If you are considering buying a Ford, or any vehicle, one of the most important questions is how reliable is it? Are Fords reliable? How good is Ford reliability?
According to RepairPal.com, among 32 car brands, consumers ranked Ford #21, with a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0. This current rating is based on the average rating of around 340 unique models.
Consumer reports found Ford vehicles average when it comes to reliability. Its current ranking is not in the top 10 but also not in the bottom 10. So, how come Ford, one of the top brands in the U.S., only has an average rating compared to other global brands?
As a consumer, you must know the reliability of a vehicle to help you determine its quality. This data will help you determine how much you may be spending on repairs in the future.
In this article, we look at the following:
- Ford Fusion reliability
- Ford Focus reliability
- Ford Escape reliability
- Ford Mustang reliability
- Ford Edge reliability
- Ford Ranger reliability
- Ford F150 reliability
- Ford Expedition reliability
Read on to learn more about Ford reliability, including the reliability of 8 of the best-selling Ford vehicles.
Ford Reliability – Are Fords Reliable or Not?
According to RepairPal.com, among 32 car brands, consumers ranked Ford #21, with a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0. This current rating is based on the average rating of around 340 unique models. [1]
Through the years, consumers rated Ford’s reliability at 2/5 or 3/5. This rating is misleading because other Ford vehicles rank 4/5 in reliability, like the Ford Ranger and the Ford Escape.
But these vehicles’ Japanese counterparts have ranked higher than the Ford models, so the Ford brand has gained an average rating over the years. This average rating is due to consumer’s complaints on the Ford vehicles over time.
Ford reliability – are Fords reliable or not? According to RepairPal.com, among 32 car brands, consumers ranked Ford #21, with a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0. This current rating is based on the average rating of around 340 unique models.
Reportedly, the largest recall was the Explorer SUVs from 2011 to 2017 because of software problems and transmission controls. There were also reports of limitations of the steering wheel.
To find out why the general reliability rating of Ford is only average, let’s go into the company’s top vehicles’ specific pros and cons.
Top 8 Most Reliable Ford Vehicles
1. Ford Fusion Reliability
Ford Fusion reliability: Consumers gave a Ford Fusion reliability rating of 3.5/5. It has a critics’ rating of 8.4/10 with a safety rating of 9.2/10 and an interior rating of 7.9/10. You can consider these as excellent ratings.
According to J.D. Power, the 2020 Ford Fusion predicted reliability score was 4 out of 5. This rating denotes that Power considers the Fusion as one of the most reliable vehicles.
Consumers also listed the 2012-2013 Ford Fusion as one of the best and most reliable used cars for families. Additionally, the 2008-2009 and 2011 Ford Fusion models were one point below the former models.
Pros
- WiFi hotspot available from FordPass Connect
- Features three engine options
- EcoBoost Engine technology
- Reliable safety measures
- The sound and entertainment system are impressive
- Provides advanced technology packages
- Electronic Assist steering
Cons
- Some consumers complain about a defective transmission, with the entire car shaking when shifting to first gear.
- First-time drivers may have a difficult time adjusting and controlling the gears.
2. Ford Focus Reliability
Ford Focus reliability: The Ford Focus gained an average predicted reliability score of 4 out of 5. This rating is 27th among 36 compact cars. The basis of Ford Focus’ reliability is also on the severity and frequency of its repairs. The results are fairly average compared to other brands.
The 2018 Ford Focus is ranked #3 in the 2018 Compact Cars. The critics’ rating is 9 over 10, and its performance rating is 8.2 over 10. Its interior rating scored 7.4 out of 10, leading to an overall score of 8.6 out of 10.
This Ford Focus reliability rating is relatively high, but Ford discontinued producing the Ford Focus after 2018, making the 2018 Ford Focus the latest model. The reason could be Ford’s twice recalling of the Ford Focus due to problems with its manual transmission.
Pros
- Good reliability rating
- Two turbocharged, powerful engines
- Spacious and comfortable front seats
- Comfortable and smooth ride even on rough roads
- Excellent all-electric trims
Cons
- Problems with the central lock
- Power steering problems
- Insufficient parking aids
- Cramped back seat
- Transmission problems
- No more production of updated models
3. Ford Escape Reliability
Ford Escape reliability: J.D. Power gave the 2020 Ford Escape reliability 3.5 out of 5. But consumer reports gave the vehicle a reliability score of 2 out of 5 with a total score of 62. The 2019 Ford Escape fared better.
