Does the Ford Bronco have the 10R80 transmission?

The Bronco uses Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission (the 10R80) in most models equipped with an automatic. A 7-speed manual is available on select 2.3L EcoBoost trims, while the 2.7L EcoBoost is paired with the automatic only.

In practice, this means buyers who want the 10-speed automatic should focus on Bronco configurations that pair the EcoBoost engines with an automatic transmission. Those who prefer a manual option must opt for a qualifying 2.3L EcoBoost configuration that offers the 7-speed manual. Below is a detailed breakdown of how the transmissions are offered across engines and trims.

Transmission options by engine

Below is a concise breakdown of which Bronco configurations use the 10R80 automatic versus the 7-speed manual.

• 2.3L EcoBoost with 10R80 automatic: available across most trims when the automatic is chosen.


• 2.3L EcoBoost with 7-speed manual: available on select trims (4x4) that offer the manual option.


• 2.7L EcoBoost with 10R80 automatic: available on most trims; no manual option is offered for this engine.

In short, the 10R80 is the standard automatic pairing for most Bronco configurations, while the manual option is limited to specific 2.3L EcoBoost builds and does not apply to the 2.7L engine.

Trims and practical implications

Trims and model years can influence exactly which transmissions are offered. If you’re shopping, verify the drivetrain options for the exact configuration you want, since some trims may restrict the manual option to particular packages or regions, and the automatic is available across the majority of models with either engine.

The choice between the 10R80 automatic and the 7-speed manual often comes down to preferred driving style: the automatic suits daily driving and on-road comfort with seamless shifts, while the manual appeals to off-road enthusiasts who want precise control in low-speed terrain.

Summary

Yes—the Ford Bronco does have the 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission in automatic-equipped models. A 7-speed manual is available only on certain 2.3L EcoBoost trims, and the 2.7L EcoBoost engine is paired with the automatic only. Prospective buyers should check the specific trim and year to confirm the available transmission option.

What year did Ford fix the 10R80?

Ford fixed the primary 10R80 transmission issue, specifically the CDF drum, in vehicles built after August 15, 2022. This fix addressed problems that affected vehicles from model year 2017 through 2023. As of 2025, new Fords with the 10R80 transmission should have this issue resolved, although some other problems like valve body issues can still occur. 

• The Fix: The primary issue with the 10R80 was a problem with the CDF drum, which could slip out of place. 
• When it was fixed: Ford updated the design of the CDF drum to fix this issue in all transmissions manufactured after August 15, 2022. 
• What this means: Any 2023 model year vehicle built after that date, or any model year 2024 or later, should have the updated drum and be free from the specific slipping problem. 
• Other potential issues: While this major fix has been implemented, other issues, such as valve body problems, can still occur in the transmission. 

Which Fords have the 10R80 transmission?

The Ford 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission is found in numerous Ford and Lincoln models, including the F-150 (starting in 2017), Mustang GT (starting in 2018), Expedition (starting in 2018), Ranger (starting in 2019), and the Lincoln Navigator (starting in 2018). It's also used in the Ford Transit and Bronco models.
 

• Ford F-150: 2017 and newer
• Ford Mustang: 2018 and newer (GT models)
• Ford Expedition: 2018 and newer
• Ford Ranger: 2019 and newer
• Ford Bronco: 2021 and newer
• Ford Transit: 2017 and newer
• Lincoln Navigator: 2018 and newer

What's better, 6R80 or 10R80?

Neither transmission is universally "better" than the other; the choice depends on the application. The 6R80 is often preferred for its proven reliability, especially with high horsepower, while the 10R80 offers faster shifting and better fuel economy due to its extra gears. The 6R80 is considered simpler and less complex, making it a good choice for off-road or heavy-duty work, whereas the 10R80 is more performance-oriented, though it can have issues with clunky downshifts or clutch slippage in high-power situations without tuning. 
6R80

• Pros:
  • Proven reliability and strength 
  • Simpler design 
  • Smoother shifting 
  • Better for high-horsepower applications, especially with aftermarket upgrades 
  • Good for fleets and off-road use 
• Cons:
  • Slower shifts compared to the 10R80 
  • Fewer gears, which can limit fuel economy 

This video demonstrates the 6R80 vs 10R80 transmission comparison: 58sTHE INCREDIBLE JOEYouTube · Mar 10, 2020
10R80

• Pros:
  • Faster acceleration and quicker shifts 
  • Better fuel economy from more gears 
  • Responsive to throttle inputs 
  • Can be tuned for improved performance 
• Cons:
  • Can have reliability issues, especially in early models 
  • Clunky or hesitant downshifts 
  • May experience clutch slippage in very high-power applications without proper tuning 

This video explains the differences between the 6R80 and 10R80 in detail: 59sBOOSTED 931YouTube · Jul 17, 2020
Which one to choose

• Choose the 6R80 if: You prioritize long-term reliability, are building a high-horsepower vehicle, or are using the vehicle for heavy-duty applications where simplicity is key. 
• Choose the 10R80 if: You want the performance benefits of more gears, such as better acceleration and fuel economy, and are willing to potentially deal with a less reliable or clunkier transmission that may require tuning. 

What transmission does the Ford Bronco have?

The cornerstone of the Bronco transmission lineup is the advanced 10-speed automatic transmission, available across most trim levels. This sophisticated gearbox features a wide 7.39:1 gear ratio spread, providing exceptional low-end torque for off-road scenarios while maintaining efficient highway cruising.