Dealer visit checklist

2021 Ford Bronco checklist

Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.

Inspect the car

  • Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
  • Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
  • Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
  • Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
  • Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
  • Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
  • Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
  • Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)

Known 2021 Ford Bronco problems to check

  • Soft-top and hard-top fitment and water leak issues were widely reported on early 2021 model year builds, with Ford issuing TSBs
  • Modular front bumper and top panel clips can crack or loosen over time, especially with frequent removal
  • Some owners reported transmission hesitation or rough shifting on the 7-speed manual with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine
  • The MIC (molded-in-color) hardtop was recalled and replaced under warranty on many 2021 units due to cracking
  • Infotainment system freezes and SYNC 4 glitches require occasional software updates or resets

Ask: have these recalls been fixed?

  • FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: SENSING SYSTEM: RADAR: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Ranger and Bronco vehicles.
  • AIR BAGS:FRONTAL: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Bronco vehicles.
  • LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LOCK: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain four-door 2021-2022 Bronco vehicles.
  • BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco vehicles equipped with rearview camera systems and 8-inch screen displays.
  • AIR BAGS:SENSOR:SIDE IMPACT: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco vehicles.
  • BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco vehicles equipped with 8-inch SYNC infotainment screens that were previously remedied under recall 22V-825.
  • SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco vehicles built with the 5-Door body style.
  • BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Lincoln Aviator, 2018-2021 Lincoln Navigator, 2022-2023 Ford Transit, and 2021 Ford Bronco vehicles.

Negotiate the price

  • Know the typical price: about $31,000 for this model year
  • Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
  • Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
  • Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
  • Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
  • Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
  • Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away