BOXY TRUCKS
A blue sixth-generation Ford Bronco with its headlights on crossing a rocky creek in a dense forest, a second Bronco in the foreground
FORD BRONCO · U725 · 2021–PRESENT

Bronco (sixth generation)

U725 · FORD T62-DOOR 100.4 IN · 4-DOOR 116.1 IN2.3 · 2.7 · 3.0 ECOBOOST7-SPEED MANUAL · 10-SPEED AUTOSASQUATCH 35s · RAPTOR 37s

“Ford spent 25 years working out how to beat the Wrangler and mostly managed it: a boxy, doors-off, body-on-frame 4x4 whose independent front suspension rides well, plus a factory 35-inch package that ends most tire arguments. Early trucks had their teething troubles in the roof and on the recall list, so buy one with the VIN check done.”

PART 01

Overview

Where it came from, why it matters, and how it changed year to year.

The story

Twenty-five years after the last full-size Bronco, the name came back because of a factory. In Ford's 2016 contract talks with the UAW, Michigan Assembly in Wayne was set to lose the Focus and C-Max. Instead it was retooled for a new North American Ranger and, since one truck wouldn't fill the plant, a new Bronco. Ford confirmed it at the 2017 Detroit show, showed it on July 13, 2020 after pandemic delays, and built the first customer trucks on June 14, 2021, in the same plant as the previous five generations. Its target was obvious: the Wrangler JL and JL Unlimited, in both two- and four-door form.

HOW IT'S BUILT

Underneath is Ford's T6 body-on-frame platform, shared with the Ranger. Unlike the Jeep, the front suspension is independent, with twin A-arms. The rear has a solid axle on five links and coilovers, and Ford claimed 17 percent more front wheel travel and 10 percent more rear travel than the Wrangler. Styling borrows from the 1966–77 first Bronco; the design chief's own 1976 truck was digitally scanned for reference. The doors are frameless and come off with one bolt per hinge. The mirrors stay behind on the cowl, and the doors can ride in protective bags in the cargo area.

Two engines launched it. The 2.3 EcoBoost four makes 300 hp and 325 lb-ft and the 2.7 twin-turbo V6 330 hp and 415 lb-ft, both on premium fuel and both well above Ford's original estimates. The four is offered with a Getrag seven-speed manual, which is really a six-speed plus a crawler gear marked 'C', or Ford's 10-speed automatic. The V6 is automatic-only. Two transfer cases were offered: a part-time unit with a 2.72:1 low range, and an advanced one with a full-time 4A mode and a 3.06:1 low range. Ford quoted a 95:1 crawl ratio for the manual with the crawler gear.

SASQUATCH, HOSS AND THE RAPTOR

The Sasquatch package is the headline option: 315/70R17 tires (35 inches) on +30 mm-offset wheels, 4.7 axle gears, a mild lift, and the Bilstein dampers and sway-bar disconnect of the off-road trims. On 35s, MotorTrend measured 11.6 inches of ground clearance and approach, departure and breakover angles of 43.2, 37.2 and 29.0 degrees for the two-door. Ford calls its suspension packages HOSS. Badlands trucks get position-sensitive Bilstein dampers and a hydraulic front anti-roll-bar disconnect that reconnects itself at speed. The Wildtrak's HOSS 3.0 uses Fox dampers. For 2025, Badlands buyers could add full HOSS 3.0, with Fox 2.5-inch internal-bypass shocks, the Raptor's severe-duty steering rack and stronger tie rods.

Then there's the Raptor, added for 2022 as a four-door only. It has a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 with 418 hp and 440 lb-ft, Fox suspension, 37-inch tires, 13.1 inches of ground clearance, F-150 Raptor brakes and a body widened to 85.7 inches. It gets 'FORD' across the grille instead of 'BRONCO' and is rated to tow 4,500 lb, 1,000 lb more than the standard Bronco. The cost is fuel: the EPA rates a 2023 Raptor at 15 mpg combined.

TWO DOORS OR FOUR

The two-door rides on a 100.4-inch wheelbase and is 174.8 inches long. MotorTrend noted it is 6.9 inches longer than a two-door Wrangler on a 3.6-inch-longer wheelbase, and much roomier inside. The four-door stretches to 116.1 inches between the axles and about 190 inches overall. That costs breakover angle (26.3 degrees against 29.0 on 35s), and the four-door weighs up to about 400 lb more, but it has the bigger fuel tank (21.1 gallons against 17.4) and, at launch, the soft-top option, and the Raptor was built only as a four-door. Both come with removable roofs; the standard hardtop is molded in black or white, and a painted top arrived later.

TEETHING TROUBLES

Demand was huge: Ford sold 117,057 in the US in 2022 and 146,007 in 2025. Early trucks had problems. In August 2021, Ford began replacing molded-in-color hardtops whose finish crazed and delaminated, and a 2026 recall covers 2021–22 roof panels that can separate on the road. Some 2021–22 2.7 V6s can break intake valves. Bilstein rear shocks on 2021–24 trucks can corrode until the reservoir detaches. A service bulletin covers seven-speed manuals that grind. By September 2026, Jalopnik counted about 20 recalls since launch. Buy a sixth-gen Bronco on its VIN history.

SIDEBAR · THE MILLION-DOLLAR FIRST EDITION

VIN 1 and a badly chosen date

Ford unintentionally first scheduled the reveal for July 9, 2020, O.J. Simpson's birthday, then moved it to July 13. On March 27, 2021, the first production Bronco, a First Edition, sold at Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale for $1,075,000, with the money going to a forest-conservation charity Ford helped set up.

The First Edition combined Badlands hardware with Wildtrak looks and the Outer Banks interior. MotorTrend reported a 3,500-unit run at the reveal, and Ford later built more because of demand. One sold on Bring a Trailer in August 2026 for $40,810.

