Despite being out of production for some time, the Ford Ranger has been back in stock since 2021. And it came back with a bang as drivers noticed a significant boost, especially in terms of off-road performance and the numerous interior conveniences. However, even though the new and improved Ranger has a lot to offer, off-road enthusiasts will always find that there’s room for more.
Nowadays, you can find aftermarket accessories available for practically every car, whether you want it for power, speed, better sound, better handling, or simply a little bit more practicality. And since the Ranger is one of the most popular pickup truck options, it enjoys a wide aftermarket auto part support.
That said, here are the top must-have upgrades for your Ford Ranger, whether you just bought one or want to freshen up an older model. They will keep your vehicle looking tough and stylish, while also improving its comfort and performance.
Side Steps
Ford Rangers are typically purchased by people who want to travel with their family and friends. However, this is also an off-road vehicle, which means it’s elevated for off-road use. As a result, some people find it difficult to get in and out.
Luckily, this issue can be easily solved by getting a Ford Ranger side step. Side steps, also often referred to as nerf bars, are tubular in shape and mount tightly to the side of your car. They come in a variety of materials, including coated steel, aluminum, and stainless steel.
It’s important to note that some side steps are movable, allowing you to place them wherever you like along the length of the bar. Those of varied heights or those who like a particular stride length may find this modification useful.
Some manufacturers offer step pads that are colorful, textured, or non-slip. Your side steps can perform more effectively thanks to these features, making them more useful and distinctive additions to your pickup truck.
A Ford Ranger side step is ideal for off-road enthusiasts or people who want their truck to have an aggressive look because they are typically more sporty or rugged in appearance.
Tonneau Covers
This is a must-have for any truck, including the Ford Ranger. Tonneau covers come in a variety of styles, including retractable, roll-up, tri-fold, hard, and soft. Most covers are extremely simple and can be put on your truck by anyone, but others are more sophisticated and expensive, and will need to be done by a professional. Although, most include written instructions and many even have internet videos.
Off-Road Wheels
Installing a new set of wheels is one of the most popular ways to upgrade a truck. And here, it’s not just about looks, though, aftermarket wheels do look much better than OEMs.
You’ll be able to venture off-piste and face mud, gravel, snow, rocks, and other challenging terrain with complete confidence if you invest in a good set of aftermarket off-road wheels. These wheels will be considerably sturdier and last longer than the factory wheels.
Lift Kits
I’m sure you were already anticipating for lift kits to come on the list. Whether it’s the biggest truck in the entire universe or the smallest one you’ve ever seen, it doesn’t matter. It must be raised.
There’s wide range of lift kit options to choose from, from simple and affordable models to more elaborate ones. One of the best things about lift kits is that they provide serious off-road enthusiasts access to more complex modifications.
Although they are widely available wherever auto parts are sold, lift kits can be challenging to install. If you’re not a professional, make sure you hire one to install the lift kit for you because it’s not something that just anybody can perform correctly.
Fender Flares
Fender flares are occasionally a standard option for 4x4s, although they are almost always an aftermarket addition. And such is the case with the Ford Ranger.
A great reason to get fender flares is to shield you from the rocks and other things that you might hit while driving through rocky terrain. Based on the use they are to be put to, they come in a broad variety of designs. The four most popular types of fender flares are OE-style, street-style, bolt-style, and pocket-style.
Brush Bars
Brush bars, often called scrub bars, shield the front quarter panels. They join the side steps to the bull bar. They provide protection from the impact of brushing when running into trees, rut walls, and rocks and are often made of steel.
The car will move, rub, or bang against the object instead of directly hitting your quarter panels. As a result, the majority of the damage is sustained by the brush bar, making it simpler to conceal or repair. The best thing about these bars is how simple it is to take them off and put them back on while still getting excellent security and peace of mind.
