MODEL
Ford Ranger Safety
NHTSA safety across every Ford Ranger model year we cover.
Across the 8 model years of the Ford Ranger we cover (2019 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2026 at 76 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2019 at 62. 67 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Ford Ranger is a mid-size pickup truck aimed at buyers who want truck capability without the bulk of a full-size rig. Competing in one of the most hotly contested segments in the American market, the Ranger targets active lifestyle buyers, small-business owners, and weekend adventurers who need a practical, maneuverable workhorse. Across model years 2019 through 2025, its safety profile has been a genuine mixed bag worth examining closely before you buy.
The 2024 Ford Ranger achieved a strong 85 out of 100 on MotorCaliber's Safety Index, reflecting a notable improvement over earlier model years. This iteration secured 5 out of 5 stars in both frontal and side crash tests, a genuinely impressive result for passenger protection. However, the rollover rating stands at 3 out of 5 stars, a consistent concern for vehicles of this body style. Across the 2019 to 2025 model years, the Ranger has accumulated 18 recalls, a figure that ranks on the higher side within its segment. Prospective owners must confirm that all open recall work has been completed for any specific vehicle identification number. Owner complaints across these years total 612. These include 32 allegations of crashes, 7 of fires, and 119 of injuries. While these are unverified allegations, their volume warrants attention. For buyers, the 2024 Ranger marks a significant step forward in safety. Earlier models, particularly from 2019 to 2022, show variability in their safety profiles. Scrutiny of year-specific ratings and recall compliance is essential for these prior iterations.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Ford Ranger as a capable, well-rounded mid-size pickup that balances everyday usability with off-road credibility. Most professional assessments praise its driving dynamics and feature set for the segment, while noting that the Ranger faces stiff competition. Reviewers tend to acknowledge the improvements made in more recent model years as meaningful refinements over the original generation.
- Rollover protection is a consistent weak point: the Ranger earns only 3 out of 5 stars in the rollover category, a real consideration given the truck's higher ride height and center of gravity.
- Not all model years are created equal - the NHTSA Safety Index ranges across Strong, Average, and Below Average bands depending on the year, so always check the rating for the specific model year you are considering rather than assuming the best-year score of 85 applies across the board.
- Eighteen recalls across 2019 to 2025 is a substantial figure, and buyers of any used Ranger should run their VIN through NHTSA's recall database to confirm all open recall repairs have been completed before purchase.
- Owner complaints include 32 crash allegations and 119 injury allegations across covered years - these are unverified allegations, but their volume suggests shoppers should research complaint details for their target model year through NHTSA's public database.
Most-recalled year on record: 2025 Ford Ranger with 13 recalls.