Ford Ranger Years to Buy Australia: Which Model Years Are the Best?

If we are shopping for a used ute, figuring out the best Ford Ranger years to buy in Australia can save us thousands of dollars in repairs and help us avoid buying someone else’s problems.

The Ranger has been one of Australia’s most popular utes for years, and there is no shortage of used examples. However, not every Ranger year, engine, and transmission combination offers the same ownership experience.

For most Australian buyers, 2020 and 2021 Ford Ranger models are among the best used years to consider, particularly Rangers equipped with the proven 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbo-diesel and six-speed transmission. Buyers wanting something cheaper should also consider a properly maintained 2017 or 2018 PXII Ranger, while those wanting modern technology should look at 2023-onward Next-Generation Rangers, provided all recalls and software updates have been completed.

Let’s look at the Ranger generations, the years we would buy, the years we would inspect more carefully, and the engines worth considering.

Best Ford Ranger Years to Buy in Australia: Quick Answer

If we want the short version, these are our preferred Ranger years.

Our personal sweet spot in the second-hand market would normally be a 2020 or 2021 Ranger XLT 3.2 4x4 with a complete service history.

A 2021 Australian Ranger XLT was still available with Ford's 3.2-litre five-cylinder diesel producing 147kW and 470Nm paired with a six-speed transmission.

That combination is not the newest or most fuel-efficient Ranger drivetrain, but its long production history makes it attractive to buyers prioritising familiarity and simplicity.

Understanding Ford Ranger Generations in Australia

Before choosing a year, we should understand the generations.

Ford Ranger PX – 2011 to 2015

The Australian-developed T6-based Ranger arrived around 2011 and represented a huge step forward from the older PJ and PK Rangers.

It brought stronger diesel engines, improved towing capability, better safety and substantially better road manners.

Early PX Rangers can now be relatively inexpensive, but age is becoming just as important as mileage.

Rubber components, suspension bushes, cooling systems, turbochargers, injectors, automatic transmissions and electrical components may all require attention as these vehicles get older.

For that reason, we would not automatically choose an early PX simply because its purchase price looks attractive.

Ford Ranger PXII – 2015 to 2018

The PXII facelift appeared during 2015 and is one of the most interesting Ranger generations for used buyers.

Australian buyers generally encountered two main diesel engines:

• 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel
• 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbo-diesel

The 3.2 became particularly popular in XLT and Wildtrak models.

Carsales notes that the PXII sold from 2015 with the 2.2-litre and 3.2-litre turbo-diesel engines and recommends checking used examples for issues including exhaust smoke, automatic transmission shudder, manual gearbox problems and coolant condition.

A well-maintained PXII remains one of our favourite budget Ranger options.

Ford Ranger PXIII – 2019 to 2022

The PXIII introduced another significant update.

Most importantly, Ford added its newer 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel paired with a 10-speed automatic, while continuing to offer the 3.2-litre diesel with six-speed transmissions.

That gives second-hand buyers an interesting choice.

The 3.2 is older and thirstier but mechanically familiar.

The 2.0 Bi-Turbo provides more power, improved claimed fuel economy and a much wider transmission ratio spread.

For example, the 2020 Ranger offered both the 3.2-litre/six-speed combination and the 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo/10-speed combination in Australia.

Next-Generation Ford Ranger – From 2022

The next-generation Ranger arrived in Australia during 2022.

It brought a substantially redesigned interior, new technology and major mechanical changes.

Among the Australian powertrain choices introduced with the new generation were a 2.0-litre single-turbo diesel, 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel and the highly desirable 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6.

Today, Ford's Australian Ranger range has evolved further, with diesel, plug-in hybrid and Raptor petrol powertrains available depending on the variant.

Is the 2017 Ford Ranger a Good Year to Buy?

Yes. A 2017 Ford Ranger can be a good budget choice, especially with the 3.2 diesel.

By this point, the PX platform had already been on Australian roads for several years, giving mechanics and owners considerable experience with it.

Parts availability is also generally good.

We like the 2017 Ranger for buyers who:

• Want to spend less than they would on a PXIII
• Prefer the older 3.2 diesel
• Need a work ute
• Want good towing capability
• Are comfortable owning a vehicle approaching ten years old

However, maintenance history matters enormously.

Australia has issued recalls affecting certain Rangers from this period. For example, a 2026 recall extension covers certain Ranger vehicles built between December 2017 and September 2019 because transmission fluid pump gears could potentially fail.

