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2021 Ford Ranger Review: Reliable Small Truck With Average Maintenance Costs As It Ages

Rating: 4.50
Based on 46 Owner Reviews
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2021 Ford Ranger marks a return of the nameplate after a hiatus in the North American market. It's a mid-size pickup truck offered in a crew cab (SuperCrew) or extended cab (SuperCab) configuration. Key trims include the XL, XLT, and Lariat. Pricing typically ranged from around $25,000 to $37,000 new. Its blend of truck capability, smaller size compared to full-size pickups, and modern features made it popular.
The Good

The 2021 Ford Ranger offers a strong turbocharged engine appealing to performance enthusiasts. Its reputation for decent reliability and comfortable cabin attracts practical buyers. The Ranger's rugged design is emotionally appealing, while its fuel efficiency and overall value are rational benefits, balancing capability with cost-effectiveness.

The Bad

Some owners have reported issues with the 10-speed automatic transmission, experiencing rough shifting or hesitation. Interior materials can feel less premium compared to some rivals. The rear seat in the SuperCab is cramped. Watch out for potential issues with the paint quality and possible recalls.

2021 Ford Ranger: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 2.3L EcoBoost Inline-4 Turbocharged
  • Horsepower: 270 hp @ 5,500 rpm
  • Torque: 310 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm
  • Fuel Economy:
    • EPA estimated 21 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (RWD)
    • EPA estimated 20 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (4WD)
  • 0–60 mph: Around 6.5 - 7.0 seconds (depending on configuration)
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 7,500 lbs (with tow package)
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • XL: Standard features include a basic infotainment system, cloth seats, rearview camera, and automatic emergency braking.
    • XLT: Adds features like Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and alloy wheels.
    • Lariat: Includes leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, push-button start, a premium sound system, and automatic climate control.
    • Available Packages:
      • Technology Package (adaptive cruise control, navigation)
      • Tremor Off-Road Package (off-road suspension, tires, and styling enhancements)
      • FX4 Off-Road Package (electronic locking rear differential, skid plates)

2021 Ford Ranger Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2021
Make Ford
Model Ranger
Trim -
Style SuperCab
Type Truck
Category Standard Pickup Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City KANSAS CITY: CLAYCOMO
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 7000 pounds
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 2.3L I4
Engine Size 2.3L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission 10-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 10-Speed
Drivetrain Rear-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System Standard
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
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All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
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Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2021 Ford Ranger Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2021 Ford Ranger sometimes involve the 10-speed automatic transmission. Some owners have described experiencing hard shifts, delays in gear changes, or a general lack of smoothness. This issue appears to be more prevalent in earlier model years of the revived Ranger.
Other reported issues include minor electrical glitches or problems with the infotainment system freezing or malfunctioning. Paint quality has also been a concern for some owners, with reports of chipping or premature wear.
Check for any open recalls related to the 2021 model year. Recalls can address safety-related defects or issues that may impact the vehicle's performance or longevity.
Long-term reliability largely depends on proper maintenance and driving habits. However, potential issues with the transmission should be carefully monitored. Prior to purchasing a used 2021 Ranger, it's advisable to obtain a vehicle history report and have a mechanic inspect the vehicle to identify any potential problems.

How long will the 2021 Ford Ranger last?

