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2021 Ford Ranger Owner Complaints

Updated May 30, 20262 Critical Recalls
Daniel Wilson

Complaint Summary

The 2021 Ford Ranger has 124 reported complaints.

  • Top issues involve power train and service brakes.

Reliability Score

Reliability Score

6.7/ 10

Based on 124 complaints

Most Frequent Issues

POWER TRAIN

34 27.4%

SERVICE BRAKES

13 10.5%

ENGINE

10 8.1%

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

7 5.6%

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

6 4.8%

Quick Insights

  • The top category is POWER TRAIN, accounting for 27.4% of all complaints.

  • Owners have reported issues across 34 distinct vehicle systems.

  • Note: Complaint data reflects owner reports and may not always indicate a verified defect. Compare with Recalls and TSBs for a complete picture.

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Complaint Summary

What owners keep reporting on the 2021 Ford Ranger

The 2021 Ford Ranger has 124 owner complaints in this dataset. POWER TRAIN is the most common complaint category, representing about 27% of the reports shown here.

Most common complaint categories

The top complaint groups for the 2021 Ford Ranger are POWER TRAIN (34), SERVICE BRAKES (13), ENGINE (10).

Are these complaints a serious red flag?

Potentially. 47 complaint reports involve higher-attention systems like brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components, which is enough to justify a focused inspection.

What should buyers inspect on a used 2021 Ford Ranger?

Start with the top complaint systems, compare them against the recall report, then inspect service records for evidence that those same areas were already repaired or monitored.

Read the full buyer guideRecall report and remedy notesMaintenance costs and intervals2020 Ranger complaints2022 Ranger complaints2019 Ranger complaints

Detailed Complaint Log

Showing 34 of 34 systems

POWER TRAIN

34 Reports27% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

There is gasoline in my oil. I had an oil analysis from a lab, and they confirmed there is too much gasoline in my oil.

11/30/2022

On multiple occasions the transmission has slipped when changing gears .This has happened when trying to merge into traffic . One time almost causing someone to rear-end me . It also fails to downshift some times when stopping , causing me to brake much harder than normal . I will be taking it to the dealer soon , to see if this can be fixed . These issues can be a little scary at times . There have been no warning lights or messages . This has happened at least a dozen times now . The first incident with the transmission I think started in 10/2022 . it was sporadic at first , but seems to happen almost daily now .

1/2/2023

32 more complaints are available in this category.

SERVICE BRAKES

13 Reports10% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2021 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, EXCESSIVE EFFORT WAS NEEDED WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO WEST HERR FORD OF HAMBURG (5025 CAMP RD, HAMBURG, NY 14075) WHERE A SERVICE MANAGER ACKNOWLEDGED THE BRAKE FAILURE AND STATED THAT HE WOULD ALERT THE MANUFACTURER OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO REACH THE MANUFACTURER HIMSELF HOWEVER, HE WAS UNSUCCESSFUL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50.*DT CONSUMER SAYS THAT WHEN DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL IT TAKES AT LEAST 2 INCHES BEFORE THE BRAKES APPLY. THIS CAUSES THE BRAKE PEDAL TO GO BELOW THE GAS PEDAL. ALSO, CONSUMER STATES THAT VEHICLE CAN BE SHIFTED OUT OF PARK WITHOUT THE BRAKE PEDAL BEING APPLIED. THIS CAUSES THE VEHICLE TO LUNGE FORWARD.

