How many problems does the 2020 FORD Ranger have?

The 2020 FORD Ranger currently has 104 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.

What are the most common problems with 2020 FORD Ranger?

The most common problems reported for the 2020 FORD Ranger are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.

Where does this 2020 FORD Ranger problem data come from?

All problem and complaint data for the 2020 FORD Ranger comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.

2020 FORD Ranger Problems

POWER TRAIN

29 complaints

When starting to accelerate, the automatic transmission shifts hart into second or third gear, and sometime has no power, like it is idling for 5 to 7 seconds before engaging. The problem has been reproduced and confirmed by Quirk Ford of Augusta, Maine who said I must have had a faulty transmission from the factory. The safety issue is hesitation from the occasional loss of power during the hard shift which could put one in danger of being rear ended. The were no warning indicators except the sudden jarring during hard shift. Other than the problem being diagnosed by the dealer, it has not been inspected. Hard shift first appeared around 75,000 miles. Dealer flushed and Changed fluid. Reappeared with loss of power during around 130,000 miles. Transmission being replaced 12/15/25 at $9200. Ford basically said it was my problem. I have had two ford rangers before that I drove for over 230;000 miles each without any transmission issues. Clearly the 10 speed transmission is flawed and needs a recall.

Dec 13, 2025

all of these issues: Shuddering at the point of acceleration Inability to reach desired speed Gear lockout Failure to start Shifter “lockout” or being “stuck in park” Hesitation from a stopped position Sluggish performance, including during towing “Check engine” light “Juddering,” which involves shaking of the vehicle during normal operation Loss of power or failure to engage

Oct 22, 2025

My transmission start to skip about two years ago, l took to Ford Dealership, they check the code, everything was good, we check the 3 months ago, everything okay, but it still kept skipping, so l change the fluid, and filter, still skips, for wanted over $600.00 to see what the problem, said l had no warranty, I’m a 71 year old disabled Senior on a fixed income, , didn’t have the money, l don’t know what to do

Sep 26, 2025

Automatic transmission Available for request Accelerating and stoping proves to be a safety issue on the roadways Confirmed by anyone that drives the vehicle Not inspected, out of warranty and can not afford replacement No lamps

Sep 22, 2025

Internal component failure of the 10R80 transmission. While driving one evening on a highway the vehicle while in cruise began bucking, surging and reduced gears. The vehicle began spraying transmission fluid on vehicles behind me and what was once a 10 speed transmission became a 7 speed transmission. Prior to failure there was zero indication of an issue. Nearly getting into an accident I had to make my way to the side of the road where there wasn’t much of a flat shoulder. Not only could my sudden decline in speed have caused an accident but the transmission fluid spraying on vehicles behind me could have reduced others visibility. Dealership near the incident area has confirmed internal failure which is extremely common for these transmissions. Vehicle is currently awaiting a replacement transmission.

Sep 20, 2025

+ 24 more complaints for this component

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

8 complaints

Rear view camera screen freezes, has distortion and is sometimes blank. This has been an issue for several months and I keep seeing articles regarding this problem and that Ford is recalling various vehicles for the same issue but have not been notified of a recall for my vehicle model and year.

Oct 22, 2025

Rear camera sometimes freezes or blacks out. Have seen recall notices for this issue on 2024 year models of the same vehicle model but not for the 2020 model

Jun 24, 2025

While driving on the highway the tensioner pulley snapped off from the timing cover. Losing the pulley caused my serpentine belt to become tangled in the radiator fan. My engine over heated and I lost power steering. This left me stranded on the side of the highway for hours. I took the truck to ford, the origional quote was 3900, but they worked with me and got it down to 1765.

Mar 11, 2025

Car has a terrible mold and musky smell in the cabin. Cleaned carpet several times and checked for water in truck Smell didn't dissipate. Took to Ford where the linked it to the air condition dripping or gathering. The cleared line and emptied. Smell was milder for short time. After running the air a few days it was getting stronger. Local Ford dealers couldn't see us for some time so we Took to outside AC car repair and they found the following issue related to SSM 50603 an improperly wrapped evaporator coil or small leak. Can't run air condition as we were advised smell would increase and possibly ruin carpet. Smell also is difficult to get out of upholstery and anything left in car. Ford dealers won't repair and require us to pay. Told by Ford corporate through chat that dealers are independently owned and it is their choice. This is an issue Ford is aware of but won't repair. No help at the corporate level. This could become larger issue as we don't know what buildup, leak or incorrect wrapped coils could lead to.

Mar 28, 2023

I checked oil level on Nov 9 2021. Oil level was clearly past the "Full" mark on dip stick and smelled of un burnt fuel. Took to dealer same day. Got truck back on Nov 12 2021. Dealer says no fuel in oil bit couldn't explain why the oil level had risen past "full" mark. Clearly they lied. I had dealer do an oil change. Will send sample out next time. Checked today, Nov 15 2021. Smells like fuel still. Cause: unknown.

