I recently picked up a 2021 OBX in perfect condition with 18k miles. At the time, I needed to move on from my old car (it had some worsening issues), so I jumped on this one.
I love the Bronco Sport, but I do feel Ford’s ads kind of misled me about all trims being ready for off-road use. I mostly use it as a daily driver and for weekend trips. I get heavy snow in my area and thought this would also be a good intro vehicle for light off-roading.
Now, I know I probably should’ve gone with the Badlands trim, but it’s too late to worry about that. I’m not looking to do extreme off-roading or rock crawling. I just want to feel confident if I take it on a backwoods road, a mild off-road trail, or through some heavy snow without getting stuck or scraping the bottom.
What upgrades are worth looking into? Tires seem like a good place to start. I currently have 18” stock tires and would consider going bigger. Are lifts worth it for this trim? I don’t know much about cars, so I’d appreciate any advice that doesn’t cost me a fortune lol. Thanks in advance!
I drive my OBX on forest and BLM roads all the time out here in Utah and Arizona. The main issue is clearance. I put Falken trail tires on mine, and it’s made a huge difference. I thought about getting a lift but decided to wait until I upgrade. If you’re careful about the trails you pick, the OBX can handle a lot. I recommend using OnX Off-Road to check out roads and trails. You’ll be surprised where it can go with better tires.
@Tatum
Yeah, I figured tires would help. We had about two inches of snow yesterday, and the stock ones didn’t feel that great. I had some slipping here and there, but otherwise, it handled okay.
Gabi said: @Tatum
Yeah, I figured tires would help. We had about two inches of snow yesterday, and the stock ones didn’t feel that great. I had some slipping here and there, but otherwise, it handled okay.
I’ve got a lift on mine (HRG kit), and it really helps with clearance. I hit some moderate trails with big rocks, and it gave me peace of mind. I think tires and a small lift would be perfect for what you’re describing.
Gabi said: @Tatum
Yeah, I figured tires would help. We had about two inches of snow yesterday, and the stock ones didn’t feel that great. I had some slipping here and there, but otherwise, it handled okay.
Yeah, tires alone make a big difference. Just be mindful of clearance. I learned the hard way after damaging my undercarriage on a rock. Now I’m super cautious about anything that looks iffy.
I’ve got 107k miles on my OBX, and it’s been great for light off-roading. I’ve taken it through sugar cane fields, beaches, and rough oil field roads, and it handles them like a champ. It’s more capable than people give it credit for.
Honestly, for what you’re describing, just get better tires and maybe drop down to 17s for more sidewall. The OBX can handle casual trails just fine. You don’t need a Badlands unless you’re doing more extreme stuff.
Stevie said: @Jordan
Why switch to 17s? Aren’t 18s better since they’re bigger?
Not really. With 17s, you can get tires with more sidewall, which helps a lot on trails and snow. The extra rubber gives better grip and protects your wheels from damage.
I added a 1.5-inch lift and upgraded my tires to 245/65R17. It’s made a noticeable difference. You’ll still need to watch for clearance, but it’s been great for trails.