Therefore, we would always check the VIN rather than assuming every Ranger from a particular year is affected—or unaffected.

Is the 2018 Ford Ranger a Good Year?

The 2018 Ford Ranger is one of our favourite PXII years.

Why?

It sits near the end of the PXII generation, meaning Ford had several years to refine the vehicle before introducing the PXIII.

We particularly like a clean Ranger XLT 3.2 from this period.

The 2018 Ranger can offer much of what buyers actually need:

• Strong diesel torque
• 4x4 capability
• 3500kg towing capability on appropriate variants
• Good aftermarket support
• Comfortable highway driving
• Plenty of available accessories

Prices can also be considerably lower than late-model Rangers.

The biggest problem is not necessarily the model year itself. It is the life many Rangers have lived.

A 2018 ute may have spent years towing a large caravan, working on construction sites, travelling through mines or carrying heavy loads.

Condition beats the badge on the tailgate.

Is the 2019 Ford Ranger Worth Buying?

The 2019 Ranger is more complicated.

This was the PXIII era, when Ford introduced its newer 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel and 10-speed automatic alongside existing powertrains.

The newer engine delivered strong numbers and better efficiency, but buyers now have more mechanical complexity to consider.

That doesn't make a 2019 Ranger bad.

We would simply place greater emphasis on:

• Transmission behaviour
• Service records
• Software updates
• Previous towing use
• Fluid condition
• Diagnostic fault codes
• Recall completion

A 2019 Ranger with excellent records is far more attractive to us than a supposedly “better” year with incomplete servicing.

Why the 2020 Ford Ranger Is One of the Best Years

The 2020 Ford Ranger is arguably one of the best used Rangers to buy in Australia.

It gives us the upgraded PXIII styling and equipment while still offering a choice between established and newer powertrains.

Australian 2020 Rangers were available with the 3.2-litre five-cylinder diesel and six-speed transmissions as well as the 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel with the 10-speed automatic.

Why We Like the 2020 Ranger 3.2

If long-term ownership is the priority, we particularly like the 3.2.

It produces less power than the Bi-Turbo, but it has been around much longer.

That matters when buying used.

Independent mechanics know it.

Parts are readily available.

Common faults are well documented.

There is also less uncertainty about how the powertrain behaves as kilometres accumulate.

The 3.2 isn't indestructible, but familiarity is valuable.

What About the 2.0 Bi-Turbo?

We wouldn't automatically reject it.

The 2.0 Bi-Turbo produces more power and torque than the old 3.2 and is typically more economical.

In 2020 specification it produced around 157kW and 500Nm, paired with the 10-speed automatic.

It can feel significantly more responsive.

Our recommendation is simply to buy based on condition and service history rather than performance figures.

If the 10-speed automatic hesitates, flares between gears, shifts harshly or behaves unpredictably during the test drive, we would investigate before buying.

Is 2021 the Best Used Ford Ranger Year?

For many buyers, 2021 may be the best Ford Ranger year to buy used in Australia.

It represents one of the final years of the previous-generation platform before the completely redesigned Ranger appeared.

This matters because late-production vehicles often benefit from years of incremental improvements.

Are Ford Rangers Reliable? Common Problems, Best Years, and Lifespan

A 2021 Ranger XLT 3.2 4x4 offered:

• 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbo-diesel
• 147kW
• 470Nm
• Six-speed automatic
• 3500kg braked towing capacity
• Five-year unlimited-kilometre warranty when originally sold in applicable Australian specification

For someone searching for a Ranger to keep for another five to ten years, we would happily consider a low-kilometre 2021 3.2.

Should We Buy a 2022 Ford Ranger?

We need to be careful when discussing 2022 because Australia saw both the outgoing Ranger and the arrival of the completely redesigned generation.

The new Ranger was a massive leap forward.

Ford introduced modern infotainment, improved cabin design, new drivetrains and the 3.0-litre V6 diesel.

The V6 diesel produced 184kW and 600Nm in Australian specification, giving the Ranger substantially more effortless performance.

However, 2022 was also the first model year of a brand-new generation.

That doesn't mean we should avoid it, but we prefer inspecting early production vehicles carefully.

There have also been Australian recall campaigns involving some 2022 Rangers.

For example, 1,380 Ranger and Everest vehicles from the 2022 model year were included in a recall involving incorrectly assembled driver's seatbelts, while another campaign affecting 244 2022 Ranger and Everest vehicles addressed software that could cause the transmission to shift into Park under specific low-voltage, low-speed circumstances.

