RoadVitals

2026 Ford Ranger

Recalls, owner-reported complaints, investigations and safety data

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
9
+2 complaints in 30 days
Safety recallsA safety recall is issued when a manufacturer or NHTSA determines that a vehicle has a safety-related defect or does not comply with a federal motor vehicle safety standard. Recall repairs are free. Whether a specific vehicle is covered depends on its VIN — a recall listed for a model year does not necessarily apply to every vehicle of that year.
8
Latest Sep 22, 2026
InvestigationsNHTSA opens an investigation to examine whether a safety defect may exist. An open investigation is not a determination that a defect exists, and many investigations close without a recall. Investigations can, however, lead to one.
0
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
0
1 injuries, 0 deaths reported

Overview

Our database contains 9 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2026 Ford Ranger, most frequently naming the powertrain (other), electrical and brakes categories. 8 safety recalls have been issued covering this model year; and 23 manufacturer communications are on file.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

What owners report

Complaints grouped by the component NHTSA recorded

  • Powertrain (other)325.0%
  • Electrical216.7%
  • Brakes216.7%
  • Exterior lighting18.3%
  • Other / unspecified18.3%
  • Seat belts18.3%
  • Engine18.3%
  • Interior & seats18.3%

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Safety recalls

8 campaigns cover this model year

View all 8

Recalls apply to specific vehicles, not to every vehicle of a model year. Check your VIN with NHTSA or your manufacturer's dealer to confirm whether a recall affects your vehicle.

Check a VIN on NHTSA.gov
26V605000

BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT

Sep 22, 2026
11,405 units potentially affected
The defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Ranger vehicles equipped with a 10.1-inch center stack screen. The screen may lose power and fail to display the rearview camera image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
The risk: A rearview camera image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The remedy: The remedy is currently under development. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed October 7, 2026. Additional letters will be sent when the remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C42. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on September 25, 2026.
Ford Motor CompanyManufacturer number 26C42View on NHTSA.gov
26V548000

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL

Aug 25, 2026
10,427 units potentially affected
The defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Explorer, Bronco, Bronco Sport, Mustang, and Ranger vehicles. The engine piston domes may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in piston dome failure and lead to a loss of drive power.
The risk: An unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The remedy: Dealers will inspect the engine pistons and replace the engine long block, if necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed September 3, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in December 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S61. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on August 28, 2026.
Ford Motor CompanyManufacturer number 26S61View on NHTSA.gov
26V343000

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL

May 27, 2026
1,536 units potentially affected
The defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Explorer, Ranger, and Bronco vehicles. The engine may fail, which can result in a loss of drive power.
The risk: A sudden loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.
The remedy: Dealers will replace the engine long block, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S35. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on May 28, 2026.
Ford Motor CompanyManufacturer number 26S35View on NHTSA.gov

Recent owner complaints

Reports submitted to NHTSA, shown in the owner's own words

View all 9
Brakes
Filed Oct 26, 2026

This is a follow up to previous report 11773016. This morning we had Triple "A" haul the 2026 ford ranger lariat to the Corwin Ford dealership here in Reno. Upon arriving to pick up the vehicle the Tow vehicle driver looked under the vehicle and discovered ALL attaching bolts on the left front brake caliper missing and the caliper floating loosely. He was shocked that we had not had a critical incident!! I had reported earlier to Corwin Ford unusual locking up on left turns and was told by the dealership that there was NOTHING WRONG. We have been driving the vehicle at highway speeds to and from RENO- This is outrageous!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

NHTSA ID
11773797
Incident
Oct 22, 2026
BrakesElectricalPowertrain (other)
Filed Oct 22, 2026

After arriving in Carson City from Reno, NV and running errands on local city side streets the vehicle began making a loud ticking noise which transitioned to a whomp/whomp/whomp noise. I pulled over at the nearest opportunity into a business parking lot and the vehicle brakes immediately locked up. I received the following error messages on screen; > Anti lock brake system failure >Hill start assist failed >Electric parking brake failed >Collision assist unavailable >Check engine brake light >I checked documentation for release of parking brake and followed directions and the brake would not release. After multiple attempts the brakes would not release. Next I tried putting the vehicle into reverse and the brake finally released. All warning lights now remain on and brakes pull to the rights when applied.

