The Ranger nameplate has been featuring in Ford's local line-up for a long time and has subsequently gained a reputation for its reliability and value. Now that the American automaker has revealed its plans for a new model to be launched soon, some might be considering a used Ford Ranger for their next vehicle.
For this article, we focussed our attention on the 2021 Ford Ranger model of which there are a variety of derivatives ranging from the more refined all the way to the more utilitarian. Using reputable sources, let us take a look at some key aspects of the Ford Ranger to determine whether or not it will be a good choice as a used vehicle.
Related: What is the difference between Ford Ranger and Ford Ranger Wildtrak
Quality and reliability
Where better to find out about a specific vehicle's quality and reliability than from verified owners. Using a JD Power survey completed by thousands of verified Ford Ranger owners, we can determine that the model is well-built and reliable. The Ford Ranger scored an impressive 85 out of a possible 100 for quality and reliability, taking into consideration the level of defects or malfunctions experienced anywhere in the vehicle, from the engine to the infotainment system.
Even should something go wrong, the initial purchase price of the vehicle included a 4-year / 120 000 km warranty, a 6-year 90 000 km service plan and a 5-year anti-corrosion warranty. Most of these should be still in effect provided the used model you purchase has not been modified mechanically and or hasn't been driven more than the stipulated range. The vehicle also had to be serviced at the correct intervals. To find out more about the vehicle history of a Ford Ranger you are considering, obtain the VIN number and visit the AutoTrader Vehicle Check page here.
Safety and comfort
The more premium Ranger derivatives such as the XLT, FX4, Stormtrak and Raptor all incorporate no less than seven airbags as standard specifications. However, other safety items such as the ABS brakes, stability and traction control as well as hill start assist will feature throughout the range up until the XL trim level. In the same owner's survey as above, the Ford Ranger scored an impressive 72 out of a potential 100. This score was mostly affected by the comfort levels of the rear bench and the difficulty of entering the rear of the double-cab derivatives.
Related: Find a used Ford Ranger on AutoTrader here
Local production
One of the best aspects of the Ford Ranger is that it is produced locally. This of course results in many spares and components being available at reasonable prices should the used Ranger model you are considering no longer retain a warranty or service plan.
Verdict
Based on the results listed above and the practicality of the Ford Ranger model, we can confidently say that a used Ford Ranger is a good car provided it was taken care of by the previous owner and has completed all the services at the correct intervals. Find a used Ford Ranger model on AutoTrader here.
