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Your vehicleHome›Ford›Bronco› 2021
Ford · Compact SUV

2021 Ford Bronco

Gas
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
10 EPA-rated configurations
Data refreshed 2026-10-26
F
Safety Signal
38 / 100 from the NHTSA recall record
Recalls2 critical 20
Complaints6 crash · 3 fire · 7 injured reported 230
Crash ratingnot rated by NHTSA —
Fuel economybest combined, EPA 21 mpg
202620252024202320222021

The 2021 Ford Bronco is sold in the U.S. as a gas compact SUV with 10 EPA-rated configurations. The most efficient version, the Bronco 4WD, is EPA-rated at 21 mpg combined. NHTSA lists 20 recall campaigns for this model year, 2 rated critical, which gives it a Safety Signal grade of F. Owners have filed 230 complaints, most often about the engine.

Ford Bronco — photograph via Wikimedia Commons
Ford Bronco · Photo: Alexander-93 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Specs & fuel economy

Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov
ConfigurationPowertrainDriveEngine / motorCityHwyCombAnnual fuel*
Bronco 4WDGas4WD (part-time)2.3L 4-cyl turbo202221$3,200
Bronco 4WDGas4WD (part-time)2.3L 4-cyl turbo202221$3,200
Bronco 4WDGas4WD (part-time)2.7L 6-cyl turbo182019$3,550
Bronco Black Diamond 4WDGas4WD (part-time)2.3L 4-cyl turbo171918$3,700
Bronco Black Diamond 4WDGas4WD (part-time)2.3L 4-cyl turbo181818$3,700
Bronco Sasquatch 4WDGas4WD (part-time)2.3L 4-cyl turbo181818$3,700
Bronco Badlands 4WDGas4WD (part-time)2.7L 6-cyl turbo171817$3,950
Bronco Badlands 4WDGas4WD (part-time)2.3L 4-cyl turbo161817$3,950
Bronco Badlands 4WDGas4WD (part-time)2.3L 4-cyl turbo181717$3,950
Bronco Sasquatch 4WDGas4WD (part-time)2.7L 6-cyl turbo171717$3,950

*EPA estimate at 15,000 miles/year at EPA reference fuel and electricity prices. fueleconomy.gov record ids: 43995, 43996, 43997, 44003, 44004, 44002, 43998, 43999, 44000, 44001.

Emissions & certification

Source: EPA emission certificates
ConfigurationSmog ratingEmission standardWhere it can be sold newSmartWay
Bronco 4WD, Bronco Badlands 4WD, Bronco Black Diamond 4WD, Bronco Sasquatch 4WD5 / 10California LEV-III ULEV70 / Federal Tier 3 Bin 70All 50 states (federal, all altitudes); California and states following California standards—
Bronco 4WD, Bronco Badlands 4WD, Bronco Sasquatch 4WD6 / 10California LEV-III ULEV50 / Federal Tier 3 Bin 50All 50 states (federal, all altitudes); California and states following California standards—

Certified for all fifty states, so it can be registered new anywhere in the U.S.

The smog rating scores tailpipe pollutants other than greenhouse gases, 1 (worst) to 10 (best), and is comparable only within a model year. The standard is the federal bin or California tier the configuration was certified to. Both come from the EPA certificate behind the window sticker.

Specifications filed with NHTSA

Source: NHTSA vPIC

Dimensions Exterior

Body styleSport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Doors2
GVWR classClass 1D: 5,001 - 6,000 lb (2,268 - 2,722 kg)

Engine Basics

Cylinders6
Displacement2.7 L
Engine configurationV-Shaped

Engine Output

Horsepower310 hp

Fuel Economy

FuelGasoline

Transmission

Drivetrain4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4

Filed by the manufacturer with NHTSA under the federal vehicle-identification rule and decoded from the VIN pattern — not a manufacturer press kit, so it describes the configurations we could identify rather than every trim (seen: Base/Big Bend/Black Diamond/Outer Banks, Base/Big Bend/Black Diamond/Outer Banks/Badlands/Wildtrak, First Edition). Figures for the trim you are looking at may differ.