A blue sixth-generation Ford Bronco with its headlights on crossing a rocky creek in a dense forest, a second Bronco in the foreground
BRONCO · CREEK CROSSING, FOREST TRAIL
A gray four-door Ford Bronco with a rooftop tent driving away along rutted sand tracks beside the sea
BRONCO 4-DOOR · BEACH SAND TRACK
A dark Ford Bronco Raptor with amber running lights driving fast across rippled desert sand
BRONCO RAPTOR · DESERT SAND

Year by year

What changed, model year by model year. Sweet spot Beware

  1. 2021Production starts June 14, 2021 at Michigan Assembly. 2.3 (manual or auto) and 2.7 (auto) EcoBoost; Base, Big Bend, Black Diamond, Outer Banks, Badlands, Wildtrak and First Edition; Sasquatch package. The year with the most recalls, including 2.7 valves, hardtop and airbag.
  2. 2022Bronco Raptor (four-door, 3.0 twin-turbo V6, 37s) and the four-door-only Everglades edition arrive. 2021–22 molded-in-color roof panels are recalled in 2026.
  3. 2023Heritage Edition and Heritage Limited Edition arrive, both with a painted top instead of the molded-in-color one.
  4. 2024Badlands and Sasquatch trucks get the Wildtrak's HOSS 3.0 steering gear. Chinese-market Broncos go on sale (2.3, four-door). Last year of the Wildtrak trim.Sweet spot
  5. 2025Full HOSS 3.0 (Fox 2.5 internal-bypass shocks, Raptor steering rack, stronger tie rods) optional on Badlands. Painted hardtops in Oxford White, Shadow Black or body color. Two-door Stroppe Edition ($77,665). Front control-arm fastener recalls on early builds.Sweet spot
  6. 2026The Stroppe Edition moves to the four-door, at $69,995.
PART 02

Specs & capability

How it’s built, what it can do, and what fits under it.

How it’s built

The Bronco is a body-on-frame Ranger derivative with a removable roof and doors. It has independent front suspension, a coil-sprung solid rear axle and Dana axles, with electronic lockers optional front and rear. Off-road settings are chosen with a dial and the G.O.A.T. ('Goes Over Any Type of Terrain') drive modes, not a second lever.

CHASSISLadder frame, Ford T6 (U725) · 100.4 / 116.1 in wheelbaseShared with the Ranger; built at Michigan Assembly, Wayne, Michigan, and for China by Jiangling Ford in Nanchang from 2024.
FRONT SUSPENSIONIndependent, twin A-arms, coiloversBadlands and Sasquatch add a hydraulic front sway-bar disconnect that reconnects above about 20 mph.
REAR AXLEDana solid axle, five-link, coiloversMotorTrend describes trailing links and a Panhard rod; electronic locker available.
TRANSFER CASEPart-time, 2.72:1 low · Advanced with 4A, 3.06:1 lowElectric shift on both; Ford quoted a 95:1 crawl ratio with the manual's crawler gear.
ENGINES2.3 EcoBoost I4 · 2.7 EcoBoost V6 · 3.0 EcoBoost V6 (Raptor)300 hp / 325 lb-ft · 330 hp / 415 lb-ft on premium · 418 hp / 440 lb-ft
TRANSMISSIONSGetrag 7MTI550 manual (2.3 only) · 10R60 10-speed automaticThe manual is a six-speed with a dog-leg crawler gear; about 15% of early orders chose it.

Variants & engines

YEARSPLATFORMENGINEOUTPUTWORTH KNOWING
2021–2-door / 4-door2.3 L EcoBoost I4300 hp / 325 lb-ft (premium) · 275 / 315 on regular7-speed manual or 10-speed auto. EPA 21 mpg combined (2021, either gearbox).
2021–2-door / 4-door2.7 L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6330 hp / 415 lb-ft (premium) · 315 / 410 on regularAuto only. 2021–22 trucks covered by the intake-valve recall 24V-635.
2021–Sasquatch package (any engine)2.3 or 2.7As above35s on +30 mm wheels, 4.7 gears, Bilstein dampers, sway-bar disconnect. EPA 17–18 mpg combined.
2021First Edition2.3 or 2.7As aboveBadlands mechanicals, Wildtrak exterior, Outer Banks interior; 35s standard.
2022–Bronco Raptor (4-door only)3.0 L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6418 hp / 440 lb-ft37s, Fox suspension, 85.7 in wide, 4,500 lb towing. EPA 15 mpg combined (2023).
2025–2026Stroppe Edition——Baja-Bronco tribute: a two-door for 2025 ($77,665), then a four-door for 2026 ($69,995).

Capability numbers

Towing3,500 lb (1,588 kg)4,500 lb (2,041 kg) for the Bronco Raptor
Ground clearance8.4–11.6 in (213–295 mm)Base tires to 35s; 13.1 in (333 mm) for the Raptor
Approach / departure / breakover43.2° / 37.2° / 29.0° (2-door) · 43.2° / 37.0° / 26.3° (4-door)On 35-inch tires; 35.5° / 29.8° / 21.1° (2-door) on base tires
Crawl ratioUp to 95:17-speed manual crawler gear with the advanced transfer case (Ford figure)
Fuel tank17.4 gal (2-door) · 21.1 gal (4-door)
Fuel economyEPA 20 city / 22 hwy / 21 combined2021 2.3; 2.7 is 18/20/19; Sasquatch 17–18 combined; 2023 Raptor 15/16/15
Curb weight4,294–4,699 lb (2-door) · 4,466–5,109 lb (4-door)
Wheelbase100.4 in (2,550 mm) 2-door · 116.1 in (2,949 mm) 4-door

