2023 Ford Bronco Sport VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability

The 2023 Ford Bronco-Sport has good reliability. There are 13 recalls and 114 owner complaints on file for the 2023 Ford Bronco-Sport. Severity signals include 5 crash-related complaints and 5 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (23), Fuel System, Gasoline (21), Power Train (12).

Bronco-Sport reliability snapshot

67/100

Latest model-year reliability score

3.5/5

RepairPal rating (overall)

Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.

Used-car research

Research the Ford Bronco-Sport before checking the VIN

Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.

Years to avoidThe weakest years and stronger alternatives Common problemsComplaint patterns across model years Recall historyNHTSA campaigns grouped by model year

Most-reported 2023 Ford Bronco-Sport issues

Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.

Electrical System23
Fuel System, Gasoline21
Power Train12
Engine11
Unknown Or Other7
Service Brakes6

Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2023 Ford Bronco-Sport

Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.

Inspect for fuel odors inside the cabin, especially through air vents
Check for dashboard screen and audio system malfunctions
Test transmission for jerking or rough shifting
Verify recall repairs have been completed, especially for fuel system
Check for unexplained engine noises or stalling
Ensure windshield wipers and visibility features are functional
Test brakes for effectiveness and unusual noises

What owners reported

2023 Ford Bronco-Sport owner complaints in detail

Owners have reported 5 crashes, 5 fires and 6 injuries to NHTSA for the 2023 Ford Bronco-Sport. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.

Owner complaints23

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners of the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport frequently report issues related to the electrical system, including dashboard screens going black and audio system malfunctions, often with loud feedback or crackling sounds. Several complaints describe the vehicle stalling or losing power unexpectedly, sometimes accompanied by warning messages such as "Charging System Needs Service." These issues are noted across a range of mileages, from approximately 4,100 to 34,000 miles. Safety concerns are evident, with reports of immobilization in traffic and one incident involving injuries when the vehicle unexpectedly went into reverse. Additionally, there is one report involving smoke or a fire-related incident. This information is crucial for potential buyers assessing the reliability and safety of this model.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 1 fire, 2 injury reports

Owner complaints21

FUEL SYSTEM

Owners report several issues with the fuel system of the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport, with many referencing a recall for which parts are not yet available. Complaints frequently mention a strong fuel odor inside the vehicle, both while driving and when the vehicle is stationary, with some owners noting the smell entering through the air vents. Additionally, there are reports of the vehicle hesitating to accelerate and the check engine light illuminating. Two incidents involve fires, one of which resulted in a crash and injury, indicating potential safety implications. These issues are noted at various mileage points, commonly around 15,000 to 60,800 miles, suggesting potential concerns for buyers considering a used model within this range.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 2 fire, 1 injury reports

Owner complaints12

POWER TRAIN

Owners report frequent issues with the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport's transmission, including rough shifting, jerking, and failure to engage gears properly, particularly between 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gears. These symptoms are often accompanied by RPM fluctuations and occur at various speeds, with some owners noting problems from the first date of ownership and others around 10,000 to 30,000 miles. A significant safety concern is highlighted by a report of a fire originating from the front of the vehicle, linked to a power train issue. Additionally, there are complaints about fuel injector failures, leading to gasoline fumes in the cabin and potential fire risk, as well as a loose fuel pump contributing to a fuel smell. These issues are compounded by delays in recall repairs, which may affect vehicle safety and reliability.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 1 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints11

ENGINE

Owners report several engine-related issues with the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport. Common problems include repeated water pump replacements, fuel injector cracks leading to potential under-hood fires, and unintended vehicle shutdowns. Symptoms often involve engine failure, stalling, loss of oil pressure, and unexpected acceleration delays. These issues typically arise within the first few thousand miles of ownership, with some occurring as early as 50 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of fires and loss of vehicle control, including instances of the vehicle shutting off unexpectedly on highways.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 1 fire, 2 injury reports

Owner complaints8

SERVICE BRAKES

Owners of the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport frequently report issues with the service brakes, including a grinding noise when braking, particularly in cold weather or high humidity, and problems with brake effectiveness during emergencies. Several complaints involve crashes, often citing brake failure or ABS system issues, with incidents occurring at varying speeds and resulting in collisions with other vehicles or stationary objects. Some owners also describe difficulties with the parking brake, leading to vehicle movement when parked. These issues are reported at mileages as low as 4,500 miles, and some owners mention ongoing noise despite attempted repairs. Additionally, there are reports of delays in recall repairs related to the hydraulic brake system, which owners note as a significant inconvenience.

