Strong aftermarket emerges for new Ranger

THE next-generation Ford Ranger scores strong aftermarket support, as custom part manufacturers tease upcoming ranges.

Amid the widespread hype and strong order book surrounding the T6.2 Ford Ranger, aftermarket manufacturers are stepping up to offer a plentiful range of accessories for eager Aussie buyers.

Ford’s partnership with ARB brings a range of aftermarket options, boasting a five-year warranty if purchased and fitted through Ford dealerships, available when the Ranger goes on sale.

The collaboration partnership between ARB and Ford was inked up in 2019, involving extensive local testing and dealership support.

ARB’s 160-component-strong catalogue covers frontal protection (bullbars), under vehicle protection, rear protection, side protection, recovery gear, canopies, rear lid covers and more.

Another major player, Maxliner Australia, has also announced its aftermarket portfolio for the new Ranger.

The Maxliner range is available for pre-order through distributors across Australia, covering trade and recreational accessories manufactured at the brand’s Thailand production facility. 

“Whether customers are looking to use their Ranger to get their tools to and from the

job site or get all the family's gear to the weekend camping spot, they want

confidence that the products they invest in will get the job done,” the company said in a statement.

The range covers exterior protection, canopies, multiple hard lid options, flares, door mouldings, and a range of interior protection.

Given the huge demand and chock-full order books, more than 17,000 orders as of the launch date to be precise, it’s no surprise the aftermarket is scrambling to release products.

The huge demand led to Ford adding resources to its website, presumably to avoid frustration, allowing up-to-date vehicle availability details for customers.

“We know prospective buyers and intending customers want accurate information and transparency about wait times and when their vehicle will arrive,” said president and CEO of Ford Australia and New Zealand Andrew Birkic.

“This dedicated webpage will keep them informed but we’d also encourage customers to stay in contact with their dealers about the status of their vehicle.”

The new Ranger is priced from $35,930  plus on-road costs for the base model XL 4x2 single-cab, and tops out at $84,490 plus ORCs for the top-spec V6-powered Ranger Raptor.

Despite the range-topper’s premium price tag, more than 4000 of those 17,000+ orders are for the Ranger Raptor.

It’s safe to suffice many of those buyers will, in true Aussie fashion, go bezerk with aftermarket customisation.

A recent Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) study claimed the 4x4 aftermarket generates upwards of $6 billion annually.

The association estimates the revenue from the sale of 4x4 parts and accessories will grow by a further 17.5 per cent over “the next few years”.

Ford’s new vehicle availability website portal claims new Ranger wait times are around the eight-month mark for Wildtrak V6 models, and nine months if you opt for the Ranger Raptor.