2021 Ford Ranger Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2021 Ford Ranger, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Powertrain (other)5538.7%
- Driver assistance2114.8%
- Engine1510.6%
- Brakes1510.6%
- Electrical85.6%
- Fuel system85.6%
- Body & structure64.2%
- Interior & seats32.1%
- Tires & wheels21.4%
- Other / unspecified21.4%
- Airbags21.4%
- Steering21.4%
- Suspension21.4%
- Exterior lighting10.7%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
2021 ford ranger 98160 millas firts time buy 01 19 2022 transmition went out 7 2 2026, my factory defect
Transmission hard shifts in low gear and sometimes slips gears or revs up engine without accelerating then slams into gear lurching forward. Had transmission oil checked by dealer and they said it looked great. Happened 29 July several times and again 5 Aug all throughout the day.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
The 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission and the gear-shift linkage module are defective, and the truck remains available for inspection. Our safety is constantly put at risk because the transmission exhibits an extremely violent, highly intermittent powertrain lunging jolt during deceleration and stopping. The impact is so severe that it sounds and feels like a loud gunshot firing right next to the cabin occupants. Furthermore, the transmission simultaneously exhibits severe throttle hesitation and gear-skipping. This causes the vehicle to drop gears and completely fail to move when attempting to accelerate at busy stoplights, trapping us as a sitting duck in active traffic. Earlier in our timeline, the technician improperly reassembled the shift linkage, which caused the multi-ton vehicle to refuse to engage in Park and violently roll backward down a steep residential incline; an emergency parking brake deployment was required to prevent a catastrophic accident. The transmission defect was physically confirmed by [XXX] of Papillion, who verified scored, sticking fluid control valves inside the main control unit. Additionally, the hazard was officially confirmed by BBB AUTO LINE National Arbitrator Sharon Katt (Case XXX). The arbitrator officially signed a ruling certifying that our safety, use, and value concerns are completely valid, explicitly noting that the intermittent nature of this transmission failure does not minimize the extreme safety hazard. There were no warning lamps prior to the failure. The symptoms first appeared at ~49,000 miles. The dealer has since refused advanced diagnostics, executed an irrelevant radio reset instead, and willfully fabricated a fake service record on CARFAX on April 21, 2026, to force-close system safety alerts in their database. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The Factory Driver's Side Floor Mat does not stay snapped in. This causes the Floor Mat to slide forward towards the pedals. This causes the Floor Mat to lodge underneath the accelerator pedal, which can cause an inability to accelerate. The Fllor Mat could also lodge undermeath the brake pedal, not allowing the full use of the brakes.
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
My truck loses power at a stop, starting to accelerate is stalls in the middle of the road. It seems to be stuck in gear or not going in gear. It will finally start going and the hesitation starts a the rpm gage goes up to about 3000 rpm’s and then goes back down to 1500. This is extremely dangerous to lose power in the middle of the road. This needs to be addressed.
10R80 TRANSMISSION ISSUES. WILL JERK & LAG WHEN DRIVING. HAD TO PURCHASE NEW TRANSMISSION FOR TRUCK
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
During low speed driving, mainly stop and go traffic the truck will randomly lunge forward when the brake pedal is engaged. It happens when accelerating and the truck will shift in to second gear, then if you apply the brake the truck will act like it is going to stall, the engine rpm will spike and the truck will launch forward. If you dont force the brake pedal to the floor, the truck will continue to accelerate, potentially slamming into another vehicle. This has happened multiple times, the dealer has rebuilt the transmission and that fixed the issue for the last 6-8k miles. the issue has returned and the truck is back at the dealership for diagnostics. This is becoming a serious safety concern and the potential that someone gets hurt grows every day. I have seen other complaints on the internet about this same issue in trucks with the same transmission.
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 )
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
During low speed driving, mainly stop and go traffic the truck will randomly lunge forward when the brake pedal is engaged. It happens when accelerating and the truck will shift in to second gear, then if you apply the brake the truck will act like it is going to stall, the engine rpm will spike and the truck will launch forward. If you dont force the brake pedal to the floor, the truck will continue to accelerate, potentially slamming into another vehicle. This has happened multiple times, the dealer has rebuilt the transmission and that fixed the issue for the last 6-8k miles. the issue has returned and the truck is back at the dealership for diagnostics. This is becoming a serious safety concern and the potential that someone gets hurt grows every day. I have seen other complaints on the internet about this same issue in trucks with the same transmission.
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.
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
My truck loses power at a stop, starting to accelerate is stalls in the middle of the road. It seems to be stuck in gear or not going in gear. It will finally start going and the hesitation starts a the rpm gage goes up to about 3000 rpm’s and then goes back down to 1500. This is extremely dangerous to lose power in the middle of the road. This needs to be addressed.
When I accelerate after a stop my truck starts jerking when shifting thru lower gears and the check engine light flashes. To increase my speed I have to slowly press the gas until it shifts thru gears. After it shifts thru the lower gears it appears to be okay. It doesn't do it at each stop but is now happening more frequently. I don't know if it's a transmission problem or fuel pump. Current mileage is around 62000. If I'm on the highway it will sometimes start jerking while the using cruise control and I have hit the brakes and take over acceleration. I've now parked the truck because dealer cannot get to it for 3-4 weeks.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
On March 17, 2026, while my vehicle was parked, I observed light smoke coming from the rear seatback, followed by a visible burn/melt mark in the seat fabric. I believe this occurred due to concentrated reflection of sunlight from nearby house windows onto the rear seat. There were no external heat sources or open flames in the vehicle, and the truck was parked under normal residential conditions. Concerned about the risk of fire and potential harm to my family and other occupants, I immediately reported this incident to my Ford dealership and Ford customer service. The dealer inspected the vehicle, and Ford reviewed the matter, but they declined to cover the repair or acknowledge it as a safety-related defect, citing their internal analysis. As of this writing, I am not aware of any recalls or official safety communications addressing this type of sun‑induced smoking or burning of interior seats in the Ford Ranger or other Ford vehicles. My concern is that if a focused beam of reflected sunlight can cause the seat material to smoke and burn under ordinary parking conditions, this may present a fire hazard not only in my vehicle but potentially in other Ford vehicles that use the same or similar interior materials. This could pose a serious risk to consumers, especially if such an event occurred while passengers were in the rear seat or if the vehicle was parked near flammable items. I respectfully request that NHTSA: 1. Document this incident as a potential safety concern. 2. Evaluate whether the interior seat materials used in the 2021 Ford Ranger (and any related Ford models) meet appropriate safety standards when exposed to concentrated sunlight or heat. 3. Consider opening an investigation if similar complaints exist or emerge, so that consumers can be protected and appropriately informed. Vehicle information: •Year/Make/Model: 2021 Ford Ranger •VIN: [XXX] ncident: March 17, 2026 •Location of incident: XXX [XXX] ON REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) INFORMATION RED
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
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
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
It wearing tires on the inside quicker the it should. The dealer aligned and said it was with in specs.
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
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 )
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .