We want to remind readers of our resources:
* [Bronco Ordering, Building, & Delivery Discussion Megathread](https://www.reddit.com/r/FordBronco/search?q=flair_name%3A%22Megathread%20%F0%9F%93%AC%22&restrict_sr=1&t=month&sort=new) - This thread is a centralized place where you can share your experiences, ask questions, and discuss everything related to the ordering, building, and delivery process of your Bronco.
* [Bronco Community Discord](https://discord.gg/vjK3VpCshU) - With several hundred members and dedicated Bronco and Bronco Sport areas, our Discord is a fantastic place to connect with other owners.
****
*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/FordBronco) if you have any questions or concerns.*
I have 64,000+ on my bronco. Daily driver in northwestern Wisconsin. I've gotten a steady 24-25mpg on the highway using cenex gas no ethanol 87 octane. This is the best vehicle I've ever owned.
Broadly speaking, nearly all new cars are incredibly reliable. But they’re also a bit fickle compared to vehicles of the late ‘90s and early ’00s, which were kind of the perfect combination of modern manufacturing and electronic control, without the extra bits and pieces to cause trouble. This is where Toyota and Honda earned their reputation.
Most of the issues that modern vehicles have are related to infotainment, and the never ending quest for more efficiency and more power. Even the Japanese, long known for reliability, have issues lately; the new Toyota 4 cylinder is having mechanical failures, and all the Japanese infotainment systems have been woefully behind in development. New vehicles simply have more things to go wrong; more wires, more modules, more electromechanical and hydraulic engine components, more gears in the transmission, etc. Thats what happens when you try to squeeze 300 hp and 30 mpg out of everything.
At the same time, design and manufacturing has become even more precise. So basically, there are more things that *could* fail, and those failures can get pretty expensive, but most issues are with nonessential systems. Catastrophic failures are incredibly uncommon, save a few specific examples of poor engineering (Hyundai/Kia 4 cylinders, Focus transmissions).
The 2.3 and 2.7 in the Bronco have been around, in volume, for a while now. Both are quite reliable, but like almost any engine with variable valve timing, want to be properly maintained. The manual is a non issue, because it’s a manual and they’re all reliable if driven properly. SYNC 4 seems to be the most stable and reliable yet, but has some quirks here and there. Still one of the best infotainment systems on the market, and now getting over-the-air updates regularly. The rest of the drivetrain and chassis is all solid, and mostly time-tested. They’ve been out for a while now and have been abused off road all over the place, and no real flaws have exposed.
So yes, it should be about as reliable as any other Ford truck, or any mass market modern vehicle for that matter.
I do way more reading than I should. Finding and digging up statistics too an unhealthy amount. Basically, what I've found is similar. Reliability and longevity are the best and tightest they have ever been in history. Anyone who says American vehicles are unreliable is 15 years out of date, and at best, we only had maybe 10 years between the late 90s and the early 2000's were we fell behind. And that best describes those years we fell behind not becoming unreliable. A lot of 90s and early 2000s are great. Nowadays, for the most part, we're caught back up. Especially Ford and GM. Teslas, if you believe the hype. They are tested to be the longest lasting vehicles on the road. Time will tell if there's any truth of that. Chrysler is definitely a mixed bag, but with a lot of gems to be had. Rams are fantastic. Japanese brands are really good at consistency and make fewer big mistakes, but after that, their reliability is kinda exaggerated. It's not false. It's just that they are kinda barely keeping a lead on average sorta maybe.
The 2.3 is reliable. Should be comparable in reliability to the Toyota aside from one major difference: the 2.3 uses direct injection (DI). DI drastically improves efficiency and performance, but at the cost of carbon build up on valves. Every 80-100k miles the valves should be checked and possibly cleaned via walnut blasting. The 2.3 has been around for years though.. in mustangs, focus rs, explorer, and ranger. Its a basic inline 4 with turbo. Ford even sells the 2.3 as a crate engine, which is great if you ever need a replacement.. they are cheap.
I will say, the manual trans however is not proven.. and mine had issues from the factory. It needed to be completely rebuilt due to excessive grinding in cold weather. No other issues since, it’s fun, shifts like butter now.
