2020 Ford Ranger Review: Dependable Compact Truck With Reasonable Ownership Costs

Alex Showalter
Feb 22, 2023

The 2020 Ford Ranger lasts around 250,000 miles with some relatively minor brake and paint issues reported. At $24,920 to $40,998, it’s a good value for a compact truck with a decent size cabin.

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likeFilled The Good
Performance is good from the turbocharged 4-cylinder, there’s decent safety features offered and the towing capacity is high for its size.
dislikeFilled The Bad
The cabin is noisy, the stereo system is basic and it’s not as good off-road as many other small trucks on the market.

Is the 2020 Ford Ranger a Good Used Truck?

  • Overall Rating 8/10 – 2020 is a good year for the Ford Ranger since it offers a lot of technology along with a high towing capacity. Owner reviews praise the reliability, nice technology, along with the comfortable suspension.
  • Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – Interior materials are okay in the 2020 Ranger, the seats are reasonably comfortable, there are also two bed lengths offered.
  • Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread problems reported with the 2020 Ford Ranger. In general, models from 2019 through 2022 are good choices with no serious issues.
  • Performance 8/10 – Performance is good for a compact truck from the standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
  • Safety 7/10 – The 2020 Ranger is reasonably safe, earning 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests. There’s a standard rearview camera along with automatic emergency braking. Optional upgrades include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, as well as blind spot monitoring.
  • Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 23 MPG, giving 414 miles of range from the 18 gallon tank. Gas costs are $47 cheaper than average at $201 per month.
  • Value 8/10 – The 2020 Ford Ranger is a good value since it depreciates slower than other trucks on the market while still being affordable to own.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Kelly taber
Several issues and problems solved
I'm going to explain a few things the new 2020 ranger is excellent.a few minor issues I've solved. Issue one brake and tire sloppiness problem... The factory tires that come on them are junk. Manufactures order these tires in bulk probably pay about 15 dollars a tire they are cheaply made. Go buy tires for it or your going to have these 2 issues. Cheap tires have slack in the rubber tread which creates a feeling of sluggish braking and vehicle sway. I replaced the tires it all disappeared. Suggested tires on the xlt bf Goodrich ta expensive tire but well worth it. Solved.problem 2 issues with fuel economy average 26mpg hwy.20 city average 22. Big tip here is slow down on highway 80 mph does eat gas. Go 60 and easy on starts. My average is now 30 mpg with taking it easy. Problem 3 well only time will tell. Not enough accessories for this truck yet hopefully soon I can get what I need. To be continued...
accountCircle Olivia P
Reliable rugged luxury truck.
The 2020 ranger is rugged, reliable, and more luxury than you'd expect for a truck without losing it is “tough guy” image. It is comfortable to spend the day driving in and feels smooth on and off the road. It glides into gear quickly and has a lot of pick up and go.
accountCircle Paul F
Ford ranger lariat is a great alternative to a full size pickup.
Just bought it 2 weeks ago. 24 mpg driving locally. Comfortable. Great convenience and safety features including auto dimming headlights, navigation system, entertainment system, lane keeping and automatic speed adjustment when in cruise control. I traded a 2016 f350. I do miss the exceptional storage that I had under and behind the rear seat.
accountCircle Bill C
2020 ford rangers' amenities are top of the line.
This is a great vehicle. It comes with a standard backup camera with a feature that focus on the hitch point. It also comes with a braking sensor to reads the vehicles in front of the truck. It also offers a dual climate control feature. The ranger has a satisfying powertrain and comfortable seats.
accountCircle Toni H
Good on fuel. Comfortable to ride in.
I haven't owned it long enough to make a good review. I have only owned it for a little over a month. Gas mileage is good 22 miles to a gallon. Comfortable for riding in. Although I haven't taken any long drives in it yet. Haven't had any issues as of yet. But as I said haven't owned it long enough.
accountCircle Joe Garrett
Excellent choice
Yes after reading Weston's informative review I went out and ordered a new Ranger XLT. It is quite a step up from my 2004 Ranger, A REAL STEP UP, didn't think to look at specs after his stunning review and the new Ranger is probably 8 inches higher than my prvious one. It has bells and whistles it will take me months to figure out, I read the book cover to cover, too much to absorb all at once when you are 80. Do I like it,? In a word yes, it (once I get up into it) is roomy, comfortable, has all the gadgets anybody could want and is a good ride. I am pretty certain it will outlast me. Well constructed and so far dependable
accountCircle Dennis P
My ford small box pick/up is great vehicle overall from outside to inside.
Style, gas mileage, power short box, able to carry heavy loads. Interior styling, easy to see instruments. Great freeway ride. Handles like a sports car. Price very competitive. Low down payment low insurance. Great warranty. Fun to drive. Loads of safety features.
accountCircle Dawn A
Awesome handling and convenient features.
The ford ranger is easy to drive has so many new advanced functions and handles awesome. It has handsfree calling, directions, and many features on your phone call also be accessed. It has great gas mileage. It has lane keeping and blind spot alerts. A back up camera and all around sensing. You can download the app and set up times for car to warm up for you or see the health of the vehicle.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Doug weston
Cheap suppliers = cheap parts
FORD s**ks...
accountCircle Audrey A
What’s wrong with the ranger.
Not enough space and missing little details that make a difference. There’s no mirrors on the sunshades, the truck looks like the back has a lot of room but does not. The under seat storage holds a water bottle. There’s not much space for tall people.

