1998 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.
Social links
Common 1998 Ford Bronco problems
The Ford Bronco, while generally reliable, has some common problems that have been reported by owners of the 1998 model. These issues vary in severity and impact, and they can be categorized into three main areas: brake system troubles, transmission problems, and engine concerns.
Brake System Troubles
Many drivers of the 1998 Ford Bronco have reported problems with their brake system. Some report that their front brakes stick, bind, or grab from time to time, while others report issues with their vehicle’s brake caliper pins. These problems can lead to uneven brake pad wear, reduced braking performance, and increased stopping distances. In most cases, cleaning or replacing the brake caliper pins has resolved these issues.
Transmission Problems
Transmission issues are also common in the 1998 Ford Bronco. Some owners have reported feeling rough shifts while driving, which is often a sign of a worn or damaged transmission. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including low transmission fluid levels, worn clutch plates, or internal transmission damage. In some instances, the transmission may need to be replaced to resolve the problem.
Engine Concerns
Engine issues are among the most widely reported problems for the 1998 Ford Bronco. Concerns range from oil leaks to poor gas mileage, which are typically caused by a damaged oil pan gasket. Additionally, some drivers have experienced problems with their vehicle’s oil pressure. Many owners of the Ford Bronco have complained about intermittent oil pressure readings. When they put their SUV into gear, the oil pressure would suddenly drop and the check engine light would illuminate. In some cases, the vehicle may even stall. Some owners found a quick fix to resolve this issue, which involves putting the rig in neutral and revving the engine up.
In summary, the 1998 Ford Bronco has some common problems that owners should be aware of. These issues include brake system troubles, transmission problems, and engine concerns. By staying informed and proactive about these potential issues, Bronco owners can minimize their impact and maintain the reliability of their vehicle.
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.
Are old 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.
What year Bronco is the best?
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 long do Bronco engines last?
With proper maintenance and care, the new Bronco should last anywhere from 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more.
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.
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.
Which Bronco engine is failing?
Ford Bronco Engine Problems: EcoBoost 2.7 V6 Valve Train Issues. Preliminary findings have revealed that the source of the problem can be traced to a faulty valve train in the EcoBoost 2.7-liter V6.
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.
1998 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:
- Air bags problems
- Visibility problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Ford Bronco vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1998 Ford Bronco complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Ford Bronco.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-11
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT CAME OFF AND ON. THEN AIR BAG EXPLODED, AND DRIVER SUSTAINED BACK AND NECK INJURIES. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-01
- VIN: 1FMZU35P7WZ
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE LOCATION OF THE REARVIEW MIRROR IS TOO LOW, OBSTRUCTING THE VIEW ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF TRAFFIC WHICH MAY CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Ford Bronco problems:
Long term reliability questions : r/FordBronco
Mar 25, 2023 ... 2021 Bronco BD 2.7L Auto 20k No issues. My personal opinion…..I've had plenty new Fords zero miles from the dealership (1) brand new 1998 Ford ...
92-96 Bronco reliability/good first vehicle | Bronco Forum - Full Size ...
Sep 13, 2018 ... In 1998, I bought a brand new 1999 Ford Crown Victoria. I put 260,000 miles on that 4.6L engine and trans with no major repairs. A few ...
Anticipated possible common issues / problems? | Bronco6G - 2021 ...
Apr 11, 2021 ... This new Bronco (my 4th Bronco) will be my first Ford in a long, long time. And no f-ing way will it have an automatic transmission. Like.
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.
Considering buying new 2024 Bronco, thoughts on quality issues ...
Feb 23, 2024 ... I love the bronco but a little spooked by the various problems. Roof noises, electrical gremlins, etc seem to be common. Thanks for the input.
Other years of Ford Bronco
Are you having problems with your 1998 Ford Bronco?
Leave your review of 1998 Ford Bronco