2023 Ford Bronco

The 2023 Ford Bronco is a popular off-road SUV known for its retro styling, robust capabilities, and open-air driving experience. It offers a blend of modern technology and classic design, making it appealing to a wide range of drivers. Engine options include the 2.3L EcoBoost inline-4 (300 hp, 325 lb-ft torque), the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (330 hp, 415 lb-ft torque), and the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (418 hp, 440 lb-ft torque on Bronco Raptor). Transmission options include a 7-speed manual (2.3L only) and a 10-speed automatic. People often praise the Bronco’s off-road prowess, customizable features, and distinctive appearance. Criticisms often include concerns about reliability, wind noise, and fuel economy.

Engine

2.3L EcoBoost Inline-4

• Engine Stall
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls unexpectedly while driving, often at lower speeds or during deceleration. This can be dangerous in traffic.
  • Solution: Software recalibration of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). In some cases, replacement of the PCM may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software recalibration) - $500+ (if PCM replacement)
  • Recalls: 23V-405
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, unusual noises from the engine bay (whining, hissing), check engine light illuminated. Diagnostics reveal issues with the turbocharger assembly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger assembly. Ensure proper oil feed lines are inspected and cleaned.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.7L EcoBoost V6

• Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noises from the engine, rough idling, misfires, check engine light. Diagnostic codes indicate issues with valve train components.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected valves and potentially the cylinder head, depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks near the oil pan or valve cover. Check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the affected valve cover or oil pan gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L EcoBoost V6

• Engine Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine knocks and fails shortly after driving.
  • Solution: Replace engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Clunking
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable hard shifts between gears, particularly at lower speeds. A clunking sound may be heard during shifts.
  • Solution: Software update to the Transmission Control Module (TCM). In more severe cases, valve body replacement or complete transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $4000+ (transmission rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revs excessively without corresponding acceleration. Transmission may hesitate to engage gears.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the cause of slippage. Could involve replacing damaged clutch packs, valve body repair, or complete transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $6000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Sway Bar Disconnect Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The electronic sway bar disconnect feature fails to engage or disengage properly. Error message on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Inspection and possible replacement of the sway bar disconnect motor or associated wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Steering Wheel Vibration/Shimmy
  • Description/Symptoms: Steering wheel vibrates excessively, especially at highway speeds. May be accompanied by a shimmy in the front end.
  • Solution: Wheel balancing, alignment, and inspection of suspension components for damage or wear (ball joints, tie rod ends).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The SYNC 4 infotainment system freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive. May require frequent reboots.
  • Solution: Software update for the infotainment system. In some cases, replacement of the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $800+ (APIM replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Faults (e.g., Blind Spot Monitoring, Parking Sensors)
  • Description/Symptoms: Warning lights or error messages related to driver-assistance features (blind spot monitoring, parking sensors, etc.). The features may not function correctly.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty sensor or module. Replacement of the affected component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor/module
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains overnight, leaving the vehicle unable to start.
  • Solution: Diagnostics to identify parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Hard Top Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin from the hard top, especially during rain or when washing the vehicle.
  • Solution: Inspection and replacement of weather stripping around the hard top panels. Proper adjustment and tightening of the hard top fasteners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Alignment Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors do not align properly with the body, resulting in wind noise or difficulty closing.
  • Solution: Adjustment of the door hinges and latch mechanisms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Upholstery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Stitching coming loose, especially on leather or cloth seats.
  • Solution: Repair the damaged seams
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rattling/Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or squeaking noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or other interior trim pieces.
  • Solution: Identification and securing of loose trim pieces. Application of sound-deadening materials to reduce noise.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2023 Ford Bronco has a variety of issues. Engine problems are common with the 2.3L, 2.7L, and 3.0L options. Interior, exterior, suspension, electrical, and transmission issues may occur. While some issues can be resolved with software updates, others may require part replacements, potentially leading to significant repair costs. The issues range from minor inconveniences to potentially severe problems.