Nov 15, 2021

+ 3 more complaints for this component

ENGINE

6 complaints

December 2024 experienced loss of power, was able to have a Certified Ford maintenance facility look at it, but found nothing, codes cleared. Codes presented were Hill Start Assist Warning, pre-collision Assist Warning, power train malfunction/reduced power. Drove the vehicle 3 hours in below zero temp. The next day after the vehicle sat in freezing temps, drove approximately 5 miles on snow covered roads when experienced loss of power. Went from 55 miles an hour to less than 10 MPH in about 200 feet. No traffic behind me, drove the remainder of the distance (another 5 miles) at 5-10 mph. Had to have the vehicle tow to a dealership where I was informed that there is a service bulletin on the throttle body. They ended up dumping approximately 2 cups of water from the throttle body. Ford replaced the throttle body at no charge. I called Ford Customer service to share my concern. The fact that the vehicle speed fell off so quickly was what prompted me to call.

Jul 04, 2024

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle surged unintendedly. Additionally, the engine was misfiring. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with water leaking into cylinder #1. The contact was informed that the cylinder needed to dry out. The contact was also informed that an engine cover needed to be installed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 38,000.

Feb 15, 2024

The Ignition Coil and spark plug failed and caused the vehicle to misfire & lose power under load. The vehicle is available for inspection. Sudden loss of power could have caused a collision due to the vehicle suddenly slowing without warning in traffic conditions. Ford Motor company is aware of the problem and has a service bulletin describing how the lack of an engine cover allows water to get into the spark plug wells causing the failure to occur. Ford's fix is to install the engine cover and replace the damaged components. But will only do so under the standard warranty. Ford was notified of the problem with my vehicle while it was well within warranty. But because a dealer could not schedule an appointment until 9 days after the standard warranty expired, they have denied coverage. Dealership has inspected the components and confirmed problem is related to service bulletin. Check Engine light came on and was flashing when problem occurred. No prior warning or symptom until problem occurred.

Nov 01, 2023

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at various speeds, the vehicle hesitated and violently shook while depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer where it was discovered that the spark plugs, and engine coils were damaged due to moisture from rain or a car wash. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000.

Aug 18, 2023

MY TRUCK(2020 FORD RANGER) HAS FUEL CONTAMINATION IN THE ENGINE OIL. I CHANGED THE OIL FOR THE FIRST TIME WHEN THE TRUCK HAD 860 MILES ON IT. THE OIL REEKED OF GASOLINE WHEN I CHANGED IT. I SENT THE OIL INTO BLACKSTONE FOR ANALYSIS AND THE RESULTS SHOWED A 4.3% FUEL DILUTION OF THE OIL, WHICH ACCORDING TO THE COMPANY IS A CAUTIONARY LEVEL. THEY ALSO STATED THE OIL VISCOSITY WAS LOW AND PROBABLY DUE TO FUEL DILUTION. I OPENED A FORD CUSTOMER COMPLAINT (CAS-29025613) AND TOOK IT TO DEALER. THE DEALER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND SAID NOTHING IS NEEDING REPAIR AT THIS TIME. NO TSB'S ARE LISTED FOR THIS COMPLAINT. THE DEALER SAID THEY TRIED CALLING FORD TO UPDATE THE COMPLAINT CLAIM WITH THEIR FINDINGS BUT COULDN'T DO SO BECAUSE WAS ALREADY CLOSED! VERY FRUSTRATING. THERE ARE SEVERAL OTHER FORD RANGER OWNERS (ON RANGER5.COM FORUMS) WHO ALSO COMPLAIN OF HAVING FUEL DILUTION IN THEIR OIL AND FORD HAS YET TO TAKE THEM SERIOUSLY AND INVESTIGATE THE ROOT CAUSE.

Dec 31, 2020

+ 1 more complaint for this component

SERVICE BRAKES

6 complaints

Vehicle has 11000 miles on it When stopping brakes are soft and pedal can go lower than gas pedal. Have talked to other drivers w same problem w ford rangers. It will b $150 expense Ford dealer says abs bleed procedure will correct. To me this is a safety issue as my foot could I have the gas pedal when braking

