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2019 Ford Ranger Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·2 Critical Recalls
2019 Ford Ranger Report

Overall Score

6.8/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Powertrain issues, especially with the 10-speed automatic transmission, are the primary concern, manifesting as rough shifting, hesitation, and potential unintended acceleration.
  • Electrical system faults and engine problems are also common, impacting lighting, HVAC, and overall engine performance.
  • With 20 recalls, ensure all safety campaigns, particularly those concerning the transmission shifter and engine block heater, have been addressed.
  • The brake system warrants close inspection due to reports of pedal travel issues and potential failures.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Ford Ranger

The 2019 Ford Ranger offers a capable truck platform, but used-car shoppers should proceed with caution. Its overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars is respectable, with a perfect 5-star score in side crash tests. However, a high number of recalls (20) and complaints (308) point to potential ownership challenges. The most frequently cited problems revolve around the powertrain, electrical system, and engine. Given the documented issues, particularly with the transmission, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is non-negotiable.

Critical Failure Risk

The 10-speed automatic transmission (10R80) is a frequent source of complaints, manifesting as harsh gear changes, delayed engagement, and slipping.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$3,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls20
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

308
Power Train70
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
18
MPG
City
19
MPG
Highway
18
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.3/ 10

Practicality

2.9/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers who prioritize utility and are willing to undertake rigorous pre-purchase inspections.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Risk-averse buyers or those seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Ford Ranger Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Ford Ranger.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
4
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Pickup
EPA Combined MPG
18

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 70 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 33 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
20 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Ford Ranger reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Ford Ranger is 7.3/10. Reliability score is 7.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 20. Owner complaints: 308.

How practical is the 2019 Ford Ranger for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 2.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG. Seating capacity is 4.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Ford Ranger?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Ford Ranger is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 2.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Ford Ranger?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $900. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (10R80) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,000 • Max: $3,500).

What engine is in the 2019 Ford Ranger?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.3.

What transmission does the 2019 Ford Ranger use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Ford Ranger, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Ford Ranger?▾

EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Ford Ranger?▾

10 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Ford Ranger?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Ford Ranger, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2019 Ford Ranger?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Ford Ranger, body style is pickup.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Ford Ranger use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Ford Ranger, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Ford Ranger?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 3/5.

Is the 2019 Ford Ranger good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. This guide provides a comprehensive look at modifying and tuning the 2019 Ford Ranger, focusing on the US market.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2019 Ford Ranger?▾

Top complaint category: power train (70 reports, 22.7% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Ford Ranger?▾

This model year has 20 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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