1996 Ford Bronco

Introduction

The 1996 Ford Bronco is a mid-size SUV that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The 5.0L V8 engine produces 215 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, while the 5.8L V8 engine produces 230 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic, and a 5-speed automatic. The Bronco was praised for its off-road capabilities, but it was also criticized for its poor fuel economy and lack of refinement.

Engine

5.0L V8 Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaking from the intake manifold
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, running rough, or not starting
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

5.8L V8 Engine

• Oil Pan Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the oil pan
  • Solution: Replace the oil pan gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the water pump, overheating
  • Solution: Replace the water pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Synchronizer Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace the synchronizers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears
  • Solution: Replace the clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Fluid Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaking from the transmission
  • Solution: Replace the transmission fluid seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping gears
  • Solution: Replace the solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shifting problems, erratic behavior
  • Solution: Replace the TCM
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shifting problems, slipping gears
  • Solution: Replace the valve body
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise when turning, loose steering
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, dead battery
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t start, weak headlights
  • Solution: Replace the battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust on the body panels, frame, or other components
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted parts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the damage
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the dashboard
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Steering Wheel Cover Peeling
  • Description/Symptoms: Steering wheel cover peeling or coming loose
  • Solution: Replace the steering wheel cover
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1996 Ford Bronco is a capable off-road vehicle, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems reported by owners include engine and transmission leaks, suspension failures, electrical problems, and rust. The severity of these issues can vary widely, and some can be costly to repair. However, the Bronco’s overall reliability is still considered to be above average for a vehicle of its age.