Jan 10, 2024

On 04-07-2021 I was traveling West on Florida S.R. 60 / US 301; WHEN A CAR IN FRONT OF ME WAS STOPPING. I APPLIED THE BRAKES AND FAILED TO STOP IN TIME; HITTING THE REAR END OF THE AUTO IN FRONT OF ME. IT APPEARS TO ME THAT THE BRAKES DID NOT WORK CORRECTLY TO STOP. I FEEL (FELT) LIKE THE BRAKE PEDAL WHEN APPLIED FELT LIKE AIR IN THE BRAKE LINE SYSTEM. THE BRAKE PETAL ALMOST WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR. THEIR WAS ONLY ABOUT 3130 MILES ON THE VEHICLE AT THE TIME OF THIS INVIDENT. I STILL FEEL THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE BRAKES AND HAD THEM CHECKED BY THE DEALER ON 08-20-2021 WHERE THEY PERFORMED A BRAKE INSPECTION AND THE PADS AND ROTOR WERE MEASURED. UPON THE FILING OF THIS REPORT I STILL DO NOT FEEL COMFORTABLE NOR SAFE DRIVING THIS VEHICLE WITH THE BRAKE ISSUE. ALSO MY FRONT DRIVER AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. THE AUTO BODY MANAGER SAID WHEN I ASKED AS TO WHY; THAT THE SENSOR PERHAPS WAS NOT HIT STRAIGHT ON TO MAKE IT DEPLOY. I WILL FOLLW UP ON AN ADDITIONAL COMPLAINT ON THE AIR BAG ISSUE

Sep 01, 2021

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Ranger. The contact stated while driving 45 mph, he had to depress the brake pedal to the floor to stop the vehicle. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated he had experienced the failure on two different occasions. The contact called the local dealer and the dealer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 1,242.

Jul 13, 2021

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED FORWARD UNINTENDEDLY WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT WAS FORCED TO TURN OFF THE VEHICLE TO PREVENT THE UNINTENDED ACCELERATION FROM CONTINUING. THE CONTACT HAD TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO JACK KAIN FORD INC. (3405 LEXINGTON RD, VERSAILLES, KY 403830) THREE TIMES AND EACH TIME THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE OR DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALSO NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND A CASE WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE HAD YET TO BE REPAIRED AND REMAINED IN THE POSSESSION OF THE DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 1,400.

Jan 26, 2021

BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL IS LONG, SOFT AND INCONSISTENT. FEELS LIKE AS IF THERE IS AIR IN THE LINE.

Dec 24, 2020

+ 1 more complaint for this component

VISIBILITY

5 complaints

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Ranger. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the heating system became inoperable. The contact stated that the heater would not function properly. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the HVAC blower motor failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was referred to the NHSTA Hotline for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 86,000.

Jan 09, 2025

Vehicle has 51,532 miles and a blend door actuator needs to be replaced - inconsistent air flow coming in. The desired air wanted whether it be hot or cold, is being diverted incorrectly, so we are not getting a consistent temperature out of the A/C system. This item was recalled previously In the 2019 Ford Ranger.

Dec 18, 2023

At one point, the heat/ac would blow air but would not heat or cool. This was about a month and a half ago., There was an electrical burning smell, and at that point the system would not heat or cool. The burning smell has since subsided. I took the truck to Santa Maria Ford to have it looked at and have my oil changed. I was told that it would cost 3500.00 to repair the issue. I looked the issue up and I found that the 2019 Ford Ranger had been recalled for this exacted issue. I felt that it was just a matter of time before the 2020 Ford Ranger would be recalled for this item. I decided to I should submit this form to be on the safe side.

Dec 13, 2023

This is the second time I'm hearing the climate control system click before i can adjust the temperature gauge. It was replaced less than 1,000 miles ago and it already broke again. You already put notice on the issue, SSM 49264, but it needs to be recalled with better parts. Im afraid ill be having to pay out of pocket if it keeps breaking. Please recall this.

Feb 25, 2023

There is a known issue with 2019 and some 2020 model year Ford Rangers. The Ford SSM is #50629. I have been waiting for a Ford service center to fix this issue for 3 months. This issue does not allow for the heater to work properly. Because of that, the defroster and defog doesn't work. This allows for limited or zero visibility through the windshield and side windows in winter conditions that require defrost or defog. I have to had to pull over and scrape ice off my windshield on short trips. Also, this winter has had some of the coldest days on record. Reaching in the -20F range. Having no heat at a time like this could possibly result in frostbite or hypothermia. I use my vehicle as sparingly as possible this winter, but there are times I absolutely need to drive around.

Feb 02, 2023

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

4 complaints

Rear brake lights did not work, but high mount brake light functioned normally. I found a safety recall for the 2019 Ford Ranger for the same condition (19S43). This safety recall identifies connector C442 as the root cause for the incident. Based on this information, I located the connected. I disconnected the connector, did visual inspection. Visual inspection did not find any bent pins, so I reconnected connector. After inspection and reconnection of connector C442 the brake light now work. A little background on me. I’m a retire Service Engineer from Nissan and I have extensive background in vehicle service issues, recalls and campaigns. Based on my experience, I believe that the incident I confirmed on my vehicle may indicate that the Ford Ranger may continue to have brake light inoperative condition beyond the current Safety Recall window of vehicle. I have already contacted Ford to advise them of this condition. I offered to make my vehicle available to Ford for inspection, Ford declined.