The 2020 Ford Escape measures two inches longer than the 2019 Escape. Ford has completely redesigned the 2019 model for the 2020 Ford Escape. The recent model has a spacious interior for a comfortable ride with your family or friends. It has a variety of driver-assistance features that would put you at ease while driving.
Consumers ranked the 2020 Ford Escape #4 among compact SUVs and gave it an overall rating of 8.2 out of 10. This reliability rating is relatively high.
Pros
- Powerful 1.5L turbo three-cylinder engine
- Reliable 26 MPG
- User-friendly infotainment system
- Adult-friendly seats
- Fuel-economical engine
- Good cargo space
Cons
- Some consumers report ignition misfires
- Motor’s vibration at lower speeds
- Hard acceleration produces a distinct drone
4. Ford Mustang Reliability
The 2020 Ford Mustang is ranked number one in sports cars. It possesses a powerful engine, spacious trunk space, a superb interior, and updated technical capabilities. Ford Mustang reliability: The Mustang gained a rating of 8.8 out of 10 from JD Power.
The new 2020 Ford Mustang model also incorporated other features. These features include an optional EcoBoost Handling package, a Shelby GT500 model, a Standard FordPass Connect, and a High-Performance optional package. You can opt for the package if you want to add more helpful features.
Pros
- Provides two available powerful V8 engines
- Spacious trunk space
- One of the most reliable Ford vehicles
- Option to put the top down
- Offers link-up to smartphones
- Excellent cabin materials
- User-friendly driver’s assistance features
Cons
- Small rear seat and trunk
- Not a fuel-saving vehicle
5. Ford Ranger Reliability
The Ford Ranger is certainly one of the toughest vehicles in its category. Its reliability is based on its excellent performance capabilities. It’s a vehicle packed with a comfortable and classy exterior while loaded with superb features in its interior.
Ford Ranger reliability: J.D. Power and Associates conducted a Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS). They have rated the 2020 Ford Ranger reliability 3/5. The reliability score depends on the consumer’s rating of the vehicles’ engine, brakes, electrical system, transmission, and power equipment. [2]
Based on these criteria, the Ford Ranger is one of the highest-rated models for reliability. Consumers gave an overall rating of 7.5 out of 10 and an 8.2 critics’ rating to this model.
Pros
- The engine is powerful and efficient
- Fabulous trims to choose from
- Features a Co-Pilot360 system
- Available FX2 Off-Road package for pickup capabilities
- Excellent mileage
- Outstanding sound system
- User-friendly infotainment system with SYNC 3 voice control
- Reliable in towing and hauling
Cons
- Some transmission issues with 2002, 2004, and 2007 Ford Ranger models
- May not be spacious enough for a family trip
- Unavailable hardcore off-road models
6. Ford Edge Reliability
Ford Edge reliability: J.D. Power and Associates gave a 3/5 reliability score to the Ford Edge. The midsize vehicle provides tremendous engine power and good fuel economy. It ranked #13 among midsized SUVs. In addition, the Ford Edge is also a finalist for the U.S. News’ 2020 Best 2-Row SUV for Families award and the 2020 Best 2-Row SUV for the Money award.
According to Cars.USNews, consumers gave the Ford Edge reliability an overall score of 7.7, an 8.0 Critics’ rating, and a safety rating of 9.8 out of 10. The safety rating is relatively high, indicating an excellent vehicle to use when going out with your family and friends.
Its performance score is 7.4, which is higher than most vehicles in the same category. The score is based on research regarding consumer’s preferences as well as using several legitimate sources.
Pros
- Provides 6 cubic feet more cargo space than other trims
- User-friendly driver’s assistance systems
- Good engine power and a fuel-efficient engine
- Provides standard all-wheel-drive
- Features dual-zone automatic climate control
Cons
- Uncomfortable seats
- Outdated infotainment system
- Unimpressive internal design
- Average hauling and towing capacity
7. Ford F-150 Reliability
The 2020 Ford F-150 is ranked #1 among full-size pickup trucks. This Ford model features user-friendly technology, excellent hauling/towing capabilities, and a comfortable interior for both passengers and drivers. If you want to go off-road, the Ford F-150 trim is the best choice.
