Which Ford Bronco engine is failing?

There isn’t a single Ford Bronco engine that is universally failing across the model line. Reports of problems have been isolated to certain model years and components, and Ford has issued recalls and service campaigns to address them. This article outlines the engine options, what is known about reliability, and how owners can verify status and get needed repairs.

What engines power the Ford Bronco?

The Bronco has been offered with several gasoline powertrains, plus a high‑performance variant. Here are the engines that have been available across the lineup:

• 2.3-liter EcoBoost I4 turbocharged engine


• 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 turbocharged engine


• 3.0-liter twin‑turbo EcoBoost V6 (Bronco Raptor, high‑performance variant)

In short, the standard Bronco models focus on the efficient 2.3L and the more powerful 2.7L, while the Bronco Raptor adds the top‑tier 3.0L option for extreme off‑roading performance.

Is any Bronco engine failing?

Overall reliability for the Bronco has been solid, but there have been anecdotal reports and a number of recalls affecting certain model years and engines. There is no evidence of a single engine type that fails across the entire Bronco lineup. For owners, the most important step is to verify recall status and service campaigns for their specific VIN and model year.

Common symptoms to watch for

Owners who notice engine-related problems should watch for signs that may indicate a fault or pending failure. The following symptoms are among the most commonly reported:

• Loss of power or reduced acceleration


• Rough idle, misfires, or engine surging


• Unusual exhaust noise or ticking sounds


• Increased oil consumption or visible oil leaks


• Overheating or coolant loss


• Check Engine light or other warning indicators

If any of these symptoms appear, a prompt inspection by a Ford dealer or qualified mechanic is advised to diagnose potential engine problems before they worsen.

What Ford is doing to address engine issues

Ford has used a combination of recalls, service campaigns, and software/engine control updates to address reported problems. These actions can include free recall repairs, updates to engine management software, and, when necessary, parts replacement under warranty.

• Recall campaigns for specific Bronco model years and engines


• Engine control module software updates to correct management strategies


• Diagnostics and potential part replacements covered under warranty


• Customer assistance programs if a vehicle is out of service for extended periods

Owners should stay informed through official channels and have their VIN checked against open recalls and service campaigns.

What to do if you’re concerned about your Bronco

If you’re worried about engine problems, follow these steps to verify status and get appropriate service:

• Check for open recalls using your vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA recall database and Ford’s official recall lookup tool


• Contact your Ford dealer to schedule a diagnostic appointment if you notice symptoms or the check engine light is on


• Keep a record of any symptoms, diagnostic codes, and service visits


• Confirm warranty coverage and whether a recall or service campaign applies to your vehicle

Proactively verifying recalls and staying current with recommended service can help prevent larger problems and reduce downtime.

Summary

The Ford Bronco’s engine lineup—primarily the 2.3L EcoBoost, the 2.7L EcoBoost, and the 3.0L Bronco Raptor option—has not produced a single failing engine across the board. While there have been isolated reliability concerns and formal recalls affecting specific years or configurations, Ford is addressing these issues through recalls, service campaigns, and software updates. For any Bronco owner or prospective buyer, the best practice is to check the VIN for recalls, monitor for warning lights, and rely on authorized service to diagnose and fix issues promptly.

Which Ford engine to stay away from?

Ford engines to avoid include the 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesels, which had numerous issues like EGR cooler failures and injector problems, and the 5.4L Triton V8 known for spark plug and timing chain problems. Other engines to be cautious of are the 3.8L V6 due to head gasket failures and certain EcoBoost engines, especially early 1.0L and 1.6L models, which have faced issues like premature timing belt wear and overheating. 
You can watch this video to learn about some of the worst Ford engines ever made: 59sCar WisdomsYouTube · May 2, 2025
Engines with high failure rates 

• 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesel engines: These engines (2003-2007 and 2008-2010, respectively) are notorious for expensive problems, including head gasket failures, injector issues, and turbocharger failures. 
• 5.4L Triton V8: This engine (1997-2010) is infamous for spark plugs breaking during removal and cam phaser/timing chain issues. 
• 3.8L SX V6: From 1982 to 2008, this engine had issues with weak head bolts causing head gasket failures, and early versions were prone to coolant leaks. 

This video discusses the 5.4L Triton V8 in detail: 53sSeats & WheelsYouTube · Aug 10, 2025
Problematic EcoBoost engines

• 1.0L EcoBoost (early versions): Early models used a rubber timing belt in hot engine oil, which could degrade and clog the oil pickup, leading to oil starvation and engine damage. 
• 1.6L EcoBoost: This engine has been associated with overheating and coolant leaks. 
• 3.5L EcoBoost: Problems can include carbon buildup, premature timing chain wear, and water pump failures. 
• 2.7L EcoBoost: Early models (around 2016-2017) experienced issues with defective valve guides, excessive oil consumption, and leaking plastic oil pans. 

You can watch this video for more information about EcoBoost engine issues: 1mExoticCar PlayPlaceYouTube · Nov 15, 2025

What year of Ford Bronco to avoid?

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. 

Which Ford Bronco engine is having problems?

And irregular valve timing this results in a drastic decrease in engine performance and fuel econ economy. While also leading to constant engine misfires that can then severely damage the cam shaft.

What is the problem with the Ford Bronco 2.7 L?

The main problem with the Ford Bronco 2.7 engine is a recalled issue with brittle intake valves that can fracture and fall into the combustion chamber, leading to catastrophic engine failure. This affected specific 2021-2022 Bronco models (and other Ford vehicles), but Ford has issued a recall to address the problem. Other, though less common, issues reported have included camshaft and lifter problems, which can cause decreased performance.
 
Intake valve failure

• What happened: A batch of intake valves had a manufacturing defect that made them brittle. 
• The result: When the engine is running, the head of the intake valve can break off and fall into the combustion chamber. 
• The consequence: This can cause the piston to strike the valve, leading to complete engine failure and a loss of power while driving. 
• Affected vehicles: The issue specifically affects some 2021-2022 Bronco models (and other vehicles with the 2.7L or 3.0L EcoBoost engines) produced between May 1 and October 31, 2021. Vehicles built after October 2021 have a revised valve. 
• The solution: Ford issued a recall for affected vehicles. Dealers will test the engine and replace the engine if the test fails. Owners who have already paid for repairs may be eligible for reimbursement. 

This video explains the recall in detail: 54sGetty's GarageYouTube · Oct 2, 2024
Other potential problems

• Cam phasers and lifters: Some owners have reported issues with premature camshaft lobe wear and faulty lifters, which can lead to performance issues like reduced power and poor fuel economy. 
• Carbon buildup: Early versions of the 2.7L engine (before 2018) sometimes experienced carbon buildup on the intake ports. Ford resolved this by adding port injection to the direct injection system in later models, so this is not a concern for 2018 and newer Broncos. 

This video discusses other problems with the Ford Bronco engine: 55sFuel ForceYouTube · Aug 16, 2024
What you should do

• Check for a recall: If you own a 2021 or 2022 Bronco, check if your vehicle is affected by the recall. You can check with a dealer using your VIN.
• Get it checked: Even if you don't have problems, it's a good idea to have your engine checked during an oil change, especially if you have a 2021-2022 model.