Dimensions & weight

Source: Transport Canada
Length173.6–189.4 in
Width (body, without mirrors)79.5 in
Height78.7 in
Wheelbase100.4–116.1 in
Track, front66.9 in
Track, rear66.9 in
Curb weight4,288–4,628 lb
Weight distribution, front/rear54/46 to 57/43

Measured by Transport Canada for its Canadian Vehicle Specifications database, which covers the North American versions of each model — here 4 configurations: 2-door 2.3L SUV, 2-door 2.7L SUV, 4-door 2.3L SUV, 4-door 2.7L SUV. Where a range is shown, those versions differ. Width is the body without mirrors, which is why it can read narrower than a brochure figure. Before we used it we checked it against the US manufacturer press kits we hold (27 Sep 2026): wheelbase agreed within 1% on every vehicle we could compare, length on 98%, and the curb weight fell inside the manufacturer's range on 96%. Source dataset. Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence – Canada. Licence.

Also on file Beside the 2021 Bronco
Other years The 2026 Bronco Recalls Ford recalls
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Factory warranty running out?

The 2021 Ford Bronco is in the years where transmission, electronics and drivetrain repairs land on the owner. What an extended plan does and does not cover is worth reading before a dealer quotes you one.

What to check before you buy →

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Recalls (20)

Source: NHTSA recall database
!critical

Engine

26S55
565,691 vehicles 18% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2026 Bronco and Bronco Raptor vehicles. The engine compartment wiring harness may become damaged and short circuit. Risk A short circuit in the engine compartment can create heat or spark, increasing the risk of a fire. Fix Dealers will install sheathing over the wiring, free of charge. This is a Phased campaign. Phase 1 will include 2026 Bronco Raptor notified owners on 7/31/2026. Phase 2 will include 2021-2025 Bronco Raptor vehicle will notify owners on or about 8/14/2026. Phase 3 will include 2021-2026 Bronco will notify owners on or about 9/1/2026. Owner notification letters were mailed August 5, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S55. Vehicle Id
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDFDealer notice PDF
NHTSA campaign 26V468000 reported Jul 20, 2026 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Structure

26S32
16,200 vehicles
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco vehicles. The 3-door and 5-door Molded-In-Color (MIC) hardtop roof panels may have been manufactured improperly, which can allow sections of the outer roof panel to separate and detach from the vehicle. Risk A detached section of roof can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will inspect and replace the hard top as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed May 28, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in November 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S32. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on May 12, 2026.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFDealer notice PDF
NHTSA campaign 26V299000 reported May 12, 2026 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Power Train

26S26
4,922 vehicles 33% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Bronco vehicles. The transmission to transfer case joint may be misaligned due to an incorrectly performed previous repair, which could lead to wear of the transmission output shaft splines and transfer case input splines. Risk Excessive wear of the transmission and transfer case splines may result in a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will inspect the transmission to transfer case joint and replace the transmission and transfer case as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 9, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S26. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on April 15, 2026.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 26V236000 reported Apr 14, 2026 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Back Over Prevention

26S09
849,310 vehicles 86% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2026 Ford Bronco and 2021-2024 Ford Edge vehicles. The Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) may overheat and shutdown, which can prevent the rearview camera image from displaying as intended. Risk A rearview camera that fails to display an image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix The APIM software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 13, 2026. Owners may contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S09. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 5, 2026.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 26V124000 reported Mar 3, 2026 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Back Over Prevention

25C72
35 vehicles 26% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco vehicles equipped with 8-inch SYNC infotainment screens that were previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 23V165. The rearview camera image may still be displayed after a backing event has ended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility." Risk A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealer will update the SYNC module software ,free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 28, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25C72. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning January 30, 2026.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 25V888000 reported Dec 18, 2025 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Seats

25SB5
163,256 vehicles 20% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco vehicles. The front seats may have a loose or dislodged seat frame height-adjust pivot bolt. Risk A seat with a dislodged bolt may not properly restrain an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Fix Dealers will inspect and replace the pivot links and bolts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 28, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SB5. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning October 28, 2025.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 25V721000 reported Oct 23, 2025 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
!critical

Equipment

25SA4
59,006 vehicles
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in. Risk An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire. Fix Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed December 3, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated December 2026. Owners may contact Ford
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFInterim owner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 25V685000 reported Oct 10, 2025 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Fuel System, Gasoline

25S75
850,318 vehicles 19% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco, Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, 2021-2022 Lincoln Navigator, Mustang, F-150, and 2022 Expedition vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump may fail, which can result in an engine stall while driving. Risk An engine stall increases the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will replace the low pressure fuel pump on super duty vehicles and update the powertrain control module (PCM) software on all other affected vehicles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 27, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S75.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 25V455000 reported Jul 7, 2025 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Back Over Prevention

