2019 Ford Ranger Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios

When it comes to midsize trucks, the return of the Ford Ranger to the North American market in 2019 brought a highly optimized and streamlined powertrain. Paired exclusively with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the 2019 Ford Ranger relies on a modern 10-speed automatic transmission and a robust rear axle setup. Understanding these gear ratios is crucial for owners looking to tow, haul, or potentially re-gear their truck for larger off-road tires.

Below is a comprehensive guide to the 2019 Ford Ranger transmission and axle gear ratios.

Transmission gear ratios

For the 2019 model year, Ford equipped all North American Rangers with the 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission. Developed jointly by Ford and GM, this gearbox is designed to keep the turbocharged 2.3L engine right in its optimal powerband. It features three overdrive gears (8th, 9th, and 10th) to maximize highway fuel economy, while providing an aggressively low first gear for excellent off-the-line torque and towing performance.

Here are the internal gear ratios for the 2019 Ford Ranger 10R80 automatic transmission:

Note: The 7th gear is the direct drive (1.00:1) gear, while 8th through 10th serve as overdrive gears.

Available axle ratios

Unlike full-size trucks like the F-150 that offer a dizzying array of differential ratios (3.15, 3.31, 3.55, 3.73, etc.), Ford simplified the 2019 Ranger lineup. In North America, every 2019 Ford Ranger comes from the factory with a 3.73 axle ratio, utilizing a Dana AdvanTEK M220 solid rear axle. The primary variation is whether the differential is an open differential or an electronic locking differential (e-locker), which comes standard with the FX4 Off-Road package or as a standalone option.

Note: Owners looking to upgrade to much larger tires (e.g., 33-inch or 35-inch) often look to aftermarket ring and pinion sets in 4.10 or 4.56 ratios to restore factory acceleration and transmission shift points.

How to identify your axle ratio

Even though the 2019 Ranger keeps things simple with a universal 3.73 ratio, it's important to know whether you have the open differential or the highly desirable electronic locking differential. You can easily find this information using the truck's Safety Compliance Certification Label (the door-jamb sticker).

1. Locate the Door Sticker: Open the driver's side front door and look for the rectangular sticker on the B-pillar or door edge.
2. Find the "AXLE" Code: Look at the bottom row of the sticker for the word "AXLE." Below or next to it will be a two-character alphanumeric code.
3. Decode the Axle:
   • 73 = 3.73 ratio with an Open Differential.
   • E3 = 3.73 ratio with an Electronic Locking Differential.
4. Alternative Methods: You can also check the metal axle tag bolted directly to the differential cover on the rear axle. Alternatively, running your truck's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through a Ford VIN decoder or calling a dealership parts department will give you the exact build sheet for your specific Ranger.

Towing vs MPG impact

The relationship between your axle ratio and your vehicle's performance revolves around the balance of mechanical leverage versus engine speed.

• Numerically Lower Ratios (e.g., 3.15 or 3.31): Known as "taller" gears, these ratios keep engine RPMs low at highway speeds, resulting in better fuel economy (MPG) and quieter cruising. However, they provide less mechanical torque multiplication, making them less ideal for heavy towing.
• Numerically Higher Ratios (e.g., 3.73 or 4.10): Known as "shorter" or "lower" gears, these ratios multiply engine torque more effectively, making them much better for towing heavy trailers and hauling payload. The trade-off is higher engine RPMs at cruising speed, which typically reduces fuel efficiency.

Ford’s decision to standardize the 3.73 ratio on the 2019 Ranger is a "best of both worlds" approach. Because the 10R80 transmission has such deep overdrive gears (especially the 0.63:1 10th gear), the Ranger can run a relatively high 3.73 axle ratio for an impressive 7,500-pound max towing capacity, while still dropping engine RPMs low enough on the highway to achieve up to 26 MPG.

Common issues

The 2019 Ranger's powertrain is generally robust, but there are a few things owners should monitor over the vehicle's lifespan:

• 10R80 Transmission Rough Shifting: Some owners have reported harsh shifts, clunking, or hesitation, particularly in the lower gears (1st through 3rd) when the transmission is cold. This is often resolved by a dealership recalibrating the transmission control module (TCM) or adaptive learning software.
• Fluid Degradation: While the 10-speed is touted as having "lifetime" fluid, those who frequently tow heavy loads or off-road should consider changing the transmission fluid and filter every 60,000 miles to prevent premature clutch wear.
• Rear Axle Leaks: The Dana AdvanTEK rear axle is very strong, but occasionally, the pinion seal or differential cover gasket may develop a slow gear oil leak. If you notice a whine coming from the rear end during acceleration, check your fluid level immediately; low gear oil can quickly lead to ring and pinion wear or carrier bearing failure.

Find a driveline shop on Repairius

If your 2019 Ford Ranger is exhibiting a whining rear differential, rough transmission shifts, or if you're ready to re-gear your axles for larger off-road tires, professional help is just a click away. Don't leave complex driveline and transmission work to chance. Find a driveline shop on Repairius today to connect with trusted, certified local technicians who can keep your Ranger running at its absolute best.