Used Ford Bronco: a year-by-year guide for Ford Blue Advantage shoppers
Used · Ford Blue Advantage · Ford
Used Ford Bronco: a year-by-year guide for Ford Blue Advantage shoppers
Which Bronco years, engines, roofs and packages are out there, what EPA rates them, how to inspect a trail-used rig, and which used Bronco can be Ford Blue Advantage certified.
The short answer
The modern Bronco returned for the 2021 model year, so every used one on the market is the current generation. The big choices are 2-door vs 4-door, 2.3L vs 2.7L (or the Raptor 3.0L), manual vs automatic, and soft top vs hardtop. Condition and how it was used off-road matter more than the model year.
A used Ford Bronco can be Ford Blue Advantage certified if it meets Ford's limits: Gold (up to 6 years old, under 80,000 miles) or Blue (up to 10 years, under 150,000 miles). Swant Graber Ford is a Ford Blue Advantage dealer: 1697 E Division Ave, Barron, 715-537-9500.
Used Bronco generations and years at a glance
| Model years | What it is | What changed | What to look at |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | First model year | 2.3L EcoBoost and 2.7L EcoBoost V6; 7-speed manual (2.3L) or 10-speed automatic; 2-door and 4-door; Sasquatch package available. First Edition built this year. | Early-build hardtops drew owner complaints about finish and fit; ask whether the roof was replaced or serviced and look at the records. |
| 2022 | Raptor arrives | Bronco Raptor added with a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 and wider body; Everglades special edition. | Raptor is a separate animal: bigger tires, wider fenders, different running costs. |
| 2023 | Lineup expands | Heritage editions; Sasquatch more widely available across trims (including the manual on some). | Check exact package codes on the original window sticker. |
| 2024 | Equipment shuffle | Ford reshuffled packages and standard content; 12-inch screen made more widely available. | Feature content varies by trim; verify against the sticker rather than a brochure. |
| 2025–2026 | Current trucks | Trim and package changes continue (e.g., new special editions); 2.3L, 2.7L and Raptor 3.0L remain the engine choices. | Late-model units are the most likely Gold Certified candidates. |
Summary for shoppers, not a full spec sheet. Equipment varies by trim and package, so the original window sticker for the VIN is the final word.
Used Bronco: what EPA lists by model year
| Model year | Engines EPA lists | Transmissions | Combined MPG range | NHTSA recall campaigns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 2.7L 6-cyl turbo | 10-speed automatic, 7-speed manual | 17–21 | 20 |
| 2022 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 2.7L 6-cyl turbo; 3.0L 6-cyl turbo | 10-speed automatic, 7-speed manual | 15–20 | 23 |
| 2023 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 2.7L 6-cyl turbo; 3.0L 6-cyl turbo | 10-speed automatic, 7-speed manual | 15–20 | 18 |
| 2024 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 2.7L 6-cyl turbo; 3.0L 6-cyl turbo | 10-speed automatic, 7-speed manual | 15–20 | 16 |
| 2025 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 2.7L 6-cyl turbo; 3.0L 6-cyl turbo | 10-speed automatic, 7-speed manual | 15–20 | 19 |
| 2026 | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo; 2.7L 6-cyl turbo; 3.0L 6-cyl turbo | 10-speed automatic, 7-speed manual | 15–20 | — |
MPG is the EPA combined range across the versions EPA lists for that year, including special models. Winter mileage in northwest Wisconsin runs lower. Recall counts are campaigns for the model and year across all trims; a specific vehicle may not be affected, and "—" means the year is outside our NHTSA pull. Match the VIN to the right row before comparing prices.
Where the Bronco lineup changed (per EPA listings)
- 2022: EPA adds 3.0L 6-cyl
Engine availability by trim isn't shown here. Check the sticker.
Trading in or selling a Bronco?
If you have a Bronco to trade, start with our trade appraisal. Records, both keys, the owner's manual and any removed factory parts (wheels, roof panels, stock exhaust) help the value, so bring them. If you owe more than it's worth, ask us how that affects a new loan before you sign anything.
Which used Bronco fits how you drive
A 4-door with the 2.3L or 2.7L and the automatic is the easiest Bronco to live with.
Sasquatch-equipped Broncos (35-inch tires, lockers) or a Badlands; inspect underneath like a used off-road rig, because that is what it is.
Expect more wind noise than a crossover; a hardtop helps. If you mostly drive pavement, look at a Bronco Sport too.
The 4-door has usable rear seating; the 2-door is tight for car seats and cargo.
What to check on a used Bronco
- Underbody: skid plates, rock rails, control arms and tie rods for dents, scrapes or bends from trail use.
- Removable roof and doors: seals, latches, and water stains on carpet or headliner. Ask whether the doors and roof panels come with the truck.
- Soft top: zippers, windows and fabric; hardtop: cracks and seal fit.
- Sasquatch or 35-inch-tire trucks: tire wear pattern, alignment and steering feel on the test drive.
- Aftermarket lifts, bigger tires or tunes: ask what was changed and who did it. Mods can affect certification eligibility and warranty.
- Manual transmission (2.3L): clutch engagement point and any slipping on a firm uphill pull.
- Water fording history: look for silt or water lines in the cabin and under the carpet.
- Winch, light bars and wiring: check that aftermarket wiring is fused and tidy.
Broncos get used hard in the Northwoods: snowmobile trails, ATV-route access roads, deer camp two-tracks. That is what they are for, but it shows underneath. In a Barron County winter, a 4-door hardtop with the automatic is the most common comfortable setup; soft tops are fine but louder and colder.
Not sure about something you found? Ask us to inspect it or call 715-537-9500.
Ford Blue Advantage: Gold, Blue, or our used coverage
Ford models no more than 6 years old with under 80,000 miles. 172-point inspection. 12-month/12,000-mile Comprehensive and 7-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranties (Ford's terms; coverage dates run from Ford's start dates, so ask what remains on a specific vehicle).
Vehicles up to 10 years old with under 150,000 miles. 139-point inspection. 90-day/4,000-mile Comprehensive Limited Warranty.
Swant Graber Ford takes part in Ford's 14-day/1,000-mile Money Back Guarantee; Ford's conditions apply. Used vehicles that aren't certified get our coverage: 45 days / 5,000 miles powertrain on units less than 10 model years old with under 150,000 miles. See dealer for details. More: Ford Blue Advantage at Swant Graber · Gold vs Blue · what the inspection covers.
Recall campaigns by model year
NHTSA recalls API, Ford Bronco, queried Nov 1, 2026. A campaign covering several model years is counted in each year.
| Model year | Campaigns | Components named most |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 20 | Back Over Prevention (7), Air Bags (2), Forward Collision Avoidance (1) |
| 2022 | 23 | Back Over Prevention (7), Power Train (2), Equipment (2) |
| 2023 | 18 | Power Train (3), Back Over Prevention (3), Equipment (2) |
| 2024 | 16 | Suspension (4), Latches/Locks/Linkages (2), Power Train (2) |
| 2025 | 19 | Suspension (4), Power Train (2), Seats (2) |
Campaigns covering the most model years
- 26V124000 (Back Over Prevention), model years 2021–2025: A rearview camera that fails to display an image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- 26V236000 (Power Train), model years 2021–2025: Excessive wear of the transmission and transfer case splines may result in a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash.
- 26V468000 (Engine), model years 2021–2025: A short circuit in the engine compartment can create heat or spark, increasing the risk of a fire.
- 25V025000 (Suspension), model years 2021–2024: An external reservoir that detaches from a vehicle can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
- 25V315000 (Back Over Prevention), model years 2021–2024: A frozen or missing rearview camera image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Consequence text is NHTSA's, shortened. Recall repairs are free at a Ford dealer. Full list: used Bronco recalls by year. Run the specific VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
How to shop a used Bronco (the steps we'd follow ourselves)
- Decode the VIN. The engine, drivetrain and build plant are in the VIN. Ask us for the original window sticker or build data so you know the exact trim and packages, not just what the badges say.
- Run the VIN for recalls. Use nhtsa.gov/recalls or our recall check by VIN guide. A recall listed for the model year does not mean a specific vehicle is affected, and a fixed recall won't show as open.