NHTSA ID
11773016
Incident
Oct 22, 2026
Filed Oct 2, 2026

truck goes in and out of 4wd high while driving, even though the selector dial is in 2wd.

NHTSA ID
11768464
Incident
Sep 28, 2026
ElectricalExterior lighting
Filed Sep 13, 2026

When setting up my vehicle for neutral towing behind my motorhome and having parts installed for the proper operation of my turn signal and brake lights when vehicle is flat towed it was found that for it to happen were the brake lights do not override the turn signal when both activated at the same time you have to let the vehicle enter into a sleep mode for 10 minutes with the key FOB completely isolated from the vehicle for 10 minutes. If you stayed near the vehicle or approached with the key fob closer than 30ft it would come out of the sleep mode and when pushing on the brake pedal and using your turn signal at the same time from your motorhome you would override the turn signal with the brake lights. Normal checks for RV'ers would not identify this issue as you would stand behind the vehicle you are towing to check right and left turn signals then shut them off and check the brake light then final check would be rear, front and marker lights never pushing the break and having the turn signal on at the same time. This is a safety issue for anyone behind you as they can see you are braking but not be aware you are turning if you have awaken your vehicle modules by it getting a signal from the Key FOB. This issue was found and verified by my installer and myself when checking as to why the turn signal would shutoff at the same point I pushed the brake pedal in my RV. The manufacturer has no information in its manually about this 10 minute delay nor that the FOB can keep the delay from occurring by being near the vehicle. When you actually keep the vehicle in the sleep mode what happens is the active turn signal blinks and the opposite light indicates a brake light.

NHTSA ID
11763888
Incident
Sep 11, 2026
Powertrain (other)
Filed Aug 27, 2026

8/4/2026 @ approximately 0630 When making a right hand turn vehicle (transmission) stalled for approximately 3-4 seconds before restarting. Reported to Corwin Ford Service Dept. here in RENO,NV who declined to investigate. Said it was my responsibility even though vehicle is under warranty. 8/27/2026 @ approximately 0830 while entering high traffic roadway with 55mph speed limit with foot depressed on gas pedal transmission completely stalled while traffic rapidly approached. Transmission engaged at last minute before rear end impact.

NHTSA ID
11760002
Incident
Aug 27, 2026
Powertrain (other)
Filed Jul 10, 2026

While making a right turn, vehicle suddenly lost all power and shut down for several seconds. This is a safety issue, stalling out in front of oncoming traffic, etc. No warnings lamps, messages appeared. No dealer inspection yet. Numerous other owners on message boards have reported the same issue occurring with their vehicle.

NHTSA ID
11749667
Incident
Jul 8, 2026
EngineInterior & seatsOther / unspecified
Filed Jun 16, 2026

Description On your vehicle it is possible that the trailer module trm may lose communication at vehicle start-up. If a trm loss of communication occurs and a trailer is connected to the vehicle, trailer stop lamps and turn signal indicators will not function. Additionally, for trailers equipped with electronic trailer brakes, the trailer brakes will not function. This loss of communication can occur with-or-without a trailer connected to the vehicle and can only initiate at vehicle start-up. If this occurs, a trailer brake module fault notification will pop-up on the vehicles instrument panel cluster. The vehicle brake and turn signal lamps will continue to operate normally and are not affected by this trm fault. If you do not tow with your vehicle, you may wait for ota deployment for your vehicle remedy. Safety Risk This may result in inoperable trailer brake lights, trailer turn signals and trailer braking functions that can reduce a drivers ability to control an attached trailer and make the trailer less visible to other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash. Remedy Software is available to repair your vehicle. Ford Motor Company has authorized your dealer to reprogram your vehicles trm free of charge. Next Steps Contact your dealer for more information to schedule the free service.

NHTSA ID
11744634
Incident
Mar 18, 2026
Seat belts
Filed May 14, 2026
1 injury reported

The contact owns a 2026 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that both rear seat headrest metel coming from the rear of the head rest. causing laceration to the. The contact discover that when firmly grabbing the rear headrest a sharp metal piece would come threw the head. The local dealer was notified of the issue. The manufacturer was not contacted. Medical treatment was not required. The failure mileage was 32.