May 07, 2025

The taillight on the driver's side has never worked properly. Took it for repair to get a replacement bulb. Personnel at local auto parts store were aware of problems on this model vehicle. They stated no replacement bulbs were available because it required an electronic "bulb." Was informed that the part was VERY expensive, so was unable to get replacement part. Was pulled over by local police and told no lights in rear of vehicle, including brake lights were working. Consumer reports reported same problem with 2019 Ford Ranger and had article "Ford Recalls Ranger Pickup Trucks for Taillight Problem." November 25, 2019. Ford recalled 78,264, year 2019 Rangers. My truck is a 2020 Ranger and the problem with the taillights0030 described for 2019 is IDENTICAL TO THE ONE DESCRIBED FOR 2019.

Mar 31, 2025

I purchased a 2020 Ford Ranger truck which had, either a faulty "bulb," or other type of device which caused the driver side tail light to not illuminate. I was not made aware of this, as I do not commonly check to see if the taillights were when I turn on the lights to drive at night. However, I observed the faulty taillight probably a year or so after owning the vehicle. The vehicle is not frequently driven, as I brought the 2020 Ford Ranger truck new, and it presently as of April 2025 has about 7300 miles on it. When I became aware of the faulty taillight, I went to the local AutoZone store to purchase a replacement bulb, and was informed by a fairly knowledgeable individual that my vehicle did not have a standard "bulb" which could be replaced. I was told the unit which housed the component which caused the lighting to occur was an integrated compounded which had to be totally replaced, at a significant cost. I have not made any attempts to remove the component, and was informed there would be a significant cost to do so. On March 29, 2025 I was pulled over by a local sheriff's office indicating there was a problem with not only the taillight on the driver side not operating, but also problems with operation of my brake lights and other lights in the rear of the truck. I was informed that I should get the problem fixed as soon as possible. I did explain that I had previously made an attempt to get the driver side taillight fixed, but the component, was not available to do so. I then began to research the problem, and found an article was online which was attributed to Consumer Reports entitled "Ford recalls Ranger pickup trucks for taillight problem, automaker says loose electrical connections could lead to a crash" the basis of the November 25, 2019 article stated "Ford is recalling 78,264 of its 2019 Ranger pickup trucks because electrical connector may be loose or not properly installed. As a result the taillights may be inoperative or work intermittently.

Mar 31, 2025

Regular headlights are excessively bright. Oncoming traffic is constantly flashing their bright lights with implications that my Ford Ranger's lights are on bright and not normal setting. This seems to be dangerous to oncoming traffic. It happens repeatedly every morning I am driving in the dark (5:00am-6:30am) Dealer said that there is nothing they can do. No indications that the bright lights are on (bright light symbol not appearing)

Dec 06, 2022

SEAT BELTS

4 complaints

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while parking and removing the seat belt, the belt retracted quickly wrapping around their child's neck. The contact was able to stop the vehicle and release the child; however, the seat belt still failed to retract properly. No injuries were reported. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000.

Apr 30, 2024

Driver seat belt will not automatically/fully return. I have brought the issue to the attention of Service Advisors at two different Ford dealership's. They acknowledge the problem but note there is no fix available from Ford. Aside from having to manually feed the belt back each time used a safety issue could exist if slack remains in the belt when driving.

Aug 26, 2022

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Ranger. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V811000 (Seat Belts) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact called the local dealer who stated the parts were not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts are not available.

Nov 15, 2021

The right front seat belt pulled out of its anchor in the rear door. It’s clear the webbing did not go through the mounting eye. The belt was held in place only by the plastic housing until it pulled out today. This is the same problem covered by Ford recall 19S23 for 2019 Ranger Super Cab up to June 19, 2019 build date. Mine is a 2020 model built 9/20 over a year after the recall. I’d rack it up as a one-off defect except for the recall.

Jul 19, 2021

BACK OVER PREVENTION

3 complaints

Backup camera isn't working a recall on some 2020 rangers has been issued but not mine. Parking collision warning isn't as loud as it used to be. Took it t ford garage but they wanted to charge me to do diagnostics. Warning onbackup camera call your service department

Sep 23, 2025

My rearview camera sometimes will not work. Ford has many recalls for this but not for my 2020 Ranger.

Apr 11, 2025

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Ranger. The contact stated while reversing, the back over prevention camera was inoperable. The contact stated that the back over prevention camera displayed a black screen. The contact stated that occasionally the back over prevention camera failed to operate. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent at first but had become more frequent. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000.

Dec 04, 2023

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

3 complaints

Date/Time: [XXX] Approximately 3:00PM local Weather: About 10F, light wind. No precipitation. Event Description: Vehicle had sat for > 12 hours. Started vehicle and operated wipers to clear snow. Vehicle was in 2WD; Shifted to “D” and began driving forward down driveway slowly; normal throttle response. Shifted from 2WD to 4WD. 4WD engaged, and there was normal throttle response. After driving for about 15 seconds, near end of driveway, removed foot from accelerator to slow to see if there was traffic. I saw that there was none and tried to accelerate. No throttle response; the vehicle came to a stop in the snow. Note: when I state “no throttle response”, I mean no engine revving; it was not simply that the drivetrain wasn’t sending engine power to the wheels, the engine wasn’t increasing throttle as I commanded. Momentarily surprised, I pressed harder to about 30% throttle, still no response. I removed my foot from the accelerator and applied the brake. As I did so, looked at the center console display. It was showing that it had lost connection with my phone (I had left it in the house) and it was trying to reconnect. At that moment I felt a slight “bump” of acceleration. The time between first noticing no throttle response and feeling the “bump” was about 3 seconds. I decided to go back for my phone (and I also didn’t want to get on the road with a wonky throttle) so I backed up to the house; normal throttle response. I retrieved my phone and everything operated normally after that. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Feb 20, 2025

When I engage the speed control on my vehicle, approximately 15 to 45 seconds afterwards, the system will temporarily disengage without warning, causing me to manually re engage the system. Sometimes it will re engage right away, and other times I need to press the resume button several times for it to re engage. There is no warning before the system dis engages.

Aug 30, 2022

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 FORD RANGER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 10 MPH, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT STATED THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED BUT FAILED TO EFFECTIVELY STOP THE VEHICLE. THE GEAR SHIFTER WAS SHIFTED INTO PARK TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Feb 13, 2020

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

3 complaints

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Ranger. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, a message indicating that the computer system needed to be updated was displayed. The contact stated that the failure recurred while driving 35 MPH. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the computer system could not be updated, and the dealer determined that the Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact was awaiting a call from the manufacturer. The failure mileage was approximately 13,000.

Apr 24, 2024

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Ranger. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the contact became aware that the interior lighting failed to turn off, resulting in the battery becoming drained. A short time later, the contact stated that the center display failed to display the correct information, after which the vehicle lost electrical power. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the audio control module (ACM). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 14,000.

Feb 15, 2024

There was a alert saying my trailer was hooked my trailer was unhooked.on displace screen.when in fact my trailer was never hook to my truck.loss of power

Jan 24, 2022

VISIBILITY/WIPER

2 complaints

Early model 2019-2020 Ford Rangers have a known defect where the blend door actuator fails. The assembly was redesigned mid 2020 and is now the common fix for all who are affected by this issue. During this failure the blend door cannot and will not actuate as it should causing in ability to defrost the windshield causing visibility issues. Additionally, it causes unbearable heat to be released inside the vehicle with no warning causing additional safety issues for drivers and passengers. The issue is widely observed for all owners of early generations. Even though ford has known about the issue that forced an entire redesign they are unwilling to recall the defective component. I have contacted their corporate office and was informed there is no support for this issue. Today, while driving the system on its own changed to defrost, half of the windshield could be seen through, the other half could not due to variations on both sides which also caused condensation to form.

Sep 23, 2024

THE WINDSHIELD AND REAR WINDOW ARE WAVEY, MAKING OBJECTS BLURRED. I'VE HAD THE TRUCK TO THE DEALER, THEY TELL ME THEY NEVER NOTICED IT BEFORE. I LOOKED AT THE 2021 RANGER PICKUPS AND THEY HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. THE LARGER PICKUPS DON'T HAVE THE PROBLEM. IT MAKES IT HARD TO READ SIGNS AND TRAFFIC.

Sep 17, 2020

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

2 complaints

When driving between 40 & 45 miles per hour truck start jerking and skipping also burning lots more fuel.

Jun 05, 2024

I jumped in the truck to run an errand, started the engine, rolled down the windows and got a faint whiff of gasoline. Checked the back seat to see if I had thrown rag or something, didn't see anything and started to pull down my driveway (about 250ft - gravel - rural area). The gas smell quickly became very strong. I stopped at the end of the driveway, got out of the truck to inspect what the issue might be. It was RAINING gasoline under my truck. Quickly turned off ignition (which stopped the gas pouring out). Had it towed to the dealer to get it fixed. Diagnosis was that a rodent (squirrel) had chewed through the gas line somewhere. Lucky for me it was a hot summer day (open window), otherwise I may have driven down the road until a fireball erupted. Kind of stunned that the fuel line is so insanely VULNERABLE. What would it cost to harden the gas line (a metal casing) - an extra $50 per vehicle. This needs to be addressed.

Aug 07, 2022

AIR BAGS

2 complaints

Truck continues to have airbag lights on even after repairs at ford dealership. The first time it happened it would only come on when cold and would go off after 30-45 minutes. When airbag light was on gauges, heat and air and stereo would not work. That was November 2020. The dealership replaced Body Control Module and other electrical components. June 2021 the airbag light is on again. The code it’s giving is short in passenger airbag circuit. The truck is also saying that rear driver door is open when shut and continually tries to lock and unlock doors. Interior lights stay on because the truck thinks the door is open. Dealership keeps putting off seeing truck for diagnosing. Will not answer if the truck is safe to drive or if airbags will function if the truck is involved in an accident.

