2022 Ford Bronco
The 2022 Ford Bronco marked the full return of the iconic off-road SUV, offering a blend of retro styling and modern technology. Available with a 2.3L EcoBoost inline-4 producing 300 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 generating 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 producing 418 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque (Bronco Raptor only), the Bronco catered to a range of performance preferences. Transmission options included a 7-speed manual (only available with the 2.3L) and a 10-speed automatic. People generally love the Bronco’s rugged design, off-road capabilities, and customization options. However, some common complaints include build quality issues, electronic glitches, and difficulty in securing certain options due to production constraints.
Engine
2.3L EcoBoost I4
- Engine Stall
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of the engine stalling unexpectedly, particularly at low speeds or when idling. This can be intermittent and may not always trigger a check engine light.
- Solution: The fix typically involves software updates to the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) or replacement of faulty sensors, such as the crank position sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: 22V-790, 23V-219, 22V-643
2.7L EcoBoost V6
- Valve Guide Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some 2.7L EcoBoost engines have exhibited valve guide wear or failure, potentially leading to excessive oil consumption, misfires, and in severe cases, engine damage. Symptoms include blue smoke from the exhaust, rough idling, and a check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of the cylinder heads or a full engine rebuild may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
- Recalls: None Found
3.0L EcoBoost V6
No Issues Found
Transmission
10-Speed Automatic
- Harsh Shifting/Clunking
- Description/Symptoms: Some Bronco owners have experienced harsh or erratic shifting from the 10-speed automatic transmission. This can manifest as hard shifts between gears, clunking noises, and hesitation during acceleration.
- Solution: Software recalibration of the transmission control module (TCM) or in more severe cases, replacement of valve body components may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
- Recalls: 23V-022
7-Speed Manual
No Issues Found
Suspension
- SAS (Rear Axle Separation)
- Description/Symptoms: One potential suspension issue that was specific to Broncos with the Sasquatch Package (SAS) equipped 35” tires, was a potential issue in which the rear axle could separate and cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Solution: Inspection of the vehicle and if found to be equipped with the incorrect parts, repairs will be performed free of charge.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Covered by recall)
- Recalls: 22V-007
- Front Suspension Squeaks/Noises
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported squeaking or popping noises originating from the front suspension, particularly when going over bumps or turning at low speeds. This can be attributed to dry or worn-out bushings or ball joints.
- Solution: Lubrication or replacement of the affected bushings or ball joints is generally recommended.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
- Description/Symptoms: The SYNC 4 infotainment system has been known to freeze, lag, or spontaneously reboot, disrupting navigation, audio, and other functions.
- Solution: Software updates are the primary solution, but hardware replacements may be needed in some cases.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,000+ (Depending on warranty coverage)
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions (e.g., Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
- Description/Symptoms: Issues with parking sensors or blind spot monitoring systems failing to function correctly or providing false alerts have been reported.
- Solution: Diagnosis to determine the specific sensor at fault, followed by replacement and recalibration.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per sensor
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Hardtop Delamination/Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: The modular hardtop has experienced delamination issues, leading to leaks, wind noise, and aesthetic concerns.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected hardtop panels or the entire hardtop assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $5,000+ (Depending on warranty coverage)
- Recalls: None Found
- Door Alignment Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noted that the doors, especially the removable ones, may not align perfectly, leading to wind noise and difficulty closing properly.
- Solution: Adjustment of door hinges and latches, or in some cases, replacement of door seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Material Degradation
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature wear and tear of the seat material, especially in high-wear areas such as the driver’s seat bolster.
- Solution: Replacement of the seat covers or upholstery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Rattles and Squeaks
- Description/Symptoms: The interior of the Bronco is known to develop rattles and squeaks over time, especially in the dashboard, doors, and removable roof panels.
- Solution: Locating and isolating the source of the noise, then tightening fasteners or adding sound-dampening materials.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ (Depending on complexity)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2022 Ford Bronco, while desirable for its design and off-road capabilities, has exhibited a range of issues. Engine issues such as stalling or valve guide problems in the 2.7L EcoBoost can be quite costly. Transmission issues, particularly with the 10-speed automatic, can be common. Exterior issues with the hardtop have also been frequently reported. While some issues can be addressed with relatively inexpensive fixes like software updates or bushing replacements, others, such as engine or hardtop replacements, can be very expensive. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and thoroughly inspect any used Bronco before purchase.