3/25/2021

Brake pedal travel is excessive, similar to a much older vehicle. Brakes to not slow the vehicle until you press past the gas pedal, which introduces significant risk as the driver often simultaneously presses the gas pedal when making emergency or even normal stops and because this requires you to sit closer to the steering wheel than normal so you can reach the very long travel of the brake pedal, even if you are tall like me. Braking with even a moderate weight trailer requires very heavy depressing of the brake pedal to the point where you expend all travel and still don't feel as if you're slowing down as quickly as a modern vehicle should. My 2002 Chevy Tahoe with 210K miles had better brake performance than this 2021 truck. Brake pedal has heavy resistance during initial travel but no stopping power until 1/2 way through full travel range and there is almost no fidelity for slow, controlled braking after that. Worst of all, the brake pedal, which is electronically connected to trail management features, has a tendency to want to sink to the floor when you've stopped and/or there's a feeling that something is vibrating or trying to control the pedal when you are stopped. Additionally, even slight movement of the brake pedal causes the engine to start even though there's no reason for doing so as the vehicle is still stationary. THIS BRAKE PEDAL IS NOT SOMETHING YOU GET USED TO. I FEEL UNSAFE AND HAVE ALMOST REAR ENDED VEHICLES NUMEROUS TIMES... EVENTUALLY IT WILL HAPPEN! THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED IN A RECALL IMMEDIATELY!!!

8/29/2021

11 more complaints are available in this category.

ENGINE

10 Reports8% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

After driving a 700 mile round-trip, I got home and parked my vehicle in my garage. It have a strong smell of fuel and oil mix what's your is exceedingly strong the next morning when I woke up and went into the garage. I pulled the oil dipstick out, the level was 2 inches higher than normal and it reeked of gasoline. I went to my local Ford dealer at Palmbay Florida service manager told me Ford is aware of this problem and has no idea what is causing it but they will replace some stuff on the vehicle but I'm not certain that will fix it. There are a number of Ford Ranger owners at https://www.ranger5g.com/ who have fuel in the oil issues. This issue goes back to the 2019 models.

11/9/2021

The engine has a squeaking noise, unknown where it is from. The noise is upon start up and while driving, I do not know if the issue will lead to engine failure. Which if the engine locks up and cause drivability failure.

11/27/2022

8 more complaints are available in this category.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

7 Reports6% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

When using the steering wheel button to go from AM/FM/USB/Bluetooth/Sirius, the display stops at the first Sirius station asking to either subscribe or close. This causes the driver to have to take his/her eyes off the road to close the screen. It happens three times in a row, once for each Sirius band, and has caused me to hard brake twice so far. Sirius says it's a Ford issue and Ford does not deny it but does not have a solution. Customer perception is that Ford cares more about the kickback they get from Sirius that they do about customer safety. It has not caused an accident yet, but if others have the same issue then it's hard to believe that no one else is complaining. Shame on Ford.

4/3/2022

The two rear brake rotors were 75% rusted through, this truck only had 5,642 miles on it at the time. Brake pedal was soft, went to the floor to stop. Asked local ford dealer to look at and they wanted to charge me for two rear rotors and brake shoes. I informed them that I thought this would be a factory defect, they determined it wasn’t. This was unexceptable to me. So I took it to dealership where I purchased truck and they agreed that this was a factory defect and replaced. The only reason I’m writing you is due to all the complaints listed on your site for this truck, not one issue about rusted (badly) rotors. Unless this is an issue but just not being found.? I did read quite a few complaints about soft brake pedals though

8/8/2024

5 more complaints are available in this category.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

6 Reports5% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

Driver side rear door constantly shows as ajar and triggers alarm, even when firmly closed. Unsure if cause is improperly fit body work or electrical components but nothing fixes it and dealer doesn't have time to look at it. I am unable to lock the truck or the alarm WILL sound and drain my battery because of the left passenger door.

6/1/2021

As I was pulling out of Zip's Car into a parking spot to vacuum truck. I was barely moving when the truck accelerated at a high rate of speed and hit the wall in front of me. It was like the truck had a mind of its own. I just knew I wasn't doing it. If someone had been walking in front of me it would have killed them. My air bag did not come out. My chest hit the steering wheel very hard. The police showed up and did a report. I did not get a ticket. The truck was towed and looked over. There was so much damage to the truck it was totaled. I can't believe this happened to me. I wouldn't want this to happen to anyone. It was a very scary experience.

