If there is one thing we know about at Ultimate Rides, it’s upgrading trucks and SUVs. We specialize in lift kit installation, but that’s absolutely not all our team is capable of. We can get any vehicle ready for off-road adventure. The Ford Ranger is a strong choice for off-road no matter what model year you go with. With the right upgrades, you’ll be able to handle just about anything behind the wheel.

One of the first upgrades we’d recommend is a grille guard. These accessories can help protect your front end from dents, scratches, and so much more. Not only will this help you maintain the value of your truck over time, but you’ll also be able to remain proud of what you drive. The first step to this is choosing the right brush guard. With tons of options, it can be hard to figure out which is best. Let us help!

Below we’ve put together a list featuring some of our favorite options. Take a look, find one that matches your truck and sense of style, and add it to your cart! From there you can start looking into at-home installation, or get in touch with someone like our team at Ultimate Rides to handle that aspect for you.

1. Westin 40-3985 Sportsman Grille Guard Black Steel

Compatibility: 2019-2021

One of the best manufacturers to count on for reliable brush guards is Westin. In particular, this product is one of our favorites for the Ranger. It fits on the latest generation of these trucks, and comes together in one whole piece rather than requiring assembly. The process of installing the guard can be difficult, especially if you don’t have someone there to assist you. However, once you do succeed in getting it on, you’ll find it provides strong protection and looks great on the front of your vehicle. What else is there to ask for in a guard?

Westin 40-3985 Sportsman Grille Guard Black Steel

2. Armordillo USA AR Pre-Runner Style Modular Grille Guard

Compatibility: 2019-2022

Though it requires some assembly on your end, this kit from Armordillo is another strong choice to consider for the Ranger. It has an altogether different style, offering a cross between the look of a bull bar with the functionality of a full grille guard. That means it will defend the front of your truck while looking rugged and stylish at the same time. It’s made from heavy steel and has the perfect spot to install an LED light bar, so you won’t have to stop your upgrades here. Give it a try on your vehicle and start experience what the off-road can really offer!

Armordillo USA AR Pre-Runner Style Modular Grille Guard

3. Westin Automotive 57-93985 HDX Grille Guard

Compatibility: 2019-2021

With our next pick, we head back over to Westin for a guard in a different style. The HDX grille guard features a place to mount a towing winch, along with providing a rugged style that should suit any pickup truck. The product comes with a three-year warranty, there to back you up if you happen to run into any problems with the construction or integrity of the guard. However, you will almost certainly not ever need to use it. Install this guard on your pickup and you’ll be ready to tackle trails, rough and wild terrain, highways and more.

Westin Automotive 57-93985 HDX Grille Guard

4. Hunter GF-511 Polished Stainless Steel Grille Guard

Compatibility: 2001-2012

This stylish stainless still guard is made for older models of the Ranger. It includes a lifetime limited warranty, as well as all the hardware you’ll need for installation. That installation process may not be easy, and could even require some trimming in order to get the perfect fit. That is the only reason it falls a few spots down our list, as the guard excels in just about every other way. With pro installation, you’ll have nothing to worry about with this guard.

Hunter GF-511 Polished Stainless Steel Grille Guard

5. ARIES 3044 1-1/2-Inch Black Steel Grille Guard

Compatibility: 1998-2000

Do you drive a retro Ford Ranger? If so, this guard might be the one for you. It’s affordable, includes a reliable black powder coating, and requires no drilling to install. Speaking of installation, the process of getting the guard on your truck should be easier than most other brush guards of this type, taking up an hour or less of your time. Once it’s on, you’ll be ready to hit the road (and get off of it). As long as you’re into the somewhat basic style, and it’s a good fit, you can’t go wrong with this product from ARIES.

ARIES 3044 1-1/2-Inch Black Steel Grille Guard

Choosing a Grille Guard for Ford Ranger Pickup Truck

Now that you’ve had a chance to look over some popular options for the Ranger, do you feel you’ve found the right one? It’s perfectly okay if you haven’t decided just yet. There are a number of factors that should be accounted for when choosing between brush guards. First and foremost, you want one that you’re totally sure will fit. If you’re choosing a product not on our list, make sure to do some research to ensure it’s the right size for your model year.

Beyond that, you’ll have to start comparing quality. Different brush guards are made using different materials, so find the right balance between price and quality for you. For instance, a stainless steel guard is going to cost more than a simple black powder-coated product, but it won’t provide the same level of durability and defense for your truck and front bumper. Shop around until you find the guard that checks most of your boxes! Then feel free to contact Ultimate Rides or another professional in your area for installation.