Are They Still Making Ford Rangers – Current Production Status
Yes, Ford is currently producing the Ranger, having recently launched a completely redesigned fifth-generation model for the North American market. This guide provides a deep dive into the latest truck updates, maintenance essentials for DIY mechanics, and off-road performance specs for the modern adventurer.
If you have been looking at mid-size trucks lately, you might be confused by the Ranger’s history of disappearing and reappearing. You are likely wondering if the truck is still in production or if it has been replaced by the Maverick or F-150.
The good news is that the Ranger is not only still being made, but it is currently more capable than ever before. This article will walk you through the latest generation, including the high-performance Raptor and the essential maintenance steps every owner should know.
We will cover everything from engine specs and towing capacities to common DIY fixes and off-road setups. By the end of this guide, you will understand exactly where the Ranger stands in the current automotive landscape and how to keep one running perfectly.
are they still making ford rangers? The Current State of Ford’s Mid-Size Pickup
The short answer is a resounding yes, as Ford recently debuted the all-new 2024 model year Ranger. This marks the beginning of a new generation for the North American market, bringing it in line with global versions of the truck.
The question of are they still making ford rangers often stems from the truck’s eight-year hiatus in the United States between 2011 and 2019. During that time, Ford focused on the F-150, but the demand for mid-size pickups eventually brought the nameplate back to the Michigan Assembly Plant.
Today, the Ranger occupies a vital spot in Ford’s lineup, sitting right between the compact Maverick and the full-size F-150. It serves as the “Goldilocks” option for those who need real truck capability without the massive footprint of a half-ton pickup.
The current production focuses on a more aggressive stance, improved interior technology, and a wider track for better stability. Ford has committed significant resources to this platform, ensuring it remains a staple for the foreseeable future.
The 2024 Redesign: What has Changed?
The latest iteration of the Ranger features a 2-inch longer wheelbase and a 2-inch wider track compared to the previous generation. This change allows for more interior room and a more stable ride when navigating off-road trails or hauling heavy loads.
Inside the cabin, the old button-heavy dashboard has been replaced by a massive vertical touchscreen running the SYNC 4A system. This update brings the Ranger into the modern era, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features.
The exterior styling now mimics the “C-clamp” headlight design found on the F-150 and the Maverick. This creates a cohesive look across the Ford truck family while maintaining the Ranger’s unique athletic proportions.
Evolution of the Ranger: From the 1980s to the Modern Era
To understand why people still ask are they still making ford rangers, we have to look at its storied history. The Ranger first appeared in 1983 as a replacement for the Mazda-built Ford Courier, quickly becoming a favorite for DIYers.
For nearly three decades, the Ranger was known as a simple, rugged, and affordable workhorse that was easy to fix in a home driveway. Many of those first and second-generation trucks are still on the road today, thanks to their over-engineered engines and simple chassis.
The 2011 cancellation left a void that was eventually filled by the fourth-generation “T6” Ranger in 2019. While that model was a success, it was technically an older global design that Ford adapted for the U.S. market.
The current 2024 model represents the first time in years that the North American Ranger is truly “cutting edge.” It balances the utilitarian roots of the original with the comfort and safety expectations of today’s drivers.
The Global vs. Domestic Split
It is worth noting that while the Ranger left the U.S. for a few years, it never stopped production globally. In markets like Australia, Thailand, and Europe, the Ranger remained a dominant force in the one-ton pickup segment.
This global presence is a benefit for domestic owners because it means parts availability is generally excellent. Many aftermarket companies produce off-road gear for the Ranger that is tested in the harsh Australian Outback before reaching our shores.
This international heritage also means the truck’s frame and suspension are designed to handle extreme environments. Whether you are desert racing or commuting in the snow, the Ranger’s global DNA provides a robust foundation.
Key Specs and Performance of the Newest Ranger Generation
The heart of the modern Ranger is the 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, which has proven itself to be a reliable powerhouse. It produces 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.
