Last updated: 2026-10-10

2025 Ford Bronco Sport
RELIABILITY SCORE: 73/100 (GOOD)

2025 Ford Bronco Sport Reliability Report

The 2025 Ford Bronco-Sport has a good reliability standing, but steering jerks at highway speed and six recalls deserve a check before you buy.

Recalls

6

Complaints

14

Complaint Rate

1per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

N/A

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,200–$2,600

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity77/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact65/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity78/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Light complaint load and a 5-star federal crash rating, offset by steering, brake and rear seat belt reports and six recalls.

Top Issues to Watch

  • SERVICE BRAKES (2)
  • SEAT BELTS (2)
  • STEERING (2)

Should You Buy the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport?

Reliability for this model year is good. It sits close to average against other 2025 SUVs and ranks among the stronger of the six scored Bronco-Sport years. Owners filed only 14 complaints, and the federal crash-test rating is 5 of 5 stars. The 2024 model rates about the same but has 66 complaints. The 2026 rates better, yet it has no complaints so far, which mostly reflects little time on the road.

The reports that matter involve safety. Two owners describe the steering wheel jerking on its own at highway speed. One of those cases ended in a rollover where a front wheel assembly came off, though the cause is not confirmed. One brake failure complaint led to a crash with an injury, and it does not say what failed. Two complaints cover rear seat belts that will not latch or will not retract. Federal records also list six recalls, covering air bags, engine and engine cooling, and the electrical system (three).

Ask the seller for proof that every recall was completed. Buckle each rear belt and check that it retracts. On a test drive, hold highway speed and watch for any steering movement you did not ask for.

Compared to the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport, which scored 4 points higher. See also the 2024 Ford Bronco Sport for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +Acceptable reliability score
  • +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
  • +5-star NHTSA crash rating

Cons

  • −Above-average recall count
  • −SERVICE BRAKES: Brake failure that led to a crash is the most serious report here (2 complaints)
  • −STEERING: Both complaints describe the steering wheel jerking or moving suddenly on its... (2 complaints)

Compare 2025 Ford Bronco Sport With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 6 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • SERVICE BRAKES (2)
  • SEAT BELTS (2)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

6

recalls on record

The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport has 6 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

1

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 3.5

LowAvgHigh
Very Low

Safety Incidents

2

Crashes

0

Fires

2

Injuries

0

Deaths

★★★★★

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2025 Ford Bronco Sport Recall Details

6 recalls have been issued for the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

26V2010002026-03-31

AIR BAGS

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Bronco Sport and Maverick vehicles. The Occupant Classification Sensor (OCS) unit may fail to correctly detect the presence of an adult or child in the front passenger seat. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Consequence

Failure to correctly detect a passenger may result in the air bag not deploying as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the passenger seat occupant classification sensor, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, are expected to be mailed April 13, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in November 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C19. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on April 2, 2026.

26V1220002026-03-03

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Ranger, Lincoln Nautilus, Mustang, Maverick, Explorer, Escape, Lincoln Corsair, Bronco Sport, and Bronco vehicles. The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve may fail, resulting in an unexpected loss of drive power.

Consequence

An unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

The remedy is currently under development. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed March 20, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in September 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S10. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 4, 2026.

25V7880002025-11-14

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Bronco and Bronco Sport vehicles. The Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) may fail at startup.

Consequence

An instrument panel display that does not show critical information, such as warning lights or vehicle speed, increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

The instrument panel cluster software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SC3.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2025 Ford Bronco Sport? Check its history first

Service brakes problems lead owner complaints about the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport, and 6 recalls were issued for it. A VIN check shows whether this car's recall work was done, plus accident, title, and odometer history.

No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2025 Ford Bronco Sport NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 17.4%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)Unattended Child Reminder Direct Sensing System (No)LATCH Locations (2nd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Ford Bronco SportRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5

Based 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.

2025 Ford Bronco Sport Example Repair Prices

National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.