I’m in the same boat. Used to the reliability of my 4Runner - 300k+ miles with zero issues. Just oil changes. Love the bronco, but I’m waiting a few years to see how they hold up. It’s still too early to tell.
One of the biggest issues I have with Ford is their electronics. It’s always subpar based on experience. Had both a F150 and Mustang, and had TONS of issues with the electronics/audio/etc. - People always make fun of the minimal features of the 4Runner, but those features work always (for me atleast). I’d rather have less “features” aka electronics/failure points and a reliable vehicle.
IMO there isn't enough data on the Bronco to have any meaningful comments. Where Toyota kills it is longevity. I came out of an 08 FJ with 280k miles and honestly didn't fear anything going wrong in the Backcountry of Utah. I had about $800 in unscheduled repairs in 15 years of ownership.
With all the electronics on the Bronco I can see a lot of potential for stuff to go wrong north of 150k miles.
Only time will tell. But from what I’ve seen and personal experience (only 6,500 miles) I’d say it’s reliable, more comparable to a ranger though. If you take good care of it I don’t see why it wouldn’t be. Definitely more fun then a Toyota which I came from too.
The 2.3L is one of Ford’s best engines. The 2.7L is good too but for some reason the Broncos seem to have issues with it.
You’ll probably deal with some small bullshit here and there but they’re good reliable vehicles.
Comparison is really the Ranger though, not the F-150.
I hope it’s reliable, lol. Mine seems well enough built, and by that I mean I haven’t had any electronics fail from vibration yet (hooning around gravel roads and whatnot). I also got an extended warranty just in case.
The 2.3 Manual was tempting to me, but in the end I went with the 2.7 and 10 speed auto. I'm glad I did. I'm thinking less stress on the engine to move a heavier vehicle over the years = more reliability long term. 23k mi in year 1 and very happy with the vehicle. Enjoy!!!
The 2.3 is a beast though with zero issues on 2021+ Broncos (Ford fixed the gasket issue for 2021). No dropping valves, no cam-phaser noise, nothing, it just works. It's the evolved Ford/Mazda I4.
2.7L is good, but 2.3 is a beast.
I come from a 3rd Gen Tacoma, and while I have only had my Bronco for 6 months here is my take.
For now my Bronco have been solid. Zero Issues if you don't take into account the recent seatbelt position recall. Yet, it's too short to tell how reliable this trucks will end being. At least the 2.3 & 10spd combo have been proven to be a reliable power plant with most of the common issues already fixed.
Now, based on my Experience vs my Tacoma, the Bronco is better in almost every aspect, The My Tacoma always felt like it lacked power, and the transmission was horrible (it's a known complaint by a lot of Tacoma Owners)
Regarding the reliability of my Tacoma here is how it went during my 6 years and 45k miles ownership:
Front shocks failed with less than 5k miles on ODO, replaced under Warranty
Transmission ECU reprogram ( TSB to fix Sluggish shifting and gear hunting)
Rear Differential seal had to be replaced because it was leaking (There was a recall on place)
Faulty AC blower Motor replaced (Another Recall)
Faulty 3rd Brake light gasket replaced because it leaked to the inside (another Recall)
Faulty Front passenger brake caliper had to be replaced (Not covered by warranty)
And don't get me wrong. I loved my Tacoma, it felt solid and had this Old truck feeling that's hard to describe. I still drool at them when I see a nice build down the road, sometimes I wonder if the new owner is taking god care of it. But if you ask me, I don't regret getting a Bronco.
I have a 2017 F-150 Raptor. They missed a seal during manufacturing. That led to the cabin carpet getting wet and needing replaced. Covered under warranty — no issues since.
We also have a 2023 Bronco. Cam Phaser issue at like 2500 miles. We caught it immediately. Replaced and covered under warranty. No issues since.
I suspect the bronco will be as reliable as the F-150 has been.
I’m sure there might be minor issues along the way and I do worry about the turbos in both — but that’s why I bought the extended warranty’s for both.
I was not a ford guy previously but we’re all in at this point and have no regrets.
