When did the Ford Bronco get fuel injection?
The Ford Bronco first gained electronic fuel injection with the 1987 model year. Before that, Broncos used carburetors. This switch aligned Ford’s mid-to-late-1980s push toward EFI across its trucks and SUVs, driven by emissions standards and advances in engine management.
Historical context: the Bronco’s evolution
The early Bronco line (1966–1977) relied on carbureted engines. As Ford modernized its lineup in the late 1980s, electronic fuel injection became standard on the Bronco’s V8 options, beginning with the 5.0-liter engine. EFI offered improved cold starts, throttle response, fuel efficiency, and emissions compliance, and it remained the norm for Bronco powertrains through the remainder of the classic generation.
From carburetors to electronic fuel injection
The shift to electronic fuel injection took place as part of Ford’s broader adoption of EFI across its truck and SUV portfolio. The Bronco’s EFI implementation used Ford’s engine-management systems of the era, enabling more precise fuel delivery and electronic control alongside other emissions-related technologies.
Here is a concise timeline of when EFI appeared on the Bronco and how it evolved:
- 1987: Electronic fuel injection introduced on the Bronco's 5.0L V8 option, replacing the carbureted version.
- Late 1980s to early 1990s: EFI remained standard on the Bronco's V8 engines, with continued use of 5.0L and, in certain trims, larger V8 options.
- Mid-1990s: EFI continued as the baseline fuel system; emissions controls and on-board diagnostics matured to further improve reliability.
In short, EFI arrived for the Bronco with the 1987 model year and became the benchmark for the vehicle's powertrains as Ford modernized the lineup to meet tightening emissions standards.
What to look for when buying a Bronco with EFI
When evaluating a Bronco with EFI, buyers should pay attention to the health of the electronic fuel system, as issues can surface as the vehicle ages. Common indicators include symptoms related to fuel delivery or engine management that can be traced to sensors, injectors, pumps, or the ECU.
- Hard starting or rough idle that improves with engine warmth or fuel-system changes
- Poor acceleration or hesitation during acceleration
- Check Engine Light or diagnostic trouble codes related to fuel delivery or sensors
- Unusual fuel smells or visible leaks around injectors or fuel-pressure components
Addressing EFI problems early helps preserve performance and longevity of a classic Bronco.
Summary
The Ford Bronco’s adoption of electronic fuel injection began in 1987 with the 5.0L V8 option and continued as EFI became standard in later years. This shift reflected broader industry trends toward electronic control of fuel delivery for better performance and emissions. For collectors and owners, understanding when EFI arrived helps inform restoration and maintenance decisions, ensuring reliability and value across the Bronco’s long history.
What year did the 460 get fuel injection?
1988
For 1983, the 460 returned to the F-Series, replacing the 400. For 1988, the 460 received fuel injection and power jumped to 235 hp (175 kW) at 4100 rpm and 395 lb⋅ft (536 N⋅m) at 2200 rpm.
When did Ford switch from carburetor to fuel injection?
Ford began using electronic fuel injection (EFI) in the early 1980s, starting with the 1983 Escorts and 2.3-liter Mustangs and Thunderbirds, and making it standard on V6 and V8 engines in 1986. In trucks, fuel injection was introduced with the 1985 5.0L engine, followed by the 4.9L in 1987 and the 351W and 460 in 1988.
Early adoption
- 1983: Ford offered its first multi-port fuel injection (MFI) on the 1.6-liter Escorts and the 2.3-liter Mustangs and Thunderbirds.
- 1984: The company introduced its first Central Fuel Injection (CFI) on the 3.8L V6 and 302 V8 engines.
- 1985: Fuel injection came to the 5.0L V8 engine in trucks, making it the first fuel-injected engine in an American pickup.
Standardization
- 1986: Multi-port fuel injection (MFI) became the standard system for all of Ford's V6 and V8 engines.
- 1987: Fuel injection became standard on the 4.9L inline-6 engine in trucks.
- 1988: Fuel injection was introduced for the 351W and 460 V8 engines.
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.
What year did Broncos get fuel injection?
1987-88
Generation 4 saw a bevy of powertrain advancements, from engine to transmission. The 300 six and 351W 5.8L V8 engines were paired with electronic fuel injection in the 1987-88 model years.