Wheels & tires

FACTORY TIRES
255/70R16 (Base, steel wheels)255/75R17 · 265/70R17 · 255/70R18 · 285/70R18 (trim and wheel options)LT285/70R17 (Badlands)315/70R17, 35 in (Sasquatch package, First Edition)37 in (Bronco Raptor)
Bolt pattern6x139.7 (6x5.5")
Offset+55 mm (factory wheels) · +30 mm (Sasquatch)
Center bore93.1 mm
Lug threadM12x1.5 (tire-retailer listing)
Lug-nut torque100 lb-ft (135 Nm), M12x1.5; retighten within 100 mi after any wheel removal (2021 owner's manual)
LIFTBIGGEST TIREWHAT IT TAKES
Stock285/75R17 (≈ 33.8 in)Runs on factory wheels and suspension with no rubbing reported.
1.25–1.5 in level35x10.50R17 or 35x11.50R17Narrow 35s fit factory 17-inch wheels once the front crash bars are removed.
1.5–2 in35x12.50R17Full-width 35s need about +30 mm offset wheels and high-clearance flares. Recalibrate the speedometer (about 7% slow) and consider 4.46 or 4.7 gears.
Factory315/70R17 (Sasquatch) · 37 in (Raptor)The factory options for big tires.

Forum consensus, not a guarantee: wheel offset, tire brand and suspension wear all change clearance. Confirm before you buy.

Production & special editions

Built at Michigan Assembly in Wayne, Michigan, home of every Bronco generation, since June 14, 2021, and for China by Jiangling Ford in Nanchang.

US sales 202135,023
US sales 2022117,057
US sales 2023105,665
US sales 2024109,172
US sales 2025146,007
China sales 2024 / 20258,814 / 6,784
Manual take rateAbout 15% of initial orders
First Edition2021Announced at 3,500 units; Badlands hardware with Wildtrak styling. The first production example sold for $1,075,000 at Barrett-Jackson for charity.
Everglades2022Four-door, Black Diamond-based, with a heavy-duty modular bumper and fender graphics that double as a fording-depth gauge.
Bronco Raptor2022–Four-door, 3.0 V6, 37s, Fox suspension
Heritage / Heritage Limited2023Heritage-styled editions with painted hardtops
Stroppe Edition2025–2026Tribute to Bill Stroppe's Baja Broncos in Code Orange, Oxford White and Atlas Blue. Two-door for 2025 ($77,665), four-door for 2026 ($69,995).
PART 03

Buying one

What to pay, what to check, and how to tell a good one from a clone.

What they cost

Plenty of 2021–23 trucks are on the used market. Raptors and low-mileage special editions hold the most value, and heavily customized builds sell far above stock trucks.

Stock or lightly modified 2021–23 Outer Banks / Wildtrak / First Edition$38k–56k
Bronco Raptor$60k–105k
Custom builds (Vintage Broncos, Vintage Modern)$141k–205k

Based on recent Bring a Trailer sold results for the U725 Bronco (24 most recent auctions, July–October 2026). Several two-door seven-speed trucks were bid to only $23,000–29,500 without selling. The first production 2022 Raptor sold for $105,000. Prices move; checked October 2026. See live listings below.

What to check before you buy

  1. 01
    Run the VIN before anything elseThere are many open-recall possibilities. The big ones are the 2.7 intake valves (24V-635), the rear shock reservoirs (25V-025), 2021–22 molded-in-color roof panels (26V-299, remedy expected November 2026), engine-bay wiring (26V-468), fender flares (26V-403) and, on 2024–25 trucks, loose front control-arm and ball-joint fasteners (24V-770, 25V-260, 25V-308, 25V-310). Get a printout from NHTSA's VIN lookup.
  2. 02
    Look hard at the hardtopMolded-in-color tops were standard on 2021–23 trucks and most 2024s. Crazing or delamination means the top needs replacing: Ford's August 2021 program fitted 'MIC 2.0' tops, and some owners are on their third or fourth. Painted tops arrived for 2025. Check the headliner and seals for leaks and make sure every panel latches.
  3. 03
    2.7 V6: ask about the engine testRecall 24V-635 covers 2021–22 2.7 and 3.0 Nano EcoBoost engines whose intake valves can break. Dealers run an engine cycle test and replace the engine if needed. Bronco Nation names V6s built from May 1 to October 31, 2021 as the bad batch. Get proof the test was done.
  4. 04
    Rear shocks on Badlands and SasquatchBilstein rear shocks on trucks built from September 23, 2020 to July 23, 2024 can corrode until the external reservoir detaches (25V-025). Look at the reservoirs and their mounts and confirm the replacement was done.
  5. 05
    Drive the manual through every gearOn 2021–23 seven-speed trucks, a scraping noise in neutral, first or second is the subject of a Ford service bulletin. Check for clean engagement of the crawler gear and reverse.
  6. 06
    Steering and tie rods on modified trucksOwners have reported tie rods failing during hard off-road use, usually on lifted trucks with bigger tires. Inspect the inner and outer tie rods for bends. The 2023 Wildtrak and 2022 Raptor had a steering-gear recall (23V-155) for internal damage that could lock the wheel.
  7. 07
    Was it flat-towed?2021–22 trucks had a neutral-tow problem: Ford issued a temporary fix in May 2022 and an over-the-air update by March 2023. Bronco Nation warns that flat-tow damage to the transmission can be hard to get covered under warranty, so ask how the truck traveled behind a motorhome.
  8. 08
    Is it a real Sasquatch?Factory Sasquatch trucks have 315/70R17 tires on 17x8.5, +30 mm wheels and 4.7 gears. A truck that only has aftermarket 35s may still have the original gearing and +55 mm wheels. Check the window sticker or the build data.