Our rule is simple: check the VIN and confirm every applicable recall has been completed.

Is the 2023 Ford Ranger a Good Buy?

Yes.

If our budget allows us to move into the new generation, a 2023 Ranger is an attractive used option.

We gain a much newer cabin, improved infotainment and a broader selection of modern features compared with PXIII Rangers.

We can also choose the excellent 3.0 V6 diesel on applicable variants.

However, purchasing a modern Ranger requires a different mindset from purchasing an old 3.2.

There are more electronic modules, cameras, driver-assistance systems and software-controlled functions.

An inspection should therefore include more than checking for oil leaks and suspension wear.

We want the vehicle electronically scanned as well.

Are 2024 Ford Rangers Good?

Generally, yes.

The 2024 Ranger is one of our preferred choices if the budget stretches to a relatively new ute.

By this point the Next-Generation Ranger had already spent some time on Australian roads.

However, newer does not mean recall-free.

An Australian recall covering selected 2022–2024 Ford vehicles, including Rangers, addressed a software problem that could prevent the rear-view camera image from displaying correctly.

There is also a recall covering certain 2024–2025 Rangers involving brake boost software that could reduce braking assistance and require greater brake pedal force.

Again, recalls are not necessarily a reason to reject a vehicle.

They are a reason to verify its history.

What Is the Best Ford Ranger Engine to Buy in Australia?

There is no single answer because every buyer has different priorities.

3.2-Litre Five-Cylinder Diesel

For a traditional used Ranger, this is our favourite.

It isn't particularly sophisticated, and it won't win any fuel economy competitions.

But it offers:

• Strong low-speed torque
• Proven Australian history
• Huge mechanic familiarity
• Good parts availability
• Excellent towing suitability
• Simple six-speed transmission options

If our objective is to buy a 2017–2021 Ranger and keep it for years, the 3.2 would be high on our list.

2.2-Litre Turbo-Diesel

The 2.2 is often overlooked.

For buyers who don't tow heavy caravans or demand maximum performance, it can provide a cheaper entry point into Ranger ownership.

Because lower-spec Rangers were commonly used commercially, however, we need to examine them carefully.

A cheap XL with 180,000km may have had a much harder life than a privately owned XLT with the same mileage.

2.0-Litre Bi-Turbo Diesel

The Bi-Turbo is considerably more modern.

Its 500Nm output gives it strong performance, and the 10-speed automatic keeps the engine operating within an efficient range.

We prefer examples with comprehensive servicing and smooth transmission operation.

A diagnostic scan before purchase is especially worthwhile.

3.0-Litre V6 Diesel

If budget allows, this is arguably the most desirable mainstream Ranger engine.

The Australian-specification V6 produces 184kW and 600Nm.

It feels effortless compared with older Rangers and is particularly appealing for towing.

The trade-off is purchase price and complexity.

For buyers who simply need an affordable work ute, a V6 Ranger may be unnecessary.

For someone towing regularly or wanting a premium dual-cab, it makes much more sense.

Ford Ranger 3.2 vs 2.0 Bi-Turbo: Which Would We Buy?

If both vehicles were the same price, mileage and condition, our choice would depend on priorities.

For simplicity and long-term used ownership, we would lean toward the 3.2.

For performance, fuel efficiency and a more modern driving experience, we would choose the 2.0 Bi-Turbo.

The mistake is assuming engine choice matters more than maintenance.

We would rather own a perfectly maintained 2.0 Bi-Turbo than a neglected 3.2.

Which Ford Ranger Years Need Extra Caution?

We don't like declaring entire model years “bad.”

Vehicle condition varies too much.

However, some Rangers deserve extra investigation.

Early PX Rangers

Rangers from approximately 2011–2014 are getting old.

Even a reliable design eventually develops age-related problems.

Look for:

• Cooling-system deterioration
• Oil leaks
• Injector problems
• Turbo wear
• Worn suspension
• Differential noise
• Gearbox problems
• Rust from beach use
• Previous off-road damage

A cheap Ranger can quickly become expensive after several deferred repairs.

Early 10-Speed Automatic Rangers

When buying Rangers equipped with the 10-speed automatic, we pay particular attention to transmission behaviour.

Any abnormal shift quality deserves investigation.

Don't accept “they all do that” from a seller without having the vehicle independently inspected.

First-Year Next-Generation Rangers

We wouldn't completely avoid the 2022 Next-Gen Ranger.