25C14
12,219 vehicles 1% reported repaired built Sep 23, 2020 – May 18, 2022
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco vehicles equipped with 8-inch SYNC infotainment screens that were repaired incorrectly under recall 22V-825. The rearview camera image may still be displayed after a backing event has ended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility." Risk A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will update SYNC module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25C14.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 25V312000 reported May 9, 2025 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Back Over Prevention

25S49
1,076,138 vehicles 90% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco, F-150, 2021-2024 Edge, 2022-2025 Escape, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600, 2022-2024 Expedition, 2022-2025 Transit, 2021-2023 Mach-E, 2024 Ranger, Mustang, 2021-2023 Lincoln Nautilus, 2022-2024 Navigator, and 2023-2024 Corsair vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera image to delay, freeze, or not display when the vehicle is in reverse. Risk A frozen or missing rearview camera image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix The accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air update, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on June 26, 2025. Additional letters will be mailed once the final remedy is available on each phase. Owner notification letters were sent on October 8, 2025. Owners may contact Ford
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 25V315000 reported May 9, 2025 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Suspension

25S01
149,449 vehicles 64% reported repaired built Sep 23, 2020 – Jul 23, 2024
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco vehicles. The rear shock absorbers may corrode and fail, resulting in detachment of the external reservoir. Risk An external reservoir that detaches from a vehicle can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will replace the rear shock absorbers, as necessary free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 15, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S01.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 25V025000 reported Jan 17, 2025 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Engine And Engine Cooling

24S55
90,736 vehicles 66% reported repaired built May 1, 2021 – Oct 30, 2021
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power. Risk A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDF
NHTSA campaign 24V635000 reported Aug 23, 2024 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Back Over Prevention

23S48
177,402 vehicles 83% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Lincoln Aviator, 2018-2021 Lincoln Navigator, 2022-2023 Ford Transit, and 2021 Ford Bronco vehicles. The rearview camera, or 360-degree view camera if equipped, may not display a rearview image when the vehicle is placed in reverse. Risk Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will replace the rearview camera, and update the software and wiring as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 20, 2023 to Lincoln owners. Ford vehicle owners notification letters were mailed March 4, 2024. Ford remedy parts are anticipated 2nd Quarter 2024. Ford's number for this recall is 23S48.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 23V598000 reported Aug 25, 2023 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Seat Belts

23C16
175,550 vehicles 80% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco vehicles built with the 5-Door body style. The first-row seat belt latch plates may be difficult to access from their stowed position. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection." Risk Difficulty accessing the seat belt latches may result in occupants not wearing their seat belts, increasing the risk of injury in a crash. Fix Dealers will add a sliding clip latch stop to the driver and front passenger seat belts, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed July 14, 2023. Owner letters informing owners that parts are available were mailed on October 2, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23C16.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 23V358000 reported May 18, 2023 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Back Over Prevention

23C05
1,651 vehicles 93% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco vehicles equipped with 8-inch SYNC infotainment screens that were previously remedied under recall 22V-825. The rearview camera image may still be displayed after a backing event has ended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility." Risk A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix The SYNC module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 28, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23C05.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 23V165000 reported Mar 10, 2023 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Air Bags

22S77
1,226 vehicles 89% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco vehicles. The right or left side impact sensors may not be properly secured to the vehicle. Risk An improperly secured side impact sensor may cause the air bags to unintentionally deploy, or not to deploy as intended, increasing the risk of injury in a crash. Fix Dealers will inspect the side impact sensor attachments and repair, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 20, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S77.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V928000 reported Dec 14, 2022 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Back Over Prevention

22C27
47,046 vehicles 92% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco vehicles equipped with rearview camera systems and 8-inch screen displays. The rearview camera image may still be displayed after a backing event has ended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility." Risk A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix The SYNC module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 25, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22C27.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V825000 reported Nov 3, 2022 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Latches/Locks/Linkages

22S44
53,103 vehicles 89% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain four-door 2021-2022 Bronco vehicles. The passenger-side rear door may be opened from inside of the vehicle when the child safety lock is in the "ON" position. Risk A malfunctioning child safety lock increases the risk of injury to a child occupant. Fix Dealers will inspect the passenger-side child safety locks door child safety lock and latch, and replace them, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 28, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S44.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V411000 reported Jun 10, 2022 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Forward Collision Avoidance

21S52
839 vehicles 82% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Ranger and Bronco vehicles. The cruise control radar module was misaligned during production. Risk A misaligned radar module may prevent the vehicle from maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles when adaptive cruise control is active. In addition, the automatic emergency braking (AEB) system may react slowly, or not react at all, during a pre-collision assist braking event. Any of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will adjust the angle of the cruise control radar module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 21, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S52.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 21V982000 reported Dec 16, 2021 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Air Bags