Spotting the real thing

Sixth-gen trims are mostly about suspension, tires and tops. Aftermarket 35s and badges are easy to add, so check what you're actually buying.

  1. ID
    Real Sasquatch315/70R17 tires on 17x8.5, +30 mm wheels and 4.7 axle gears. Standard wheels are +55 mm. Confirm with the window sticker or build data.
  2. ID
    Bronco RaptorFour-door only. 'FORD' spelled across the grille (other trims say BRONCO), an 85.7-inch-wide body with extra marker lights, 37-inch tires, Fox suspension and a 3.0 V6 with 418 hp.
  3. ID
    Suspension levelBadlands (and Sasquatch) trucks have position-sensitive Bilstein dampers (HOSS 2.0) and a hydraulic front sway-bar disconnect. Wildtrak trucks have Fox dampers (HOSS 3.0). From 2025, Badlands buyers could add the full HOSS 3.0 package.
  4. ID
    First Edition2021 only: Badlands mechanicals with Wildtrak exterior styling and the Outer Banks interior, and 35s standard.
  5. ID
    Which topOriginal molded-in-color, replacement 'MIC 2.0', or painted (2023 Heritage editions, then optional from 2025). A crazed or delaminated MIC top is a recall and program candidate.

Recalls & service bulletins

Open recalls follow the VIN, not the model. Run yours through NHTSA before you buy, and ask the seller for dealer records showing recall work.

Check a VIN at NHTSA ↗
Notable recalls
2.7/3.0 Nano EcoBoost intake valves may break ↗2021–2022 · NHTSA 24V-635Broken intake valves can cause engine failure; dealers run an engine cycle test and replace the engine as needed (Ford 24S55).
Rear shock reservoirs can corrode and detach ↗2021–2024 · NHTSA 25V-025Dealers replace the rear shocks (Ford 25S01); owner letters mailed August 2025.
Molded-in-color hardtop roof panels can separate ↗2021–2022 · NHTSA 26V-299Sections of the outer roof panel can detach; dealers will inspect and replace tops, with the remedy expected November 2026 (Ford 26S32).
Engine-compartment wiring harness can short ↗2021–2026 · NHTSA 26V-468Dealers add protective sheathing; phased campaign, Raptors first, then all other Broncos from about September 2026.
Steering gear internal damage ↗2022 Raptor · 2023 Wildtrak · NHTSA 23V-155Increased steering effort or wheel lock-up possible; owners told not to drive until the steering gear is replaced.
Transmission-to-transfer-case joint misaligned after a previous repair ↗2021–2025 · NHTSA 26V-236Can wear the output and input splines; dealers inspect and replace the transmission and transfer case as needed.
Front upper control-arm ball-joint nut loose or missing ↗2024–2025 · NHTSA 24V-770 · 25V-260 · 25V-310The upper arm can separate from the knuckle; dealers inspect and tighten, or replace the ball joint and knuckle.
Front lower control-arm fasteners not tightened ↗2024–2025 · NHTSA 25V-308The arm can detach from the frame; owners told not to drive until it has been inspected.
Fender flares may detach ↗2022–2026 · NHTSA 26V-403Dealers inspect and repair or replace the flares.
Windshield not properly bonded ↗2022 (and 2025, 25V-683) · NHTSA 22V-451The windshield could detach in a crash; dealers remove and reinstall it.
Transmission park pawl damaged in assembly ↗2023 · NHTSA 23V-546Rollaway risk; dealers replace the transmission.
Low-pressure fuel pump may fail ↗2021–2023 · NHTSA 25V-455Can stall the engine; PCM software update on the Bronco.
Passenger airbag vent may open early ↗2021 · NHTSA 21V-770Dealers replace the passenger airbag.
Engine may fail (2025–26) ↗2025–2026 · NHTSA 26V-343Dealers will replace the long block; remedy expected November 2026.
Service bulletins & known fixes
Seven-speed manual scraping noise in neutral, 1st and 2ndMC-10237783-0001Covers some 2021–23 manual trucks.
Soft-top adhesive issuesMC-10230778-0001Covers some 2021–23 soft tops.
Molded-in-color hardtop replacement (customer-satisfaction program)Announced August 2021; crazed or delaminated tops replaced with 'MIC 2.0' tops.
The one you’ll own someday

For sale now

2021–2022 · USEarly trucks (most recalls)
AutoTempest ↗Bring a Trailer ↗
2023–2026 · USLater trucks
AutoTempest ↗Bring a Trailer ↗
2021–2026 · USAll sixth-gen (incl. Raptor)
AutoTempest ↗Bring a Trailer ↗
PART 04

Owning one

Baseline service, the repairs you’ll actually do, and where the manuals live.

Post-purchase baseline

After you buy it

A used sixth-gen is new enough that recalls matter more than wear, so start with NHTSA's VIN lookup. Then baseline the fluids owners skip, the axles and transfer case, and check the 2.7's oil level against the dipstick, because Ford's published capacities have been inconsistent.

Engine oil & filterSAE 5W-30 synthetic blend (WSS-M2C961-A1); 0W-30 (WSS-M2C963-A1) for extreme cold · 2.3: 6.2 qt with filter · 2.7: 7 qt listed (≈ 6 qt drain-and-fill per a later Ford bulletin, as reported by owners)Then per the oil-life monitor: Ford expects 7,500–10,000 mi in normal use, 5,000–7,500 with towing, mountains or off-road, 3,000–5,000 at maximum load; off-road operation schedule says every 5,000 mi or six months. Never more than 1 year or 10,000 mi (2021 owner's manual)

Filters: Motorcraft FL-910-S (2.3) and FL-2062-A (2.7). On the 2.7, fill to the dipstick rather than to a number.

