The Ford Bronco is an iconic nameplate with a rich history spanning from 1967 to the present day. After a hiatus, the Bronco returned in 2021 with modern off-road capabilities. With approximately 3,700 complaints across its production history, potential buyers should research specific model years carefully. The recent revival years have seen higher complaint volumes, typical of newly launched vehicles.

3,700
Total Complaints
72
Total Recalls
29
Model Years
262
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

Common Problem Categories

Electrical System 544
Service Brakes, Hydraulic 340
Visibility/wiper 328
Engine 248
Power Train 240

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2026 0 1 0 0 Good
2025 54 12 8 0 Good
2024 138 11 6 2 Average
2023 438 14 16 2 Avoid
2022 738 18 20 12 Avoid
2021 502 16 16 4 Avoid
1999 10 0 0 2 Good
1998 4 0 0 0 Good
1997 2 0 0 0 Good
1996 218 0 20 70 Below Average
1995 262 0 16 38 Below Average
1994 228 0 12 28 Below Average
1993 90 0 8 4 Average
1992 112 0 2 4 Average
1991 74 0 2 20 Average
1990 154 0 10 30 Average
1989 236 0 4 38 Below Average
1988 136 0 10 48 Average
1987 122 0 6 24 Average
1986 86 0 10 18 Average
1985 48 0 8 20 Good
1984 22 0 2 12 Good
1983 8 0 0 2 Good
1982 2 0 0 0 Good
1981 4 0 0 0 Good
1979 4 0 0 0 Good
1977 2 0 0 0 Good
1969 2 0 0 0 Good
1967 4 0 2 0 Good

Ford Bronco Years to Avoid

2022, 2021, 2023

Best Ford Bronco Years

1997, 1969, 1982

What Owners Are Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most reliable Ford Bronco model years?

Classic Broncos from years like 1997, 1969, and 1982 show very low complaint rates. For modern Broncos, later production years may benefit from early issue resolutions.

Which Ford Bronco years should I avoid?

The 2022 and 2021 model years have the highest complaint counts, which is common for newly relaunched vehicles. Many issues have been addressed through recalls and updates.

What are common problems with the Ford Bronco?

The most frequently reported issues involve electrical systems, hydraulic brakes, and visibility components. The modern Bronco's advanced features can sometimes require more maintenance.

Is the new Ford Bronco reliable?

While early model years had higher complaint volumes, Ford has actively addressed issues through recalls and service bulletins. Later production generally shows improvements.

How does the new Bronco compare to the classic?

Classic Broncos are mechanically simpler with fewer electronic components. Modern Broncos offer advanced features and safety technology but require more specialized maintenance.