What Do Critics Say About the Ford Ranger?

  • Consumer Reports says the 2020 Ford Ranger offers a good alternative to other full-size American trucks, with average owner satisfaction scores.
  • Edmunds rates the Ranger at 4.1/5, praising the available modern safety features, but doesn’t like the less capable off-road system than other small trucks.
  • Kelley Blue Book users give the Ranger a 4.4/5, enjoying the powerful standard 4-cylinder engine, but owners don’t like the stiff suspension.

What Common Problems Does the 2020 Ford Ranger Have?

Common problems found on the 2020 Ford Ranger include premature brake wear, poor quality paint, along with some loose interior panels on the dash. Overall, these problems are relatively minor for a truck, leading to lower repair costs as it ages.

Premature brake wear is the most common complaint from 2020 Ford Ranger owners in the first 5,000 miles. If you plan on using your truck to tow or haul then the brakes will wear down quicker. Replacing the brake pads costs around $350, while a new set of rotors is over $600.

Poor quality paint is another issue mentioned by Ranger owners at around 10,000 miles. The black paint in particular seems to be prone to chipping as it ages. The only way to fix damaged paint is by repainting the affected areas at a cost of around $1,000 per panel.

Loose interior panels on the dash also show up on some 2020 Ranger models in the first 1,000 miles. Usually the problem is caused just by loose or missing clips from the factory. Usually, the problem is covered under warranty and is able to be fixed by a Ford dealership for free.

There are four recalls on the 2020 Ford Ranger, which is similar to other small trucks. The most serious recall is for the gear position display, which may be inaccurate. Ford will install a shift cable locking clip on affected models for free. Most of the other recalls cover seat belts, which will also be fixed by Ford for free.

How Long Will the 2020 Ford Ranger Last?

A well-maintained 2020 Ford Ranger can last around 250,000 miles, which is slightly shorter than the top-rated Toyota Tacoma. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other small trucks, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $485 per year.

As a used 2020 Ford Ranger reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history owners should be prepared to replace the valve cover gasket for $300, parking brake shoe costing $250, along with the vehicle speed sensor which costs around $1250.

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment technology is basic for a truck with a standard 4-inch screen for the rearview camera. Optional upgrades include a larger 8-inch SYNC 3 touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.

Standard safety technology is average for a truck, offering:

  • Rearview camera
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Forward collision warning
  • Ford’s MyKey to set speed and audio volume limits

Optional advanced driver assistance features include:

  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Lane keep assist
  • Rear cross traffic alert
  • Cruise control
  • Lane departure warning
  • Blind spot monitoring

Is the 2020 Ford Ranger a Good Value?

Yes, the 2020 Ford Ranger is a good value since it offers decent reliability ratings with good practicality for a small truck. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $24,920 to $40,998, making it more than a Nissan Frontier or Chevy Colorado. When new, the price range was $24,110 to $38,675. In current market conditions the Ranger has not depreciated, although when inventory levels return to normal expect it to lose about 5% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Ford Ranger?

There are three main models of the 2020 Ford Ranger offered from the base XL, the improved Ranger XLT, all the way up to the well-equipped Lariat. The Ranger is offered with either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. There are also two cabin configurations including a standard extended cab, or larger four-door crew cab.

XL is the entry-level model with:

  • 16-Inch Steel Wheels
  • Manually Locking Tailgate
  • Cloth Seats
  • Automatic Headlights
  • Air Conditioning
  • Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror
  • Wi-Fi Hotspot
  • 4-Inch Stereo Screen
  • Four-Speaker Stereo System

XLT is a step up, adding:

  • 16-Inch Alloy Wheels
  • Rear Parking Sensors
  • Keyless Entry
  • Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
  • 8-Inch Touchscreen
  • Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
  • Power-Folding Mirrors
  • Remote Engine Start
  • Terrain Management System
  • Manual Sliding Rear Window

Lariat is the flagship model with:

  • LED Headlights
  • Leather Upholstery
  • Automatic Wipers
  • Electronic Locking Rear Differential
  • 10-Speaker Bang & Olufsen Audio System
  • Available Trailer Tow Package
  • Navigation System

What Engines Come In the Ford Ranger?