NHTSA ID
11737903
Incident
May 11, 2026
Mileage
32 mi

Manufacturer communications

A bulletin sent by a manufacturer to its dealers. Not a recall, and repairs are not necessarily free.

SSM 55228

ENGINE

Some 2020-2026 Aviator/Explorer/F-150/Bronco/Ranger vehicles equipped with a 2.7L or 3.0L (non-diesel) engine may need the front engine cover removed and reinstalled for various reasons. The Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-01 Engine > Removal and Installation > Engine Front Cover service procedure has been updated to include a new essential special service tool (ESST) guide pin alignment tool (303-1790) that is used to align the engine front cover to the engine block, preventing the O-ring seal on the engine oil galley feed tube from getting damaged during installation.

SYNC-26.2.9.3 F-150,Escap

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Quality improvements include: -Enhanced Android Auto and Car Play connectivity

TCU-26.2.12.2.2 Mach E, F

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Quality improvements include: -Addresses a bug that may cause updates to fail

ECG-26.2.12.3 Bronco,Esca

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Quality improvements include: -ePrivacy enhancements

SSM 55118

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; STRUCTURE:BODY

Some of the following vehicles: * 2023-2025 F-Super Duty built on or before 02-Feb-2025 * 2024-2026 Ranger/Bronco/Mustang * 2024-2025 F-150 built on or before 15-Jul-2025 * 2024-2025 Nautilus built on or before 16-Feb-2025 * 2025 Explorer/Aviator built on or before 01-Feb-2025 may exhibit all of the following symptoms: - "No Key Detected" message displayed on the instrument panel cluster (IPC). - Key fob does not work in the backup slot. - Remote keyless entry (RKE) (lock and unlock from the key fob) functionality will work to lock/unlock the vehicle. If the vehicle exhibits these symptoms, start the vehicle using both key fobs. If the no crank/no start condition with "No Key Detected" concern is present, reprogram both key fobs and retest. If the no crank/no start condition with "No Key Detected" is still present, replace the body control module (BCM). Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 419-10. For claiming, use causal part 15604 and labor operation MT55118SSM up to 1.8 hours.

SSM 55100

SEATS

For Various Ford and Lincoln vehicles, if diagnostics lead to the replacement of the front seat cushion cover J-clips, lower-level service parts are now available. Use service part W709919-S901 if the J-clip is completely detached from the seat cover and W715386-S424 if the clip is still partially attached. It is not necessary to replace the seat cover if only the J-clip is separating from the cover. Refer to PTS Home > Technical Assistance > Technical Support Videos > Section 501- Body and Paint > Seat J-Clips. For claiming, use causal parts from list below and labor operations 63100A and 63100A5. Causal Parts for claiming: Bronco/Bronco Sport/Escape/Explorer/Expedition/Navigator: 7862900 or 7862901 F-150/F-Super Duty: 1562900 or 1562901 Ranger/Maverick: 6062900 or 6062901

Manufacturers file copies of the bulletins they send to dealers with NHTSA. These often describe diagnostic or repair procedures for a known condition. They are not recalls: repairs described in a bulletin are usually only free if the vehicle is still under warranty or the manufacturer has extended coverage.

Compare model years

Complaint and recall counts across every year of this model

Ford Ranger by model year
YearComplaintsRecallsInvestigationsIssue Index
2026Viewing980—
20254613059.8
20249913058.6
2023194059.2
2022395057.1
20211196063.5
20201317162.7
201927211058.9
2018000—
2017100—
2016100—
2015000—
2014100—
2013000—
2012000—
20112356053.5
20101569053.2
20091698052.4
20083266158.9
20072706159.9
200627212052.7
200528911362.3
200440512365.9
20032435160.5
20023467056.0
20015159263.3
20006708056.3
199975510056.2
199857611161.4
19974117261.3
19964138055.8
19953217157.9
199443811161.3
199323210264.6
19921896163.9
19911326467.5
19901055366.3
1989733163.0
1988892266.4
1987505471.3
1986355775.0
1985273167.6
1984128169.0
1983117057.4
1979100—
1978100—

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. Older model years have had longer for reports to accumulate.