For those who need more grunt, Ford now offers the 2.7L EcoBoost V6, a motor borrowed from the F-150 and Bronco. This engine bumps the performance to 315 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, making it a class leader in power-to-weight ratio.
Towing remains a strong suit for the Ranger, with a maximum capacity of 7,500 pounds when properly equipped. This is enough to pull a medium-sized travel trailer or a flatbed with a pair of motorcycles or an ATV.
Payload capacity is also impressive, hovering around 1,800 pounds depending on the specific trim and configuration. This makes the Ranger a perfect choice for weekend warriors who need to haul lumber or mulch from the hardware store.
Transmission and Drivetrain Options
The 10R80 10-speed transmission is designed to keep the engine in its power band while maximizing fuel efficiency. While some early versions had software quirks, the latest iterations offer smooth shifts and quick response times.
Buyers can choose between 4×2 and 4×4 configurations, with the 4×4 models featuring an electronic shift-on-the-fly transfer case. Higher trims offer an electronic locking rear differential, which is essential for maintaining traction in slippery or uneven terrain.
Off-Roading and the Arrival of the Ranger Raptor
For the first time ever, Ford is bringing the Ranger Raptor to the North American market, answering years of enthusiast prayers. This truck is a factory-built desert runner designed to take high-speed abuse that would break a standard pickup.
The Raptor features a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 pumping out 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. It sits on FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve internal bypass shocks that adjust their damping rates in real-time based on the terrain.
Standard features on the Raptor include 33-inch all-terrain tires, front and rear locking differentials, and a reinforced frame. It is a turn-key off-roader that allows you to drive from the showroom floor directly to the trail.
Even if you don’t opt for the Raptor, the FX4 Off-Road package is available on standard trims. This package adds skid plates, tuned shocks, and the Terrain Management System to help you navigate sand, mud, or ruts.
Building Your Own Off-Road Ranger
The Ranger is a fantastic platform for DIYers who want to build a custom overlanding or trail rig. A simple leveling kit can provide enough clearance for larger tires without compromising the factory ride quality.
Upgrading to high-quality all-terrain tires is the single most effective modification you can make for off-road performance. Look for tires with a “Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake” rating if you plan on driving in heavy winter conditions.
Adding a set of rock sliders is another smart move for those who frequent rocky trails. These protect your door sills and body panels from expensive damage when pivoting around obstacles.
DIY Maintenance: Keeping Your Modern Ranger on the Road
Modern trucks are complex, but the Ranger is still relatively accessible for the weekend mechanic. Regular oil changes are the most important task, and the 2.3L engine uses a top-mounted oil filter for easy access.
Always use the recommended 5W-30 full synthetic oil to protect the turbocharger bearings from heat and friction. It is also wise to check your engine air filter every 10,000 miles, especially if you drive in dusty environments.
The cabin air filter is another easy DIY project that often gets overlooked by owners. Replacing it once a year ensures your HVAC system stays efficient and the air inside your truck stays clean.
For those who tow frequently, keeping an eye on the transmission fluid and differential oil is crucial. While Ford claims these are “lifetime” fluids, many experts recommend changing them every 60,000 miles for added longevity.
Essential Tools for Ranger Owners
If you plan on doing your own work, a quality OBD-II scanner is a must-have tool for diagnosing check engine lights. Many modern scanners can even perform “battery resets” which are required when you replace the battery in newer Fords.
A set of metric sockets and wrenches will cover 90% of the fasteners on the Ranger chassis. You will also want a torque wrench to ensure your lug nuts and suspension bolts are tightened to factory specifications.
Don’t forget a set of trim removal tools if you plan on upgrading the speakers or adding accessories to the interior. These plastic tools prevent you from scratching the dashboard or breaking the delicate plastic clips.