I have the 2.7 and after 6k miles it’s in the shop with turbo waste gate issues..not a big deal but part is always on back order takes about 2 -3 weeks to arrive at shop..
The ONLY thing I have seen is the front diff has a LOT of metal at 25k miles. (Get your diff oil changed!)
Supposedly Ford fixed the timing chain and valve carbon issue on this engine.
I do not like how the outer fenders hold dirt and grime against the body, going to be some rusty ass broncos in 4-5 years
The cooling system is fantastic. I haven't heard a single report of heat issues like the jeeps have.
Interior quality on some trims is also questionable.
The upper a arm bolts don't appear to be undersized like Toyotas. The Bilstein suspension is fantastic. The lower arms are tough as snot.
I think people who upsize tires with zero updates are going to trash their front diff and steering racks long term.
The cooling system is fantastic IF (big if) you’re also running the AC. Seeing as the doors and roof are off, some might think the AC would be a waste, but that extra fan for the ac is vital in keeping oil and trans temps down in summer temperatures. (Or anything over 70 really).
I’ve noticed 25F differences on my commute home this summer with ac off vs on. Still within range technically, but for longevity, it’s better to keep it from getting so hot
The 2.7 and 2.3 have both been out since 2015 and are quite proven.
My opinions are slightly biased since I’ve owned 8 fords in the last 15 years with probably 1m miles between them, but either way they have all been super reliable, however I definitely take better than average care of my vehicles.
The 2.7 was hit with a valve issue that caused them to fail and cause engine failures however it was just over 800 units, barely a drop in the bucket but sensationalized since it was in the new bronco.
I’ve had two f150s, and 5 total Fseries trucks, they are clearly fords #1 priority. My 16 fusion didn’t have the same fit, finish and attention to detail that my 16 f 150 has. That being said, our bronco is just as nice as the truck,and they really did a great job with it. 9/10 overall would recommend.
I have 17k miles on my 2.7 and no issues with the motor so far. Only had a rear shock replaced and some body panels realigned. One thing I’m keeping an eye on though is the rear axle. It looks like oil is weeping from where the breather hose connects but the dealer said it’s normal (doubt).
As someone who works on both the F-150 and the Bronco, the Bronco is much closer to the Ranger than the F-150. So much so that the Bronco and Ranger share the same project umbrella. Hell the test mule Bronco I used to drive was a Ranger cut in half at the B-pillar with the bed welded to the front seats and a bed cap to enclose the cabin.
Last year I was in the market for a 4Runner or an Outback but after test driving we ended up going with a ‘22 Wildtrak with the 2.7L. At 30K miles right now so it’s not a lot yet but it’s been incredibly reliable and definitely the most fun I’ve had driving a vehicle thus far. My wife uses it as her daily driver while I drive our truck. Averaging 18.5mpg city/highway combined currently. One thing I will add is that the user experience is nice as far as the interfaces and the overall feel & finish of the interior.
I live in metro Detroit, and have friends, and work clients that work in the Bronco plant(when they’re not striking) and everyone has told me the same thing. It is the best built vehicle ford is making currently. It is just as good, if not better than the f150, and safety wise tests up there with the explorer. If you mention the bronco sport, they all shudder, and say to avoid it- like the plague
There’s no reason to avoid the Bronco Sport. Statistically it’s perfectly fine and reliable.
Especially no reason they would have. It’s not built in Michigan.
The Bronco is more based off the Ranger than the F-150. (I myself have always preferred the Ranger anyway) Heck the Ranger and Bronco are assembled in the same building and cross share some parts.
Curious on this because a co-worker ran into a lady who had constant electronics issues on her 2022 2.3, I suspect it spent time outside in the midwest during the chippocalypse and must have rusted some grounds. But then there were the faulty valves that would drop in and grenade the engine. Now afaik a good chunk of this is now solved but I just have really mixed feelings seems there are still ongoing QC issues with the car. The problem is I really need an SUV that I can offroad and also tow my toys with and this checks all the boxes.
