This bulletin supersedes 26-2006. Reason for update: update the Parts list to correct the ambient air temperature service part number. Some vehicles listed in the model statement above may require the replacement of the ambient air temperature sensor for various concerns. DTCs P0071, P0072, and/or P0073 may be present in the powertrain control module (PCM).
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2021 Ford Bronco powertrain problems
severe Owners of the 2021 Ford Bronco have filed 8 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Complaints
8
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2021 Bronco (this page) | 8 |
| 2022 Bronco | 37 |
| 2023 Bronco | 17 |
| 2024 Bronco | 5 |
1fire
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
For 20202026 vehicles equipped with the 10R60 transmission, a new Transmission Clutch Circuit Leak Test has been introduced in the Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS). This test utilizes the pressure and vacuum transducer (PVT) when available. Workshop Manual (WSM) updates related to this diagnostic procedure are planned for release in Q4 2026. The new test improves the accuracy of detecting leaks within transmission fluid circuits and replaces the previous air check method. The previous air check procedure has been shown to produce a high rate of false positives, which may lead to unnecessary repairs when no actual leak is present. Accordingly, the air check procedure is not to be us
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2021-2024 Bronco vehicles equipped with a manual transmission may experience a rotational scraping noise while the transmission is in neutral, 1st and/or 2nd gear with the clutch pedal released. The noise may be more noticeable in ambient temps below 10°C (50°F) and after a cold soak. This noise may also diminish as the transmission warms up. This may be due to the 5th and 6th gear synchronizer rings. The 5th and 6th gear synchronizer rings are now only available in the 6th/5th gear synchronizer assembly (service part number MU7Z-7124-Q). To correct the condition, replace the 6th/5th gear synchronizer. Remove the transmission from the vehicle. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 308
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Quality improvements include: - Optimizes cabin ventilation strategy at high speeds
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2021-2025 Bronco vehicles built on or before 09-Sep-2025 may require replacement of the ambient air temperature sensor for various concerns. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0071, P0072, and/or P0073 may be present in the powertrain control module (PCM). A concern has been identified in TSB 26-2006 that previously instructed replacement of the incorrect ambient air temperature sensor for the vehicle application. Monitor Professional Technician System (PTS) for updates.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
What owners are reporting 1 most recent
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Bronco. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V069000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the dealer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2021 Ford Bronco?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2021 Ford Bronco?
It's a meaningful issue. 8 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $2,500.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Based on the 8 complaints filed, powertrain issues most often appear around 12,500 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2021/Ford/Bronco.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.