Jul 01, 2021

WE WERE HEADING EAST ON A CITY STREET WHEN WE CAME TO AN INTERSECTION. THE LIGHT WAS GREEN SO WE CONTINUED THROUGH THE INTERSECTION. THERE WAS ANOTHER CAR HEADING WEST ON THE SAME STREET AND TURNED LEFT DIRECTLY IN FRONT OF US AT THE INTERSECTION. WE WERE TRAVELING BETWEEN 40-45 MPH. WE COULD NOT AVOID THE CAR THAT TURNED IN FRONT OF US. WE HIT THE SIDE OF THE SECOND VEHICLE (THE ONE TURNING SOUTH) HEAD ON WITH OUR VEHICLE. THE AIRBAGS IN OUR VEHICLE DID NOT DEPLOY. BOTH THE FIREMAN AND SHERIFF ON THE SEEN COMMENTED ON THE FACT THAT OUR AIRBAGS SHOULD HAVE DEPLOYED. ALSO AFTER OUR VEHICLE WAS TOWED BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP, THE HEAD MECHANIC WAS SHOCKED THAT THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. OUR VEHICLE HAS A BENT FRAME ON BOTH SIDES AND HAS BEEN TOTALED.

Sep 24, 2020

Crash: 1

Injuries: 2

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

1 complaint

2020 Ford Ranger with transmission and engine (EGR cooler) issues resulting in hard shifting and surges makes it dangerous to drive. Happened on vehicle that was properly cared for and maintained. Issues present on truck that has less than 70k miles.

Nov 13, 2025

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

I bought the 4x4 Ford Ranger specifically to be towed behind my motor home and followed the directions on how to set up the Flat-tow feature that allows the Ranger to be towed behind my motorhome. I had traveled to a number of Good Same Rallys without any trouble with the Ranger. I use it also as my main vehicle at home to go to store, church etc. On my last trip to Branson, MO while coming home there was a noise that sounded like my brakes on the Ranger were locked up. I took my foot off the gas pedal and it stopped, I proceeded on home when it did this several times. Each time it would stop. I got home disconnected the Ranger and it started fine, I drove it almost 200 miles when I began to notice a jerking from the transmission and took it to my dealer. They proceeded to check it out and told me that the transmission and universal were bad and needed to be replaced at a 17k price. According to the computer readout my battery had failed 2 times. HOW CAN A BATTERY FAIL TWO TIME??? Apparently this caused my flat tow in nuetral tow to go into normal range and at that time made my truck act like it was in normal range, towing a dead truck. THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED ME TO HAVE A BAD ACCIDENT, END UP IN A DITCH. The shop checked and the batter was low but ok. The computer on board did this to my truck and lied on the readout. Three (3) other Rangers had this happen to them and one blew up. I am sure other Ranger owners have had this happen to them too. This can cause a serious accident. I have filed a complaint to our attorney General in my state.

Oct 13, 2025

SUSPENSION

1 complaint

The dri er side leaf spring broke at the fro t bushing attachment. The bushing is completely rusted and cracked.

Aug 21, 2025

SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE

1 complaint

On more than one occasion but still infrequently, I have been coming to a stop and while braking, the engine revs and lurches forward while I'm attempting to stop. It is rare that it happens but it is very scary when it does happen. No warning lights appear. I have submitted a request to the dealer who sold us the truck. But it happens to infrequently that it would be difficult to reproduced by a dealer. It has happened approximately 5 times since purchasing the vehicle in December 2020. Approximate date of most recent event below.

Jul 23, 2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

Rearview camera malfunction. Screen on rearview mirror goes from blue color to blank. The vehicle's air conditioning does not blow cold air. Stays at warm temperature. Cannot hear pump kick on for A/C.

Jun 19, 2025

LANE DEPARTURE,BACK OVER PREVENTION

1 complaint

Wiring in components failed resulting in non functioning cross traffic alerts and blind spot detection. Problem found by independent mechanic, ford warranty does not cover.

May 29, 2025

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

1 complaint

The contact owned a 2020 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that his wife had parked the vehicle in the residence driveway and was bringing purchases into the residence when she returned to the vehicle she observed that gray smoke was being emitted from under the hood. The contact came out to the driveway, observed the smoke, and saw that flames were coming from the driver's and passenger side of the hood. The contact stated that the fire department was called but when they arrived the vehicle was engulfed from the front to the rear. The contact stated that the fire department extinguished the flames using water and chemicals. The contact stated that the fire department had written an incident report. The contact stated that his insurance provider had the vehicle towed to an impound lot and declared the vehicle a total loss. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact back to his insurance provider. The failure mileage was approximately 24,500.