- Read the history. A vehicle history report shows title brands, reported accidents, owners and some service visits. It does not show everything, so treat it as one input.
- Ask for service records. Oil changes on time, fluid services and recall repairs are the best evidence of how a vehicle was cared for.
- Test-drive it cold and warm. Start it cold if you can. Drive on the highway, over rough pavement and in a parking lot at full steering lock.
- Get it inspected. Ask us to put it on a lift with you there, or bring it to a mechanic you trust for a pre-purchase inspection. We're fine with that.
- Check the Wisconsin Buyers Guide on the window. It states whether the vehicle is sold with a warranty or as-is.
Northwest Wisconsin: rust, salt and winter wear
Barron County roads see salt and brine from November to April, so the underbody matters on any used Bronco. Rust isn't automatically a deal-breaker; surface scale on a frame or exhaust is normal for a Wisconsin vehicle. What we look for:
- Brake and fuel lines: flaking or swelling lines get replaced, not ignored.
- Frame, subframes and suspension mounts: surface rust is common; perforation or heavy scaling is a concern.
- Rocker panels, wheel-arch lips and the bottoms of doors and the liftgate or tailgate.
- Exhaust hangers and heat shields: a rattle on the test drive often starts here.
- Battery and terminals: winter starts are hard on them, so ask for a battery test.
Undercoating can protect a vehicle, but fresh undercoating can also hide problems, so ask when it was applied. If you're keeping the vehicle long term, see our winter rust protection options.
Flood, salvage and title checks
After big storms elsewhere in the country, flood-damaged vehicles can be retitled and moved. Signs to look for: a musty smell, silt under the carpet or in seat tracks, corrosion on seat bolts or under-dash connectors, and fogging inside headlamps. Check the title for brands such as salvage, flood or rebuilt, and read the history report. If anything looks off, ask us. We'd rather you ask.
What we'll do on a used Bronco for you
- Show you the inspection sheet and any reconditioning we did.
- Pull the original sticker or build data when Ford has it.
- Run the VIN for open recalls and tell you whether a recall repair can be done here.
- Put it on a lift with you, or let you take it to your own mechanic.
- Tell you which Blue Advantage tier it qualifies for, or that it isn't certified, before you talk numbers.
We won't tell you any used vehicle is guaranteed to last a certain number of miles. Nobody honestly can. Maintenance records and an inspection are the best predictors you have.
Paying for it: trade, financing and GAP
Get a value on your current vehicle with our trade appraisal. We work with national and local lenders on used and certified vehicles, and certified vehicles can sometimes qualify for special financing rates from Ford Credit. Ask what applies that month. If you finance with a small down payment, read about GAP coverage before you decide; it's optional. Tax, title and registration are extra.
Year-by-year notes for used Bronco shoppers
2021: First model year
2.3L EcoBoost and 2.7L EcoBoost V6; 7-speed manual (2.3L) or 10-speed automatic; 2-door and 4-door; Sasquatch package available. First Edition built this year. Early-build hardtops drew owner complaints about finish and fit; ask whether the roof was replaced or serviced and look at the records.
2022: Raptor arrives
Bronco Raptor added with a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 and wider body; Everglades special edition. Raptor is a separate animal: bigger tires, wider fenders, different running costs.
2023: Lineup expands
Heritage editions; Sasquatch more widely available across trims (including the manual on some). Check exact package codes on the original window sticker.
2024: Equipment shuffle
Ford reshuffled packages and standard content; 12-inch screen made more widely available. Feature content varies by trim; verify against the sticker rather than a brochure.
2025–2026: Current trucks
Trim and package changes continue (e.g., new special editions); 2.3L, 2.7L and Raptor 3.0L remain the engine choices. Late-model units are the most likely Gold Certified candidates.
Whatever the year, the VIN tells you more than the year does. Ask for the original window sticker or build sheet, the service records and the recall status of the specific vehicle.
Test-drive checklist for a used Bronco
- Start it cold if you can. Listen for knocks, rattles or a rough idle in the first minute.
- Check the dash for warning lights after start-up. Every light should come on briefly, then go out.
- Run the heat and A/C on high, and check the defrost. You'll want both in Barron.
