons and center console failures at startup. Some owners describe a loss of acceleration power, particularly during left turns, which causes a delay before the engine responds, posing potential safety risks when navigating hills or slick surfaces. Additionally, a few owners experience battery drainage after updates, leading to non-functional rear cameras, and incidents where the rear window shatters due to the rear defroster. These issues are noted at low mileages, around 30 miles in some cases, and can affect vehicle usability and safety features like adaptive cruise control.
STRUCTURE (5 complaints)
STRUCTURE
5 complaintsOwners of the 2024 Ford Ranger frequently report issues related to the vehicle's load box reinforcement bracket, which is missing in models manufactured in Michigan between January and July 2024. These complaints often describe the inability to support more than 88 pounds on the bed side rails without risk of structural failure, such as cracking or bending. The issue is noted at approximately 10,000 miles and is particularly concerning for those needing to install heavy accessories like bed covers or toppers. Several owners express safety concerns, noting the potential for bed failure to lead to collisions. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these structural limitations and the difficulty in obtaining the necessary reinforcement parts.
AIR BAGS (3 complaints)
AIR BAGS
3 complaintsOwners report issues with airbag recalls for the 2024 Ford Ranger, primarily involving delays in obtaining replacement parts. Complaints frequently mention difficulties in scheduling recall repairs due to unavailability of parts, despite receiving notifications that parts should be available. One owner describes a safety concern with insufficient clearance between the driver's knee airbag and the brake pedal, which can impede braking when wearing certain footwear. The safety implications include potential injury risk from malfunctioning airbags and compromised vehicle control due to the clearance issue. These problems are reported without specific mileage, but they highlight concerns about the vehicle's safety features and the effectiveness of recall processes.
STEERING (3 complaints)
STEERING
3 complaintsOwners of the 2024 Ford Ranger report issues primarily related to the steering system, with multiple complaints mentioning a "steering assist fault" message and the failure of power steering while driving. Symptoms described include difficulty turning the steering wheel, which becomes progressively harder at higher speeds and in colder conditions. One report describes an incident where the steering system unexpectedly turned the wheel, leading to a temporary loss of vehicle control on icy roads, but no crash occurred. Another complaint involves the vehicle's electrical systems, such as the speedometer and power ports, malfunctioning alongside steering issues. These problems are reported in new vehicles shortly after purchase, suggesting they may occur at low mileage. Safety implications include potential loss of control, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
VISIBILITY (2 complaints)
VISIBILITY
2 complaintsOwners of the 2024 Ford Ranger report issues related to windshield visibility. Complaints frequently mention distorted windshields that hinder visibility while driving, even after replacements are made. One owner reports the issue occurring at approximately 1,000 miles. There are no reports of crashes or loss of control directly linked to these visibility issues. Buyers should be aware that windshield distortion may persist despite multiple repairs, and the availability of replacement parts may be delayed.
SUSPENSION (2 complaints)
SUSPENSION
2 complaintsOwners report two main issues with the 2024 Ford Ranger's suspension. One owner describes a fluid leak in the shock absorber occurring at under 3,000 miles, indicating a potential early-life component failure. Another owner highlights a design limitation regarding the installation of aftermarket accessories, such as camper shells and truck racks, which requires a load bed reinforcement kit to prevent the truck bed from separating from the side rails if over 88 lbs is attached. This kit is not readily available and incurs additional costs. While there are no reports of crashes or loss of control, these issues may affect the vehicle's utility and long-term maintenance considerations.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the 2024 Ford Ranger related to throttle response and steering. Multiple owners describe experiencing a complete loss of throttle power for 3 to 5 seconds, particularly during turns and on inclines, which can be hazardous if other vehicles are following closely. This issue has been noted around 32,000 miles. Additionally, complaints frequently mention that the steering wheel sticks and fails to return to center after left turns, requiring significant effort to correct, starting from around 7,000 miles. Another reported concern involves the truck bed's load capacity, where the box rails are only rated to hold 80 pounds, necessitating additional brackets for heavier loads, which owners must purchase separately. These issues may impact vehicle safety and usability, especially for buyers considering used models.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaintI purchased a Ford Ranger truck with an EPA/NHTSA fuel economy label stating 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, 22 mpg combined. In reality, despite proper maintenance, the vehicle achieves only 16.26 mpg combined and as low as 14.72 mpg in city. While I understand fuel economy varies, this discrepancy is significant and may pose safety concerns. I relied on accurate fuel economy estimates to plan trips and refueling. This overstated MPG has lead me to unexpected fuel depletion, and stranding me in an unsafe condition (ran out of gas on HWY 287). I request NHTSA review whether Ford’s labeling practices meet regulatory standards and whether corrective action is warranted. I have taken the Ford Ranger to two different dealerships. One, Ford Automation, Frisco, Texas, refused to investigate what might be the issue, as they stated that was normal for the Ford Ranger. The second dealership, Five Star Ford, Dallas, Texas, reported in their tests they were averaging 26.1 mpg, combined. They did not tell me how they arrived at that figure. Your site would not allow me to upload fuel receipts to prove my statements above.
When Do 2024 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.
See full Ford Ranger years-to-avoid analysis →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 2024 Ford Ranger reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2024 Ford Ranger?
How many recalls does the 2024 Ford Ranger have?
Is the 2024 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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