The engine found in the 2020 Ford Ranger is a reasonably strong 2.3L turbocharged 4-cylinder which makes 270 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque while getting up to 23 MPG. It comes standard with a ten-speed automatic transmission. Performance is decent, taking about 7 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH. It’s also capable of towing up to 7,500 pounds when properly equipped.

What Colors Does the Ford Ranger Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Ford Ranger?

The 2020 Ford Ranger has comfortable front seats that provide good support and are adjustable in several ways, making it easy for drivers to find the perfect driving position. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of room for both front and rear passengers.

Additionally, the truck has a quiet and smooth ride, making it a comfortable vehicle for both long and short trips. Owners have said that the rear seats in the SuperCab model are not as spacious as in other trucks, but overall the 2020 Ford Ranger is a comfortable small truck.

How Much Storage Space Does the Ford Ranger Have?

The 2020 Ford Ranger is a mid-size pickup truck that has been designed with practicality and versatility in mind. There’s a standard five-foot bed, or a longer six-foot bed available.

Along with the two bed lengths, the Ranger has a spacious and functional interior that provides ample storage space for all your gear, equipment, and personal items. There are also several convenient storage spaces throughout the cabin, including door pockets, center console storage, and an overhead console with a map light. These storage options help keep the interior organized and provide easy access to your essentials.

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What Are the Differences Between Years?

The fourth generation of the Ford ranger was introduced in 2019, after it had been out of production in the United States since 2011.

2019: Fourth generation of the Ranger introduced with all new engines, styling, and technology.

2020: New FX2 off-road package added, minor changes to exterior styling.

2021: Tremor off-road package added, Sync 3 infotainment system optional on Base XL models.

2022: Splash exterior appearance package added

How Does the Ford Ranger Compare to the Competition?

The 2020 Ford Ranger is a very nice small truck compared to the competition, offering decent features and good predicted reliability ratings as it ages.

The Chevy Colorado is another compact truck which starts at around $2,000 less. Off-road performance is a bit better in the Chevy Colorado, while the Ford Ranger offers a more spacious cabin. We recommend the Ford Ranger since you get more features for your money, and better predicted reliability ratings.

The Toyota Tacoma is a competitor which can be found for roughly $3,500 more. Reliability ratings are better on the Toyota Tacoma, while the Ford Ranger offers a smoother ride on city streets. We recommend the Toyota Tacoma since it’s the longest-lasting compact truck, although it’s worth test driving both to see which you prefer.

Ranks #6 Compact Pickup Trucks by Owners

1
car
5
2
Tie
car
4.6
6
car
4.39

Do Owners Recommend the Ford Ranger?