Parts
ExtremeTerrain — Bronco gaskets, seals and filtersExtremeTerrain ↗ · Amazon ↗
ExtremeTerrain — Bronco oils and fluidsExtremeTerrain ↗ · Amazon ↗
Oil filter, 2022 BroncoRockAuto ↗ · Amazon ↗
Engine air filterMotorcraft FA-2022Ford: replace every 30,000 mi; on dusty or off-road use, inspect frequently and replace as required (2021 owner's manual)

Desert and trail dust load it fast.

Parts
Air filter, 2022 BroncoRockAuto ↗ · Amazon ↗
Cabin air filterMotorcraft FP-93Ford: every 20,000 mi (2021 owner's manual)

Doors-off driving fills it quickly.

Parts
Cabin air filter, 2022 BroncoRockAuto ↗ · Amazon ↗
Spark plugsMotorcraft SP-594 (2.3 and 2.7)Ford: every 100,000 mi; every 60,000 mi if you tow or idle for long periods (2021 owner's manual)

Turbo engines are hard on plugs; replace on schedule.

Parts
ExtremeTerrain — Bronco ignition partsExtremeTerrain ↗ · Amazon ↗
Spark plugs, 2022 BroncoRockAuto ↗ · Amazon ↗
CoolantMotorcraft Yellow prediluted (WSS-M97B57-A2) · 2.3 auto 10.5 qt · 2.3 manual 9.6 qt · 2.7 12.4 qtFord: first change at 10 years or 200,000 mi, then every 5 years or 100,000 mi (2021 owner's manual)

Don't mix with other coolant types.

Parts
ExtremeTerrain — Bronco cooling systemExtremeTerrain ↗ · Amazon ↗
10-speed automatic (10R60)Motorcraft Mercon ULV (WSS-M2C949-A) · ≈ 13.1 qt dry fill · filter FT-202Ford: change fluid and filter every 100,000 mi; the 2021 manual's towing and off-road schedules don't shorten it, so an earlier change is owner's choice

Drain-and-fill replaces only part of the fluid. Check for the 23V-070 (loose bolt) and 25V-164 (valve body) recalls on affected years.

Parts
Automatic transmission fluid and filter, 2022 BroncoRockAuto ↗ · Amazon ↗
7-speed manual≈ 2.4 qt dry fill · Motorcraft Dual Clutch Transmission Fluid XT-11-QDC (WSS-M2C200-D2), per the 2021 owner's manualChange at purchase on a hard-used truck

Yes, the manual really specifies Ford's dual-clutch fluid for this Getrag manual; Ford schedules a change every 100,000 mi. Grinding in neutral, first or second on 2021–23 trucks is covered by a service bulletin.

Parts
ExtremeTerrain — Bronco clutch partsExtremeTerrain ↗ · Amazon ↗
Transfer caseMotorcraft Mercon LV (WSS-M2C938-A) · 1.3 qt (part-time) · 1.6 qt (advanced 4A)Change at purchase; Ford: every 150,000 mi, or sooner if leaking or submerged

If the truck has had transmission or transfer-case work, check that recall 26V-236 (misaligned joint after a previous repair) doesn't apply.

Parts
ExtremeTerrain — Bronco oils and fluidsExtremeTerrain ↗ · Amazon ↗
Front axleMotorcraft SAE 80W-90 (WSP-M2C197-A) · 26.2 fl oz with electronic locker · 29.2 fl oz without locker or disconnect · 30.4 fl oz without locker, with front-axle disconnectFord: every 150,000 mi, or sooner if leaking or submerged. Change at purchase and after deep water crossings

The front axle takes conventional 80W-90; the rear takes synthetic 75W-85. Don't mix them up.

Parts
ExtremeTerrain — Bronco oils and fluidsExtremeTerrain ↗ · Amazon ↗
Rear axleMotorcraft SAE 75W-85 synthetic hypoid (WSS-M2C942-A) · 63.6 fl oz with electronic locker · 65.3 fl oz withoutFord: every 150,000 mi, or sooner if leaking or submerged. Change at purchase; more often if towing or on 35s

Check the axle vent after water crossings.

Parts
ExtremeTerrain — Bronco differential coversExtremeTerrain ↗ · Amazon ↗
Brake & clutch fluidMotorcraft DOT 4 LV (WSS-M6C65-A2)Flush at purchase, then every 3 years (2021 owner's manual)

The manual's clutch shares the brake reservoir fluid.

Parts
ExtremeTerrain — Bronco brakesExtremeTerrain ↗ · Amazon ↗
Rear shocks & front-end fastenersInspect reservoirs (25V-025) · torque-check UCA ball-joint nuts and LCA bolts (2024–25 recalls)At purchase and after every hard trail day

On lifted trucks, check the alignment and tie rods at the same time.

Parts
ExtremeTerrain — Bronco shocksExtremeTerrain ↗ · Amazon ↗
ExtremeTerrain — Bronco tie rods and ball jointsExtremeTerrain ↗ · Amazon ↗
BatteryMotorcraft BAGM-48H6-760 / BAGM-94RH7-800 (per build)Test at purchase

Bronco Nation lists bad batteries among the electrical complaints.

Parts
ExtremeTerrain — Bronco batteriesExtremeTerrain ↗ · Amazon ↗
For the hands-on owner

Common repairs

The jobs owners actually end up doing, rated for a competent home mechanic with a decent tool kit. Always confirm torque figures, fluids and procedures against the factory service manual for your VIN, and work safely — support the truck on stands, never just a jack. You do this work at your own risk; see the disclaimer. Some parts links are affiliate links.