21C23
553 vehicles 84% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Bronco vehicles. During passenger air bag deployment, an air bag vent could open prematurely and result in an improper deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection." Risk Improper air bag deployment increases the risk of injury during a crash. Fix Dealers will replace the passenger air bag, free of charge. An interim owner notification letter was mailed on November 24, 2021. A second notice announcing the remedy is available was sent on July 8, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C23.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 21V770000 reported Oct 1, 2021 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →

These are vehicle campaigns — the ones the automaker filed against this model. NHTSA also records equipment recalls, filed by a parts maker against a component (a tyre, a child seat, an aftermarket part), and those are not listed here or counted above. nhtsa.gov/recalls shows both for a VIN.

NHTSA defect investigations

Fuel System, Gasoline:Delivery:Fuel Pump — Low-pressure fuel pump failure closed

On July 29, 2024, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE24019 to investigate complaints of low-pressure fuel pump failures in MY 2021 Ford Bronco vehicles. Some consumers reported that the failure occurred without warning while driving, resulting in a complete loss of motive power with no ability to restart the engine. Ford determined that several other vehicle models contain low-pressure fuel pumps substantially similar to the 2021 Ford Bronco, including the 2022-2023 Ford Bronco, 2018-2023 Ford F-150, 2022-2023 Ford Expedition, 2019-2023 Lincoln Navigator, 2020-2023 Ford F-250-F-550, 2024 Ford Super Duty Chassis Cab, 2024-2025 Ford Ranger, 2020-2023 Ford Explorer, 2020-2023 Linc

Opened Jul 29, 2024 · closed Sep 19, 2025 · action PE24019 · the investigation’s page →

Engine — Loss of Motive Power closed

On July 22, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) granted a Defect Petition (DP22001) and opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE22007) to investigate allegations of loss of motive power in model year (MY) 2021 Ford Bronco vehicles equipped with 2.7L EcoBoost engines. Complainants were reporting sudden engine failure while driving resulting in a loss of motive power, often without the ability to restart. During PE22007, the cause of engine failure and loss of motive power in the subject vehicles was determined to be intake valve fracture, and the full scope of vehicles affected by the subject defect was identified as all MY 2021-2022 Ford and Lincoln models equipped with either the 2.7

Opened Sep 29, 2023 · closed Oct 31, 2024 · action EA23002 · the investigation’s page →

Engine — Loss of motive power due to valve intake failure on Ford Bronco vehicles. closed

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received a petition dated March 16, 2022, requesting an investigation regarding allegations of defective intake valves in model year (MY) 2021 Ford Bronco vehicles equipped with the 2.7L Eco-boost (“Nano”) engines.  The petitioner alleged these vehicles are experiencing loss of motive power at any highway speeds with no-restart as a result of catastrophic engine failures.  To date ODI is aware of 42 submitted Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQ’s) alleging a loss of motive power. On July 22, 2022, ODI opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE22-007) to investigate allegations of stalling/loss of motive power on the subject vehicles.  Upon receiving Ford’s In

Opened Jul 22, 2022 · closed Oct 2, 2023 · action PE22007 · the investigation’s page →

Engine — Loss of Motive Power closed

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received three petitions on March 17, March 18, and March 29, 2022, which requested a defect investigation into an alleged defect of the valves on model year (MY) 2021 Ford Bronco vehicles equipped with the 2.7L Eco-boost engines. The petitioners alleged that MY 2021 Ford Broncos vehicles are experiencing loss of motive power at highway speeds with no-restart due to catastrophic engine failures. On May 27, 2022, ODI opened this Defect Petition to evaluate whether to grant or deny the petition. ODI has identified 26 Vehicle Owners Questionnaires (VOQs) that relate to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles. Based on ODI's review of the applicable m

Opened May 27, 2022 · closed Jul 28, 2022 · action DP22001 · the investigation’s page →

Whether any of this applies to one specific Bronco

A campaign covers a build range, not a model year, so two identical-looking cars from 2021 can differ. Both of these check a VIN against the manufacturer’s own list, free, in about ten seconds. Ford publishes its own lookup because federal rule 49 CFR 573.15 requires it to, and to keep it current to within seven days.

NHTSA VIN check →Ford’s own VIN lookup →

Hear about a recall before the letter does

The manufacturer’s letter is the last step of a recall: it has up to 60 days after filing to mail owners, at the address on the registration. We email you the day NHTSA posts a recall on the 2021 Ford Bronco, with what to do next. Nothing else, ever — no newsletter, no marketing, one-click unsubscribe in every message.

