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Which Bronco models have sway bar disconnect?

The Ford Bronco, a popular off-road SUV, offers several models with a sway bar disconnect feature. This feature allows the driver to disengage the front sway bar, which can improve the vehicle's off-road capabilities by increasing wheel articulation and improving traction on uneven terrain.


Bronco Models with Sway Bar Disconnect


The following Bronco models are available with a sway bar disconnect feature:



  • Bronco Sasquatch Package - This package, available on the Bronco Base, Big Bend, Black Diamond, Outer Banks, and Wildtrak trims, includes a front sway bar disconnect system.

  • Bronco Badlands Sasquatch Package - The Bronco Badlands trim can be equipped with the Sasquatch Package, which also includes the sway bar disconnect feature.

  • Bronco Wildtrak - The top-of-the-line Bronco Wildtrak model comes standard with the sway bar disconnect system.


The sway bar disconnect feature allows the driver to disengage the front sway bar, which can improve the Bronco's off-road performance by increasing wheel articulation and improving traction on uneven terrain. This feature is particularly useful when navigating challenging obstacles, such as rocks, logs, or deep mud, where the increased wheel movement can help the Bronco maintain better control and stability.


How the Sway Bar Disconnect Works


The sway bar disconnect system on the Ford Bronco is operated electronically, allowing the driver to engage or disengage the front sway bar at the push of a button. When the sway bar is disconnected, the front wheels are able to move more independently, improving the Bronco's ability to traverse uneven terrain and maintain traction.


The sway bar disconnect feature is an important part of the Bronco's off-road capabilities, as it allows the vehicle to better adapt to the challenges of the trail. By providing increased wheel articulation and improved traction, the sway bar disconnect can help the Bronco navigate obstacles and maintain control in difficult off-road conditions.

What's the difference between Bronco Badlands and Outer Banks?


The main difference is that the Badlands is built for serious off-roading, while the Outer Banks is more geared towards on-road comfort and a luxury feel with some off-road capability. The Badlands features a more rugged suspension, front and rear locking differentials, and a disconnecting front sway bar, along with a higher ground clearance and all-terrain tires. The Outer Banks offers more refined interior and exterior styling and is more suitable for daily driving. 
Badlands

  • Focus: Heavy off-roading. 
  • Suspension: Specialized off-road suspension, including a disconnecting front stabilizer bar for increased articulation. 
  • Drivetrain: Advanced 4x4 system with front and rear locking differentials. 
  • Wheels & Tires: More aggressive all-terrain tires (e.g., 33-inch) and rugged wheels. 
  • Exterior: Includes features like metal front bumper and tow hooks, and potentially marine-grade vinyl floors with drain plugs for easy cleaning. 
  • Interior: Less focus on luxury, with features like marine-grade seats and vinyl flooring. 

Outer Banks
  • Focus: A balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability. 
  • Suspension: Standard off-road suspension, but not as advanced as the Badlands. 
  • Drivetrain: Standard 4x4 system. 
  • Wheels & Tires: Generally has more street-oriented tires. 
  • Exterior: Features more premium, body-colored elements like the grille, mirror caps, and door handles. 
  • Interior: Offers a more luxurious feel with premium black leather seats and vinyl trim, and is better for daily commuting. 



Does Bronco Badlands have a sway bar disconnect?


There it'll disconnect the front suspension making the front more compliant and independent of itself. Making this next obstacle walk in the park. How was that that was cool great.



Do Broncos have sway bars?


The rear swaybar was added to the Sasquatch package to bring the payload capacity back up to the level of the non- Sasquatch packages. So, non-s don't have a rear swaybar. It's a geometry thing. Thought the Broncos came with a rear sway bar already - except the early Sasquatch ones but they were added in before MY22...



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. 


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Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.