The progressive shift mode even works in other modes like eco and normal. I use it on the beach to prevent an unwanted upshift in normal mode. /Side step /Heated seats in the winter.
Did they replace the flywheel with the new transmission? I have replaced flywheels that made that knocking sound. Not saying that's the cause here but it's worth looking into. Some times there are hair line cracks in them.
I only had the "put your hands on the wheel" warning appear when I tested the lane assist system going into a curve. My hands were not on the wheel. It worked. Other then that incident the warning never appeared.
Just curious if under the warranty agreement it says they can replace a unit with a rebuilt with that mileage on you vehicle or any miles under there agreement.
Ford blend is fine however I use Mobile 1. I prefer the full synthetic. It's usually less expensive in Walmart then the cost of the Ford blend. And I drop my oil often.
There are a few good brands of filters on the market. You can stick with OEM or Wix filters. My post was based on my experience with oil fed filters I was not really interested in increased horsepower through the air intake system but more so on it's ability to keep contaminants out of the engine.
Don't know how many miles you have on your Ranger. I assume you have a low mileage vehicle .However as an auto tech / mechanic for 30 plus years I would not be replacing the pads or resurfacing the rotors as my first step according to the symptoms you described.