- On the highway, check for pulling, vibration at speed and wind noise.
- On rough pavement, listen for clunks from the suspension or steering.
- In a parking lot, turn to full lock both ways, slowly. Listen for binding or popping.
- Check 4WD or AWD engagement, if equipped, on gravel or a safe surface.
- Test every camera, sensor, screen, window, lock and seat heater. Small electrical items add up.
- Look at the tires: matching brand, even wear and enough tread for winter.
Certified, used or new: which makes sense?
| Gold Certified | Blue Certified | Used, not certified | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age and miles | Up to 6 years, under 80,000 miles | Up to 10 years, under 150,000 miles | Any |
| Inspection | 172-point Ford inspection | 139-point Ford inspection | Our reconditioning inspection |
| Coverage | 12 mo/12,000 mi comprehensive + 7 yr/100,000 mi powertrain (Ford terms) | 90 days/4,000 mi comprehensive | Our 45 days/5,000 mi powertrain on eligible units, or as-is per Buyers Guide |
| Who it suits | Shoppers who want newer and longer coverage | Shoppers who want a lower price with some coverage | Budget buyers comfortable with an independent inspection |
Sometimes a new Bronco with current incentives is close in monthly payment to a late-model used one. We'll show you both side by side if you ask. See CPO vs used vs new.
Ownership costs to plan for
The purchase price is only part of it. On any used Bronco, ask about or budget for: tires (especially winter tires), brakes, the next scheduled maintenance visit, a battery if it is older, and insurance on the exact VIN. If a big service is due soon, such as fluids, spark plugs or tires, that's fair to factor into the deal. Book maintenance with our service department.
Used Bronco questions
What are the best used Bronco years?
There is no single best year. Every used Bronco is the current generation (2021 and up). Later years have more running changes and are more likely to fall within Gold Certified age and mileage limits. Condition, off-road wear and open recalls matter more than the year. Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask us for the records.
Should I buy a used 2021 Bronco?
It can be a fine buy if it checks out. 2021 was the first model year, and our table shows the NHTSA campaign count for it. Check that recall repairs were done, ask about roof service history, and have it inspected.
2.3L or 2.7L in a used Bronco?
The 2.3L EcoBoost is the only engine offered with the manual in most years and is the more common choice. The 2.7L V6 adds power and is automatic-only. EPA ratings for each are in the table above. Test-drive both if you can.
Is a used Bronco good in Wisconsin winter?
With 4x4 and good winter or all-terrain tires, yes. It is a body-on-frame 4x4 with selectable drive modes. Mud-terrain tires on a lifted truck can be worse on ice than a stock all-terrain, so look at what tires are on it.
Can a used Bronco be Ford Blue Advantage certified?
Yes, if it meets Ford's age and mileage limits and passes the inspection. Heavily modified trucks may not qualify. Ask us which tier a specific Bronco is in.
Do the doors and roof come with a used Bronco?
They should, but ask. Some owners sell or store the doors and roof panels separately. Ask us to confirm what is included before you sign.
Can I take a used vehicle to my own mechanic before buying?
Yes. Ask us and we'll set it up. A pre-purchase inspection by someone you trust is smart on any used vehicle.
Does a clean history report mean no accidents?
No. A history report only shows what was reported to it. Look at the vehicle and the records, and have it inspected.
How do I check a used Ford for open recalls?
Enter the 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Recall repairs are free at a Ford dealer, including ours.
Keep reading
- Ford Bronco buyer's guide (new models)
- Used Bronco recalls by year
- Ford Blue Advantage at Swant Graber
- Wisconsin winter checklist
- Vehicle history reports
Swant Graber Ford, 1697 E Division Ave, Barron, WI 54812 · 715-537-9500 · Ford Blue Advantage · Value your trade · GAP coverage
Sources
- EPA, fueleconomy.gov web services (queried Nov 1, 2026)
- NHTSA recalls API, recallsByVehicle (queried Nov 1, 2026) and nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Ford Blue Advantage Gold and Blue certification pages and FAQ (ford.com, as archived Sept–Oct 2026)
- Wisconsin Buyers Guide requirement, Wis. Admin. Code Trans 139