Avoid: No year grades F. Weakest: 2021
Best: 2023
3 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 6 model years, the Ford Bronco Sport has 1,417 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 66 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and power train. 2021 drew the most complaints (704), 2023 the fewest of the years on the road 3+ years (158).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Ford Bronco Sport vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $19,569–$28,500.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Highest: 2021 (704 complaints). Lowest: 2023 (158).
Mixed sentiment with a clear divide between appreciation for its capability, styling, and daily practicality, and significant concerns regarding long-term reliability and specific powertrain components.
Premature failure, often cited as a common issue, leading to coolant leaks and loss of heating.
Shock absorbers or other rear suspension parts leaking or failing prematurely, sometimes requiring multiple replacements.
Described as loud, unrefined, underpowered, and "notoriously terrible." Owners strongly advise upgrading to the 2.0L.
Multiple reports of various part failures (fuel injector caps, battery connections, purge valves, catalytic converters) and high recall frequency, leading to significant owner frustration.
Reports of transfer case and rear differential failures requiring very expensive repairs (cited at ~$5,000 USD).
Owner insights cover all generations of the Bronco Sport. Individual model years are broken down above.
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