Buying a used Ford Ranger

Since 1982, The Ford Ranger has been sold all over the world across the compact and mid-size pickup category. With four generations, the model appeared on the UK and European market in 1998, and pioneeringly, Ford introduced a 65-mile range electric Ranger in the same year (which was discontinued in 2002). Check out our guide on the Ford Ranger models, engines, trims, which you should choose and what to look out for.

What models are available?

On the used car market, you’re most likely to find the third and fourth generation models. From 2011 to 2020, the third generation Ranger (Mk3) had a five-star safety rating, was praised for high performance, better technology and an all-new chunkier look. The most recent Ford Ranger comes in a variety of colours from Race Red to Blue Lightening, allows drivers to switch between four and two-wheel drive and has a max vehicle length of 5,282mm.

The Mk3 had two engine choices:

• 2.2L TDCi Diesel: Four-cylinder engine in six-speed manual or automatic with 158bhp, 31.7mpg and a towing capacity of 1.8 tonnes.
• 3.2L TDCi Diesel: Four-cylinder engine in six-speed manual or automatic with 197bhp, 34mpg and a towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes.

Despite diesel being out of fashion, it suits a pickup truck, and is the only fuel type offered on the Ford Ranger:

• 2.0L EcoBlue Diesel: Available in 10-speed automatic or six-speed manual and three different powertrains, with up to 213PS of horsepower and 500 Nm of torque.
• 3.2 litre diesel engine which was discontinued in early 2020

The current Ford Ranger has five trim levels and alternative models with the most popular being:

• Ford Ranger XL: The entry-level model features FordPass Connect™, 4G Wi-Fi hotspot, pre-collision assist, and automatic emergency breaking.
• Ford Ranger XLT: This trim has automatic temperature control, Ford SYNC® infotainment and a Ford Co-Pilot360™ safety package, which includes a blind spot information, cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist and pre-collision assist.
• Ford Ranger Limited: The Limited offers a leather-wrapped steering wheel, quick clear heated windscreen, rear view camera, cruise control and navigation.
• Ford Ranger Stormtrak: Drivers can choose the distinctive ‘Rapid Red, Frozen White or Lightening Blue paintwork, with 18” black alloys for all-terrain tyres, full-colour touchscreen, navigation, parking sensor and a reversing camera.

The Ranger also has different cab styles and options packs:

• Regular Cab: This style is stripped back to suit commercial use with no rear seats giving it an extended load bed with 1252kg payload.
• Chassis Cab: This is a single-cab design for the conversion market which will tow 3,500kg. It’s designed to suit utility companies, emergency services and construction.
• Super Cab: This style has a second row of seats for two additional passengers.
• Double Cab: Like the Super Cab, you can fit two passengers in this style. The second row has even more space for added comfort and storage space.
• Packs: Drivers can add a Tachograph Prep Pack, Trailer Tow Pack, Spray In Load Box Bedliner and extras like a Locking Rear Axle, Spare Wheel Lock and Locking Wheel Nuts.

Which Ford Ranger should you choose?

As the Ford Ranger is designed for commercial use, the trim level, cab style and option packs you choose depend on the requirements of your job. All the Ford Ranger’s give drivers an elevated seat, have a powerful engine, come with ample storage and impressive towing power. If style is important to you, the Ford Ranger Stormtrak has a striking look and is packed with helpful features.

What should you look out for in a used Ford Ranger?

The Ford Ranger Mk3 has had two recalls in the last five years and 10 in the last 10 years and the newer generation has had no recalls.

• Brakes: 28780 vehicles between 2017 and 2019 were affected by ruptured front brake hoses. A new, redesigned brake hose needed to be fitted to resolve it.
• Transmission fluid pump: 6330 vehicles between 2017 and 2020 were affected by the transmission fluid pump gear failing. To fix it, the Transmission Control Module (TCM) and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software needed to be updated.
• Mass airflow sensor: If the car is slow to respond or you have difficulty starting, it may be linked to a fault with this sensor. Ask the retailer what checks the car has gone through before buying.
• Automatics: Some automatic Ranger’s had an issue where they switched from sixth to first because of an incorrect signal from the automatic transmission. If buying an automatic, check whether this has been investigated.

SPOTiCAR part exchange programme

If you’re looking to part exchange your Ford Ranger, we can give you a free estimate in just a few clicks. Use our online tool to fill in a few details, including your vehicle registration, to get an instant estimate and one sent direct to your email. Once you’re happy with the price, simply find your closest retailer to book in for an appointment. Our experts can give you a firm offer, provide you finance options for your Ford Ranger and take you through the next steps.