Credov's researched list of the 9 faults the Ford Next-Gen Ranger is known for (2022–2025), 6 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
What to look for: Note any stalling, cutting out or engine warning light on the drive, and ask for records of the camshaft sprocket fix.
Why it matters: A broken sprocket stops the engine without warning, so the ute can lose power at speed in traffic or while towing.
What to look for: Select Reverse and Neutral on flat ground with a foot on the brake, checking it reverses and never creeps forward.
Why it matters: A ute that drives forward when the driver expects it to reverse or stay still can hit people or objects in front of it.
What to look for: Check for ABS, stability or brake warning lights with a chime, and feel for a hard pedal needing extra push.
Why it matters: Losing brake boost suddenly means a much longer stop, which is a serious risk when towing or carrying a load.
What to look for: Look underneath where the engine meets the gearbox for fresh oil drips or a wet bellhousing, and check the ground.
Why it matters: A rear main seal is replaced by taking the gearbox out, so a leak that looks small can still be a big labour bill.
Sources: 1
What to look for: Look under the engine for steady oil drips and an oily turbo area, and watch for the oil warning light at idle.
Why it matters: If the leak is left until the oil runs low the engine can be badly damaged, so a leaking line needs fixing before the ute is driven far.
Sources: 1
What to look for: Drive in traffic and on a gentle hill, feeling for clunky shifts, a thump when slowing and revs flaring between gears.
Why it matters: Software updates fix some cases, but solenoid, valve body or converter faults are gearbox repairs, and towing makes them worse.
What to look for: Drive at 40-60 and 80-100 km/h on a smooth road and feel for a hum through the floor, pedals or steering.
Why it matters: It is mostly an annoyance, but a misaligned tailshaft and worn centre bearing tend to get worse and can need driveline repair.
What to look for: Ask whether it has gone flat or into sleep mode after a few days parked, and watch for battery warnings.
Why it matters: Mostly an inconvenience, but a ute that will not start after a few days at the airport or on a job site is a real cost.
Sources: 1
What to look for: Select reverse several times and check the camera picture appears each time and the main screen does not go blank.
Why it matters: A camera that drops out raises the chance of reversing into something or someone, which matters on a big ute with poor rear vision.
Got a question about a Ford Next-Gen Ranger? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.