- Home
- /
- Ford
- /
- Bronco-Sport
- /
- 2021
Last updated: 2026-04-20

2021 Ford Bronco-Sport Reliability Report
The 2021 Ford Bronco-Sport scores 54/100 ("Mixed"). With 15 recalls and 622 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.
Recalls
15
Complaints
622
Complaint Rate
57.5per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
N/A
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,300–$2,600
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (147)
- POWER TRAIN (137)
- SERVICE BRAKES (93)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2021 is the first model year of the First generation (CX430).
- First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
- Redesigned for the 2021 model year.
- Refreshed in 2022, 2023.
- 1st generation Bronco-Sport (US).
What this means for buyers
First-year models carry more risk — early production issues are common. Consider waiting for the second year if reliability is a priority.
Compare 2021 pricing and recall counts against 2022+ before deciding.
2021: First generation (CX430) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2023: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2021 Ford Bronco-Sport?
A 54/100 score puts the 2021 Ford Bronco-Sport in the "Mixed" tier. Buyers should approach with eyes open. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.
Complaint volume sits above average at 622 owner complaints alongside 15 recalls. Issues in electrical system (147) tend to be the costly ones.
Treat an extended warranty as non-negotiable and put electrical system (147) at the top of the inspection checklist.
Compared to the 2022 Ford Bronco-Sport, which scored 5 points higher.
Pros
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
Cons
- −Below-average reliability score
- −Above-average recall count
- −Above-average complaint rate for SUV
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (147 complaints)
- −15 fire incidents reported in owner complaints
Compare 2021 Ford Bronco-Sport With