6/27/2022

4 more complaints are available in this category.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

6 Reports5% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while his wife was pulling into a parking space at approximately 5 MPH with the brake pedal depressed, the vehicle independently accelerated and crashed into the building. The contact stated that there was a camera view which showed that the brake lights were illuminated during the failure. The contact stated that the driver’s side air bag deployed. There were no injuries sustained. The contact was concerned that the Forward Collision Avoidance System failed to operate as designed. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The contact was informed that the body damage needed to be repaired before a failure cause could be determined. The contact was concerned that if the sensors were replaced prior to the diagnostic test that possible codes would be erased. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 3,000.

11/24/2021

Ford Ranger XLT VIN [XXX] Ford File CAS [XXX] opened 02/08/23 Contact: [XXX], [XXX] Ext [XXX] Acceleration Incidents on trips between Mobile and Dallas. 1. Vehicle purchased March, 2021. Current mileage 6400 +/- 2. In July, 2022, after driving 6 hours at interstate speeds using cruise control, we exited interstate and drove secondary streets to hotel. On entering parking lot we idled toward parking space and I applied brake to slow and throttle went wide open. I braked and shifted to neutral to stop forward motion. No recurrence on remainder of trip to Mobile or in subsequent city driving. 3. On 02/04/23, after driving 6 hours at interstate speeds using cruise control, we exited interstate and drove secondary streets to hotel. On entering parking lot, we paused with engine running to punch in gate number. When gate opened, we idled forwarded toward parking space. I touched brake to slow and throttle went wide open. I applied brakes and shifted into neutral. 4. On 02/05/23, we left hotel and stopped for gas. We drove four hours at interstate speed, intentionally without using cruise control. After exiting interstate, we drove to apartment and stopped at entrance with engine running before idling through parking lot gate. I touched brake to slow and throttle went wide open. Applying brakes did not stop truck and I shifted into neutral and turned off ignition. At least three nearly identical incidents found reported on internet dating from 10/2020, at least one of which Ford opened file on. Dealer Five Star Ford, Dallas, Tx. could not duplicate SUA but did not drive vehicle for 4-6 hours at interstate speeds to duplicate conditions. Ford closed file on warranty claim. Vehicle sold to dealer. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

3/30/2023

4 more complaints are available in this category.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

6 Reports5% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The critical level of FUEL DILUTION (Fuel% = 5.5) in the motor oil of this vehicle's 2.3L EcoBoost engine poses a Safety Hazard due to its system's Fuel Leaks and Fire Danger probability existing since the vehicle purchase. I am concerned for the safety of everyone because this vehicle has been evaluated to be a Fire Hazard with 104.5C via ASTM D93 Closed Cup Flash Point. The Motorcraft's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is listed as >185C. Ford Motor Company (FMC) inspected the vehicle numerous times but safety issues remain. For this reason, I took it out of service and parked at my residence until this problem would be resolved entirely in according with the law. The vehicle mustn't be driven on its power.

6/15/2024

Water leaks into spark plug wells causing vehicle to lose power no cover is over the sparkplugs

7/31/2024

4 more complaints are available in this category.

STRUCTURE:BODY

3 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

Driver side rear door constantly shows as ajar and triggers alarm, even when firmly closed. Unsure if cause is improperly fit body work or electrical components but nothing fixes it and dealer doesn't have time to look at it. I am unable to lock the truck or the alarm WILL sound and drain my battery because of the left passenger door.

6/1/2021

As I was pulling out of Zip's Car into a parking spot to vacuum truck. I was barely moving when the truck accelerated at a high rate of speed and hit the wall in front of me. It was like the truck had a mind of its own. I just knew I wasn't doing it. If someone had been walking in front of me it would have killed them. My air bag did not come out. My chest hit the steering wheel very hard. The police showed up and did a report. I did not get a ticket. The truck was towed and looked over. There was so much damage to the truck it was totaled. I can't believe this happened to me. I wouldn't want this to happen to anyone. It was a very scary experience.

6/27/2022

1 more complaint is available in this category.

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL

3 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

2021 FORD RANGER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO SAFETY RECALL RELATED TO CRUISE CONTROL FEATURE. THE CONSUMER FEELS AS THOUGH THE CRUISE CONTROL FEATURE PUTS HIM TOO CLOSE EVEN IN THE 4BAR RANGE SETTING .