With proper maintenance, a 2021 Ford Ranger can reasonably be expected to provide 150,000 to 200,000 miles of service, potentially lasting 10-15 years. Consistent oil changes, timely replacement of wear items like brakes and tires, and addressing any mechanical issues promptly are crucial.
Long-term durability may be affected by the 10-speed transmission, so regular fluid changes are essential. Rust, especially in regions with harsh winters, can also be a concern. Carefully inspecting the undercarriage and body panels for signs of corrosion is important.
Positive Owner Reviews
John S.
I've been using the Ranger for my daily commute and occasional weekend projects. It's fuel-efficient enough and has plenty of power for what I need. The interior is comfortable, though the back seats are a bit cramped for adults on long trips.
Emily R.
I love how easy the Ranger is to maneuver in the city. Parking is a breeze compared to a full-size truck. The bed is also surprisingly useful for hauling groceries and smaller furniture pieces.
Sarah M.
This truck has been incredibly reliable. I've had no major issues in the past few years. The ride is also surprisingly comfortable, even on rough roads.
Negative Owner Reviews
David L.
I bought the Ranger expecting to be able to tow my boat, but the towing capacity is less than I anticipated. I should have done more research beforehand. Otherwise, it's a decent truck.
Jessica K.
My biggest complaint is the infotainment system. It's a bit slow and clunky. I wish it had a larger screen and more modern features. The rest of the truck is great, though.
Ashley T.
If you frequently have passengers in the back seat, this might not be the truck for you. Space is tight, especially for adults. However, for my needs, it works perfectly.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2021 Ford Ranger boasts a decent array of technology and safety features.
Entertainment: The base XL trim has a basic infotainment system, while the XLT and Lariat trims offer Ford's SYNC 3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A premium Bang & Olufsen sound system is available on the Lariat.
Driver-Assistance: Standard safety features include a rearview camera and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims add lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control.
Safety Features: Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags.
Optional Features: Optional tech includes navigation, parking sensors, and a trailer tow monitoring system.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2021 Ford Ranger generally received good crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), but specific ratings can vary based on cab configuration. Check the official IIHS and NHTSA websites for the most up-to-date ratings.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Oxford White
Shadow Black
Magnetic
Race Red
Velocity Blue
Carbonized Gray
Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
Cactus Gray
Stone Gray
Hot Pepper Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
Chrome
Interior Colors
Ebony Black
Medium Stone
Dark Shadow Gray
Black
Dark Palazzo Gray
Black Onyx
Medium Dark Slate
Graphite
Ash Gray

2021 Ford Ranger Prices and Market Value

The 2021 Ford Ranger had a starting MSRP of around $25,000 for the base XL trim and could reach upwards of $37,000 for a fully equipped Lariat. Current used market prices fluctuate, but expect to find them ranging from approximately $22,000 to $35,000 depending on condition, mileage, and trim level.
Rangers generally hold their value well, particularly those with 4WD and desirable options like the FX4 or Tremor packages. Lower mileage and a clean vehicle history report also contribute to higher resale values. Depreciation is relatively moderate compared to some other vehicles.

2021 Ford Ranger Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for the 2021 Ford Ranger are typically moderate, depending on your driving record and coverage. Fuel costs are reasonable, especially for the 2WD models. Maintenance costs are generally average for a mid-size truck, with routine services like oil changes and tire rotations being affordable.
Potential repairs related to the 10-speed transmission could increase ownership costs. Overall, the Ranger is reasonably economical to own, balancing capability with affordability, but potential transmission issues should be factored in.

2021 Ford Ranger Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 22 gallons
City Mileage 20 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 24 miles/gallon

2021 Ford Ranger Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Side Overall Star Rating
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating
Combined Rear Seat Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Overall Side Star Rating
Side Barrier Star Ratings
Side Pole Star Rating
Combined Side Barrier And Side Pole Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2021 Ford Ranger Recalls & Defects