Severity signals: 3 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints7

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners of the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport frequently report issues with loud, unexpected noises from the vehicle's speakers. These noises are described as ear-piercing and can occur both when the vehicle is stationary and in motion, with some incidents noted shortly after purchase. Complaints also mention a recall related to a cracked fuel injector posing a fire risk, though a permanent fix is reportedly unavailable. Additionally, there are isolated reports of the sunroof unexpectedly shattering and the vehicle feeling unstable on wet roads. Safety implications include potential hearing damage from the loud noises and loss of vehicle control on damp surfaces.

Owner complaints5

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Owners report issues related to a safety recall involving fuel vapors and gasoline odors entering the passenger cabin of the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport. Complaints frequently mention a lack of available remedies for the recall, with some owners advised not to park near their homes due to potential fire risks. Symptoms include strong gasoline fumes through air conditioning vents and vehicle stalling with limited speed capability, attributed to faulty fuel injectors or high-pressure fuel pump failures. These issues are noted at various mileage levels, with one owner experiencing problems after exceeding 60,000 miles. Safety implications are highlighted by concerns about fire and the inability to drive vehicles safely, leading to significant inconvenience and financial burdens for some owners.

Owner complaints5

VISIBILITY/WIPER

Owners of the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport report several visibility-related issues. A common problem involves the front windshield wipers becoming inoperable, with one owner noting this occurred during a rainstorm at approximately 90 miles. Another issue involves a reflective strip on the dashboard that creates visibility challenges during certain lighting conditions, contributing to a crash. Additionally, multiple owners describe spontaneous windshield cracking, sometimes without any apparent impact, and mention the high cost of replacement. These visibility concerns could pose safety risks, particularly in adverse weather conditions or during specific times of day.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints3

SEAT BELTS

Owners of the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport report issues with seat belt functionality, particularly in the middle and rear seats. Complaints frequently mention that the middle seat belt does not function properly, and the rear seat belts fail to retract adequately, posing a risk to child passengers. One incident involved a mild head injury to a child due to the seat belt's inability to secure the car seat during a turn. Additionally, an overly sensitive driver's side seat belt restraint is reported, which locks during deceleration, obstructing the driver’s view and necessitating unnecessary stops. These issues are noted at low mileages, with one report specifying a failure at 3,000 miles, and they present potential safety risks, including injury and impaired driving visibility.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 0 fire, 1 injury reports

Owner complaints2

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Owners of the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport report issues with vehicle speed control, particularly during acceleration. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle's inability to accelerate beyond 20 MPH, especially when driving uphill, with one report noting this issue at approximately 13,470 miles. Another owner describes a recurring problem where the vehicle reduces power unexpectedly, alongside issues with the auto stop function affecting engine performance. Symptoms include vehicle stuttering, shaking, and failure to start, which some owners attribute to potential fuel system problems, though these are not confirmed by VIN-specific recalls. The described issues suggest potential safety implications, as owners express concerns about vehicle control and safety during regular driving conditions.