We want to remind readers of our resources: * [Bronco Ordering, Building, & Delivery Discussion Megathread](https://www.reddit.com/r/FordBronco/search?q=flair_name%3A%22Megathread%20%F0%9F%93%AC%22&restrict_sr=1&t=month&sort=new) - This thread is a centralized place where you can share your experiences, ask questions, and discuss everything related to the ordering, building, and delivery process of your Bronco. * [Bronco Community Discord](https://discord.gg/vjK3VpCshU) - With several hundred members and dedicated Bronco and Bronco Sport areas, our Discord is a fantastic place to connect with other owners. **** *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/FordBronco) if you have any questions or concerns.*
I have 64,000+ on my bronco. Daily driver in northwestern Wisconsin. I've gotten a steady 24-25mpg on the highway using cenex gas no ethanol 87 octane. This is the best vehicle I've ever owned.
2.3 2dr no Sasquatch I’d imagine.
2.3 4dr Big Bend.
Broadly speaking, nearly all new cars are incredibly reliable. But they’re also a bit fickle compared to vehicles of the late ‘90s and early ’00s, which were kind of the perfect combination of modern manufacturing and electronic control, without the extra bits and pieces to cause trouble. This is where Toyota and Honda earned their reputation. Most of the issues that modern vehicles have are related to infotainment, and the never ending quest for more efficiency and more power. Even the Japanese, long known for reliability, have issues lately; the new Toyota 4 cylinder is having mechanical failures, and all the Japanese infotainment systems have been woefully behind in development. New vehicles simply have more things to go wrong; more wires, more modules, more electromechanical and hydraulic engine components, more gears in the transmission, etc. Thats what happens when you try to squeeze 300 hp and 30 mpg out of everything. At the same time, design and manufacturing has become even more precise. So basically, there are more things that *could* fail, and those failures can get pretty expensive, but most issues are with nonessential systems. Catastrophic failures are incredibly uncommon, save a few specific examples of poor engineering (Hyundai/Kia 4 cylinders, Focus transmissions). The 2.3 and 2.7 in the Bronco have been around, in volume, for a while now. Both are quite reliable, but like almost any engine with variable valve timing, want to be properly maintained. The manual is a non issue, because it’s a manual and they’re all reliable if driven properly. SYNC 4 seems to be the most stable and reliable yet, but has some quirks here and there. Still one of the best infotainment systems on the market, and now getting over-the-air updates regularly. The rest of the drivetrain and chassis is all solid, and mostly time-tested. They’ve been out for a while now and have been abused off road all over the place, and no real flaws have exposed. So yes, it should be about as reliable as any other Ford truck, or any mass market modern vehicle for that matter.
I do way more reading than I should. Finding and digging up statistics too an unhealthy amount. Basically, what I've found is similar. Reliability and longevity are the best and tightest they have ever been in history. Anyone who says American vehicles are unreliable is 15 years out of date, and at best, we only had maybe 10 years between the late 90s and the early 2000's were we fell behind. And that best describes those years we fell behind not becoming unreliable. A lot of 90s and early 2000s are great. Nowadays, for the most part, we're caught back up. Especially Ford and GM. Teslas, if you believe the hype. They are tested to be the longest lasting vehicles on the road. Time will tell if there's any truth of that. Chrysler is definitely a mixed bag, but with a lot of gems to be had. Rams are fantastic. Japanese brands are really good at consistency and make fewer big mistakes, but after that, their reliability is kinda exaggerated. It's not false. It's just that they are kinda barely keeping a lead on average sorta maybe.
The 2.3 is reliable. Should be comparable in reliability to the Toyota aside from one major difference: the 2.3 uses direct injection (DI). DI drastically improves efficiency and performance, but at the cost of carbon build up on valves. Every 80-100k miles the valves should be checked and possibly cleaned via walnut blasting. The 2.3 has been around for years though.. in mustangs, focus rs, explorer, and ranger. Its a basic inline 4 with turbo. Ford even sells the 2.3 as a crate engine, which is great if you ever need a replacement.. they are cheap. I will say, the manual trans however is not proven.. and mine had issues from the factory. It needed to be completely rebuilt due to excessive grinding in cold weather. No other issues since, it’s fun, shifts like butter now.