Mar 20, 2025

Fire: 1

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the "Pre-Collision Assist Not Available Sensor Blocked" message was displayed on the instrument panel. The contact stated that whenever the message was displayed with the Cruise Control activated, the Cruise Control would disengage independently. The dealer was notified of the issue but offered no assistance. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000.

Feb 14, 2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER

1 complaint

The blend door for HVAC controls sticks, makes clicking noises. From time to time it will stick in one position, for example cabin, when I need defrost, making it difficult to see safely potentially.

Nov 20, 2024

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Ranger. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to restart; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with coolant intrusion into the engine, which caused a failure with the spark plugs. The contact was informed that the spark plugs needed to be replaced. Additionally, the contact was informed that an engine appearance shield needed to be installed over the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

Aug 09, 2024

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

1 complaint

1.) Ford motor company (ford) is recalling certain 2020 ranger and f-150 vehicles equipped with 10-speed automatic transmissions and certain 2020 expedition vehicles equipped with a 'police' package. The transmission shift cable lock clip may not be fully seated, allowing the transmission to actually be in a different gear than the gear shift position selected by the driver. 2.) Ford motor company (ford) is recalling certain 2020 ford f-150, f-250, f-350, f-450, f-550, explorer, mustang, transit, expedition, escape, ranger and edge, and lincoln nautilus and corsair vehicles. Due to a poor electrical connection, the rearview camera may intermittently display a blank or distorted image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) number 111, 'rear visibility.' 3.)Ford motor company (ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 ranger super cab vehicles equipped with rear seats containing fixed head restraints. The fixed head restraints may interfere with proper installation of certain types of child seats. Additionally, the child seat may not attach properly to the lower-rear anchors. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard number 225, 'child restraint anchorage system.' 4.) Ford motor company (ford) is recalling certain 2022-2023 bronco, 2023 super duty f-250, and 2019-2023 ranger vehicles. The tire and loading information (tread) label states the incorrect load carrying capacity, which can result in an overloaded vehicle. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard number 110, 'tire selection and rims.' NHTSA# FOR REPORTING 21V811000 21V765000 20V575000 20V197000

Jun 06, 2024

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,BACK OVER PREVENTION

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving at unknown speeds, the front camera fault service required and pre-collision assist not available, messages were displayed. There was an abnormal chiming sound detected. The safety features were disabled. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who informed the contact to clean the camera. The dealer used an ODB scanner but retrieved no codes and informed the contact to schedule a service appointment. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that there were no open recalls on the VIN. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 21,000.

May 02, 2024

SEAT BELTS,SEATS

1 complaint

Rear seat latch does not work resulting in seat collapsing forward when braking and would also collapse in an accident. Seat belts and child car seat would not be functional. Appears to be a common problem based on our research on the Internet. Salinas Ford dealership rep stated repairs are not covered because it is not a seat belt. This vehicle only has 2,758 miles, even though it is a 2020.

Feb 23, 2024

STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE

1 complaint

Presently, my mileage is approximately 42770. It has started to exhibit vibration throughout the cab. It wasn't as prevalent during the cold and would only last about 30 seconds, after warm up, and around 70 mph. Now that it has gotten warmer, it is happening after warm up at all speeds. I haven't take it to the dealership yet, but have read reports of the problem with the same model year.

Feb 02, 2024

STEERING

1 complaint

I just purchased a vehicle from Autex Mazda of Keene. (1/2/24) A 2020 Ford Ranger with 36K miles and extended warranty. When driving on the highway at 60MPH my steering wheel started shimming very bad as I was passing a school bus that I felt I might of hit because it startled me and never felt a steering wheel shimmy so bad like that. Called dealer and they balanced the tires and leaving to return home the shimmy was back almost out of the lot. Are there any recalls on this issue and my backup camera is barely visible. I feel I was taking advantage of knowing there was a problem with this vehicle. I'll be calling Ford Service next but wanted to know about recalls and to report this before someone gets killed because of the issue.

Jan 16, 2024

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Ranger. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the driver’s side headlight intermittently failed to operate as needed. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the contact was informed that a defective wiring harness had caused the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 58,000.

Jan 16, 2024

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

Vehicle has hard jerking when increasing speeds. Vehicle takes several seconds to gain power from being stopped at red light and shifts very hard. Sometimes feels like gear slips into neutral and loses power after accelerating slowing. Takes several seconds to recognize being in reverse and jerks hard when it gets going. Started at around 37,000 miles and getting worse at 45,000. Been told several times it's normal, but it very obviously is not and feels very unstable and unsafe.

Jan 09, 2024

STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, an abnormal squeaking sound was coming from the rear passenger’s side of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer however, the dealer was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure and the contact was given a case number. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000. The contact stated that the vehicle was totaled and there is no need to proceed with this complaint.

Nov 07, 2023

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

It’s been about 4 months on the forward collision alarm and 4 1/2 weeks on the jerking going when taking off the transmission seems to jerk and when driving down a highway when nothing what so ever is on front of me all the sudden my front collision alarm goes off with a sudden breaks being applied by themselves.I spoke to dealer about it and all they told me it was probably from a shadow of trees or a sign which is bull crap.

