The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor: A Closer Look

It’s the only vehicle in the Raptor family without it.

Ford released the 2024 Ranger Raptor into the competitive midsize truck market with an impressive 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine, Fox Live Valve desert-ready shocks, off-road tires, and much more. This model undoubtedly enhances the ongoing Ranger-Tacoma-Colorado battle. However, one notable absence in the Ford Raptor lineup is leaving enthusiasts puzzled: Where are the signature Raptor lights on the new Ranger? You know, the distinctive big-rig-style marker lights in the grille?

Ford Raptor History

When the original Ford F-150 Raptor debuted for the 2010 model year, it made a strong impression with a V-8, which later included a more powerful 6.2-liter V-8, long-travel suspension, and a prominent trio of amber marker lights situated above the grille. Subsequent F-150 Raptors, including the 2023 Ford Raptor R, continued to feature this lighting arrangement.

Bronco Raptor Has ‘Em, Too

Moreover, when the 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor was released, its grille also boasted three amber lights positioned above the FORD lettering. Even Ram’s latecomer 1500 TRX, a direct competitor to the Raptor, included a similar set of lamps integrated into the hood scoop.

But the Ranger Raptor? No Marker Lights!

Look closely at the grille of the 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor, and you will notice the absence of such lights. Why has Ford chosen to exclude the beloved Raptor lights? After all, as demonstrated in our initial drive—both on-road and off-road—in the new Ranger Raptor, it unquestionably lives up to the Raptor name.

What Are They Really Called?

Firstly, instead of “Raptor Lights,” these components are officially referred to as identification lamps or marker lights. The three amber lights are mandated by governmental regulations, serving as a visual cue for other drivers that a large vehicle is approaching. Specifically, any vehicle exceeding 80 inches in width is deemed “large.” Models like the Ford F-150 Raptor, Ram 1500 TRX, and the Bronco Raptor all exceed this width and are outfitted accordingly; you may also notice that many standard full-size, half-ton pickup trucks are designed to remain just under 80 inches, avoiding the need for these additional lights.

According to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 108, identification lamps should be installed on any vehicle measuring over 80 inches wide: “On the front and rear—three lamps, amber in front, red in rear, positioned as close to the top of the vehicle as practicable, at the same height, and spaced vertically as close as possible to the centerline, maintaining a distance of not less than 6 inches but not more than 12 inches apart.”

That’s Why Semi-Trucks Have Them

These lights are not new; they are commonly found on various vehicles, including semi-trucks, the Ram 1500 TRX, RVs, and select heavy-duty trucks. Consequently, with so many vehicles utilizing this feature, why does the Ranger Raptor not include them?

It Just Isn’t Girthy Enough

The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor has a width of 79.8 inches and, based on regulatory standards, does not require identification lamps. As a result, you will find no three amber lights in the front or three red lights in the rear. However…

What Are These Three Empty Slots On The Ranger Raptor Grille?

Interestingly, upon closer inspection, the grille of the 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor reveals three vacant slots where Raptor lights could potentially be installed, had the Ranger Raptor met the width requirements for them.

Does this suggest a wider Ranger Raptor may be on the horizon? Not likely. However, it may serve as a nod to the Raptor’s wider predecessors. Those looking to customize their Ranger Raptor may also consider filling these voids with amber lights from aftermarket suppliers, following a recent trend among midsize truck owners.

About the Author

Jered Korfhage is a dedicated automotive enthusiast who has explored varying terrains—from Ohio’s wet backwoods to the arid New Mexico desert. He has tested the limits of the unmodified Jeep Wrangler, always eager to return to work on Monday.