The 2011 Ford Ranger offers good value as a no-frills compact pickup truck, but its lack of modern conveniences may turn off tech fans. Also, the infamous Takata airbag recall affects the 2011 model. But the sturdy pickup still offers solid reliability and capability over creature comforts, and many last 300,000 miles or more.
2011 Ford Ranger: A Brief Overview
- The 2011 Ford Ranger is the final model year for the mid-size pickups third-generation.
- Two engines were offered: a base 2.3L inline-four, or an optional 4.0L V6.
- EPA fuel economy estimates for the 2.3L inline-four with five-speed manual is 24 mpg combined. The 4.0L V6 with five-speed automatic gets 16 mpg.
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the 2011 Ford Ranger two out of five stars for overall safety.
- Ranger competitors include Toyota Tacoma, Honda Ridgeline, and Ram Dakota. Vehicle History owner reviews give the 2011 Ford Ranger a 4.33-star rating out of five.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2011 Ford Ranger Have?
- The majority of the 2011 Ford Ranger’s complaints (180 so far) reported to the NHTSA involve the airbags. The issue is part the massive Takata airbag recall, which is covered in the recalls below.
- Eight reported complaints cover exterior lights going out without warning, including brake lights. A switch linked to the brake pedal has been found as the issue.
- Eight complaints reported cover the brake system, including total failure of the brakes.
- Five of the six recalls issued by the NHTSA on the 2011 Ford Ranger involve the airbags. All tied to the Takata airbag recall involving defective inflators which may rupture, dispersing metal fragments into the cabin.
- The sixth recall covers non-functioning lights linked to the steering column multi-function switch, which could increase the risk of a crash. Ford dealers will replace the switch free of charge.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
- Used: $13,799 to $18,602, per Kelley Blue Book’s Used Fair Market Range
- New: $18,655 to $23,100
- Five-year Depreciation: $7,466 – $9,240, per Omni Calculator
Three trim levels are available for the 2011 Ford Ranger:
- XL: AM/FM stereo with clock, 60/40 vinyl bench, and 2.3L inline-four with five-speed manual are three of the standard features on the base XL trim.
- XLT: Cloth bench, upgraded stereo with CD and SiriusXM, and optional SuperCab with four doors are on the XLT order sheet.
- Sport: Body-color trim, standard 4.0L V6 with five-speed automatic take the Sport up a notch.
How Long Will the 2011 Ford Ranger Last?
A 2011 Ford Ranger can last 300,000 miles, or 20 years. The majority of Ranger owners on enthusiast sites like Ranger Forums agree with this report. One owner mentions having a 1999 Ranger with 247,000 miles on it yet admits to not really properly maintaining the truck. Vehicle History’s real owner feedback also confirms the truck’s long-lasting reliability of an average 300,000 miles. Many mention having Ford Rangers of various model years lasting between 190,000 (2005 with 4.0L) and 350,000 miles (1994 with 2.3). The annual maintenance cost of a 2011 Ford Ranger, according to Repair Pal, is $614.
It is very reliable, I only just had to replace the factory tires last year at 70k miles, and just replaced the starter motor (very easily) at 80k miles.
Yes it is reliable and the only problem I have had was the airbag recall of 2009 where I had to leave it in shop for the problem to be fixed
It's very reliable. I have had minimal issues with it. I would recommend Ford and the ranger model to anyone.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
- Regular cab, 2.3L inline-four with five-speed manual on XL and XLT, 4.0L V6 with five-speed auto on Sport standard equipment.
- No new updates, as this model year would be the last for the Ford Ranger until the new model debuted in 2018.
- Electronic stability control, side-impact airbags, and roll-over sensors became standard equipment in the previous model year.
What Engine Options are Available?
- The standard 2.3L inline-four makes 143 horsepower and 154 lb.-ft. of torque.
- The optional 4.0L V6 delivers 207 hp and 238 lb.-ft. of torque, allowing the 2011 Ford Ranger to tow up to 5,800 pounds.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the 2011 Ford Ranger?
The 2011 Ford Ranger’s wheelbase is between 112 and 126 inches, depending on the cab chosen, compared to the 2011 Toyota Tacoma’s 109.6 to 140.6-inch wheelbase, and the 2011 Honda Ridgeline’s 122-inch wheelbase. Front legroom is 42.4 inches while rear legroom is 39.1 inches for the SuperCab. The 2011 Ford Ranger can hold about 12 suitcases in the bed.
How Does the 2011 Ford Ranger Compare to Other Trucks?
According to Vehicle History consumer reviews, the 2011 Toyota Tacoma holds the top spot in top-rated compact trucks with a score of 4.68-stars out of five. Toyota’s legendary reliability, nicer interior, and a stronger V6 capable of towing heavier loads place the Tacoma above the Ranger, which has a 4.33-star rating.
Another competitor against the 2011 Ranger is the 2011 Honda Ridgeline, which sits right above the Ford with 4.44 stars. The unibody pickup’s fuel economy of 17 mpg combined isn’t any better than the Ranger’s, but its car-like ride, room to comfortably seat five adults, and a usable bed will find more fans.
Is the 2011 Ford Ranger a Good Truck?
Yes.
- Pro: A consistent service routine can keep the 2011 Ford Ranger on the road for a long time to come.
- Pro: Good value on the used lot and the right play for those looking for a cheap truck.
- Con: The Takata airbag recall may make consumers think twice before purchasing.
- Con: Over a decade old, the 2011 Ford Ranger will need more care than a 2021 Ford Ranger.
Overall, the 2011 Ford Ranger is a reliable, sturdy smaller pickup with capable performance, albeit a little scarce in features. Pamela A. told Vehicle History her Ranger was a “dependable vehicle for everyday use,” with a “tough little engine that requires little maintenance.” Darrell L. adds that his truck may not have any bells and whistles of modern trucks, “but it gets where [he needs] to be and that’s all [he] needs.” Kelley Blue Book declared the 2011 Ford Ranger “one of the best” compact trucks for those needing a ride with few maintenance costs.
Photos: Ford