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The 2021 Ford Bronco is one of the most exciting SUVs on the market. The vehicle holds the distinction partly because it’s a new version of a classic Ford SUV. However, there is a bit of concern surrounding the Ford Bronco engine. This problem is especially present for the 2021 Bronco SUV. 

Here’s why the 2021 Ford Bronco is best avoided. 

The 2021 Ford Bronco engine is problematic

The Ford symbol on a billboard
Ford Symbol | Alex Kraus/Bloomberg via Getty Images

 There is much to love about the new Bronco SUV. However, the 2021 model has some significant issues. As of 2022, there have been reports of engine failure, which renders an almost brand-new vehicle unusable. The Ford Bronco engine impacted is the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6. The 2.7-liter is a reasonably popular choice among buyers.

Things got so dire for the 2021 Ford Bronco that the NHTSA got involved and started an investigation. The consensus is that a valve train issue causes the engine to fail so prematurely. Apparently, the engine’s heat damages the already defective valves, which Ford acquired from an outside vendor. Some buyers experienced severe engine issues after only a few thousand miles on the odometer.

It should be noted that the Ford Bronco engine problem isn’t super widespread as of now. In fact, some even believe the issues are limited to a specific batch of engines. However, the problems are concerning. In addition, the Ford Bronco 2021 is the new version’s first model, which, like most new vehicles, means it’s prone to some issues.

Other Ford Bronco problems 

yellow 2021 Ford Bronco
2021 Ford Bronco | Ford

The 2021 Bronco SUV has some other problems that make it less of a great vehicle. The turbochargers failing in some 2021, and even 2022, Bronco SUVs have been reported. More specifically, the turbo wastegate is what fails. This controls the boost pressure. The turbo wastegate failing can cause decreased performance, lower boost pressure for the turbo, and the check engine light to illuminate. Unfortunately, most scenarios require the turbo itself to be replaced.

Broken tie rods are another major Ford Bronco problem. This typically happens when off-roading and causes the impacted wheel to become disconnected from the steering rack. As one can imagine, it renders the vehicle undrivable. The problem is that the independent front suspension on the 2021 Ford Bronco simply isn’t as solid as needed to support more intense off-roading.

The Bronco isn’t all bad

2021 Ford Bronco view from top
2021 Ford Bronco | Ford

There may be many Ford Bronco problems, but the SUV isn’t a complete failure. Fortunately, most people who own the vehicle don’t have any significant issues. In addition, it delivers solid performance. According to Car and Driver, the Bronco SUV has a 2.3-liter 330 horsepower engine. Based on road tests, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in about 6.9 seconds. 

In addition to the fairly impressive performance, the 2021 Ford Bronco has a pretty stellar interior. What makes it special is that, when new, buyers could configure it to be as plain or luxurious as they wanted. Though not a perfect vehicle, there is much to appreciate about the 2021 Bronco SUV. However, it is perhaps best avoided, but it should not make people distrust the Bronco name itself. 

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