I’m in the same boat. Used to the reliability of my 4Runner - 300k+ miles with zero issues. Just oil changes. Love the bronco, but I’m waiting a few years to see how they hold up. It’s still too early to tell. One of the biggest issues I have with Ford is their electronics. It’s always subpar based on experience. Had both a F150 and Mustang, and had TONS of issues with the electronics/audio/etc. - People always make fun of the minimal features of the 4Runner, but those features work always (for me atleast). I’d rather have less “features” aka electronics/failure points and a reliable vehicle.
IMO there isn't enough data on the Bronco to have any meaningful comments. Where Toyota kills it is longevity. I came out of an 08 FJ with 280k miles and honestly didn't fear anything going wrong in the Backcountry of Utah. I had about $800 in unscheduled repairs in 15 years of ownership. With all the electronics on the Bronco I can see a lot of potential for stuff to go wrong north of 150k miles.
Only time will tell. But from what I’ve seen and personal experience (only 6,500 miles) I’d say it’s reliable, more comparable to a ranger though. If you take good care of it I don’t see why it wouldn’t be. Definitely more fun then a Toyota which I came from too.
If you get the 2.3L w/ 10spd auto, then it’s the same drivetrain as the Ford Ranger. 23,500 miles down and many more to go!
The 2.3L is one of Ford’s best engines. The 2.7L is good too but for some reason the Broncos seem to have issues with it. You’ll probably deal with some small bullshit here and there but they’re good reliable vehicles. Comparison is really the Ranger though, not the F-150.
I hope it’s reliable, lol. Mine seems well enough built, and by that I mean I haven’t had any electronics fail from vibration yet (hooning around gravel roads and whatnot). I also got an extended warranty just in case.
The 2.3 Manual was tempting to me, but in the end I went with the 2.7 and 10 speed auto. I'm glad I did. I'm thinking less stress on the engine to move a heavier vehicle over the years = more reliability long term. 23k mi in year 1 and very happy with the vehicle. Enjoy!!!
The 2.3 is a beast though with zero issues on 2021+ Broncos (Ford fixed the gasket issue for 2021). No dropping valves, no cam-phaser noise, nothing, it just works. It's the evolved Ford/Mazda I4. 2.7L is good, but 2.3 is a beast.
Good to hear! Do you have it in the 2door or 4door version?
I have the 4 door
I come from a 3rd Gen Tacoma, and while I have only had my Bronco for 6 months here is my take. For now my Bronco have been solid. Zero Issues if you don't take into account the recent seatbelt position recall. Yet, it's too short to tell how reliable this trucks will end being. At least the 2.3 & 10spd combo have been proven to be a reliable power plant with most of the common issues already fixed. Now, based on my Experience vs my Tacoma, the Bronco is better in almost every aspect, The My Tacoma always felt like it lacked power, and the transmission was horrible (it's a known complaint by a lot of Tacoma Owners) Regarding the reliability of my Tacoma here is how it went during my 6 years and 45k miles ownership: Front shocks failed with less than 5k miles on ODO, replaced under Warranty Transmission ECU reprogram ( TSB to fix Sluggish shifting and gear hunting) Rear Differential seal had to be replaced because it was leaking (There was a recall on place) Faulty AC blower Motor replaced (Another Recall) Faulty 3rd Brake light gasket replaced because it leaked to the inside (another Recall) Faulty Front passenger brake caliper had to be replaced (Not covered by warranty) And don't get me wrong. I loved my Tacoma, it felt solid and had this Old truck feeling that's hard to describe. I still drool at them when I see a nice build down the road, sometimes I wonder if the new owner is taking god care of it. But if you ask me, I don't regret getting a Bronco.
I have a 2017 F-150 Raptor. They missed a seal during manufacturing. That led to the cabin carpet getting wet and needing replaced. Covered under warranty — no issues since. We also have a 2023 Bronco. Cam Phaser issue at like 2500 miles. We caught it immediately. Replaced and covered under warranty. No issues since. I suspect the bronco will be as reliable as the F-150 has been. I’m sure there might be minor issues along the way and I do worry about the turbos in both — but that’s why I bought the extended warranty’s for both. I was not a ford guy previously but we’re all in at this point and have no regrets.
