Are Ford Broncos expensive to maintain?
In most cases, maintenance costs for Ford Broncos are in the same ballpark as other mid-size SUVs, and aren’t unusually expensive to keep running. However, heavy off-roading, certain engines, and newer models can push annual costs higher than the average.
To understand what that means in practice, this report surveys the main cost drivers, typical yearly expenses, and budgeting tips for Bronco owners across the modern lineup of 2021–present models and their various trims and options.
What drives maintenance costs for the Bronco
The following factors typically influence the annual maintenance bill for a Bronco. The list below highlights the main cost drivers that shoppers should consider when budgeting for ownership.
- Engine options and related maintenance needs: The Bronco offers a 2.3L EcoBoost I4 and a 2.7L EcoBoost V6. The bigger engine generally costs more to service and can require more expensive components and fuel filters over time.
- Drivetrain and 4x4 components: Transfer case, differentials, and heavy-duty axles linked to off-road driving can add complexity and expense to routine service and potential repairs.
- Tire wear and wheel replacement: Off-road tires, especially if you opt for 33–35 inch tires, wear faster and cost more to replace than typical highway tires.
- Off-road packages and trim levels: Sasquatch or other off-road upgrades can increase wear on suspension parts and require more frequent inspections.
- Cooling, braking, and fluids: Larger or more performance-oriented engines, plus frequent heat cycling during off-road use, can lead to more frequent brake service, coolant changes, and fluid replacements.
- Warranty coverage and maintenance plans: Standard Ford warranties apply, and optional prepaid maintenance plans may reduce out-of-pocket costs for scheduled service.
Understanding these factors helps buyers estimate annual costs more accurately and plan for maintenance alongside the purchase price.
Typical cost ranges and budgeting
The following scenarios illustrate how costs might look in practice for different levels of use. The numbers reflect common service items (oil changes, filters, fluids), tire maintenance, brake wear, and occasional larger services. Actual costs can vary by region, shop, and model year.
- Low- to moderate-use Bronco (daily driving, standard tires, light off-roading): about 400–800 per year for routine maintenance and tire wear, assuming normal miles and annual service visits.
- Moderate off-road use or Sasquatch-equipped models (larger tires, more frequent inspections): roughly 800–1,400 per year, with potential for higher tire and suspension component costs.
- Heavy off-road use and frequent tire replacement (extensive trails, rock-crawling): roughly 1,400–2,500+ per year, driven by tire wear, frequent part replacements, and more intensive servicing.
These ranges illustrate how usage, tire choices, and upgrade packages influence yearly upkeep. Prospective buyers should add preventive maintenance and potential battery, brake, and cooling-system upkeep to the base estimates.
Tips to reduce maintenance costs
Owners can adopt several practices to keep Bronco maintenance affordable without compromising safety or reliability.
- Stick to the recommended maintenance schedule and use the correct fluids and parts to avoid unnecessary wear.
- Shop around for maintenance, using independent shops with experience on Ford SUVs for potentially lower labor rates.
- Plan tire choices with longevity in mind; rotating tires and proper alignment can extend tire life.
- Consider an extended warranty or prepaid maintenance plan if you expect high usage or prefer predictable expenses, but compare total costs over time.
By budgeting wisely and staying on top of routine service, Bronco ownership can be predictable and manageable.
Warranty coverage and maintenance considerations
Ford’s standard warranties typically cover bumper-to-bumper for 3 years/36,000 miles and powertrain for 5 years/60,000 miles. Extended warranties and maintenance plans are available through Ford and dealers, and they can help smooth out costs for buyers who plan heavy use or want predictable expenses. Reading the fine print and weighing the cost against the expected mileage is essential.
Summary
Overall, Ford Broncos are not unusually expensive to maintain compared with peers like the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner. Routine maintenance costs are in line with other mid-size SUVs, and the biggest cost differences come from engine choice, tire size, and the level of off-road use. For most owners, smart maintenance, careful tire management, and choosing the right trim can keep annual costs predictable and reasonable.