Common Troubleshooting and Reliability Concerns
While the Ranger is generally reliable, no vehicle is without its quirks, and knowing what to look for can save you money. Some owners of the previous generation reported transmission shudder, which was often solved with a software update or a fluid flush.
Direct-injection engines like the EcoBoost can sometimes suffer from carbon buildup on the intake valves over time. Using high-quality fuel and occasional specialized intake cleaners can help mitigate this issue before it affects performance.
Check your battery health regularly, as the complex electronics in modern Rangers can be sensitive to voltage drops. If you notice your auto start-stop feature stops working, it is often a sign that your battery is beginning to fail.
Always inspect your CV boots and suspension bushings if you spend a lot of time off-road. Torn boots can lead to expensive axle failures if dirt and water are allowed to enter the joint.
When to Call a Professional
While DIY work is rewarding, some tasks on a modern truck are best left to a licensed technician with specialized equipment. Anything involving the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), like camera calibration, requires Ford-specific software.
Major transmission internal work or deep engine diagnostics involving the turbocharger system can also be incredibly complex. If you encounter a “Limp Mode” situation, it is usually safer to have a pro scan the system with a high-end diagnostic tool.
Safety-critical items like brake line flares or steering rack replacements should only be attempted if you have extensive experience. When in doubt, prioritize your safety and the safety of others on the road by seeking professional help.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing Between New and Used Rangers
If you are convinced that the answer to are they still making ford rangers is a green light for your next purchase, you have a choice to make. Buying new gives you the latest tech and a full factory warranty, but used models offer great value.
A used 2019-2023 Ranger is a solid choice for those who want a proven powertrain at a lower price point. These trucks share many mechanical components with the new model, making parts easy to find for years to come.
The new 2024 model is the way to go if you want the vastly improved interior and the available V6 engine. It also offers better resale value in the short term as the newest body style on the market.
Regardless of which you choose, always check the service history and look for signs of heavy off-road abuse or frame damage. A well-maintained Ranger can easily cross the 200,000-mile mark with proper care.
Frequently Asked Questions About are they still making ford rangers
Is the Ford Ranger being discontinued in 2024?
No, the Ford Ranger is not being discontinued; in fact, Ford has just released an entirely new generation for 2024. This new model includes updated styling, new engine options, and the first-ever Ranger Raptor for the U.S. market.
What is the difference between a Ford Ranger and a Ford Maverick?
The Ranger is a mid-size, body-on-frame truck designed for towing and off-roading, while the Maverick is a compact, unibody pickup. The Ranger offers higher towing capacities and more traditional truck capabilities compared to the car-based Maverick.
Does the new Ford Ranger have a V6 engine?
Yes, for the 2024 model year, the Ford Ranger offers two different V6 options: a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 and a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (exclusive to the Raptor). The standard engine remains the reliable 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder.
Where is the Ford Ranger currently manufactured?
For the North American market, the Ford Ranger is manufactured at the Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan. Globally, it is produced in several locations, including Thailand, South Africa, and Argentina.
Is the Ford Ranger a good truck for off-roading?
The Ranger is considered one of the best platforms for off-roading in the mid-size segment due to its narrow width and strong torque. With the addition of the Raptor trim, it is now a top-tier competitor for high-speed desert driving and technical trails.
Summary and Final Thoughts
The answer to are they still making ford rangers is a definitive yes, and the future looks bright for this iconic pickup. Whether you are a DIY mechanic looking for a project or an off-roader seeking a trail-ready rig, the Ranger delivers.
By staying on top of your regular maintenance and understanding the capabilities of your specific trim, you can enjoy years of reliable service. The Ranger continues to prove that you don’t need a massive truck to do big work.
We hope this guide has given you the confidence to either buy or maintain your Ford Ranger with expertise. Remember to always use the right tools, follow safety protocols, and enjoy the freedom that a capable mid-size truck provides.
Stay safe on the road, keep your fluids topped off, and we will see you out on the trails!
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