2021 Jeep Wrangler
Reliability: 56/100

2021 Toyota 4RUNNER
Reliability: 82/100

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Reliability: 63/100

2021 Subaru Outback
Reliability: 69/100

2021 Toyota Highlander
Reliability: 70/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 15 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (147)
- POWER TRAIN (137)
Recall Overview
15
recalls on record
The 2021 Ford Bronco-Sport has 15 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
57.5
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 17.5
Safety Incidents
16
Crashes
15
Fires
12
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2021 Ford Bronco-Sport Recall Details
15 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Ford Bronco-Sport. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
VISIBILITY
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Bronco Sport vehicles. The moonroof glass may not have been bonded correctly to the moonroof frame, which could result in the glass panel detaching from the vehicle.
Consequence
A detached glass panel can become a road hazard, and increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the moonroof glass date code and replace the glass, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 18, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S46.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, and 2021-2022 Bronco Sport vehicles. The fuel delivery module may leak inside the fuel tank, causing low fuel pressure which could result in an engine stall.
Consequence
An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the fuel delivery module, free of charge. Interim notification letters (remedy not available) were mailed on September 30, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on December 14, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S38.
SUSPENSION
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Bronco Sport vehicles. The rear suspension subframe assembly may have loose or missing bolts.
Consequence
Loose or missing bolts may affect the vehicle's handling and control, increasing the risk of a crash. It could also reduce the vehicle's performance in a rear impact crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear suspension bolts, and secure or replace the bolts, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 10, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S04.
Showing 10 of 15 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →
Buying a used 2021 Ford Bronco-Sport? Check its history first
Every 2021 Ford Bronco-Sport has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2021 Ford Bronco-Sport NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 17.4%
Safety Technologies
Ford Bronco-SportRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
2021 Ford Bronco-Sport Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Tire & Wheel Assembly Rotate & Balance | $110 – $161 |
| Windshield Wiper Arm Replacement | $92 – $110 |
| Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir Replacement | $198 – $261 |
| Fuel Evaporative Canister Replacement | $530 – $581 |
| Intake Manifold Gasket Replacement | $388 – $480 |
| Power Seat Switch Replacement | $261 – $307 |
| Radiator Replacement | $1,629 – $1,925 |
| Suspension Shock or Strut Replacement | $872 – $1,021 |
| Exhaust Manifold Gasket Replacement | $1,073 – $1,569 |
| Backup Warning System Sensor Replacement | $125 – $152 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
23–26 MPG
Fuel cost: $2,300–$2,600/yr
Fuel only
21–25 city / 26–28 hwy MPG
Based on EPA fuel-cost estimates. Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2021 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bronco Sport 4WD 1.5L 3-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic 8-spd | 25 | 28 | 26 | $2,300 |
| Bronco Sport 4WD 2.0L 4-cyl | Part-time 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 21 | 26 | 23 | $2,600 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Ford Bronco-Sport.
Test transmission for slipping or hard shifting
Check for electrical system recalls and verify repairs
Inspect water pump and coolant system for leaks
Test battery and alternator for proper function
Check for exhaust smells inside the cabin
Verify rear differential and axle condition
Test brakes for responsiveness and unusual noises
2021 Ford Bronco-Sport Common Problems by Component
622 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
147 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent electrical system failures in the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, with common issues including complete loss of power, unresponsive infotainment screens, and erratic warning messages. Symptoms typically involve the vehicle stalling or failing to start, screens going black, and malfunctioning turn signals and wipers. Complaints often arise after 40,000 miles or following specific recall-related service visits. Safety implications are significant, with reports of crashes due to sudden power loss and incidents involving fires. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring electrical issues and the associated risks, particularly concerning vehicle control and safety.
POWER TRAIN
137 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report that the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport frequently experiences powertrain issues, notably with the transmission and rear drive unit. Common symptoms include stalling, grinding noises, difficulty shifting gears, and unexpected loss of power, often occurring during acceleration or while turning. These issues are often noted around 40,000 to 60,000 miles, with some reports indicating problems as early as 200 miles. Safety implications are evident, as multiple complaints mention loss of control or near-collisions, particularly when the vehicle fails to accelerate or shifts unexpectedly. Used car buyers should be aware of these recurring issues and consider the potential for costly repairs and safety risks.
SERVICE BRAKES
93 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport frequently report issues with the brakes, particularly when reversing, where a loud, horn-like or moaning noise is heard. Complaints often describe this noise as occurring at low speeds, with some owners noting vibrations or a sticking sensation requiring extra throttle to move the vehicle. These issues are reported across a range of mileages, with some occurring as early as 900 miles and others beyond 40,000 miles. Additionally, a smaller subset of complaints highlights more severe brake malfunctions, such as the brake pedal becoming extremely hard to press, leading to a complete loss of braking power. This latter issue has been linked to at least one crash and one injury, indicating potential safety implications. Buyers should be aware of these reported symptoms and the unresolved nature of these issues in some cases.
FUEL SYSTEM (46 complaints)
FUEL SYSTEM
