What differential is in the Ford Bronco?

The Bronco uses Dana/Spicer front and rear differentials with electronic locking capabilities on many trims; the most capable variants use heavier axles with locking diffs. This article outlines what you’re getting in the Bronco’s differentials across models and packages.

To understand the Bronco’s differential setup, it helps to know that Ford outfits the truck with solid front and rear axles built by Dana/Spicer. The availability of electronic locking differentials (ELD) varies by trim and option package, and the rugged, off-road-focused versions add more capable hardware. The high-end Bronco Raptor shifts to even heftier axles to handle extreme terrain.

Axle architecture and differential options

The following highlights summarize the main differential configurations you’ll encounter across Bronco models and packages.

• Front and rear axles are Dana/Spicer builds designed for off-road reliability. Most 4x4 Broncos offer some form of locking capability, with electronic lockers available on higher trims and off-road packages.


• The Sasquatch and other off-road-oriented packages typically add front and rear electronic locking differentials, enhancing traction in extreme conditions.


• Bronco Raptor uses heavier-duty axles (front and rear) designed for high-speed off-roading, with locking differential capability to maximize grip in demanding terrain.

In summary, nearly all 4x4 Broncos use Dana/Spicer axles with some form of differential locking, and the most capable variants (Sasquatch and Raptor) push toward electronic locking on both ends and stronger, heavier-duty hardware.

What to know when shopping for diff features

When choosing a Bronco, consider these practical points about the differentials and what they mean for off-road performance.

• Locking diffs improve traction on uneven or slippery surfaces by forcing the axle shafts to rotate together, which helps the vehicle crawl over obstacles.


• Electronic locking differentials are commonly paired with the Bronco’s 4x4 system and are more likely to be included on higher trim levels or as part of an off-road package.


• If you plan serious off-roading, look at trims like Sasquatch or other off-road-focused packages for guaranteed front and rear lockers and upgraded hardware; the Raptor uses heavier axles for extreme terrain scenarios.

Always verify the exact differential configuration for your specific build with Ford’s official documentation or a dealer, as options can vary by model year and regional availability.

Summary

The Ford Bronco’s differential setup centers on Dana/Spicer front and rear axles with electronic locking options that are standard or optional depending on trim and package. The most capable off-road variants—such as the Sasquatch package—include front and rear electronic lockers, while the Bronco Raptor employs heavier-duty axles designed for high-speed off-roading. For buyers, the key takeaway is that locking differentials are a major feature of the Bronco’s off-road capability, with the best-equipped models offering the most robust locking options.

Does Ford still use Dana axles?

Ford still uses the Dana 60 front axle. Manufactured in both Kingpin and Ball joint variations, "standard" (low pinion) and "reverse cut" rotation (high pinion) variations and open and limited slip, and locking variations. The housing material is Gray iron in early axles and Ductile iron in later axles.

How do I tell if I have a Ford 9 inch rear end?

You can identify a Ford 9-inch rear end by checking for a round center section with two flat spots, using a socket to check the bottom two pinion nuts (a socket won't fit on a 9-inch), looking for a removable third member/dropout, and measuring the ring gear diameter if other methods are unclear. The 9-inch housing is known for being stronger than an 8-inch and features a different bolt pattern for axle retention, using a retainer plate with four bolts instead of the C-clip style found on other rearends.
 
This video demonstrates how to identify a Ford 9-inch rear end by checking the bottom nuts and comparing it to an 8-inch rear end: 58sAutorestomod Manic Mechanic Gasoline MediaYouTube · Sep 8, 2016
Visual and physical inspection

• Center section shape: A 9-inch housing has a more rounded, raised center section with two flat spots, while an 8-inch is generally round with two dimples at the bottom. 
• Bottom nuts (socket test): A simple and quick test is to see if a deep socket fits over the bottom two studs on the differential. On an 8-inch rear end, a socket will fit. On a 9-inch rear end, a socket will not fit, and you must use a wrench to remove the nuts. 
• Third member/dropout: The 9-inch has a removable center "third member" or "dropout" that can be serviced from the front and removed from the housing without taking the entire axle out of the car. 
• Axle retention: Look for a flat retainer plate with four bolts at the end of the axle tubes. This is how the axle shafts are secured in a 9-inch. This is a key difference from other rearends that use internal C-clips that require removing the back cover. 
• Housing characteristics: An older 9-inch may have "neck-down" tubes that taper toward the axle flanges, while newer ones maintain a consistent diameter. Some housings also have an outward swell or bump indicating a "big bearing" style, often found in trucks and larger cars. 

Other methods

• Marking tags: Look for a metal tag, often on one of the center section bolts, that contains codes including the gear ratio. The tag can also specify if the rearend is an 8-inch, 9-inch, or 9.5-inch. 
• Paint markings: Ford often used yellow or white paint to mark information on the back of the housing. 
• Ring gear measurement: If you can't access the housing, you can measure the diameter of the ring gear to confirm if it is 9 inches across. 
• Differential type: You can identify the type of differential by looking for a metal tag on one of the bolts that holds the center section to the housing, which has the gear ratio stamped on it. 

This video explains the differences in differential types between Ford 9-inch and 12-bolt differentials: 58sCurrie EnterprisesYouTube · Aug 25, 2020

Does the Bronco have a limited slip differential?

The 2021-2025 Bronco M220 Eaton Detroit Truetrac Limited Slip Differential features a reliable Helical Gear LSD design with helical-cut gears instead of clutch packs.

What year is Bronco to stay away from?

You should avoid the 2021 and 2022 Ford Broncos due to numerous recalls and quality issues, especially with the hard tops. For classic Broncos, 1988 is a year to avoid because of electrical problems, and 1993 had issues with recalls, parking brakes, and transfer cases. 
This video discusses reasons to avoid buying a Ford Bronco, including recalls and quality issues: 53sMaie HavenYouTube · Apr 23, 2025
Modern Ford Broncos (2021-Present)

• 2021 and 2022: These initial model years are associated with numerous recalls and quality complaints, particularly related to the hard top, engine, and various interior and exterior fit-and-finish problems. 

Classic Ford Broncos

• 1988: This model year had a problematic electrical system. 
• 1993: This year was plagued with recalls, including fire risks, parking brake issues, and problems with the transfer case slipping out of gear. 
• 1980-1982: These models have a frame design with holes that can make it brittle and weak. 
• 1990-1996: Many Broncos from this era can experience issues with the intake manifold gasket, leading to high engine idle, especially with high mileage. 

This video discusses common problems in Ford Broncos: 59sExoticCar PlayPlaceYouTube · Jul 4, 2025
What to consider instead

• Modern Broncos: Ford has addressed many of the initial issues in later models, so a 2024 or newer might be a better choice, although 2024 and 2025 models still had recalls for issues like improper fastener installation. 
• Classic Broncos: Aim for the fifth generation (1992-1996) or later, as these models are generally more reliable and safer.