10/20/2022

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle and shifting into drive(D), the messages “Pre-collision Assist Not Available" and "Cruise Control Not Available" were displayed. Additionally, the passenger’s side air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by a local dealer or an independent mechanic. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 19,000.

5/7/2024

1 more complaint is available in this category.

STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

2 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

Door ajar warning stays on despite checking and ensuring the doors are all closed. Indicating front passenger door only at this time

6/6/2021

On numerous occasions, the "rear drivers side door ajar" warning shows on the dash and the lights inside the truck stay on even when i have not used the rear drivers side door but only the front drivers side door. Vehicle currently has 754 miles on it. Bought brand new.

6/16/2021

LANE DEPARTURE: WARNING

2 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

Lane departure features is excessive. I've twice now had to make an emergency lane change to avoid an accident occurring in front of me and the lane keep assist almost forced me back into the lane and potentially causing me to get in an accident. I have had to turn this feature off entirely, which means I do not benefit from it in normal conditions. The only way to deactivate the lane keep assist when changing lanes is to use a turn signal. You cannot use a turn signal in emergency situations where it's either you quickly change lanes or you get in an accident at high speed on the highway. No, I'm not tailgating... the reality is this stuff happens and these "safety" solutions that take control of the steering wheel are not safe if they cannot tell there's an emergency situation happening. I cannot have the steering wheel resisting my input when I'm avoiding an accident. I need full control. This is poorly designed.

8/29/2021

Several warning lights, which included: ABS failure, Parking Assist Failure, Lane Avoidance Failure, Traction Control Failure, as well as having steering difficulty. ( mileage 24500 ). The problem was found by dealer to be an eletrical connector underneath the vehicle at the mid point, with their belief that it was corrosion, which I believe to be a defective component and design. I contacted Ford but they were not interested in retrevale of the connector, so as to diagnose the failure. ( I am keeping the connector )

6/23/2025

WHEELS

2 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while reversing or making a turn, the front driver's side tire would rub the inside of the wheel well. The contact works for the dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The manufacturer referred the contact to file a complaint with NHTSA. The failure mileage was approximately 14.

12/10/2021

It wearing tires on the inside quicker the it should. The dealer aligned and said it was with in specs.

1/14/2025

TIRES

2 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while reversing or making a turn, the front driver's side tire would rub the inside of the wheel well. The contact works for the dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The manufacturer referred the contact to file a complaint with NHTSA. The failure mileage was approximately 14.

12/10/2021

Tire Failed on highway, at approx 60 MPH. Tire pressure instantly went to zero. No debris, or road issues. Tread completely separated from sidewall. Original tires that came from factory. No nails or damage noted to tread Unknown tire size, tire and vehicle at dealership, should be standard for that truck

10/3/2022

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

2 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns the 2021 Ford Ranger. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, he started to smell smoke inside the vehicle. While stopped at a traffic light, the contact noticed smoke coming from under the hood, and then flames started rising from underneath the hood. Another driver also had pulled up to notify him that his vehicle was on fire. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact was able to safely pull off the roadway and he and his passenger exited the vehicle. The fire department arrived on the scene and extinguished the fire. The contact’s girlfriend experienced smoke inhalation however, no medical treatment was needed. There were no physical injuries to either the driver or passenger. A fire report was filed. The contact stated that the fire originated on the opposite side of the battery and most likely was not caused by an electrical failure. The vehicle was towed to a body shop and then to the local dealer. The vehicle was not yet diagnosed nor repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle was not yet deemed a total loss. The manufacturer was contacted and notified of the failure and the contact was informed that there was no open recall on the vehicle. The failure approximate mileage was 5,000.