Rear shock reservoir corrosion (Bilstein, HOSS 2.0)
DIFFICULTY · 2 / 5TIME · ≈ 1–2 hours to replace a pairSHOP COST · Free under recall 25V-025 on eligible trucks
SYMPTOMSRusty or swollen reservoir bodies on the rear shocks, a reservoir hanging by its hose, oil on the shock body, or a bouncy rear end.
THE FIXCheck the VIN first: Ford's remedy for 2021–24 Badlands and Sasquatch trucks built from September 23, 2020 to July 23, 2024 is free rear shock replacement (Ford campaign 25S01; owner letters went out in August 2025). On an out-of-scope or modified truck, support the axle on a jack, unbolt the upper and lower shock mounts and the reservoir clamp, fit the new shocks, and torque at ride height. Rinse road salt off the reservoirs in winter.
TOOLS & PARTSJack and stands · sockets · torque wrench.
WHERE TO BUY PARTSExtremeTerrain — Bronco shocks · ExtremeTerrain ↗Amazon ↗Shocks and struts, 2022 Bronco · RockAuto ↗Amazon ↗
Hardtop crazing, delamination and leaks
DIFFICULTY · 1 / 5 (inspection) · dealer replacementTIME · ≈ 30 minutes to inspect and reseatSHOP COST · Covered by Ford's program and recall on eligible tops; Bronco Nation cites out-of-warranty figures of $2,000 to $5,000+
SYMPTOMSSpider-web crazing or bubbling in the outer skin of a molded-in-color top, water dripping at panel joints, or a roof panel that won't latch flush.
THE FIXLook over every panel in daylight for crazing and delamination. Affected 2021-on tops were replaced with MIC 2.0 tops under Ford's August 2021 customer-satisfaction program, and recall 26V-299 (2021–22) covers roof panels whose outer skin can separate on the road; owners were notified in May 2026, and the remedy is expected in November 2026. For leaks, remove each panel, clean the seals and sealing faces, check that no seal is pinched or folded, and refit, latching the panels in the order the owner's manual shows.
TOOLS & PARTSMild soap and water · seal conditioner · the factory panel bags for storage.
WHERE TO BUY PARTSExtremeTerrain — Bronco hard and soft top replacement parts · ExtremeTerrain ↗Amazon ↗ExtremeTerrain — Bronco hard top accessories · ExtremeTerrain ↗Amazon ↗
Upgrade or replace tie rods
DIFFICULTY · 3 / 5TIME · ≈ 2–3 hours plus an alignmentSHOP COST · Parts plus an alignment
SYMPTOMSA bent tie rod after a hard hit on the trail, toe out of spec, the steering wheel off-center, or a tie rod that has failed outright on a lifted truck with big tires.
THE FIXFord's own answer was stronger hardware. The 2024 Badlands and Sasquatch got the Wildtrak's HOSS 3.0 steering gear, and the 2025 HOSS 3.0 option added upgraded inner and outer tie rods with the Raptor's severe-duty rack. To replace a tie rod, mark or count the turns on the old outer end, separate it from the knuckle, unscrew the inner rod from the rack under the boot, fit the new parts to the same length and torque them, then get an alignment.
TOOLS & PARTSTie-rod separator · inner tie-rod tool · torque wrench · tape measure.
WHERE TO BUY PARTSExtremeTerrain — Bronco tie rods, ends and ball joints · ExtremeTerrain ↗Amazon ↗ExtremeTerrain — Bronco steering components · ExtremeTerrain ↗Amazon ↗Ford Performance Parts (Bronco accessories) · Ford Performance ↗Amazon ↗
Fit 35s to a non-Sasquatch Bronco
DIFFICULTY · 3 / 5TIME · A weekend with a level kitSHOP COST · Wheels, tires and a level kit; regearing extra
SYMPTOMSYou want 35s, but your truck has +55 mm wheels and stock height.
THE FIXPerformance Plus Tire's guide splits it by tire width. A 285/75R17 (about 33.8 in) fits stock wheels and suspension without rubbing. Narrow 35s (35x10.50R17 or 35x11.50R17) fit factory 17-inch wheels once the front crash bars come off, usually with a small 1.25–1.5-inch level. Full-width 35x12.50R17s need about +30 mm wheels, high-clearance flares and roughly 1.5–2 inches of lift. Afterwards, recalibrate the speedometer (35s read about 7% slow) and get an alignment. Regearing is optional: the Sasquatch uses 4.7s, and the guide says 4.46s work fine for many owners.
TOOLS & PARTSJack and stands · spring compressor or pre-assembled coilovers · torque wrench · speedometer calibration tool.
WHERE TO BUY PARTSExtremeTerrain — Bronco leveling kits · ExtremeTerrain ↗Amazon ↗ExtremeTerrain — Bronco wheels · ExtremeTerrain ↗Amazon ↗ExtremeTerrain — Bronco fender flares · ExtremeTerrain ↗Amazon ↗ExtremeTerrain — Bronco ring and pinion gears · ExtremeTerrain ↗Amazon ↗
Check the front suspension fasteners (2024–25)
DIFFICULTY · 2 / 5TIME · ≈ 1 hourSHOP COST · Free under recall where it applies
SYMPTOMSA clunk from the front end, or nothing at all: a missing or loose upper ball-joint nut or lower control-arm bolt may give no warning before the arm separates.
THE FIXFour campaigns cover this (24V-770, 25V-260, 25V-310 and 25V-308). For 25V-260 and 25V-308, Ford told owners not to drive the truck until it was repaired. The remedy is to inspect and, if needed, tighten or replace the fasteners, ball joint and knuckle. On any lifted or modified truck, check the torque on the upper ball-joint nuts and the lower control-arm pivot bolts after installation and again after the first trail run.
TOOLS & PARTSTorque wrench · sockets · jack and stands.
WHERE TO BUY PARTSExtremeTerrain — Bronco control arms and accessories · ExtremeTerrain ↗Amazon ↗Control arms and ball joints, 2024 Bronco · RockAuto ↗Amazon ↗
Re-secure loose fender flares
DIFFICULTY · 1 / 5TIME · ≈ 30 minutesSHOP COST · Free under recall 26V-403 on 2022–26 trucks
SYMPTOMSA flare that flaps, gaps or rattles at speed, or missing clips along its edge.
THE FIXRecall 26V-403 covers 2022–26 Broncos whose fender flares may not be properly secured and can come off; dealers inspect and repair or replace them. Between visits, check every flare fastener after washing or trail use, especially on trucks whose owners have removed the flares for bigger tires and refitted them.
TOOLS & PARTSTrim tools · Torx and socket set.
WHERE TO BUY PARTSExtremeTerrain — Bronco fender flares · ExtremeTerrain ↗Amazon ↗
Protect the engine-bay wiring
DIFFICULTY · 2 / 5TIME · ≈ 1 hourSHOP COST · Free under recall 26V-468
SYMPTOMSChafed or melted insulation on the harness in the engine bay, intermittent electrical faults, or a burning smell.
THE FIXRecall 26V-468 covers 2021–26 Broncos and Bronco Raptors whose engine-compartment harness can be damaged and short-circuit; dealers add protective sheathing. Ford phased the campaign: 2026 Raptors first, then 2021–25 Raptors, then all other Broncos from about September 2026. Until it's done, look along the harness for chafe points and keep added wiring for lights and accessories well clear of it.
TOOLS & PARTSFlashlight · split loom and zip ties for your own accessory wiring.
WHERE TO BUY PARTSExtremeTerrain — Bronco switches and wiring · ExtremeTerrain ↗Amazon ↗