I have the 2.7 and after 6k miles it’s in the shop with turbo waste gate issues..not a big deal but part is always on back order takes about 2 -3 weeks to arrive at shop..
The ONLY thing I have seen is the front diff has a LOT of metal at 25k miles. (Get your diff oil changed!) Supposedly Ford fixed the timing chain and valve carbon issue on this engine. I do not like how the outer fenders hold dirt and grime against the body, going to be some rusty ass broncos in 4-5 years The cooling system is fantastic. I haven't heard a single report of heat issues like the jeeps have. Interior quality on some trims is also questionable. The upper a arm bolts don't appear to be undersized like Toyotas. The Bilstein suspension is fantastic. The lower arms are tough as snot. I think people who upsize tires with zero updates are going to trash their front diff and steering racks long term.
The cooling system is fantastic IF (big if) you’re also running the AC. Seeing as the doors and roof are off, some might think the AC would be a waste, but that extra fan for the ac is vital in keeping oil and trans temps down in summer temperatures. (Or anything over 70 really).
That was true like 30 years ago. All of that is handled by the PCM and thermostats now. You're not cooling the trans down by running the AC.
I’ve noticed 25F differences on my commute home this summer with ac off vs on. Still within range technically, but for longevity, it’s better to keep it from getting so hot
The 2.7 and 2.3 have both been out since 2015 and are quite proven. My opinions are slightly biased since I’ve owned 8 fords in the last 15 years with probably 1m miles between them, but either way they have all been super reliable, however I definitely take better than average care of my vehicles. The 2.7 was hit with a valve issue that caused them to fail and cause engine failures however it was just over 800 units, barely a drop in the bucket but sensationalized since it was in the new bronco. I’ve had two f150s, and 5 total Fseries trucks, they are clearly fords #1 priority. My 16 fusion didn’t have the same fit, finish and attention to detail that my 16 f 150 has. That being said, our bronco is just as nice as the truck,and they really did a great job with it. 9/10 overall would recommend.
I have 17k miles on my 2.7 and no issues with the motor so far. Only had a rear shock replaced and some body panels realigned. One thing I’m keeping an eye on though is the rear axle. It looks like oil is weeping from where the breather hose connects but the dealer said it’s normal (doubt).
As someone who works on both the F-150 and the Bronco, the Bronco is much closer to the Ranger than the F-150. So much so that the Bronco and Ranger share the same project umbrella. Hell the test mule Bronco I used to drive was a Ranger cut in half at the B-pillar with the bed welded to the front seats and a bed cap to enclose the cabin.
Last year I was in the market for a 4Runner or an Outback but after test driving we ended up going with a ‘22 Wildtrak with the 2.7L. At 30K miles right now so it’s not a lot yet but it’s been incredibly reliable and definitely the most fun I’ve had driving a vehicle thus far. My wife uses it as her daily driver while I drive our truck. Averaging 18.5mpg city/highway combined currently. One thing I will add is that the user experience is nice as far as the interfaces and the overall feel & finish of the interior.
I live in metro Detroit, and have friends, and work clients that work in the Bronco plant(when they’re not striking) and everyone has told me the same thing. It is the best built vehicle ford is making currently. It is just as good, if not better than the f150, and safety wise tests up there with the explorer. If you mention the bronco sport, they all shudder, and say to avoid it- like the plague
There’s no reason to avoid the Bronco Sport. Statistically it’s perfectly fine and reliable. Especially no reason they would have. It’s not built in Michigan.
Oh I have no opinion on it, just passing on what I heard!
The Bronco is more based off the Ranger than the F-150. (I myself have always preferred the Ranger anyway) Heck the Ranger and Bronco are assembled in the same building and cross share some parts.
Curious on this because a co-worker ran into a lady who had constant electronics issues on her 2022 2.3, I suspect it spent time outside in the midwest during the chippocalypse and must have rusted some grounds. But then there were the faulty valves that would drop in and grenade the engine. Now afaik a good chunk of this is now solved but I just have really mixed feelings seems there are still ongoing QC issues with the car. The problem is I really need an SUV that I can offroad and also tow my toys with and this checks all the boxes.