1983 Ford Bronco problems
The Ford Bronco is a model line of SUVs manufactured and marketed by Ford. The first SUV model developed by the company, five generations of the Bronco were sold from the 1966 to 1996 model years. A sixth generation of the model line was introduced for the 2021 model year. The nameplate has been used on other Ford SUVs, namely the 1984–1990 Bronco II compact SUV and the 2021 Bronco Sport compact crossover.
Originally developed as a compact off-road vehicle using its own chassis, the Bronco initially competed against the Jeep CJ-5 and International Harvester Scout. For 1978, Ford enlarged the Bronco, making it a short-wheelbase version of the F-Series pickup truck; the full-size Bronco competed against the Chevrolet K5 Blazer and Dodge Ramcharger.
Following a decline in demand for large two-door SUVs, Ford discontinued the Bronco after the 1996 model year, replacing it with the four-door Ford Expedition; followed by the larger Ford Excursion. After a 25-year hiatus, the sixth-generation Bronco is now offered as a mid-size two-door SUV for the first time. It is also offered as a full-size four-door SUV with a 16 in (41 cm) longer wheelbase. It competes directly with the Jeep Wrangler as both a two-door and a four-door (hardtop) convertible.
From 1965 to 1996, the Ford Bronco was manufactured by Ford at its Michigan Truck Plant in Wayne, Michigan, where it also manufactures the sixth-generation version.
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Common 1983 Ford Bronco problems
The Ford Bronco, produced from 1966 to 1996, is a popular full-size SUV known for its ruggedness and off-road capabilities. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems, particularly in certain model years. This article will focus on the 1983 Ford Bronco and its most frequently reported issues.
- Oil Pressure Dropping to Zero at Idle: Another engine-related issue in the 1983 Ford Bronco is the oil pressure dropping to zero at idle when the engine is warm. This problem can be traced back to faulty oil pressure switches, which can be replaced to resolve the issue.
- Universal Joint (U-Joint) Failure: Broken universal joints are common, especially in off-road conditions. Replacements are readily available, and the Haynes Bronco manual provides a good guide on how to change them.
- Ignition Problems: Some 1983 Ford Bronco owners have reported engine dying while driving or at intersections, with the engine not restarting. This issue has been traced back to the TFI module, with an average repair cost of $5,000.
- Fueling Problems: The 300ci carburetor in the 1983 Ford Bronco has been known to rock, causing the gasket it sits on to fail and leading to poor fuelling. Replacing the gasket and tightening the nuts to the required torque can resolve this issue.
- Transmission Issues: Some 1983 Ford Bronco owners have reported rough shifting, which can be a sign of transmission problems. In some cases, this may require a transmission replacement to resolve the issue.
- Brake System Troubles: Many drivers of the 1983 Ford Bronco have reported problems with their brake system, such as front brakes sticking, binding, or grabbing. These issues can often be resolved by cleaning or replacing brake caliper pins.
It is important to note that while these issues are common, not all 1983 Ford Broncos will experience these problems. Proper maintenance and regular inspections can help prevent or address these issues, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
Are older Ford Broncos reliable?
If maintained well over the years, vintage Ford Broncos can be remarkably reliable. Their simple mechanical design, robust construction, and solid axles were built to last. That's the good news. However, as is typical of vehicles from that era, they do come with inherent quirks.
Which Bronco has engine problems?
These cases spanned 2021-22 Ford Bronco, Edge, Explorer, and F-150 vehicles, along with 2021-22 Lincoln Aviator and Nautilus models, all equipped with either 2.7-liter or 3.0-liter EcoBoost engines.
What is the most desirable year of the Ford Bronco?
1977
Out of all the years of the first-generation Bronco, 1977 is widely considered to be the best year although anything from 74 is not only sought after, but more widely available.
How many 1983 Broncos were made?
Sales
| 1980–1986 Ford Bronco production | |
|---|---|
| Year | Units |
| 1983 | 40,376 |
| 1984 | 40,376 |
| 1985 | 54,562 |
Is an old Ford Bronco reliable?
If maintained well over the years, vintage Ford Broncos can be remarkably reliable. Their simple mechanical design, robust construction, and solid axles were built to last. That's the good news. However, as is typical of vehicles from that era, they do come with inherent quirks.
Are there problems with Ford Bronco?