Ford F150 reliability: Consumers awarded the 2020 Ford F-150 an outstanding total score of 9.2. It has a 4.5 reliability rating and a 9.6 critics’ rating. For safety, it scored 9.4. And for its interior and performance, it scored 8.7 and 8.6, respectively. These Ford F150 reliability ratings were based on 49 research data and data elements from a variety of sources.
Pros
- Easy-to-operate infotainment system
- Provides a comfortable interior
- Powerful EcoBoost engines
- Great for hauling and towing
- Fuel-economy engine
- Provides new engines with 10-speed automatic transmissions
Cons
- Reportedly, the 2004 Ford F-150 has the worst engines among other brands
- The high cost of repair for the aluminum body
8. Ford Expedition Reliability
The 2020 Ford Expedition is ranked #1 among SUVs with three rows and large SUVs. Ford Expedition reliability: J.D. Power gave it a reliability rating of 3 out of 5. Consumers rated the vehicle an overall score of 8.4. Additionally, it has a reliability rating of 3 out of 5 and a critics’ rating of 9.2 out of 10.
Consumers and other car experts also crowned the 2020 Ford Expedition as one of the best and most reliable large SUVs for families. So if you want to travel in comfort with your family, you may want to look into this Ford vehicle. You would surely enjoy an ‘expedition’ traveling in leisure on off-roads as well as paved destinations.
Pros
- User-friendly SYNC 3 technology
- Incredible safety features
- Spacious room for cargo and passengers
- Offers superb towing and hauling capabilities
- Powerful V6 turbocharged engine
- Features standard Co-Pilot360
Cons
- Maneuverability issues in tight spaces
- Maybe more expensive than other brands
We’ve gone through the most reliable Ford vehicles and answered the question: “Are Fords Reliable?” Let’s now proceed to some valuable tips on choosing your Ford vehicle.
Tips on Choosing Your Ford Vehicle
1. Consider Your Budget
Before you go around browsing car models, establish first how much money you’re willing to spend on your new car. This aspect would be your starting point in searching for your ideal vehicle.
As much as possible, avoid buying used cars as the value of vehicles depreciates. Their reliability and power diminish with time as well. You would also spend much more on repairs when you buy second-hand cars or trucks.
A brand new car may be more expensive at the onset. But it would certainly be less costly in the long run, as you won’t be spending much on its repairs.
2. Find out the Reliability of the Vehicle
It’s quite important to find out the reliability of the vehicle. Reliability includes the engine, brakes, transmission, and electrical system. Look into the following aspects, as these features should be provided by the vehicle of your choice.
- Complete driver’s assistance system
- Comfortable passengers and driver’s seat
- Excellent engine power and performance
- Comfort and safety of the interior design
- Efficient steering wheel and wheels
- Durable and capable body and internal parts
3. Choose a Vehicle That Serves Your Purpose
Don’t purchase a vehicle because it looks stunning or drives smoothly. No matter how ideal it is, it would become useless if it will not serve your purpose. Buy a car that you need. Unless you have enough dough, then, by all means, you could buy all the other car trims for display in your garage.
Conclusion – Ford Reliability – Are Fords Reliable or Not?
So, are Fords reliable? How would you rank Ford reliability? According to RepairPal.com, Consumers ranked Ford #21 among all other brands. It has a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0, based on around 340 unique models. This rating is average. It’s not in the top 10, but also not in the bottom 10.
In this article, we looked at the reliability of the following 8 best-selling Ford vehicles:
- Ford Fusion reliability
- Ford Focus reliability
- Ford Escape reliability
- Ford Mustang reliability
- Ford Edge reliability
- Ford Ranger reliability
- Ford F150 reliability
- Ford Expedition reliability
Ford is one of the highest-rated American brands. But compared to worldwide car markets, many consumers trusted other brands’ reliability more than Ford. That’s why Ford only earned an average reliability rating.
If you are planning on buying Ford, I hope this article will help you in your search, and to determine how reliable Ford vehicles are.
Related reading:
Small Ford Trucks – Ranger and Maverick Pickup Models
Ford F-150 Reliability – How Reliable is It?
Ford Mustang Reliability – Are Mustangs Reliable or Not?
Are Fords Reliable? [Reliability Ratings for 12 Ford Models]
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