Manuals & documentation

Ford — 2021 Bronco Owner's Manual (PDF) ↗Ford-hosted. Capacities and specifications, wheel-nut torque and the maintenance schedule.NHTSA recall and service-bulletin lookup ↗Free VIN recall check; manufacturer bulletins are posted under each model year.Bronco6G — fluids, filters and capacities table (from the owner's manual) ↗A forum-hosted copy; confirm against your own owner's manual.
Asked on every forum

Bronco (sixth generation) questions, answered

What's the biggest tire I can fit without a lift?

On stock wheels and suspension, a 285/75R17 (about 33.8 in) with no rubbing reported. Narrow 35s (35x10.50R17 or 35x11.50R17) fit factory 17s once the front crash bars are removed, usually with a small level of 1.25–1.5 in. Full-width 35x12.50R17s need about +30 mm wheels, high-clearance flares and roughly 1.5–2 in of lift. The factory way to get 35s is the Sasquatch package (315/70R17); the Raptor runs 37s.

SOURCE · PERFORMANCE PLUS TIRE · MOTORTREND
2.3 or 2.7?

The 2.3 four (300 hp, 325 lb-ft) is the only engine with the manual and the more economical one: the EPA rates a 2021 at 21 mpg combined, against 19 for the 2.7. The 2.7 V6 (330 hp, 415 lb-ft) is automatic-only, and 2021–22 versions are covered by the intake-valve recall. Both ratings are on premium fuel; on regular, Ford quotes 275 and 315 hp.

SOURCE · CAR AND DRIVER · EPA
Is the seven-speed manual really a seven-speed?

Not quite. It's a Getrag six-speed with an extra crawler gear marked 'C', down and left of reverse in a dog-leg. It's for rock crawling and steep ramps, and with the advanced transfer case Ford quoted a 95:1 crawl ratio. About 15% of early buyers chose it.

SOURCE · MOTORTREND · WIKIPEDIA
Is the Sasquatch package worth it?

If you off-road, yes. You get 35-inch tires, 4.7 gears, position-sensitive Bilstein dampers, the sway-bar disconnect, ground clearance up to 11.6 in and much better angles. The EPA cost is real: a 2021 2.3 automatic Sasquatch is rated 18 mpg combined against 21 for the standard truck. Adding the same parts later costs more than the package.

SOURCE · MOTORTREND · EPA
How much can it tow?

3,500 lb for the standard Bronco, the same as a Wrangler. The Bronco Raptor is rated at 4,500 lb.

SOURCE · MOTORTREND · WIKIPEDIA
Two-door or four-door?

The two-door (100.4 in wheelbase) is shorter, lighter and has the better breakover angle (29.0° against 26.3° on 35s). The four-door (116.1 in) has the rear doors, more cargo room, a 21.1-gallon tank instead of 17.4, offered the soft top at launch, and is the only body offered as a Raptor.

SOURCE · WIKIPEDIA · MOTORTREND · BRONCO6G
How do the doors and roof come off?

Lower the window, slip on the door bag, unplug the connector and remove one bolt from each hinge. The doors are frameless and the mirrors stay on the cowl. The two roof panels over the front seats release with quarter-turn latches and stow on board in bags. On four-doors a third panel over the rear seat also comes off but doesn't stow on board, and the remaining rear section is small enough to handle easily.

SOURCE · MOTORTREND
Which years should I buy or avoid?

2021–22 trucks have the most recalls, including the 2.7 valves, roof panels and early camera software. Later trucks benefit from fixes: MIC 2.0 tops, a painted-top option from 2025, the HOSS 3.0 steering gear on 2024 Badlands and Sasquatch, and a full HOSS 3.0 option for 2025. But 2024–25 trucks have their own front-suspension fastener recalls, so check any year's VIN.

