1996 Ford Bronco Eddie Bauer 5.8 V-* from North America

Summary:

The best investment I ever made!

Faults:

The only things that have gone "wrong" on this car are recent and seem to be consistent with other Bronco owners. The power window switches (including the tailgate) are not working properly, but I will be fixing them shortly.

When the vehicle is parked at a steep incline and it rains, the distributor cap gets wet so it runs rough for a few minutes. But no other major mechanical problems.

The brakes go more quickly on this compared to my other vehicles. But it is heavier, so...

The weather stripping in the back needs replacing this winter, but that's my fault (don't ask).

General Comments:

I love this truck. I plan on keeping it forever if I can. My husband and I have taken it on numerous road trips, including a 1200 mile one day drive to Canada. The seats are a little worn due to this, so we are going to get them re-stuffed in a year or so.

The ride is comfortable, all be it a little bumpy on California's "wonderful" highways.

The cabin is very open, however I'm short so everything seems big to me.

I don't recommend this SUV for a family with children who need help getting into car seats. It is very awkward to get infants and toddlers in and out of the back. But if they can get into the car seat on their own, have at it! It works great for that age.

The trunk is just the right size for camping, shopping, trips, etc. I have two ten inch speakers in a box, chains (which I've never needed) and other stuff and I can still pile a weeks worth a camping gear no problem.

It handles wonderfully in the snow and in the mud (as long as you have decent tires).

Repairs and replacements if needed are easy to find, however can be a little pricey. No matter, they are well worth it!

It eats gas, so don't put your foot into it too much, even though it is tempting!

Towing is great, get a hitch though.

That's all I can think of other than Love your Bronco and it will love you back!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 8th May, 2004

16th Dec 2005, 19:09

Just wanted to say thanks for a very helpful review!

1996 Ford Bronco eddie bauer 5.8 litre from North America

Summary:

A horse that wont quit.

Faults:

The back tailgate is rusting apart so water seeps in. Other that that the only thing I've done is change oil and plugs.

General Comments:

I love my Bronco and would do most anything to keep it in its current condition.

I love to take the top off and just go cruising w/the guys. It's 4x4 capabilities are unstoppable, with the 351 that thing just won't quit pulling.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 25th March, 2004

1996 Ford Bronco Eddie Bauer 5.7L 351W from North America

Summary:

The last of the Real SUV's

Faults:

The truck came with signal lights in the mirrors and the mirrors started to "fog" over and it was hard to see in them. They looked "water stained", almost like rust spots on the inside. Ford no longer makes these mirrors so you have to replace them with regular mirrors and take your chrome off of your old mirror. Cheaper, but not good for towing.

I was working in Law Enforcement and my duty belt probably caused it, my driver seat wore through on the edge (leather seats).

Transfer case and hubs were replaced under warranty. Be careful to back up at least 15 feet when taking out of 4wd.

General Comments:

This truck is the "REAL DEAL". Very reliable! Doesn't get stuck! Very strong! I love to camp, tow my boat, drive on the beach, and play in the snow... The truck has no problems...I've pulled several people out of the snow or sand that have gotten stuck without problems.

Don't get this truck if you don't want to buy a gas station too. I put dual exhaust on it and got much improved mpg.

I say I "don't know" if I would buy another vehicle from this manufacturer. because they don't make the Bronco anymore and I have the last year. The suv's they make now are not built for what I want to do.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 11th February, 2004

26th Apr 2004, 11:36

I agree that the Bronco (mine a '96 Black XLT) is probably the best looking 4x4 that came out of the American market (cf. 74 Land Rover SWB - same chunky look - love them both - but hey, gimme a break - I am a Brit).

Now, if jolly old Ford do this.

http://www.autointell.net/Events/naias-2004/naias-2004-daily/ford-bronco/naias-2004-highlights-bronco.htm

Then all shall be well in the world (not sure how the tailgate's going to work though).

Now, as for fuel consumption - maybe a new engine may do the trick down the line - http://www.planetark.com/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/12790/story.htm

Just some thoughts.

Tony.

29th Oct 2008, 20:37

Check the after market for mirrors with the signals in them, they are still out there.

1996 Ford Bronco Eddie Bauer 5.0 from North America

Summary:

Goes everywhere if you feed it

Faults:

Nothing has broken on it.

General Comments:

My last Bronco, a 1988 went 356,000 miles before I got rid of it. Only had to let it go because it made more sense to replace it with a newer one than spend $500 to make it pass smog.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 8th May, 2003