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Parts & accessories for the 2021 Ford Bronco

Search by fitment on eBay Motors — OEM take-offs, aftermarket, and the trim pieces dealers no longer stock. The listing and the price are the seller's.

Find parts for this Bronco →

Owner complaints

Source: NHTSA complaint database
230complaints filed

6 involved a crash · 3 a fire · 7 injuries · 0 deaths reported

50 per 10,000 built · Ford reported 45,597 Bronco built (its Early Warning production report to NHTSA)

Filed per year: 2021: 7 · 2022: 77 · 2023: 27 · 2024: 22 · 2025: 60 · 2026: 37

Most-cited components

Engine → 74
Fuel/Propulsion System 30
Electrical System 29
Unspecified 28
Suspension 24
Back Over Prevention 23

In depth: engine problems →

In owners' own words

Filed with NHTSA by the people who own these cars, one per problem area. Quoted as written, with anything identifying removed.

My vehicle started showing power loss, and within 1 mile of driving completely died and refused to restart. The dealership diagnosed the engine as having dropped a piston and will require a full replacement
Engine Mar 5, 2022 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11455294
When operating the wipers at either of the highest/fastest settings (LOW and HIGH), after about 45 seconds, the wipers will revert to intermittent. This happens at various driving speeds (not specific to driving slow or fast). When driving in heavy rain, it is very dangerous to suddenly not have adequate wipers
Visibility/Wiper Feb 28, 2022 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11454580
The 21 Bronco is sold and marketed as being set up and safe to flat tow recreationally. The problem is with the 2.7l engine which has an Electric Brake Booster. After 45 mins the Battery Management system turns the Electric Brake Booster off.
Service Brakes Feb 23, 2022 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11453655
water is leaking from the passenger side roof through the passenger side door airbag when it rains. The passenger side top door airbag is constantly getting wet from this leak as water passes through
Structure Dec 29, 2021 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11445408
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Bronco. The contact received Manufacturer recall number: 21C23 (Air Bags), NHTSA Campaign Number: (Awaiting) however, the dealer informed the contact that the parts for the recall repair were not yet available.
Air Bags Dec 14, 2021 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11443798
Was driving my son to school, maybe 30 mph when all of a sudden I heard some clicking noises from the engine. The power dropped and I was barely able to pull over to the side of the busy road out of harms way. Engine dead.
Engine Feb 24, 2022 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11453933

Complaint counts are raw owner reports to NHTSA, not verified defects, and scale with how many were sold. Use them to spot patterns, not to rank.

Reported by Ford itself: 6 death-or-injury claims on this model year in its quarterly Early Warning reports to NHTSA (49 CFR 579.21): 7 injured, as claimed, not verified — about 13 per 100,000 built. Every Bronco model year, by year and system → Dated and by system, they are exhibit F of the defect dossier.

When owners reported it

Reported at 26k

miles, typically

Half the 39 owner reports with an odometer reading on file fall between 10,000 and 40,000 miles. That is when problems get reported, which is not the same as when they start — and not a failure rate, because nobody knows how many of these cars never had a problem at all.

under 10k 10
10k–20k 6
20k–30k 6
30k–40k 5
40k–50k 6
50k–60k 3
60k–70k 2
70k–80k 0
80k–90k 1
90k–100k 0
100k–150k 0
150k + 0

Across 2021–2022 model years the Ford Bronco ranks 36 of 79 nameplates in the odometer-at-first-complaint study: owners reported problems at 0.9× the mileage of vehicles the same age (median 27,800 miles against a fleet 23,512).

Odometer readings as filed by owners with NHTSA. Readings under 100 or over 400,000 miles are dropped as data entry rather than history, and a component needs at least 12 readings before a median is shown for it.

Crash ratings

Source: NHTSA NCAP
ConfigurationOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2DR 4WDnot ratednot ratednot rated★★★☆☆26%
SUV 4WDnot ratednot ratednot rated★★★☆☆26%

NHTSA New Car Assessment Program. Standard driver-assist: automatic emergency braking.

Service bulletins & campaigns

Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications
Communicationsfiled with NHTSA 322
Most recentmanufacturer date 2026-10-14
Kindsas classified by NHTSA 296 service bulletins, 19 over-the-air updates, 6 others

Most often about: Electrical System, Unknown Or Other, Equipment, Structure, Power Train.