3/1/2022

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving at 70 MPH, there was a misfire coming from the engine, and the vehicle shuddered violently. The contact stated that the failure increased while depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The service manager at the dealer was contacted and informed the contact that he had remote access to the DTC that was displayed after the failure had occurred. The contact verbally provided the DTC, but the information was not available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that upon researching the failure online, information related to water leaking into the engine compartment while the vehicle was parked on an incline with the front end facing down, due to the design of the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was routinely parked on an incline in the driveway with the front of the vehicle facing down. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 114,000.

11/17/2025

STEERING

2 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

Popping, and loose feel in steering wheel on bumps. Popping felt in steering wheel when coming to a stop, and on accelerating from a stop. Intermediate steering shaft defect and/or design flaw. Dealer refuses to replace due to no TSB from Ford.

6/19/2022

Several warning lights, which included: ABS failure, Parking Assist Failure, Lane Avoidance Failure, Traction Control Failure, as well as having steering difficulty. ( mileage 24500 ). The problem was found by dealer to be an eletrical connector underneath the vehicle at the mid point, with their belief that it was corrosion, which I believe to be a defective component and design. I contacted Ford but they were not interested in retrevale of the connector, so as to diagnose the failure. ( I am keeping the connector )

6/23/2025

AIR BAGS

2 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

On Monday 15th of May the ford ranger was involved in a front end collision. The air bags did not deploy and the engine compartment caught fire. I was un able to open door and other doors would not unlock from inside switch. Finally able to kick door open will the truck filled with smoke and people put out fire.

5/16/2023

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle and shifting into drive(D), the messages “Pre-collision Assist Not Available" and "Cruise Control Not Available" were displayed. Additionally, the passenger’s side air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by a local dealer or an independent mechanic. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 19,000.

5/7/2024

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

2 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The backup camera on my truck washes out at night when the lights are turned on and backing up, rendering it useless. The washout is not as severe with just putting in reverse without lights, but still dangerous. The local Ford dealer states this is inherent in all Rangers, Broncos and other vehicles.

6/1/2023

Wiring for back up camera failed and short circuited - will attempt to retain the components for inspection needs. Safety concern - when wire short circuited, it burned the wire at the control module in the dash board, causing the control module to also fail - according the the ford service advisor at my dealership. Issue was diagnosed and inspected by Titus Will Ford service center at 11503 Pacific Hwy SW, Lakewood, WA 98499 - phone # (253) 753-1253. No warning lamps/messages/symptoms.

11/17/2024

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

2 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving at highway speeds, the Pre- Collision warning light illuminated, and the vehicle would abruptly decelerated. The contact stated that the failure had occurred on several occasions. The contact stated that during the failure, there were no objects or vehicles nearby. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer on several occasions and the ECM and PCM were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 11,000.

6/9/2023

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle and shifting into drive(D), the messages “Pre-collision Assist Not Available" and "Cruise Control Not Available" were displayed. Additionally, the passenger’s side air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by a local dealer or an independent mechanic. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 19,000.

5/7/2024

SUSPENSION

2 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

A few day ago I noticed a knocking sound coming from the read driver side suspension when driving over speed bumps. After a visual inspection nothing was found. After a few days of the issue continuing, the vehicle was taken to a garage with a hydraulic lift. The vehicle was lifted and a full inspection of the suspension system was done. What was discovered was a bit nerve racking. The front mount of the driver side leaf spring assembly was connected to the frame of the vehicle with a single bolt and nut. The bolt was hanging lose roughly 3/4 of the way out from it's original position and not nut was in sight. I checked the passenger side leaf spring mount and discovered that the bolt and nut were in place but the nut was finger tight. I was able to unscrew the nut off the bolt with no tools. If the bolt would have come completely lose and fallen out, this would cause the leaf spring/ rear axle to disconnect from the frame of the vehicle. The results of that could be mild to catastrophic. That would all depend on the speed the vehicle would be travelling at during the failure. This vehicle is factory original. No after market work/parts have been installed on this suspension. No off road driving was done on this vehicle.

6/18/2023

Right rear leaf spring was found to be broken on vehicle 2ith 70,000 miles by Ford technician during oil change. I was informed that it was not a recalled defect, repair part was on back order and was not advised as to the safety of driving the vehicle.