We would simply be more meticulous about software updates, recall completion and electrical systems than we might be with a mature late-production PXIII.

Ford Ranger Recalls in Australia

Checking recalls should be part of every Ranger purchase.

There have been recall campaigns covering different Ranger years and components.

Examples include:

• Certain 2011–2012 Rangers for rear seatback latch concerns.
• Certain 2015–2016 Rangers for gearshift cable retaining clip concerns.
• Certain 2017–2019 Rangers for transmission fluid pump gear issues.
• Small numbers of 2021–2022 Rangers for a DPF-related software issue.
• Certain 2022 Rangers for seatbelt or transmission-related campaigns.
• Certain 2022–2024 Ford vehicles including Rangers for rear-view camera software.
• Certain 2024–2025 Rangers for brake boost software.

A recall doesn't automatically make a Ranger unreliable.

Most recall repairs are carried out by the manufacturer at no cost to the owner.

What matters when buying used is confirming whether the specific VIN is affected and whether the required repair has been completed.

What Mileage Is Too High for a Used Ford Ranger?

There isn't a magic number.

A Ranger with 180,000km of careful highway driving and complete servicing may be a better purchase than a 90,000km Ranger that spent its life towing at maximum weight.

Is Ford Ranger a Good Car? Honest Review, Reliability, Pros and Cons

Nevertheless, mileage affects our willingness to pay.

As a rough used-buying framework:

• Under 80,000km: Highly desirable
• 80,000–150,000km: Normal used-buy territory
• 150,000–200,000km: Condition and history become increasingly important
• Over 200,000km: Buy primarily on mechanical condition and price

At higher mileage, we should budget for suspension, cooling-system, driveline and emissions-system repairs even if the engine itself remains healthy.

What Should We Check Before Buying a Ford Ranger?

Never buy one based only on appearance.

Rangers are lifestyle vehicles, but they are also genuine workhorses.

A beautifully polished Wildtrak can still have spent five years towing.

Check the Service History

We want invoices, not just vague assurances that it has “always been serviced.”

Look for consistent servicing throughout the vehicle's life.

Long gaps are concerning.

Test the Automatic Transmission

Drive the Ranger cold and warm.

Check for:

• Delayed engagement
• Shuddering
• Harsh shifts
• Gear hunting
• Slipping
• Flare between shifts
• Unusual noises

Inspect the Cooling System

Check coolant condition and level.

Look around the engine bay for residue that may indicate leaks.

Overheating is something we want to avoid on any modern turbo-diesel.

Check for Towing Abuse

A towbar doesn't automatically mean a vehicle has had a hard life.

But signs of constant heavy towing deserve attention.

Inspect:

• Rear suspension
• Towbar
• Chassis
• Transmission behaviour
• Differential
• Cooling system

Check for Off-Road Damage

Get underneath the Ranger.

Scraped bash plates are normal.

Bent components, damaged chassis sections and significant corrosion are not.

Scan the Electronics

For newer Rangers, an electronic diagnostic scan can reveal stored fault codes even if there are no warning lights on the dashboard.

Run a PPSR Check

Before handing over money, verify the vehicle's history.

We want to know whether it has finance owing, has been recorded as written off or has other significant history.

Best Ford Ranger Year for Towing

If we're buying specifically for towing, there are several good options.

For value, a 2020–2021 Ranger 3.2 remains appealing.

For performance, we would move to a Next-Gen Ranger with the 3.0 V6 diesel.

The V6's 600Nm torque output makes it particularly attractive for towing caravans and trailers.

However, towing capacity is only part of the calculation.

Payload and Gross Combined Mass matter too.

Adding passengers, accessories, bull bars, canopies, roof racks and camping equipment can dramatically reduce the payload available once a heavy trailer is attached.

Best Ford Ranger Year for a Tight Budget

We would start around 2017–2018.

Going much older can save money at purchase time but exposes us to more age-related maintenance.

A clean 2017 or 2018 Ranger 3.2 could therefore make more sense than buying the cheapest 2012 Ranger we can find.

Budget buyers should prioritise:

1. Service history
2. Mechanical inspection
3. Ownership history
4. Low abuse
5. Model year

In that order.

Best Ford Ranger Year for Reliability

If reliability is our main concern, our pick would be a well-maintained 2020 or 2021 Ranger 3.2.

There are no guarantees with a used vehicle, but this gives us a late version of a long-running drivetrain rather than an early example of a completely new generation.

