Dealer visit checklist

2022 Ford Ranger checklist

Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.

Inspect the car

  • Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
  • Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
  • Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
  • Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
  • Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
  • Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
  • Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
  • Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)

Known 2022 Ford Ranger problems to check

  • 2.3L EcoBoost can exhibit carbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection, requiring periodic walnut blasting around 60,000-80,000 miles
  • 10-speed automatic transmission has reported hesitation and rough downshifts, especially in cold weather — a software update helps but doesn't fully resolve it
  • Sync 3 infotainment system can freeze or reboot unexpectedly; updates are available but the system trails competitors in reliability
  • Rear leaf-spring suspension delivers a noticeably stiff, bouncy ride when the bed is unloaded, a common complaint among daily drivers
  • Rust-prone undercarriage in northern/salt-belt states, particularly around frame brackets and rocker panels, if not treated proactively

Ask: have these recalls been fixed?

  • VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Bronco and Ranger vehicles.
  • FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Explorer and Ranger vehicles equipped with 2.3L engines.
  • EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Bronco, 2023 Super Duty F-250, and 2019-2023 Ranger vehicles.
  • BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE: 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.
  • EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER: 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.

Negotiate the price

  • Know the typical price: about $32,000 for this model year
  • Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
  • Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
  • Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
  • Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
  • Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
  • Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away

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