  • TSB 26-2442 Service bulletin
    2026-10-14 · Unknown Or Other
  • This bulletin supersedes 26-2297. Reason for update: Add 2022-2025 Transit vehicles. Some of the vehicles listed in the model statement above equipped with SYNC4 may experience a blank center display screen or black center display screen after welcome animation. The rear-view camera will still function when shifting the vehicle to reverse under these conditions.
  • SSM 55240 Service bulletin
    2026-10-12 · Service Brakes
  • Some 2021-2024 Bronco vehicles may exhibit an illuminated red brake warning indicator with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) C0049:01 stored in the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module. This may be due to pin fitment at the brake fluid level sensor connector. To resolve this concern, replace the brake fluid reservoir and replace the brake fluid level sensor electrical connector C1052 with service pigta
  • SSM 55228 Service bulletin
    2026-10-08 · Unknown Or Other
  • Some 2020-2026 Aviator/Explorer/F-150/Bronco/Ranger vehicles equipped with a 2.7L or 3.0L (non-diesel) engine may need the front engine cover removed and reinstalled for various reasons. The Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-01 Engine > Removal and Installation > Engine Front Cover service procedure has been updated to include a new essential special service tool (ESST) guide pin alignment tool (
  • TSB 26-2380 Service bulletin
    2026-09-24 · Electrical System
  • This article supersedes TSB 25-2575 to update the Parts list to add the applicable body wiring harnesses and underbody shield bolts. Some vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit a "Sta-bar Disconnect Service Required" message in the instrument panel cluster (IPC) with any of the following diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in the chassis control module (CHCM): C103A, C1A99, C1
  • PCM-26.2.11.3 Bronco Over-the-air update
    2026-09-09 · Fuel/Propulsion System
  • 25S75 Recall remedy -Powertrain Control Module update to introduce logic to prevent low pressure fuel pump binding and maintain fuel flow to the engine.
  • PCM-26.2.11.4 Bronco Over-the-air update
    2026-09-04 · Fuel/Propulsion System
  • 25S75 Recall remedy -Powertrain Control Module update to introduce logic to prevent low pressure fuel pump binding and maintain fuel flow to the engine.
  • PCM-26.11.5 Bronco Over-the-air update
    2026-09-04 · Unknown Or Other
  • 25S75 Recall remedy -Powertrain Control Module update to introduce logic to prevent low pressure fuel pump binding and maintain fuel flow to the engine.
  • SSM 55100 Service bulletin
    2026-08-22 · Seats
  • For Various Ford and Lincoln vehicles, if diagnostics lead to the replacement of the front seat cushion cover J-clips, lower-level service parts are now available. Use service part W709919-S901 if the J-clip is completely detached from the seat cover and W715386-S424 if the clip is still partially attached. It is not necessary to replace the seat cover if only the J-clip is separating from the cov

A service bulletin is the manufacturer telling its dealers how to diagnose or repair a known condition. It is not a recall, not a finding that the vehicle is defective, and the work is not automatically free — though a bulletin is often what a dealer works from when you describe a symptom, so quoting the document number can save a diagnosis. The count is every communication filed; the list shows the most recent, one entry per campaign, because a single campaign is usually filed as several documents on the same day. The summaries are NHTSA's; the full documents come from the manufacturer.

Diagnostic trouble codes on file

Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications and complaints

Codes documented against this model year in the federal record. A code appearing here does not mean this vehicle will set it — it means the code is part of this nameplate-year's documented history.

CodeWhat it meansMost often filed underWhere it appears
C103A
C103A on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Electrical System · Battery →7 bulletins
C1B03
C1B03 on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Electrical System · Battery →6 bulletins
C1B07
C1B07 on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Electrical System · Battery →6 bulletins
B11DBManufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Electrical System · Battery →5 bulletins
B1A67
B1A67 on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Electrical System · Battery →5 bulletins
C1A99
C1A99 on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Electrical System · Battery →5 bulletins
C1B14
C1B14 on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Electrical System · Battery →5 bulletins
P0072
P0072 on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Power Train4 bulletins
C0049
C0049 on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Service Brakes · Brake pads →3 bulletins
P0071
P0071 on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Power Train3 bulletins
P0073
P0073 on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Power Train3 bulletins
P0456
P0456 on Ford →		A very small leak in the evaporative emissions system.Engine · Gas cap →3 bulletins

Generic codes (the second character is 0 or 2) mean the same thing on every vehicle sold in the United States. Manufacturer-specific codes (1 or 3) mean whatever the automaker assigned, and no honest source can define them for you — which is why the ones here carry the evidence instead of a definition. A code is a link when enough separate federal documents name it across the catalogue to be worth a page of its own; the rest are listed here, where the vehicle is the context that makes them mean something.