2023 Bronco-Sport recalls (13)

Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2023 Bronco-Sport. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINENHTSA 25V165000Mar 14, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape and 2021-2023 Bronco Sport vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall numbers 22V-859 or 24V-187. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S21.
EQUIPMENTNHTSA 25V685000Oct 10, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
Consequence: An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed December 3, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated September 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINENHTSA 25V467000Jul 11, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2020-2022 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will update the engine control software. and replace the high pressure fuel rail assembly and the fuel injector ,free of charge. As an interim repair, dealers will update the engine control software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed August 29, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in July 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S76. This recall expands and replaces previous recall numbers 22V-859, 24V187, and 25V165. Vehicles previously remedied under 22V-859, 24V187, and 25V165 will need to have the new final remedy performed once it is available.
BACK OVER PREVENTIONNHTSA 25V442000Jun 27, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.
Consequence: A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
POWER TRAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 25V158000Mar 14, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 24V-267. The body and power train control modules may fail to detect a change in the 12-volt battery state of charge.
Consequence: An undetected low battery charge can result in a loss of electrical accessories such as hazard lights, or cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will recalibrate the body control module and power train control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 23, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S26.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 25V019000Jan 17, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco Sport and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles. The 12-volt battery may experience degradation and suddenly fail.
Consequence: Battery failure can result in a loss of electrical accessories, including the hazard lights, or cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and if necessary, replace the 12-volt battery, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 2, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S02. Vehicles in this recall were previously repaired under 24V-267 and will need to have the new remedy completed.
VISIBILITYNHTSA 24V594000Aug 9, 2024
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Maverick, Ford Bronco Sport, and Mustang Mach-E vehicles. The front windshield wiper motor may become inoperative, causing the wipers to fail.
Consequence: Inoperative windshield wipers can reduce visibility in certain conditions, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the windshield wiper motor as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on December 6, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S51.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, POWER TRAINNHTSA 24V267000Apr 12, 2024
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles. The body and power train control modules may fail to detect a change in the 12-volt battery state of charge.
Consequence: An undetected low battery charge can result in a loss of electrical accessories such as hazard lights, or cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will recalibrate the body control module and power train control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 4, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S24.
TIRESNHTSA 24V223000Mar 22, 2024
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Maverick and Bronco Sport vehicles. The tires may have been manufactured incorrectly, which may result in a loss of vehicle handling and control.
Consequence: A loss of vehicle handling and control increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the tires, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 5, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S20.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINENHTSA 24V187000Mar 8, 2024
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Bronco Sport and 2022 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will update the engine control software to include fuel injector leak detection and install a drain tube, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 24, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S16. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 22V-859.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULICNHTSA 23V021000Jan 23, 2023
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Bronco Sport vehicles. Valves inside the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module may have been damaged during manufacturing, causing an internal ABS module leak.
Consequence: A leak inside the ABS module can cause an unexpected increase in brake pedal travel or unexpected movement during an Auto Hold event, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the ABS Module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 2, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S01.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINENHTSA 22V859000Nov 18, 2022
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Escape and 2021-2023 Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will update the engine control software to include fuel injector leak detection and install a drain tube, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed January 9, 2023. Remedy parts are expected to be available in 1st Quarter of 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed February 28, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S73. This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under 22V-191. Vehicles previously remedied under 22V-191 will need to have the new remedy performed.
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGNHTSA 22V686000Sep 14, 2022
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Bronco Sport and 2022 F-150 vehicles. The parking lights may flicker when the headlights are activated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence: Flickering parking lights can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the LED Driver module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22C22.

2023 Ford Bronco-Sport on the road

127,476 2023 Ford Bronco-Sport units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.

How the 2023 Ford Bronco-Sport stacks up against rivals

The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.

Jeep Wrangler

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Jeep Grand Cherokee

Reliability: 70/100·Rivalry score: 85

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Reliability verdict for the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport

The 2023 Ford Bronco-Sport presents a moderate reliability profile, with a score slightly below the segment average. The model's 13 recalls indicate an elevated level of manufacturer intervention, suggesting potential concerns that may affect long-term dependability. Complaints are spread across several critical systems, including the electrical and fuel systems, which account for a significant portion of reported issues.

This distribution of problems across multiple areas suggests a broader range of potential reliability challenges rather than a single concentrated defect. Given these factors, prospective buyers should be aware of the mixed reliability outlook for this refreshed model year. Overall, the 2023 Ford Bronco-Sport entails a moderate risk level for potential reliability issues.

What you get in a 2023 Ford Bronco Sport report

Available title brand history

Odometer readings & rollback detection

Accident & damage records

Auction sales with photos

Open safety recalls

Theft & stolen vehicle check

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2023 Ford Bronco Sport — Frequently asked questions

Is the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport reliable?

How many recalls does the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport have?

13 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

What are the most common 2023 Ford Bronco Sport problems?

The most-reported 2023 Ford Bronco Sport problem areas are: Electrical System (23), Fuel System, Gasoline (21), Power Train (12).

Should I run a VIN check on a 2023 Ford Bronco Sport?

Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2023 Ford Bronco Sport, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.