Adhering to time-honored off-roading principles, the Ford Bronco can be outfitted with expansive tires, a locking front differential, and a specialized gear for crawling. However, the Bronco sets itself apart with its independent front suspension (IFS), which replaces the traditional solid axle setup. Designed for improved ride comfort and high-speed handling, the IFS comes with its drawbacks. To address these, Ford is releasing a new severe-duty steering upgrade kit for the Bronco.
The steering upgrade, priced at $1,300 and distributed through Ford Performance, was recently highlighted by Ford Authority. The kit includes a high-torque motor and a robust steering casing sourced from the formidable Bronco Raptor, which rolls on 37-inch BF Goodrich tires as standard equipment. Also incorporated in the package are sturdier inner tie rods and fortified outer tie rods with ball joints tailored for greater deflection. This kit intends to offer heightened steering articulation while fortifying the entire steering system, aiming to eliminate incidents of Bronco front tires splaying outwards post-breakage.
If you are the proud owner of a 2024 Ford Bronco Wildtrak, you’re in luck as this upgrade comes standard with the H.O.S.S. 3.0 suspension gear. However, for those with a 2021-2023 Bronco four-door Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, Black Diamond, or Badlands without the factory Sasquatch package, this steering kit is incompatible with your vehicle.
This steering enhancement is arguably the most straightforward option for bolstering the Bronco’s front-end resilience. From the onset of the vehicle’s reintroduction, front-end fortitude has been a talking point, leading companies such as BroncBuster to engineer kits to improve the IFS system. Other enthusiasts have taken the dramatic route of converting to a solid axle system, trading modern complexity for old-fashioned robustness, though this is an extensive modification beyond the reach of many owners.
That said, the current Bronco’s front end is generally stout enough for the average driver, and regular city driving isn’t likely to push its limits. Nonetheless, for dedicated off-roaders who subject their vehicles to arduous terrain, this steering upgrade is an excellent investment, and one that doesn’t require the steep costs associated with a full aftermarket kit.
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FAQ about Ford Bronco’s Severe-Duty Steering Upgrade
- Is the severe-duty steering upgrade available for all Ford Bronco models?
No, the upgrade is not compatible with 2021-2023 Ford Bronco four-door models Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, Black Diamond, or Badlands without the factory Sasquatch package. - What does the severe-duty steering upgrade include?
The upgrade kit consists of a high-torque motor, a reinforced steering casing from the Bronco Raptor, stronger inner tie rods, and reinforced outer tie rods with high-deflection ball joints. - How much does the severe-duty steering upgrade cost?
The upgrade is priced at $1,300 through Ford Performance. - Where can I purchase the severe-duty steering upgrade for my Ford Bronco?
The kit can be purchased from Ford Performance or authorized Ford dealerships. - Will installing the severe-duty steering upgrade void my vehicle warranty?
Many aftermarket upgrades may affect your warranty coverage. It is best to consult with your Ford dealer before making modifications to your vehicle.
Conclusion
For enthusiasts seeking enhanced durability and steering performance in their Ford Broncos, the severe-duty steering upgrade appears to be a much-needed addition. The integration of robust components such as those found in the high-performing Bronco Raptor is set to boost confidence in the vehicle’s ability to withstand the stresses of aggressive off-roading. While the upgrade isn’t universally compatible with all Bronco trims and it comes with an additional cost, its benefits seem to potentially outweigh these limitations for serious off-roaders. Ultimately, this innovation from Ford demonstrates the brand’s commitment to continually improving its off-road offerings and providing owners with customizable solutions to meet their driving demands.