46 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport frequently report issues related to fuel system recalls, with complaints often mentioning the unavailability of parts necessary for recall repairs. Symptoms described include check engine lights, vehicle hesitation, and abnormal sounds or smells, with some cases involving engine compartment fires. These issues are commonly reported around mileages of 69,000 to 90,000. Safety implications include reports of fires and a crash, with one injury noted. Prospective buyers should be aware of these recurring fuel system issues and the potential for delayed recall repairs.
ENGINE (37 complaints)
ENGINE
37 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport frequently report engine issues, with common complaints involving engine stalling, overheating, and oil leakage. Symptoms often described include sudden loss of power, unexpected engine shutdowns, and visible smoke or flames from the engine compartment. These issues are reported at varying mileage, with some occurring as early as 9,000 miles and others around 100,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, including two incidents involving fires and multiple cases of engine stalls potentially leading to unsafe situations. Buyers should be aware of these recurring issues, particularly concerning engine reliability and potential safety risks.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (19 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
19 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the engine and engine cooling system in the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, particularly involving water pump failures and coolant reservoir problems. Symptoms commonly described include overheating warnings, loss of motive power, and illuminated check engine lights, with some incidents resulting in fires. These issues typically arise around 30,000 to 80,000 miles. Safety implications are significant as two complaints involve vehicle fires, and others describe stalling and power loss while driving. Potential buyers should be aware of these patterns and consider the associated risks and repair costs.
SUSPENSION (18 complaints)
SUSPENSION
18 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport frequently report issues with the suspension system, particularly involving rear shocks and CV axles. Symptoms commonly described include loud abnormal noises such as screeching, grinding, or clicking, often occurring while turning or stopping. Several complaints highlight leaking rear shocks and loose CV axles, with failure mileages ranging from approximately 16,000 to 73,000 miles. Some reports also mention rear differential problems leading to wheel lock-up, posing potential safety risks due to loss of vehicle control. Prospective buyers should be aware of these recurring issues and the associated repair needs when considering this vehicle.
STEERING (14 complaints)
STEERING
14 complaintsOwners report several steering-related issues with the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. Complaints frequently mention shuddering and abnormal noises during turns, with symptoms like vibrations and jerking of the steering wheel. These issues are often reported at mileages ranging from approximately 9,000 to 77,000 miles. Some owners experience complete vehicle shutdowns, leading to loss of steering control, especially at higher speeds, which poses significant safety risks. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring issues and consider the implications of steering malfunctions and vehicle stalling.
VISIBILITY (13 complaints)
VISIBILITY
13 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport frequently report issues with the vehicle's visibility components, particularly the sunroof and windshield. Several complaints describe the sunroof exploding or making loud noises, often at highway speeds, with no prior impact, occurring around 40,000 to 65,000 miles. Windshield problems are also common, with multiple owners noting spontaneous cracks forming without external impact, sometimes leading to backorder issues for replacements. Additionally, some reports mention the melting of exterior mirror housings due to sunlight exposure. Safety implications include one incident where a shattered rear window caused minor injuries to a passenger, highlighting potential risks associated with these issues.
AIR BAGS (6 complaints)
AIR BAGS
6 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report issues with airbag deployment in the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, particularly during crashes. Complaints frequently mention instances where airbags fail to deploy in frontal or side impacts, contributing to injuries such as fractures, whiplash, and bruising. In contrast, some owners mention airbags deploying excessively during minor collisions, leading to total vehicle loss. These issues are reported across various mileage ranges, from under 10,000 miles to approximately 65,000 miles. The safety implications include increased injury risk during accidents, with multiple reports of crashes resulting in injuries despite airbag systems not functioning as expected.
When Do 2021 Ford Bronco-Sport Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Ford Bronco-Sport Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Ford Bronco-Sport Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Ford Bronco-Sport year is 2025 with a reliability score of 73/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2024 (72/100) and 2023 (67/100).
Ford Bronco-Sport Years to Avoid
The worst Ford Bronco-Sport year is 2021 with a score of 54/100, primarily due to electrical system (147) issues. Also avoid 2022 (59/100).
2021
(Current Model)
2022
Ford Bronco-Sport Reliability Score Trend
Ford Bronco-Sport reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 71/100 compared to 57/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 54/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 59/100 | Mixed |
| 2023 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 73/100 | Good |
Ford Bronco-Sport Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2021 Ford Bronco-Sport reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Ford Bronco-Sport?
How many recalls does the 2021 Ford Bronco-Sport have?
Is the 2021 Ford Bronco-Sport expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2021 Ford Bronco-Sport without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Ford Bronco-Sport.
No spam. Only data updates for this model.
Browse More Ford Models

Ford Bronco
Score: 61/100

Ford Edge
Score: 76/100

Ford Escape
Score: 74/100

Ford Explorer
Score: 72/100

Ford F-150
Score: 75/100

Ford F-150 Lightning
Score: 60/100
Browse More 2021 Vehicles

2021 KIA Sedona
Score: 88/100

2021 Lexus ES
Score: 88/100

2021 Honda HR-V
Score: 86/100

2021 Lexus RX
Score: 86/100

2021 Nissan Frontier
Score: 84/100

2021 Mazda CX-5
Score: 83/100
See incorrect data? Report an issue