Aug 21, 2023

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

1 complaint

Exactly what is described in TSB 22-2025 and 21-2147. Ford did not put an engine cover on my truck, and water has intruded into the spark plug wells and corroded the equipment. Ford is refusing to fix the issue, as the NHTSA didn't include my VIN in the two previously issues TSBs about this.

Jun 16, 2023

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

The contact owned a 2020 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving at 5-10 MPH downhill onto a leveled road and approaching a traffic light, the brake pedal was depressed but failed to respond. The vehicle accelerated unintendedly. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact continued to depress the brake pedal but it failed to respond. The vehicle crashed into two vehicles. However, the vehicle continued to accelerate unintendedly. The contact then purposely crashed into a tree on the side of the road in other to stop the vehicle. The air bags deployed. The contact sustained a Split lip, soreness all over the body, swollen eye, and a swollen face. Additionally, the contact sustained depression and emotional trauma as he was confused, ridiculed, and verbally abused by bystanders who thought he intentionally caused the accident. The contact was also detained by a police patrol and released after an hour. The contact did not seek medical assistance. Two occupants of the two vehicles the contact crashed into sustained unknown injuries. There was no further information provided. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the tow yard where it was totaled. The local dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 38,000. The VIN was unavailable.

Jun 09, 2022

Crash: 1

Injuries: 3

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

On two separate instances the truck accelerated on it own and the brakes were used but didn't stop the vehicle had to turn the key off and the second of these two incidences the truck hit a wall and kept accelerating digging the ground up

May 12, 2022

Crash: 1

EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE

1 complaint

REAR PASSENGER SIDE DOOR IS HARD TO OPEN AND CLOSE. MY SEVEN YEAR OLD CAN'T OPEN IT WITHOUT HELP ON THAT SIDE. WARNING LIGHT COMES ON WHILE DRIVING SOMETIMES WHEN IT IS CLOSED. AFTER PARKING THE PROBLEM CAUSES THE REAR TAILGATE TO STAY ON TO DRAIN BATTERY BECAUSE TRUCK REGISTERS THE DOOR AS AJAR. HAVE TO SLAM AND RELOCK SEVERAL TIMES TO GET WARNING AND LIGHTS TO TURN OFF. WHEN AN OBJECT IS IN THAT DOOR'S POCKET THE PROBLEM IS WORSE AND IT MAY MAKE THE ALARM GO OFF HOURS AFTER PARKING. OFTEN TAKES SEVERAL ATTEMPTS OF OPENING AND CLOSING DOORS AND TURNING INTERIOR LIGHTS ON AND OFF TO GET THE TRUCK LOCKED WITH ALL THE LIGHTS OFF.

Feb 07, 2021

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE

1 complaint

EXTENDED CAB MODEL, REAR DRIVER DOOR INTERMITTENTLY INDICATES DOOR AJAR. ALERT APPEARS WHILE IN MOTION, USUALLY AFTER A BUMP IN THE ROAD. THIS HAPPENS AFTER THE DOOR IS CLOSED BY GRIPPING MIDWAY DOWN THE FRAME. THIS WARNING CAN BE PREVENTED IF THE DOOR IS CLOSED BY GRIPPING THE TOP OF THE DOOR FRAME. THIS DOES NOT OCCUR ON THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR. THIS HAS OCCURRED EVER SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED NEW FROM A DEALER.

Jan 28, 2021

STRUCTURE

1 complaint

BRAND NEW 2020 RANGER SUPERCAB (EXTENDED CAB) REAR DOOR AJAR LIGHTS STAY ON CONSTANTLY. KNOWN ISSUE WITH THESE TRUCKS AND BODY STYLE, FORD SHOULD RECALL THEM AND REPLACE THE DOOR SENSORS. COULD BE A SAFETY ISSUE.

Jan 25, 2021

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

I GET AN ''IMMINENT COLLISION WARNING" DISPLAY AND AURAL SOUND AT RANDOM TIMES, APPROXIMATELY 1X WEEK, WHILE DRIVING STRAIGHT, MODERATE SPEEDS, DRY WEATHER.

Dec 09, 2020

SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

OUR NEW 2020 FORD RANGER XLT LISTED A FEATURE CALL PRE-COLLISION ASSIST W/AEB. THE TRUCK DID NOT GIVE A WARNING NOR DID IT APPLY THE BRAKES AUTOMATICALLY. NOTHING OCCURRED BEFORE WE RAN INTO THE REAR END OF THE CAR IN-FRONT OF US. THE CAR AHEAD WAS STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT AND WE RAN INTO THE REAR END AT ABOUT 20 MPH.

Nov 21, 2020

Crash: 1

2020 FORD Ranger Problems & Complaints

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