SOURCE · NHTSA · BRONCO NATION
What oil does it take, and how much?

SAE 5W-30 synthetic blend meeting WSS-M2C961-A1. The 2.3 takes 6.2 qt with the filter (Motorcraft FL-910-S). The 2.7 is listed at 7 qt (FL-2062-A), but owners on Bob Is The Oil Guy report a later Ford bulletin giving 6 qt for a drain and fill, so fill to the dipstick. The 10-speed takes Mercon ULV and the transfer case Mercon LV.

SOURCE · BRONCO6G · BITOG
Is it reliable?

So far Consumer Reports calls it average, according to Jalopnik, which counted about 20 recalls by September 2026. Most problems were in the 2021–22 trucks: hardtops, 2.7 valves, rear shocks, manual-transmission noise. Bronco Nation's view is that tie-rod failures are rarer than the internet suggests and usually involve lifts, big tires or hard driving.

SOURCE · JALOPNIK · BRONCO NATION
What's different about the Bronco Raptor?

It has a 3.0 twin-turbo V6 (418 hp), Fox suspension, 37-inch tires, a body 85.7 in wide, 13.1 in of ground clearance, F-150 Raptor brakes, a reinforced bumper and frame, and 'FORD' on the grille. It's four-door only, tows 4,500 lb and the EPA rates a 2023 at 15 mpg combined.

SOURCE · WIKIPEDIA · EPA
PART 05

Building one

Who makes the good stuff, where owners gather, and who to watch.

Common modifications & who does them

LEVEL & LIFTA 1.25–2-inch level makes room for 35s on non-Sasquatch trucks. Bigger lifts need attention to CV angles and steering.
ExtremeTerrain — Bronco leveling kits ↗ExtremeTerrain — Bronco lift kits ↗ICON Vehicle Dynamics ↗Bilstein ↗
STEERINGBigger tires load up the tie rods. Ford's own HOSS 3.0 parts and aftermarket heavy-duty rods are the common fix.
Ford Performance Parts ↗ExtremeTerrain — Bronco tie rods and ball joints ↗
WHEELS, TIRES & GEARSWheels with about +30 mm offset clear full-width 35s, and 4.46 or 4.7 gears restore the Sasquatch's gearing.
ExtremeTerrain — Bronco wheels ↗ExtremeTerrain — Bronco ring and pinion ↗Yukon Gear & Axle ↗
ARMOR & BUMPERSThe factory skid plates cover the essentials. A steel bumper, rock rails and extra skids are what you add before the rocks find the rest.
ExtremeTerrain — Bronco skid plates ↗ExtremeTerrain — Bronco front bumpers ↗
RECOVERYFord's modular steel bumper is designed to take a winch; fit real recovery points before you need them.
WARN ↗ExtremeTerrain — Bronco winches ↗
TOPS & DOORSReplacement seals, hardtop parts, soft tops and tube doors fix the Bronco's two weak spots: water and wind.
ExtremeTerrain — Bronco tops ↗ExtremeTerrain — Bronco doors ↗

Clubs & events

EVENT Bronco Off-Roadeo ↗Ford's own off-road adventure and driving program for Bronco owners.
Resources

Channels, accounts & forums

All Bronco resources →
YouTube channels
YTThe Bronco NationSIXTH-GEN INSTALLS & EVENTSYTBuckle Up ButtercupOWNER DIY & BUILDSYTBudget Bronco2021+ DIY MAINTENANCE
Instagram accounts
IG@wildhorsesbroncosWild Horses: early Bronco parts, builds and trail runs.IG@gatewaybroncoGateway Bronco's classic Bronco builds.IG@icon4x4ICON's hand-built trucks, including the BR.IG@maxlidermotorsMaxlider Brothers' early Bronco restomods.
Forums & message boards
Bronco6G ↗The main sixth-gen owner forum; its fluids-and-filters table quotes the owner's manual.Bronco Nation ↗News and forum focused on the 2021-on Bronco, including reliability round-ups.Bronco Zone — 6th Gen ↗All-generation board with a sixth-gen section and a Bronco Raptor sub-forum.
SourcesWikipedia — Ford Bronco (sixth generation, Bronco Raptor, trims, sales)MotorTrend — 2021 Ford Bronco first lookCar and Driver — 2021 Ford Bronco power figures increasePerformance Plus Tire — Can you put 35s on a Bronco without Sasquatch?Bronco6G — Recommended oils, fluids, coolants, filters and components for the 2021 Ford BroncoBob Is The Oil Guy — Ford can't figure out 2.7L Bronco oil capacityBronco Nation — Is the Ford Bronco reliable? (Feb 2025)Jalopnik — common problems with 2021 Ford Broncos (Sept 2026)EPA — fueleconomy.gov Bronco ratings (2021, 2023)NHTSA — recalls API, Ford Bronco 2021–2026Limitless Tire — 2021 Ford Bronco wheel and tire sizesBring a Trailer — Ford Bronco U725 resultsFord — 2021 Bronco Owner's Manual (PDF): capacities and specifications, wheel-nut torque, scheduled maintenanceNHTSA — recalls API, Ford Bronco 2021–2026Wikipedia — Ford Bronco (sixth generation)MotorTrend — 2021 Ford Bronco first lookPerformance Plus Tire — 35s on a Bronco without SasquatchLimitless Tire — 2021 Ford Bronco wheel and tire sizesBronco Nation — Is the Ford Bronco reliable?Jalopnik — common problems with the 2021 Ford BroncoEPA — fueleconomy.gov web services, Ford Bronco 2021 and 2023Bronco6G — recommended fluids and capacitiesBring a Trailer — Ford Bronco U725 resultsFord — 2021 Bronco Owner's Manual (PDF)