The Ranger 3.2 and six-speed combination had already spent many years on Australian roads by this stage.

We still need to inspect it carefully.

“Proven” does not mean maintenance-free.

Best Ford Ranger Year for Technology

The answer is easy: choose the Next-Generation Ranger from 2022 onward.

The difference inside is substantial.

We get newer infotainment, larger displays, more driver-assistance technology and a more modern cabin.

The current Ranger range has continued to evolve, with Ford Australia now offering 2.0-litre diesel, 3.0-litre V6 diesel, plug-in hybrid and Raptor petrol configurations across the range.

For technology-focused buyers, an older PXIII simply cannot compete.

Our Ford Ranger Used-Buy Ranking

If we were shopping today, this is how we would rank the main options.

1. 2021 Ford Ranger 3.2

Our favourite combination of age, proven mechanicals, towing ability and everyday usability.

2. 2020 Ford Ranger 3.2

Almost equally good and often available for less money.

3. 2023–2024 Ford Ranger

The better choice for buyers wanting modern technology, particularly with the V6.

4. 2017–2018 Ford Ranger 3.2

Excellent value if the vehicle has been maintained properly.

5. 2019–2021 Ranger 2.0 Bi-Turbo

Strong performance and efficiency, but we would inspect the 10-speed automatic carefully.

6. 2022 Next-Gen Ranger

Still worth considering, but we prefer later examples of the new generation when prices are close.

Should You Buy a Used Ford Ranger in Australia?

For many Australians, yes.

There is a reason Rangers have become so common.

They combine work-ute capability with family-car comfort better than many older dual-cab designs.

The huge number sold in Australia also means we have plenty of choice.

That allows us to be selective.

We don't need to settle for a Ranger with questionable servicing, accident repairs or transmission problems.

There will almost always be another one for sale.

Conclusion: What Ford Ranger Years Should You Buy in Australia?

For most used buyers, we believe the 2020 and 2021 Ford Ranger are two of the best years to buy in Australia.

If reliability and proven mechanicals matter most, we'd look particularly closely at a 3.2-litre five-cylinder Ranger with the six-speed transmission.

Buyers on a smaller budget should consider 2017–2018 PXII Rangers, again prioritising maintenance history over kilometres alone.

If we want the newest technology and stronger performance, a 2023 or newer Next-Generation Ranger makes more sense, especially with the excellent 3.0-litre V6 diesel.

The 2022 Ranger isn't necessarily a year to avoid, but because it marked the transition to an all-new generation, we'd pay extra attention to recall history, software updates and electronic systems.

Ultimately, there is no Ford Ranger year that guarantees trouble-free ownership.

A properly maintained Ranger from a less desirable year can easily be a better purchase than a neglected example from our favourite year.

So before buying, we should always check the service history, inspect the transmission, scan for fault codes, verify outstanding recalls, inspect the chassis and have an independent mechanic look over the vehicle.

That relatively small investment can make the difference between buying a great Ranger and inheriting an expensive repair bill.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best Ford Ranger year to buy in Australia?

For used buyers, 2020 and 2021 are among the best Ford Ranger years to buy, especially examples fitted with the 3.2-litre five-cylinder diesel and six-speed transmission. They combine the later PXIII upgrades with a well-established drivetrain.

Is the Ford Ranger 3.2 reliable?

The 3.2-litre five-cylinder diesel has developed a strong following in Australia and can cover high kilometres when maintained correctly. However, buyers should still inspect the cooling system, turbocharger, injectors, transmission and service history. No diesel engine should be considered maintenance-free.

Is the 2.0 Bi-Turbo Ranger better than the 3.2?

The 2.0 Bi-Turbo is more powerful and generally more fuel-efficient, while the 3.2 has the advantage of a longer service history and simpler six-speed transmission combinations. We'd choose the 2.0 for performance and the 3.2 for a more traditional long-term used-ute purchase.

Ford Ranger Years to Avoid in Australia: Used Buyer’s Guide

Should I buy a 2022 Ford Ranger?

Yes, provided it passes a thorough inspection. The 2022 Next-Generation Ranger introduced major improvements in technology, comfort and powertrains, but it was also the first year of a completely redesigned model. Verify that every recall and applicable software update has been completed.

How many kilometres can a Ford Ranger last?

There is no guaranteed lifespan, but well-maintained Rangers can reach high mileages. Rather than buying purely according to the odometer, we would examine service history, towing history, engine condition, transmission behaviour, cooling-system health and how the vehicle was previously used.