4/7/2025

BACK OVER PREVENTION

2 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Ranger. The contact stated while reversing, the back over prevention system failed to function as intended. The contact stated that the message to “See the Dealer for Repair” was displayed. The back over prevention camera system had displayed a black screen. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed rear-aide back-over camera. The contact was informed that the back over prevention camera system needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced an unknown recall however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 55,000. The VIN was unavailable.

6/2/2025

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that the back over prevention camera screen was either blank, frozen, or reversed. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V442000 (Back Over Prevention). The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The contact was informed about a possible diagnostic test and repair cost. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

11/6/2025

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed, causing the accelerator pedal to depress simultaneously, due to the brake pedal being positioned very close to the accelerator pedal. While both the brake and accelerator pedals were depressed, it caused the rear tires to squeal and create smoke. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The dealer informed the contact that there was no failure and that the vehicle was up to specification. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 4,500.

12/10/2021

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed, causing the accelerator pedal to depress simultaneously, due to the brake pedal being positioned very close to the accelerator pedal. While both the brake and accelerator pedals were depressed, it caused the rear tires to squeal and create smoke. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The dealer informed the contact that there was no failure and that the vehicle was up to specification. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 4,500.

12/10/2021

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE:SOFTWARE:PEDESTRIAN/CYCLIST/OBJECT/OBSTACLE/ RECOGNITION

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH, the pre-collision assists beeping alarm engaged while there were no vehicles or objects around. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred while driving and the pre-collision assist beeping alarm would not stop. The forward collision warning light then illuminated. The contact pulled to the side of the road and parked the vehicle. The contact then drove the vehicle to his residence. The contact stated that while reversing, he noticed a pedestrian behind the vehicle through the rearview mirror; however, the pre-collision assists and pedestrian recognition failed to engage. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that no issues were found. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 7,200.

12/29/2021

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

As I was pulling out of Zip's Car into a parking spot to vacuum truck. I was barely moving when the truck accelerated at a high rate of speed and hit the wall in front of me. It was like the truck had a mind of its own. I just knew I wasn't doing it. If someone had been walking in front of me it would have killed them. My air bag did not come out. My chest hit the steering wheel very hard. The police showed up and did a report. I did not get a ticket. The truck was towed and looked over. There was so much damage to the truck it was totaled. I can't believe this happened to me. I wouldn't want this to happen to anyone. It was a very scary experience.

6/27/2022

SEATS

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The backrest (back seat) no longer latches unless you very firmly push it backwards. I called the Ford dealer. The service person told me that he had the the same problem with his Ranger and that it was a common problem with the Ranger. In his words, he told me to slam the backrest backward - -which I did and then it latched. This a safety issue. Very easy to think that it is latched unless you pull the backrest forward. I checked the Internet. Other people have had the same problem. Especially after placing some weight on the seat cushion. My problem began after my 8 year old grandson simply sat on the seat.

8/25/2022

TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

Tire Failed on highway, at approx 60 MPH. Tire pressure instantly went to zero. No debris, or road issues. Tread completely separated from sidewall. Original tires that came from factory. No nails or damage noted to tread Unknown tire size, tire and vehicle at dealership, should be standard for that truck

10/3/2022

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

There is gasoline in my oil. I had an oil analysis from a lab, and they confirmed there is too much gasoline in my oil.

11/30/2022

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

There is gasoline in my oil. I had an oil analysis from a lab, and they confirmed there is too much gasoline in my oil.

11/30/2022

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

On Monday 15th of May the ford ranger was involved in a front end collision. The air bags did not deploy and the engine compartment caught fire. I was un able to open door and other doors would not unlock from inside switch. Finally able to kick door open will the truck filled with smoke and people put out fire.