Forward Collision Avoidance: Sensing System: Radar
Recall date 2021-12-16
Recall no. 21v982000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2021 Ranger and Bronco Vehicles. THE Cruise Control Radar Module WAS Misaligned During Production.
Consequence A Misaligned Radar Module MAY Prevent THE Vehicle From Maintaining A Safe Distance From Other Vehicles When Adaptive Cruise Control IS Active. IN Addition, THE Automatic Emergency Braking (Aeb) System MAY React Slowly, or NOT React AT All, During A Pre-Collision Assist Braking Event. ANY OF These Scenarios CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Adjust THE Angle OF THE Cruise Control Radar Module, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed January 21, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 21s52.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking
Recall date 2021-12-16
Recall no. 21v982000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2021 Ranger and Bronco Vehicles. THE Cruise Control Radar Module WAS Misaligned During Production.
Consequence A Misaligned Radar Module MAY Prevent THE Vehicle From Maintaining A Safe Distance From Other Vehicles When Adaptive Cruise Control IS Active. IN Addition, THE Automatic Emergency Braking (Aeb) System MAY React Slowly, or NOT React AT All, During A Pre-Collision Assist Braking Event. ANY OF These Scenarios CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Adjust THE Angle OF THE Cruise Control Radar Module, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed January 21, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 21s52.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Seat Belts:front:webbing
Recall date 2021-10-15
Recall no. 21v811000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2019-2021 Ford Ranger Super Cab Vehicles. THE Front Passenger Outboard Seat Belt MAY NOT Have Been Assembled Properly, Allowing THE Seat Belt TO BE Misrouted. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Numbers 208, "occupant Crash Protection" and 209, "seat Belt Assemblies."
Consequence A Misrouted Seat Belt MAY NOT Adequately Restrain AN Occupant IN A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Ford Will Provide Owners With Instructions TO Perform A Preliminary Inspection OF Their Front Seat Belts. Owners That Detect AN Issue With THE Driver's Seat Belt, ARE Unsure OF THE Results, or DO NOT Want TO Perform AN Inspection, Should NOT Drive Their Vehicles and Contact A Ford Dealership. Dealers Will Inspect THE Front ROW Outboard Seat Belts and Replace Them, IF Necessary, Free OF Charge. Interim Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON November 5, 2021. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed December 22, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 21c25.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Child Seat:vehicle Latch Anchor
Recall date 2021-09-30
Recall no. 21v765000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2020-2021 Ranger Super Cab Vehicles Equipped With Rear Seats Containing Fixed Head Restraints. THE Fixed Head Restraints MAY Interfere With Proper Installation OF Certain Types OF Child Seats. Additionally, THE Child Seat MAY NOT Attach Properly TO THE Lower-Rear Anchors. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 225, "child Restraint Anchorage System."
Consequence AN Improperly Attached Child Seat CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury IN A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect THE Rear-Lower Child Restraint Anchorages FOR Correct Alignment and Adjust AS Necessary. Separately, Dealers Will Replace THE Non-Removable Head Restraints With Removable Head Restraints, Free OF Charge. Interim Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON November 5, 2021. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON March 17, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 21c24.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Seats:mid/Rear Assembly
Recall date 2021-09-30
Recall no. 21v765000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2020-2021 Ranger Super Cab Vehicles Equipped With Rear Seats Containing Fixed Head Restraints. THE Fixed Head Restraints MAY Interfere With Proper Installation OF Certain Types OF Child Seats. Additionally, THE Child Seat MAY NOT Attach Properly TO THE Lower-Rear Anchors. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 225, "child Restraint Anchorage System."
Consequence AN Improperly Attached Child Seat CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury IN A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect THE Rear-Lower Child Restraint Anchorages FOR Correct Alignment and Adjust AS Necessary. Separately, Dealers Will Replace THE Non-Removable Head Restraints With Removable Head Restraints, Free OF Charge. Interim Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON November 5, 2021. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON March 17, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 21c24.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date 2023-05-26
Recall no. 23v379000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2022-2023 Bronco, 2023 Super Duty F-250, and 2019-2023 Ranger Vehicles. THE Tire and Loading Information (Tread) Label States THE Incorrect Load Carrying Capacity, Which CAN Result IN AN Overloaded Vehicle. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 110, "tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence AN Overloaded Vehicle Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Ford Will Mail A NEW Tread Label TO Install Over THE Existing Label, Free OF Charge. Owners Will Also Have THE Option TO Take Their Vehicle TO A Ford or Lincoln Dealer TO Have THE NEW Label Installed, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed July 21, 2023. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 23c18.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Back Over Prevention:software
Recall date 2025-06-27
Recall no. 25v442000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 Mkz, Mkx, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 Ecosport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick Vehicles. A Software Error MAY Cause THE Rearview Camera TO Display A Blank Image, or THE Image MAY Remain ON THE Display After THE Backing Event HAS Ended.
Consequence A Rearview Camera That Displays A Blank Image CAN Reduce THE Driver's View Behind THE Vehicle. A Rearview Image That Continues TO BE Displayed After THE Vehicle IS Shifted OUT OF Reverse MAY Distract THE Driver. Both OF These Situations CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Update THE Rearview Camera Software, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed September 4, 2025. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 25s72.
Notes
Equipment:electrical:engine Block Heater
Recall date 2025-10-10
Recall no. 25v685000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2016-2019 Lincoln Mkc, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick Vehicles. THE Engine Block Heater MAY Crack and Develop A Coolant Leak, Causing IT TO Short Circuit When THE Block Heater IS Plugged IN.
Consequence AN Electrical Short Circuit CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy Owners ARE Advised NOT TO Plug IN Their Block Heater Until THE Vehicle IS Remedied. Dealers Will Replace THE Block Heater, Free OF Charge. Interim Letters, Notifying Owners OF THE Safety Risk, Were Mailed December 3, 2025. Additional Letters Will BE Sent Once THE Final Remedy IS Available, Anticipated September 2026. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 25sa4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (Vins) Involved IN This Recall Became Searchable ON Nhtsa.gov ON October 15, 2025.
Notes

2021 Ford Ranger Insurance

Insurance for a 2021 Ford Ranger is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2021 Ford Ranger Compare to Other Truck?