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At the New York inspection station

Source: New York State DMV

In New York’s inspection lanes over the 12 months to Oct 10, 2026, the 2021 Ford Bronco failed the emissions check on 2.7% of first inspections — higher than the 1.9% for every 2021 model-year vehicle inspected; and the safety inspection on 1.4% (every 2021 vehicle: 1.5%).

New York inspections 2.7%

failed emissions

1,215 initial inspections of 1,194 vehicles.

MeasureThe 2021 BroncoEvery 2021 vehicleBehind it
Failed the emissions check2.7%1.9%1,211
Failed the safety inspection1.4%1.5%1,215
Air-bag warning lamp stayed lit0.25%0.19%1,215
Miles driven a year8,09610,343odometer at inspection
Average odometer42,38754,681odometer at inspection

New York’s emissions test on these model years is an on-board diagnostics check: it fails a car whose check-engine light is on or whose self-tests have not finished. First inspections only, so a car that failed and came back is counted once; private and special plates, not taxis, livery or commercial plates. A rate appears only where at least 200 inspections stand behind it. “Every 2021 vehicle” is every 2021 model-year car, SUV and pickup inspected in the same window, all makes. This is the state’s record of test results, not a reliability score by itself. Source: New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, Vehicle Inspections (data.ny.gov, Open NY terms).

Bronco by model year

all years, side by side →
Year Safety Recalls Complaints
2026 F 9 11 20 mpg2025 F 19 56 Do not drive2024 F 16 82 Do not drive2023 F 18 230 Do not drive2022 F 23 383 20 mpg2021 this page F 20 230 21 mpg

Common questions about the 2021 Bronco

Source: EPA, NHTSA and manufacturer press kits

Does the 2021 Ford Bronco have any recalls?

NHTSA has posted 20 recall campaigns for the 2021 Ford Bronco, 2 of them rated critical. The most serious on file is 26V468000, covering Engine. 6 of them were filed with no repair available at the time — NHTSA's file records what the manufacturer had in hand on the filing date, not what exists today. The manufacturer's own estimate for when a fix would be ready: 2nd Quarter 2024, December 2026, November 2026. 2 campaigns are phased, so the repair reached some model years before others. Check your own VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls; a recall applies to specific build ranges, not every car.

How safe is the 2021 Ford Bronco?

NHTSA has not published a crash-test rating for the 2021 Ford Bronco yet. On the recall record WhichTrim grades it F (38/100), which measures open and severe recalls rather than crash protection.

What is the fuel economy of the 2021 Ford Bronco?

Across the 10 EPA-rated configurations of the 2021 Ford Bronco, the best EPA combined figure is 21 mpg. Figures are the EPA's own, per configuration, and every one is listed above.

What are the dimensions of the 2021 Ford Bronco?

Transport Canada measured it at 173.6–189.4 in long, 79.5 in wide (body, without mirrors), 78.7 in tall, on a 100.4–116.1 in wheelbase. Curb weight: 4,288–4,628 lb depending on configuration. Those are its measurements of the North American versions; every figure is in the table above.

What do owners complain about on the 2021 Ford Bronco?

Owners have filed 230 complaints with NHTSA about the 2021 Ford Bronco, most often about engine, fuel/propulsion system, electrical system. Of those, 6 involved a crash, 3 a fire, 7 reported injuries. Complaints are unverified owner reports, so treat the pattern as a signal and the individual report as an anecdote.

How clean is the 2021 Ford Bronco?

The EPA smog rating for the 2021 Ford Bronco runs 5 to 6 out of 10 across its configurations. That score covers tailpipe pollutants other than greenhouse gases, and it only compares vehicles within the same model year. It is certified for all fifty states, so it can be registered new anywhere in the U.S. Its configurations were certified to different standards — California LEV-III ULEV50, California LEV-III ULEV70, Federal Tier 3 Bin 50, Federal Tier 3 Bin 70 — which the table above lists per configuration.

Are there service bulletins for the 2021 Ford Bronco?

The manufacturer has filed 322 service bulletins and related communications with NHTSA for the 2021 Ford Bronco, most often covering electrical system, unknown or other, equipment. The most recent is dated 2026-10-14. A bulletin is not a recall: it is the repair procedure a manufacturer sends its dealers for a condition it knows about, and the work is not automatically paid for. It is still worth knowing — if the symptom matches, quoting the bulletin number at the service desk can save a diagnosis. The document numbers and summaries are listed above.

