Second-hand buyer’s guide: Ford Ranger

No dual cab ute is hotter right now than the Ford Ranger, but is it a safe used purchase? We tell you what to look for.

Australia’s most popular vehicle in 2023 and 2024 was the Ford Ranger dual cab ute. Launched in 2011, much of its development was carried out in Australia and it showed, blending off-road ability with on-road finesse better than the competition.

Prior to the all-new model launch in mid-2022, the dual cab range started with the utilitarian XL, then moved up to the XLS, with the higher-spec XLT and Wildtrak finding favour among buyers looking to combine attributes of a well-equipped family hauler and recreational vehicle. The sporty off-road focused Raptor was launched in 2018.

By far the most popular package was the 147kW/470Nm 3.2-litre five-cylinder diesel and six-speed auto fitted to the XLS, XLT and Wildtrak models (lower grades had a 118kW/385Nm four-cylinder 2.2-litre diesel). In late 2018, the range received a major upgrade and the option of a 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel engine with a 10-speed auto.

Developing more power and torque (157kW and 500Nm) and with a claimed fuel figure of 6.9L/100km, it looked much better on paper than the 8.4L/100km for the 3.2-litre five-cylinder. However, driving both didn’t reveal much difference in performance, and real-world fuel consumption proved closer to 10-12L/100km for both.

The larger capacity engine is a well-credentialled package and maximum torque is developed from 1750rpm. Its torque is spread over a slightly wider rpm band and negated the 2.0-litre’s extra 30Nm. The 3.2-litre has plenty of fans out there in towing land and would be our choice if you’re towing close to the Ranger’s 3500kg maximum rating.

2020 Ford Ranger

Ford provides a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty when serviced by an authorised outlet, and reliability issues appear to be isolated. Some early examples suffered from harsh and inconsistent transmission shifts, which Ford addressed via field service campaigns through dealerships. A few home mechanics have come unstuck changing the oil and filter – if the task isn’t performed quickly, regaining oil pressure can be an issue.

Look for one that hasn’t strayed too far from the bitumen and has a clean tray. A Ranger fitted with an electric brake controller may have towed a large boat or van, so be extra cautious as it will have been subjected to more wear and tear.