The 2021 Ford Ranger competes with the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Nissan Frontier.
Performance: The Ranger's turbocharged engine offers strong acceleration, but the Tacoma has better off-road prowess. The Colorado/Canyon offer a diesel engine option.
Features: The Ranger provides a modern infotainment system and a solid suite of driver-assistance features, comparable to its rivals. The Tacoma's interior feels dated.
Reliability: The Tacoma has a stronger reputation for long-term reliability, while the Ranger's 10-speed transmission has raised some concerns. The Colorado/Canyon have also had their share of reliability issues.
Price: The Ranger's pricing is competitive within the mid-size truck segment.
Alternatives: If reliability is a top priority, the Toyota Tacoma is a strong alternative, despite its less modern interior. The Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon offer a wider range of engine options and trims. The Nissan Frontier was redesigned in 2022, making the pre-redesign model a potentially more budget-friendly option, while the newer model is a more modern offering.

Final Verdict: Is the 2021 Ford Ranger a Good Truck?

The 2021 Ford Ranger is ideal for those seeking a capable and relatively fuel-efficient mid-size truck for daily driving, light towing, and occasional off-road adventures. It's a good choice if you need more capability than a car but don't want the bulk of a full-size pickup.
Whether it's worth buying depends on your priorities. A used 2021 Ranger can be a good value, but carefully inspect the transmission and check for any recalls. Consider the XLT trim for its better features without the Lariat's higher price. If reliability is paramount, the Toyota Tacoma might be a better choice, but the Ranger offers a more modern driving experience.

2021 Ford Ranger Owner Reviews

4.50
Consumer Rating, Based on 46 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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John S. on March 18, 2025

Great Little Truck for Everyday Use

I've been using the Ranger for my daily commute and occasional weekend projects. It's fuel-efficient enough and has plenty of power for what I need. The interior is comfortable, though the back seats are a bit cramped for adults on long trips.

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Emily R. on March 18, 2025

Perfect for City Living

I love how easy the Ranger is to maneuver in the city. Parking is a breeze compared to a full-size truck. The bed is also surprisingly useful for hauling groceries and smaller furniture pieces.

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David L. on March 18, 2025

Disappointed with the Towing Capacity

I bought the Ranger expecting to be able to tow my boat, but the towing capacity is less than I anticipated. I should have done more research beforehand. Otherwise, it's a decent truck.

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Sarah M. on March 18, 2025

Reliable and Comfortable

This truck has been incredibly reliable. I've had no major issues in the past few years. The ride is also surprisingly comfortable, even on rough roads.

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Michael B. on March 18, 2025

Good Value for the Money

The Ranger offers a lot of value for the price. It's not the most luxurious truck, but it's practical and gets the job done. I especially appreciate the fuel economy.

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Jessica K. on March 18, 2025

Infotainment System Could Be Better

My biggest complaint is the infotainment system. It's a bit slow and clunky. I wish it had a larger screen and more modern features. The rest of the truck is great, though.

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Robert P. on March 18, 2025

Excellent Off-Road Capability

I've taken my Ranger off-roading several times, and it's performed admirably. The four-wheel drive system is very capable, and the truck feels solid and well-built.

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Ashley T. on March 18, 2025

Back Seat Space is Limited

If you frequently have passengers in the back seat, this might not be the truck for you. Space is tight, especially for adults. However, for my needs, it works perfectly.

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Kevin G. on March 18, 2025

Powerful Engine, Smooth Ride

The engine has plenty of power for acceleration and towing smaller loads. The ride quality is surprisingly smooth for a truck. I'm very happy with my purchase.

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Lisa C. on March 18, 2025

Transmission Issues

I've had some issues with the transmission shifting roughly. It's been back to the dealership a couple of times, but the problem persists. Hopefully, they can resolve it soon.

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.