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Joseph W on May 1, 2021
The truck is the perfect small pick-up truck with all the features.
The truck has plenty of power for the size of truck I pull a 10 foot trailer with no problems. It has great gas mileage also for the truck and runs great. The rims look great and all the features are great. You can control everything on the screen to include the air conditioning, heating, radio and can hook up to Bluetooth. The radio is of great quality with great sound and bass, you can feel it. The rear view camera is awesome and makes hooking up to a trailer super easy, it even has a zoom for when you get close.
accountCircle Dawn A on March 15, 2021
Awesome handling and convenient features.
The ford ranger is easy to drive has so many new advanced functions and handles awesome. It has handsfree calling, directions, and many features on your phone call also be accessed. It has great gas mileage. It has lane keeping and blind spot alerts. A back up camera and all around sensing. You can download the app and set up times for car to warm up for you or see the health of the vehicle.
accountCircle Joe Garrett on March 14, 2021
Excellent choice
Yes after reading Weston's informative review I went out and ordered a new Ranger XLT. It is quite a step up from my 2004 Ranger, A REAL STEP UP, didn't think to look at specs after his stunning review and the new Ranger is probably 8 inches higher than my prvious one. It has bells and whistles it will take me months to figure out, I read the book cover to cover, too much to absorb all at once when you are 80. Do I like it,? In a word yes, it (once I get up into it) is roomy, comfortable, has all the gadgets anybody could want and is a good ride. I am pretty certain it will outlast me. Well constructed and so far dependable
accountCircle Bobby on March 8, 2021
Green
Got 2019 ford ranger 2 weeks ago with 2000 miles on it well drove down highway yesterday it lost all power all my electronic stuff was shutting off so took to dealership where bought looked over it said it was the electronic alternator was not charging so now is this going keep happening while drive down highway with not this many miles on it kind safety hazard if u tell me
accountCircle Kelly taber on January 22, 2021
Several issues and problems solved
I'm going to explain a few things the new 2020 ranger is excellent.a few minor issues I've solved. Issue one brake and tire sloppiness problem... The factory tires that come on them are junk. Manufactures order these tires in bulk probably pay about 15 dollars a tire they are cheaply made. Go buy tires for it or your going to have these 2 issues. Cheap tires have slack in the rubber tread which creates a feeling of sluggish braking and vehicle sway. I replaced the tires it all disappeared. Suggested tires on the xlt bf Goodrich ta expensive tire but well worth it. Solved.problem 2 issues with fuel economy average 26mpg hwy.20 city average 22. Big tip here is slow down on highway 80 mph does eat gas. Go 60 and easy on starts. My average is now 30 mpg with taking it easy. Problem 3 well only time will tell. Not enough accessories for this truck yet hopefully soon I can get what I need. To be continued...
accountCircle Sam B on January 22, 2021
Great features
I have a 2020 Ranger XLT FX4 and it is a great little truck. Needed running boards for me and the wife in our 60s. Tows my boat really well and travels behind th rv with no problems. If you are looking for a truck I really recommend the ranger.
accountCircle Olivia P on January 9, 2021
Reliable rugged luxury truck.
The 2020 ranger is rugged, reliable, and more luxury than you'd expect for a truck without losing it is “tough guy” image. It is comfortable to spend the day driving in and feels smooth on and off the road. It glides into gear quickly and has a lot of pick up and go.
accountCircle BRIAN B on December 30, 2020
Braking system on the Ranger
Perhaps Amber ,Nov review should perhaps use brakes not breaks.
accountCircle Germaine parker on November 20, 2020
Room and size.this will be my next new truck have1988 Ford Ranger and still running great
Have none
accountCircle Bill C on November 11, 2020
2020 ford rangers' amenities are top of the line.
This is a great vehicle. It comes with a standard backup camera with a feature that focus on the hitch point. It also comes with a braking sensor to reads the vehicles in front of the truck. It also offers a dual climate control feature. The ranger has a satisfying powertrain and comfortable seats.
accountCircle Doug weston on October 30, 2020
Cheap suppliers = cheap parts
FORD s**ks...
accountCircle Layne J on October 20, 2020
Good performance, cheap parts.
I overall love my ranger. It does have a couple downsides, though. Some of the material is cheap and the dash makes rattling noises. It does have decent power and a good towing capacity, though. It looks nice and generally I have no problems with performance.
accountCircle Toni H on September 12, 2020
Good on fuel. Comfortable to ride in.
I haven't owned it long enough to make a good review. I have only owned it for a little over a month. Gas mileage is good 22 miles to a gallon. Comfortable for riding in. Although I haven't taken any long drives in it yet. Haven't had any issues as of yet. But as I said haven't owned it long enough.
accountCircle Paul F on July 1, 2020
Ford ranger lariat is a great alternative to a full size pickup.
Just bought it 2 weeks ago. 24 mpg driving locally. Comfortable. Great convenience and safety features including auto dimming headlights, navigation system, entertainment system, lane keeping and automatic speed adjustment when in cruise control. I traded a 2016 f350. I do miss the exceptional storage that I had under and behind the rear seat.
accountCircle Audrey A on January 5, 2020
What’s wrong with the ranger.
Not enough space and missing little details that make a difference. There’s no mirrors on the sunshades, the truck looks like the back has a lot of room but does not. The under seat storage holds a water bottle. There’s not much space for tall people.
accountCircle Amber B on October 19, 2019
2020 ford ranger breaks and features.
It is brand new, but still get use to the breaks. I am use just tapping the breaks whereas with this true you really need to hold down on the breaks. It is all about getting use to it, so I am sure after driving sometime I will get use to the breaks. I love the screen it offers, the leather and trim, and the overall look of the truck!
accountCircle Dennis P on June 23, 2019
My ford small box pick/up is great vehicle overall from outside to inside.
Style, gas mileage, power short box, able to carry heavy loads. Interior styling, easy to see instruments. Great freeway ride. Handles like a sports car. Price very competitive. Low down payment low insurance. Great warranty. Fun to drive. Loads of safety features.
avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.