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You really can’t go wrong with the Ford Ranger. It’s capable, stocked with features, and reasonably priced for a pickup truck. But how many miles can you actually expect the Ford Ranger to last? Let’s find out.

Updated: 9/14

2021 Ford Ranger in the dirt
2021 Ford Ranger | Ford

Is the Ford Ranger a reliable truck?

Unfortunately, there’s no beating around the bush here. The Ford Ranger gets some mixed ratings when it comes to reliability. According to Consumer Reports, this year’s model earned itself a two out of five predicted reliability rating, which is fairly disappointing. Fortunately, last year’s model earned a much higher rating of four out of five. But the year before that? Consumer Reports gave the Ranger a one out of five reliability rating.

The good news is that the Ford Ranger earned better ratings from both J.D. Power and Repair Pal. J.D. Power reports that the 2021 model earned a ‘Great’ quality and reliability rating. Meanwhile, Repair Pal gave this year’s new model an ‘Above Average’ reliability rating. Repair Pal added that major repairs are relatively uncommon for the Ranger.

What are the most common Ford Ranger problems?

Now, we’ve already established that major repairs aren’t all that common for the Ford Ranger. That’s not to say that current owners of this year’s model have some complaints, which according to Consumer Reports, they most certainly do. In fact, based on Consumer Reports’ data, the most common Ranger problems include issues with its climate control system and its in-car electronics.

Several owners of the Ranger have also reported problems with the truck to Repair Pal. According to Repair Pal, the most common problems include the truck misfiring at highway speeds, problems with idling, and issues with the truck’s camshaft. A small number of owners also reported experiencing issues with the Ranger’s check engine light.

How many miles you can expect the Ranger to last

Trucks aren’t made to last forever. But, most pickup trucks are made to last for a fair amount of time. Fortunately, the new Ford Ranger is one of those trucks. According to Motor and Wheels, you can count on the Ranger to last up to 300,000 miles.

But here’s the thing. Reaching that 300,000-mile mark isn’t going to be easy. In fact, while Motor and Wheel report that the Ranger can make it to 300,000 miles, odds are not all Ranger models are going to accomplish such a feat.

You might be asking yourself then, how can you ensure that your Ranger is able to go the distance? Well, according to Consumer Reports, it all comes down to regularly scheduled maintenance. “Even missing one oil change can contribute to premature engine wear or cause damage and reduce the chances of your car remaining reliable for long,” Consumer Reports explains.

2021 Ford Ranger in the mud
2021 Ford Ranger | Ford

Does the Ford Ranger last longer than other trucks?

The Ranger isn’t the only pickup that’s able to go the distance. In fact, according to iSee Cars, there are several pickups capable of lasting for 200,000 miles or more. Among those models are the Honda Ridgeline, the Toyota Tundra, the Toyota Tacoma, the Chevy Silverado, and the Ford F-150. So if you’re after a long-lasting pickup truck? You’ve got plenty of options to choose from.