Common repair costs and price estimates
RepairEstimated 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

23–27 MPG

Fuel cost: $2,200–$2,600/yr

Fuel only

21–25 city / 26–30 hwy MPG

Based on EPA fuel-cost estimates. Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2025 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
Bronco Sport 4WD 1.5L 3-cylPart-time 4-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd253027$2,200
Bronco Sport Sasquatch 4WD 1.5L 3-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd232624$2,500
Bronco Sport 4WD 2.0L 4-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)212723$2,600

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2025 Ford Bronco Sport.

  • Back out of a parking spot after a cold start and listen for a brake squeal.

  • Brake firmly in an empty lot and confirm the pedal stays firm and the car stops straight.

  • Drive at highway speed with a light grip and watch for any sudden steering movement you did not make.

  • Run the VIN through federal recall records and confirm any steering or brake recall work is complete.

  • Buckle every rear seat belt and tug hard to confirm each tongue latches and stays held.

  • Pull each rear belt all the way out, release it, and confirm it retracts fully on its own.

  • Inspect rear belt tongues for bends and rear buckles for debris before signing.

2025 Ford Bronco Sport Common Problems by Component

14 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

2
2
2
3
SERVICE BRAKES (2)SEAT BELTS (2)STEERING (2)ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1)VISIBILITY (1)POWER TRAIN (1)WHEELS (1)Other (3)

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaintsSafety-related

Brake failure that led to a crash is the most serious report here. That complaint lists 1 injury and vehicle damage, but it does not say what failed or when. The other complaint covers a loud squeal when backing up in the morning that sounds like worn-pad indicators. The dealer called the noise normal. With only 2 complaints on file, no clear failure pattern or mileage trend shows up yet.

2 complaints total1 crash1 injury

SEAT BELTS

2 complaints

Rear seat belt faults account for both complaints. In one, rear buckles will not hold the belt tongue, so passengers may skip buckling up. The dealer refused warranty coverage, and one buckle worked again once a bent tongue was freed. In the other, a rear belt does not retract, hangs out of the closed door, and gets caught under a tire, bringing the car to a hard stop at low speed. No injuries are reported, and neither complaint gives a mileage.

2 complaints total

STEERING

2 complaintsSafety-related

Both complaints describe the steering wheel jerking or moving suddenly on its own at highway speed. One report involves a crash in which the vehicle rolled over and a front wheel assembly came off. The owner suspects a defect, but the complaint does not confirm the cause. The other report describes several unexpected steering movements on highways. The main risk is losing control at speed. Neither complaint gives a mileage.

2 complaints total1 crash
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1 complaints)

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

1 complaint
2026-01-01

The contact owns a 2025 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V122000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while the vehicle was idling or accelerating from 0 - 25 MPH, the vehicle was shaking and failed to accelerate properly. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available for the recall repair. The dealer referred the contact to the manufacturer for assistance. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000.

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1 complaints)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint
2026-02-15

I am submitting a safety concern regarding the 2025 Ford Bronco Off‑Road. Within 24 hours of purchasing my vehicle, a front sensor failed. The dealership reported that the sensor was damaged by a small rock while driving on normal paved roads. The repair cost is approximately $1,500 and is not covered under warranty. My concern is that a critical sensor—part of the vehicle’s safety and driver‑assistance systems—can be disabled by minor road debris. If this component is so vulnerable that everyday driving conditions can render it inoperable, it may pose a broader safety issue for consumers. This appears to be a design vulnerability that could affect many owners, potentially compromising safety features and creating significant financial burden. I am requesting that NHTSA review whether the placement and durability of this sensor meet reasonable safety expectations. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

VISIBILITY (1 complaints)

VISIBILITY

1 complaint
2026-01-09

The contact owns a 2025 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 65 MPH, the sunroof glass shattered. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer to be inspected; however, the dealer stated that the cause of the failure was unknown. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 89,000.

POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

1 complaint
2025-08-08

2025 Bronco Do not drive your vehicle until your recall service is complete. Safety Recalls* Loose or missing upper ball joint fastener Recall incomplete Loose or missing upper ball joint fastener Recall incomplete Front upper control arm to knuckle ball joint loose or missing fastener Recall incomplete Inspect seat bolt presence and torque - recall is unable to be performed at this time. Please check the fsa landing page for more details. Recall incomplete Do not drive - front lower arm to frame attachment fastener inspection Recall incomplete Transmission main control valve body replacement Recall incomplete Rear door child safety lock inspection Recall incomplete Passenger airbag replacement Recall incomplete

WHEELS (1 complaints)

WHEELS

1 complaint
2025-07-30

This year does not have a spare tire included. Dealer said we have vehicle help in case of problem. We have many sections of highways here in Idaho that does not have cell service. This is a safety concern in case you are in one of these areas if you have total tire failure. I think a spare tire is needed in these situations. Thank you.

SEATS (1 complaints)

SEATS

1 complaint
2025-04-231 injury

Drivers side: the track the power seat slides back/forth in. Since purchasing the vehicle 4/18/25 I have cut the back of my right leg getting into the vehicle on that track multiple times requiring the bleeding to be stopped and bandaging. At least 5 times to date and I've had the vehicle about a month. I try to be extremely careful getting into the vehicle because I know that piece will cut my leg every time but sometimes, I'm not thinking and inevitably I get cut again but I really shouldn't have to worry about that, it's obviously a design flaw. I also thought I could try to remember to put the seat all the way up when I get out but then it's a pain to get back in and again, I don't think I should have to worry about that either. There should be some sort of cap or something on the end of it do that won't happen. Have included a picture below. Called the Ford part department and they suggested covering that area with tape which WILL work BUT really, it's a new vehicle and covering a part of the vehicle with tape to keep from getting cut by it shouldn't be how to solve the problem. It ruins the aesthetics of the vehicle, and I shouldn't have to do that to begin with. The piece shouldn't be that sharp or should have some time of protective covering over it.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1 complaints)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1 complaint
2025-04-07

The contact owns a 2025 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 20 MPH, the instrument cluster turned blank. The vehicle was steered to the side the side of the road and was restarted; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer, where it was diagnosed that the instrument cluster needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80.

Best & Worst Ford Bronco Sport Years

Best Ford Bronco Sport Years to Buy

Ford Bronco Sport Years to Avoid

Ford Bronco Sport Reliability Score Trend

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Ford Bronco Sport reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
202154/100Mixed
202259/100Mixed
202367/100Good
202472/100Good
202573/100Good
202677/100Good

Ford Bronco Sport Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202677/100+4Good20
2025(selected)73/100+1Good614
202472/100+5Good766
202367/100+8Good13114
202259/100+5Mixed14303
202154/100—Mixed15622

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2025 Ford Bronco-Sport reliable?
Yes, its reliability standing is good. It lands close to average among 2025 SUVs and is among the stronger of the six scored Bronco-Sport years. Owners filed 14 complaints, and the federal crash-test rating is 5 of 5 stars. Six recalls and a few safety-related complaints still call for a careful check.
What are the most common problems with the 2025 Ford Bronco-Sport?
Owner complaints cluster in three areas: service brakes, steering and rear seat belts, with two complaints each. The steering reports describe sudden wheel movement at highway speed. The belt reports involve rear buckles that will not hold and a belt that will not retract. No clear pattern has formed yet.
Does the 2025 Ford Bronco-Sport have steering problems?
Two owners reported steering trouble. Both describe the wheel jerking or moving suddenly on its own at highway speed. One report involves a rollover crash where a front wheel assembly came off, and the owner suspects a defect, but the cause is unconfirmed. Neither complaint gives a mileage.
Does the 2025 Ford Bronco-Sport have any recalls?
Yes, federal recall records list six. They cover air bags, engine and engine cooling, another engine item, and the electrical system, which accounts for three. Before buying, ask the seller for proof that each recall repair was done, or have a Ford dealer confirm it.
Is the 2025 Ford Bronco-Sport better than the 2024?
Both rate about the same, with good reliability. The 2025 has far fewer complaints, 14 against 66, and six recalls against seven. A 2025 has had less time on the road, so the gap is not proof that it is better built.

Don’t buy a 2025 Ford Bronco Sport without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Look Up a VIN →

How we score the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport

Of the four inputs behind this score, the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport does best on how many systems draw complaints (78/100) and worst on recall impact (65/100). Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.

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