Ford Bronco Used Buying Guide: Known Issues

• The modern, sixth-generation Bronco has proven to be one of Ford’s most reliable models!
• Most of the Bronco’s common customer complaints refer to models from the ‘80s and ‘90s.
• Many late-model Broncos have been the subject of recalls, so make sure your used SUV gets all the necessary repairs.
• At Jarrett Ford, we inspect all of our used Bronco before offering any to our customers. You won’t find any lemons here!

Although there are some Bronco issues you should know about before you hit the used market in earnest, rest assured that this midsize SUV is one of Ford’s most reliable options. Compared to other models, the Bronco has far fewer customer complaints! Of course, it hasn’t been around as long as some other Ford models. After an initial run between the 1966 and 1996 model years, Ford’s off-road-ready SUV returned from retirement for the 2021 model year. Luckily for adventurous drivers, the Bronco wasn’t around for many of Ford’s biggest issues (including its infamous MyFord Touch infotainment system and the Triton V8’s breakable spark plugs).

With its proven off-road chops, the sixth-generation Bronco (2021-current model year) is a fan favorite. However, while most common customer complaints center on older model years, you should note that the current generation has been the subject of a number of important recalls. Before you purchase a used Bronco, make sure it’s had all the necessary repairs!

• Oil pressure goes to zero when warm: Drivers have complained that their 1990 Bronco loses oil pressure at high RPMs. This could be a sign of a faulty oil pressure switch.
• Engine won’t start: 1988-1996 Broncos have been known to suffer ignition module malfunctions. This typically doesn’t happen until these models have seen more than 100,000 miles.
• Leaking EGR system tubes: 1990-1996 Bronco owners have complained of broken exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system tubes, which may result in exhaust leaks or engine noise.
• High engine idle: If the upper intake manifold gasket fails, it could result in an engine vacuum leak and higher-than-usual RPMs at idle. This is not uncommon for high-mileage 1990-1996 Broncos.

Concerned your used Bronco hasn’t received all of its recall-related repairs? You can check for recalls by entering its VIN number here.

Here are a few recent recalls every driver should know about:

• Deficient molded-in color hardtops: 2021 Broncos’ hardtops suffered quality issues, but Ford eventually offered to replace them.
• Loose rear dampers: 2021-2014 Bronco Badlands and Sasquatch-equipped models had faulty remote reservoirs that were known to corrode or fall off the vehicle.
• Faulty intake valves: For 2021-2022 Broncos equipped with the 2.7L or 3.0L EcoBoost engines, this issue could result in catastrophic engine failure.