The hidden hands-on inspection all Ford Rangers must pass

Each Ranger unit goes through a rigorous 6-step test before rolling off the line because Ford knows – You can’t fake tough

The Ford Ranger has set a standard of power, performance, and overall toughness among pick-ups for good reason. Aside from its stacked features, impressive design, and tried and true ability to take on any terrain, the Ford Ranger undergoes meticulous quality checks to ensure each vehicle lives up to what it means to be built Ford tough.

The keen eyes and steady hands of Ford’s customer acceptance line (CAL) inspectors are critical in “providing a final seal of approval on every Ranger and Ranger Raptor,” said Sundarrajan Venkatesan, director of quality and new model programs, Ford International Markets Group.

The customer acceptance line is a six-step process that every Ranger and Ranger Raptor passes through before being shipped around the world. It involves artificial intelligence checks, paint and panel inspection, interior and lighting, electrical, and a run around a 320-meter long, seven surface squeak-and-rattle track.

Here’s the full CAL inspection process:

Step 1: Dark room

With all the lights switched off, inspectors check head and tail lamps, the instrument cluster, SYNCÒ screen, and all interior lighting for brightness and alignment.

Step 2: Hands-on inspection

Inspectors run their hands across every surface, tracing the contours for any imperfections, while also ensuring precise panel alignment. Every button, switch, and control are pressed, poked, clicked, and pulled.

Step 3: Systems check

Comprehensive diagnostic checks ensure the electrical components are connected correctly.

Step 4: AI eyes

Ford’s mobile artificial intelligence vision system (MAIVS) uses advanced algorithms to scan the exterior of the vehicle for any flaws, like missing or crooked badges.

Step 5: Rainstorm simulation

The Leak Test simulates a five-minute monsoonal downpour. High-pressure water jets blast the vehicle from every angle. Every light and seal is inspected for water tightness.

Step 6: Squeak-and-rattle track

Featuring everything from uneven cobblestones to angled irons, the squeak-and-rattle track simulates a variety of real-world driving surfaces to ensure there are no unwanted noises and that the suspension and steering operates exactly as it should. 

From the base model Ford Ranger XL to the Ranger Raptor, each vehicle has gone through intense scrutiny – a journey of its own – before it reaches the dealership and all the way into the customer’s garage.

To learn more about the Ford Ranger, visit the Ford Philippines website at www.ford.com.ph or a Ford dealer nearest you.