The engine is the heart of any vehicle, and the Ford Bronco is no exception. One common engine issue owners report is overheating, possibly due to a malfunctioning radiator, a faulty thermostat, or a coolant leak.
How many 1983 Broncos were made?
Sales
| 1980–1986 Ford Bronco production | |
|---|---|
| Year | Units |
| 1983 | 40,376 |
| 1984 | 40,376 |
| 1985 | 54,562 |
What motor was in the 1983 Ford Bronco?
Bronco's standard power team- 4.9 liter 6-cylinder engine and 4-speed manual transmission-is an efficient combination. ** In addition, Bronco gives you a choice of V-8 options with the 5.0 liter and 5.8 liter engines.
1983 Ford Bronco car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Bronco problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Tires problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Parking brake problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1983 Ford Bronco vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1983 Ford Bronco complaints
The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1983 Ford Bronco.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-06-28
- VIN: 1FMDU15Y530
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH THERE WAS A VIBRATION IN THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE BLEW OUT AND THE VEHICLE WAS MANEUVERED OFF THE ROAD WITHOUT INCIDENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THEY DISCOVERED THE PASSENGER REAR SIDE TIRE HAD A LARGE BULGE ON THE TREAD. THE MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN ALERTED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-12
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING AT ANY SPEED VEHICLE CUTS OFF, AND CONSUMER IS HAVING PROBLEM STARTING VEHICLE.VEHICLE HAS BEEN AT DEALER FOR REPAIRS, AND DEALER CAN'T DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-20
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FMEU15Y10L
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: IGNITION SWITCH SHORTED, CAUSING FIRE. *DH
PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-03-30
- VIN: 4F4CR12A5RT
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: EMERGENCY PARKING BRAKES FAILURE. TT
1983 Ford Bronco recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1983 Ford Bronco.
- Manufacturer: FEDERAL-MOGUL CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMPS SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF CARTER, ACCUFLOW, NAPA, TRUFLOW, PARTS DEPO, AND PARTS MASTER, SHIPPED BETWEEN AUGUST 2006 AND JULY 2007 FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM IN CERTAIN PRODUCTION RUNS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED OR INADEQUATELY TESTED WHICH MAY CAUSE THE FUEL PUMP TO LEAK.
- Consequence: A LEAKING FUEL PUMP COULD CREATE A VEHICLE FIRE HAZARD.
- Remedy: FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 15, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL AT 248-354-7700.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THE MANUFACTURER SUSPECTS THAT THE HARDWARE THAT ATTACHES THE SEAT TRACKS (THE STRIPS THAT THE SEAT SLIDES ON) TO THE FLOOR MAY BECOME LOOSE OR MAY FAIL TO HOLD THE SEAT IN PLACE DURING A COLLISION. THIS CONDITION IS DUE TO THE SUBSTITUTION OF AN INCORRECT WASHER DURING MANUFACTURE. THE VEHICLES MAY NOT COMPLY WITH THE STRENGTH REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD 207, "SEATING SYSTEMS".
- Remedy: THE DEALER WILL INSPECT AND INSTALL ADDITIONAL LARGER DIAMETER WASHERS ON THE BOLT ASSEMBLY.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1983 Ford Bronco problems:
1980-86 Bronco Most common Problems | Bronco Forum - Full Size ...
Feb 13, 2005 ... 1) 300 ci carburetor vacuum leaks at the base gasket because Ford only used 2 studs, so the carb rocks until it opens a gap there. Replace the ...
Ford Bronco Common Problems - Haynes Manuals
Maintain your vehicle's performance with valuable tips and tutorials on the Haynes blog. Read our post 'Ford Bronco Common Problems' today.
tailgate window safety/latch switch | Bronco Forum - Full Size Ford ...
Jan 9, 2017 ... ... Broncos and it seems like the most common solution is to just bypass it. ... Tailgate key switch, may not be your problem- go to this site 1983 ...
2.8L stalling | The Ranger Station
Common problem as TFI module fails is being sensitive to heat, stalling and no start until it cools down. Yes, it should be the same setup on ...
Q&A: Ford Bronco II 1988 - Common Problems & Slow Acceleration
May 18, 2015 ... 1988 Ford Bronco II, 2.9 V6. Very slow to accelerate. Can only put the pedal halfway to the floor or it will lose even - Answered by a ...
Other years of Ford Bronco
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