Ford Bronco Raptor Buyer’s Guide: Everything You Need to Know (2022-2026)

Just last month I had this customer come in with a 2024 Ford Bronco Raptor and he was absolutely thrilled about taking it to Moab for rock crawling. He said it was the most capable vehicle hes ever driven and the FOX suspension made even the roughest trails feel smooth. Cost him like 85000 bucks but he said it was worth every penny for the ultimate off-road experience.

Ive been working on Bronco Raptors for probably like 3 years now since they came out in 2022 and if theres one thing I can tell you its that this is the ultimate off-road SUV. The Ford Bronco Raptor combines 418 horsepower twin-turbo power with 37-inch tires and FOX Live Valve suspension to create something truly special. Whether your considering buying a new or used Bronco Raptor this buyers guide will help you make an informed decision.

So let me give you everything you need to know about the Ford Bronco Raptor buyer’s guide ok. This guide covers specs features problems pricing and how it compares to the regular Bronco. Im gonna tell you exactly what makes the Raptor special what problems to watch for and whether its worth the premium price. The Bronco Raptor is available from 2022-2026 model years.

What is the Ford Bronco Raptor?

The Ford Bronco Raptor is a high-performance off-road variant of the regular Bronco built by Ford Performance. It was introduced in 2022 as the ultimate off-road SUV combining extreme capability with surprising daily drivability.

Key Highlights: The Raptor is based on the 4-door Bronco only theres no 2-door option. It features a 418 HP twin-turbo V6 engine 37-inch BFGoodrich tires which are the largest ever fitted to a production SUV and FOX Live Valve suspension with 13-14 inches of travel. The ground clearance is 13.1 inches and it can ford through 37 inches of water which is 3.5 inches more than a regular Bronco.

Target Audience: The Bronco Raptor is designed for serious off-road enthusiasts desert racing fans and adventure seekers who want the absolute best off-road capability. If you just want a cool-looking SUV for daily driving a regular Bronco is better value. But if you plan to do serious rock crawling desert racing or extreme off-roading the Raptor is worth the premium.

Personal Experience: Ive worked on probably 8-10 Bronco Raptors and every owner has been super enthusiastic about off-roading. These arent mall crawlers theyre serious off-road machines. One customer takes his 2023 Raptor to the desert every weekend and hes put like 40000 miles on it mostly off-road. The truck still runs great.

Ford Bronco Raptor Specs & Features

Let me break down all the specs and features cause theres a lot to cover.

Engine & Performance

Engine: 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V6
Horsepower: 418 HP @ 5600 RPM
Torque: 440 lb-ft @ 3650 RPM
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
Drivetrain: 4WD with electronic locking front and rear differentials
0-60 MPH: Approximately 5.5 seconds
Top Speed: Around 110 MPH electronically limited
Towing Capacity: 4500 pounds
Fuel Economy: 15 MPG city 16 MPG highway 15 MPG combined

The 3.0L twin-turbo V6 is the same engine used in the Ford Explorer ST and Lincoln Aviator. It produces 418 HP which is 108-138 HP more than the regular Broncos engines. The power delivery is smooth and strong with plenty of low-end torque for rock crawling and high-end power for desert racing.

The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and has paddle shifters for manual control. In Baja mode the transmission holds gears longer for high-speed desert running.

Suspension & Off-Road

Suspension System: HOSS 4.0 High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension
Dampers: FOX Live Valve 3.1 Internal Bypass Semi-Active
Front Suspension Travel: 13 inches
Rear Suspension Travel: 14 inches
Suspension Lift: 2 inches over regular Bronco
Ground Clearance: 13.1 inches
Approach Angle: 47.2 degrees
Breakover Angle: 26.5 degrees
Departure Angle: 40.5 degrees
Water Fording: 37 inches

The HOSS 4.0 suspension is what makes the Bronco Raptor special. The FOX Live Valve dampers adjust in real-time based on terrain and driving mode. In Baja mode the dampers are softer for high-speed desert running. In Rock Crawl mode theyre firmer for precise control.

The 13-14 inches of suspension travel is incredible. Ive seen customers jump their Raptors and the suspension just soaks it up. The regular Bronco has maybe 8-9 inches of travel so the Raptor is way better for aggressive off-roading.