How does the 2021 Ford Bronco do at state inspection?

In New York’s inspection lanes over the 12 months to Oct 10, 2026, the 2021 Ford Bronco failed the emissions check on 2.7% of first inspections — higher than the 1.9% for every 2021 model-year vehicle inspected; and the safety inspection on 1.4% (every 2021 vehicle: 1.5%). The figures are New York State DMV’s own inspection records, first inspections only, and the table above sets each one against every vehicle of the same model year.

What we hold, and what an empty row means

Paid vehicle-history reports will not tell you the difference between “nothing happened to this car” and “we never received that record” — both of the big two say as much in their own help pages. Most of what is on this page comes from complete federal registers, so we can tell you which is which, row by row.

DataHeldSourceWhat it covers — or what empty means
Fuel economy & configurations10 configurationsEPA certification recordsEvery configuration the EPA certified for sale, with its own test figures.
Emission certificates10 configurationsEPA emission certificatesSmog rating, standard and the sales area that decides where the car can be sold new.
Recalls20NHTSA recall campaignsA complete federal register: every campaign covering this model year, with severity and advisory flags.
Owner complaints230NHTSA complaint databaseAlso complete, but unverified: these are reports owners filed, not findings. Counts scale with how many were sold.
Crash ratings2 testedNHTSA NCAPOnly the configurations NHTSA chose to crash-test, which is never all of them.
Service bulletins322NHTSA manufacturer communicationsEverything the manufacturer told its dealers about a defect or malfunction, short of a recall.
Investigations4NHTSA Office of Defects InvestigationOpen and closed defect investigations, with the agency's own narrative.
Driver-assist crash reportsnoneNHTSA Standing General Order 2021-01No report has been filed. Only entities named in the order report, and only crashes they hear of — so this is also what an unequipped car, or a manufacturer without telematics, looks like.
Specifications filed with NHTSA9 fieldsNHTSA vPIC, decoded from VIN patternsWhat the manufacturer filed under the federal VIN rule — a configuration, not the full trim ladder.
Measured dimensions7 fieldsTransport Canada, Canadian Vehicle SpecificationsLength, width, height, wheelbase, track and curb weight, measured on the North American versions.
Trims, pricing & equipmentnoneManufacturer press kitWe have not transcribed a press kit for this model year yet. This is our gap, not the manufacturer's — the one row here where an empty cell means we are behind.

Rebuilt nightly; this page was generated 2026-10-26. Every figure above is traceable to the source named beside it, and the JSON for this page carries the same values with their identifiers.

Where to go next

pages beside this one
Other years The 2026 Bronco The Bronco model year with the cleanest record on file — grade F, 9 recalls.Recalls Every Ford recall on file All campaigns filed against Ford vehicles, newest first, with the manufacturer's own number.Recall Watch Watch this Bronco by VIN Give it the VIN and you hear the night a campaign is filed — from $29 a month for a lot, free for ten.

Sources & method

Safety Signal starts every model-year at 100 and subtracts points per open NHTSA recall campaign by severity: critical 15 (fire risk, park-outside or do-not-drive advisories), high 8 (brakes, steering, airbags, loss of drive power, structure, battery), moderate 6, minor 3 (software, labels, lighting fixed by an update). The most serious recall counts in full and each further one counts 85% of the one before, because a vehicle sold in millions is recalled more often than a rare one without being more dangerous — and because a flat subtraction bottomed the scale out, scoring a vehicle with 22 recalls within a point of one with six. A ≥ 90, B ≥ 80, C ≥ 70, D ≥ 60, otherwise F. Read it as what it counts: recall campaigns on the federal record, weighted by severity. The damping reduces the sales bias by roughly 40% but does not remove it: like our complaint counts, this is not normalized by how many were sold, so a best-seller still scores somewhat worse than an obscure model with the same real risk. NHTSA crash ratings, do-not-drive and park-outside advisories, and the crash, fire, injury and death counts in owner complaints are reported separately on every page and never blended into the letter — a vehicle can hold five stars and a poor letter at once, and where that happens we say so rather than leave you to notice. Because the scale subtracts from a clean sheet, a model year too new to have been recalled, complained about or bulletined scores full marks on an empty record; we label those grades provisional rather than present them as earned.

EPA figures come from fueleconomy.gov vehicle records. Recalls, complaints, investigations and crash ratings come from NHTSA's public flat files, refreshed nightly.

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