5/16/2023

STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR:HANDLE:INTERIOR

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The surface of the drivers side interior door handle has peeled and created a dangerously sharp edge that WILL cause physical harm to the drivers hand. The middle finger on my left hand was sliced open on 06/15/2023. I made an appointment with the dealer to have to handle inspected/replaced and a service done. The vehicle is available for inspection and I have photos of the faulty door handle and my injury. I came across a post on the internet that shows ford has had an issue with this on other vehicles. I read GM also had an issue with this as well. https://blueovalforums.com/forums/index.php?/topic/54795-ouch-peeling-fusion-doorhandle-cuts-me-deep/ In 42 years on this earth, I have never had a vehicle do this. The handles are clearly made of poor quality materials.

6/15/2023

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:AUTONOMOUS/SELF DRIVING

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while in the reverse gear, the rear cross-traffic warning did not alert the contact that the vehicle was close to an object. As a result, the contact crashed into a pole. No injuries were sustained. A police report was not filed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the bumper and the harness for the rear cross-traffic warning system were replaced. The manufacturer was aware of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 14,850.

4/12/2024

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

2021 Ford Ranger Transmission slipping during driving . causes vehicle to jerk during shifting in gear 3, 4, 7, which causes the vehicle to jerk also during down shifting it shifts very hard. i looked online and apparently ford will not issue a recall because they will lose money on all the repairs they must do. if they changed the rings in the 2022 transmission they are aware of the issue obviously but refuse to address the problem. for us 2021 owners we are fucked. 9000$ repair for us.

2/26/2025

BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

2021 Ford Ranger Transmission slipping during driving . causes vehicle to jerk during shifting in gear 3, 4, 7, which causes the vehicle to jerk also during down shifting it shifts very hard. i looked online and apparently ford will not issue a recall because they will lose money on all the repairs they must do. if they changed the rings in the 2022 transmission they are aware of the issue obviously but refuse to address the problem. for us 2021 owners we are fucked. 9000$ repair for us.

2/26/2025

STRUCTURE

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving at 70 MPH, there was a misfire coming from the engine, and the vehicle shuddered violently. The contact stated that the failure increased while depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The service manager at the dealer was contacted and informed the contact that he had remote access to the DTC that was displayed after the failure had occurred. The contact verbally provided the DTC, but the information was not available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that upon researching the failure online, information related to water leaking into the engine compartment while the vehicle was parked on an incline with the front end facing down, due to the design of the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was routinely parked on an incline in the driveway with the front of the vehicle facing down. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 114,000.

11/17/2025

About This Data

Data and Methodology

MethodologyHow we score →

Scores are derived from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints, normalized by vehicle segment averages.

FAQ

What are the most common owner complaints for the 2021 Ford Ranger?

The most reported complaint category for the 2021 Ford Ranger is POWER TRAIN, with 34 owner reports. That is about 27% of all complaints logged here. Other recurring themes include POWER TRAIN, SERVICE BRAKES, ENGINE.

Are complaints about the 2021 Ford Ranger a serious warning sign?

Potentially. 47 complaint reports fall into higher-attention systems such as brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components. That does not prove every vehicle has a defect, but repeated complaints in those systems justify a more careful pre-purchase inspection.

How should buyers use complaint data for the 2021 Ford Ranger?

Use complaints as an early pattern to investigate, not a standalone verdict. Start with the top complaint categories, compare those themes against the recall report and maintenance guide, then inspect service records for evidence that the same problem areas were already addressed. If the same issue appears repeatedly across complaints and recalls, treat it as a real ownership-risk flag.

Are complaints about the 2021 Ford Ranger severe?

47 complaint reports involve higher-attention systems such as brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components, which is enough to justify a focused inspection before purchase.

Complaint list entries are sourced from owner-submitted NHTSA ODI records.

Read complaint summaries

Ford Ranger: How should complaint data influence buying decisions?

Use complaint patterns together with recalls and maintenance guidance to estimate ownership risk and inspection priorities.

Carfocal links complaint data directly to recall and maintenance routes for the same model year.

Return to full vehicle report
Complaint entries
124
Top-topic view
5 grouped topics shown
Primary source
NHTSA ODI owner complaint records

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In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Common Problems
  3. 03Owner Complaints
  4. 04Data and Methodology

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