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2021 Ford Bronco Sport Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson·11 Critical Recalls
2021 Ford Bronco Sport Report

Overall Score

6.2/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Electrical System Failures: Sudden, complete power loss is the most significant concern, impacting drivability and safety.
  • Powertrain and Engine Issues: Reports of stalling and power loss at low mileage indicate potential for costly repairs.
  • Brake System Concerns: Complaints regarding noise and performance degradation warrant careful inspection.
  • High Recall Volume: 52 recalls necessitate verifying all manufacturer remedies have been completed.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Ford Bronco Sport

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport offers a compelling blend of rugged styling and off-road capability, but used-car shoppers should be aware of its significant reliability concerns. With 52 recalls and 891 complaints logged with NHTSA, this model presents potential ownership challenges. The most prevalent issues revolve around the electrical system, leading to sudden power loss, followed by powertrain and engine problems. Despite a strong overall safety rating of 5 stars, the high volume of critical complaints and recalls suggests potential repair costs and a need for thorough pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Complete loss of power while driving, instrument cluster malfunctions, and inability to shift out of park are frequently reported. This is often linked to the Body Control Module (BCM) or associated wiring.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls52
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

891
Electrical System180
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
23
MPG
City
21
MPG
Highway
26
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

4.1/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers seeking a stylish SUV with off-road aspirations who are willing to meticulously vet a used example and potentially absorb unexpected repair costs.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Risk-averse buyers or those seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Ford Bronco Sport Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (S8)
Drivetrain
Part-time 4-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
23

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 180 reports

2. Powertrain

Usage: 134 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
52 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport is 4.1/10. Reliability score is 4.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 52. Owner complaints: 891.

How practical is the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport is 6.2/10. Overall score is 6.2/10 (Mixed). Confidence 82%. Maintenance 7.5/10. Tuning 5.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Ford Bronco Sport?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (BCM/Wiring) (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).

What engine is in the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, transmission is Automatic (S8). The paired drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport?▾

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S8).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 5/10. The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, while a capable compact SUV, presents a mixed bag for enthusiasts looking to enhance its performance. Popular platforms: 2.0L EcoBoost models.

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport?▾

Top complaint category: electrical system (180 reports, 20.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport?▾

This model year has 52 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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