I’m planning to get a new car soon and I’m leaning toward the Bronco Sport. I’ve seen mixed reviews about its reliability. Overall, is it a solid choice? Any specific problems I should watch out for? Anyone with high mileage on theirs care to share your experience?
I’ve got a 22 Big Bend. No major issues except for squeaky brakes, a couple of recalls that were fixed for free, and a check engine light because of an EVAP sensor. If you can swing it, I’d recommend the Badlands with the 2.0 engine. I’m planning to trade mine for a 2024 Badlands, which I’d like to keep long-term.
The 1.5 engine has been fine but seems to have more potential issues since it’s newer, while the 2.0 is well-proven. Also, the 1.5 works hard to move this size of vehicle, while the 2.0 has better power.
@Valen
If your brakes are still under warranty, a couple of extra bushings can fix that squeak. I had mine fixed at the dealer about a year and a half ago, and I haven’t had any brake noise since.
They’re pretty average overall.
Common issues with the 2021-22 models:
- Water pump problems
- Battery failures, likely due to a bad supplier
- Squeaky brakes in reverse (bad bushing design)
- Various recalls, though mostly minor
Our 21 Big Bend has 77k miles and has been decent. We’ve experienced the issues listed above but nothing major. We’re planning to give it to our daughter and get a 2025 or 2026 when the time comes.
I’ve got a 2021 Badlands built in December 2020. Almost 4 years old now, with 30k miles of mixed use (off-road, towing, trips, and city driving). Issues so far: peeling paint on a steering wheel button (fixed under warranty) and the usual rear brake noise. Tow hooks rusted last summer but were easy to fix.
I picked the Badlands specifically for the 2.0L engine, which has a solid reputation. Early 2021 models like mine seem better built since production volume was low at the time and quality was a focus. Later builds might have had more issues.
I’ve had a 2023 Big Bend for over a year and a half with no major issues. There was one recall for a BCM (battery-related). The 1.5 engine is surprisingly powerful and great for road trips. We’ve driven out of state multiple times. Depreciation is noticeable, so sticking with a lower trim might be the better value.
I had a 2021 model with 60k miles, and it gave me endless problems. I believe it was because it was a COVID-era build. Traded it in today for a 2024.
I got mine in July, but the transmission failed four weeks ago. It’s still in the shop. I love the car, but this really soured the experience for me.
Franklin said:
I got mine in July, but the transmission failed four weeks ago. It’s still in the shop. I love the car, but this really soured the experience for me.
You might want to check your local lemon laws. This shouldn’t happen with a new car.
@Jamie
I’m in Canada, and we don’t have lemon laws here, unfortunately.
Franklin said:
I got mine in July, but the transmission failed four weeks ago. It’s still in the shop. I love the car, but this really soured the experience for me.
Was it brand new?
@Kirin
Yep, a brand new 2024 Big Bend.
Franklin said:
I got mine in July, but the transmission failed four weeks ago. It’s still in the shop. I love the car, but this really soured the experience for me.
What’s the mileage and trim level?
@Ash
2024 Big Bend, just over 9,000 km.
No issues with mine so far. Like any car, most are good, but there’s always a chance of getting a bad one. It’s a gamble. My local dealer has excellent after-sales service, which helps. I’d say go for it—you’ll probably love it.
I have a 2022 Big Bend with 74k miles. It makes the typical rear brake noise, and I’ve had two recalls resolved with no issues. Recently, a check engine light came on for an emissions problem. Overall, no major complaints.
2021 Outer Banks with 32k miles. Common squeaky rear brakes. Rear seatbelt harnesses failed and were replaced at 10k. Recently had the rear differential replaced because a poorly designed vent tube let debris into the fluid. That last repair took seven weeks, but I got a loaner car.
Water pumps tend to fail early on older models, but they’ve supposedly addressed that in newer ones. Issues seem to be less common now that it’s in its fifth year.
The Badlands trim with the 2.0 engine drives much better. If that’s out of budget, I’d suggest looking at an AWD Ford Escape with the same engine. Also, definitely consider an extended warranty—but buy it online from a reliable dealer to save money.
I have the 2024 Badlands, and it’s been amazing.