Tires & Wheels

Tires: 37-inch BFGoodrich KO2 all-terrain standard
Wheels: 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels
Tire Pressure Monitoring: With off-road mode

The 37-inch BFGoodrich KO2 tires are the largest ever fitted to a production SUV. Theyre excellent for off-road traction but they create a lot of interior noise on the highway. The beadlock-capable wheels let you air down to super low pressures for maximum traction without the tire coming off the rim.

One customer told me he runs 12 PSI in the sand dunes and the tires just float over the sand. Try that with regular tires and theyd come right off the wheels.

Drivetrain

Transfer Case: Electronic shift-on-the-fly 4WD
Front Axle: Dana 44 with electronic locking differential
Rear Axle: Dana 50 with electronic locking differential
Axle Ratio: 4.70:1

The Dana 44 and Dana 50 axles are heavy-duty units that can handle serious abuse. The electronic locking differentials engage with the push of a button. When both diffs are locked all four wheels turn at the same speed which is essential for rock crawling.

G.O.A.T. Modes

The Bronco Raptor has 7 G.O.A.T. Goes Over Any Terrain modes:

1. Normal – For daily driving on pavement
2. Eco – For maximum fuel economy
3. Sport – For spirited on-road driving
4. Slippery – For rain snow or ice
5. Sand – For sand dunes optimizes throttle and traction
6. Baja – Raptor-exclusive for high-speed desert running
7. Rock Crawl – For technical rock crawling with Trail Control

The Baja mode is what makes the Raptor special. It holds gears longer softens the suspension and allows more wheel slip for high-speed desert running. Ive seen videos of Raptors doing 80 MPH in the desert and the suspension just soaks up the bumps.

Dimensions

Length: 191 inches
Width: 85.7 inches 6.4 inches wider than regular Bronco
Height: 77.8 inches 2.5 inches taller than regular Bronco
Wheelbase: 116.5 inches
Curb Weight: 5733 pounds

The Bronco Raptor is noticeably wider and taller than the regular Bronco. The extra width comes from the wider fender flares to accommodate the 37-inch tires. The extra height comes from the 2-inch suspension lift.

Exterior Features

• Unique Raptor grille with amber lighting elements
• Pronounced fender flares
• Integrated hood vents for engine cooling
• Heavy-duty steel bash plates for undercarriage protection
• Modular front bumper with Rigid LED fog and off-road lamps
• True dual exhaust with 4 selectable modes Normal Sport Quiet Baja
• Removable hardtop and doors for open-air freedom

The exterior styling is aggressive and purposeful. The wide fender flares and 37-inch tires give it a menacing stance. The bash plates protect the engine oil pan and transfer case from rock damage.

Interior Features

Seating: 5 passengers
Seats: Leather-trimmed with Code Orange stitching
Steering Wheel: Leather-wrapped with red center stripe
Paddle Shifters: Yes for manual transmission control
Trim: Carbon fiber accents
Infotainment: 12-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4
Apple CarPlay Android Auto: Wireless
Sound System: B&O with 12 speakers optional
Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic
Heated Seats: Front only ventilated seats NOT available

The interior is nicely appointed with Code Orange stitching throughout. The 12-inch touchscreen is responsive and easy to use. The B&O sound system is excellent.

One major complaint is the lack of ventilated seats. For a vehicle that costs 70000-90000 bucks you’d expect air-conditioned seats but Ford doesnt offer them. This is a big miss especially for desert driving.

Technology & Safety

• 360-degree camera system with off-road spotter views
• Adaptive cruise control
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Lane-keeping assist
• Pre-collision safety system
• Trail Control off-road cruise control
• Trail Turn Assist for tighter turning radius
• Trail 1-Pedal Drive for precise control

The 360-degree camera with off-road spotter views is super useful for rock crawling. You can see exactly where your tires are relative to rocks and obstacles.

Trail Control is like cruise control for off-roading. You set a speed like 3 MPH and the system controls throttle and braking while you just steer. Its amazing for technical rock crawling.

Ford Bronco Raptor vs Regular Bronco – Complete Comparison

People always ask me how the Raptor compares to the regular Bronco so heres a detailed breakdown.

Engine & Performance

Bronco Raptor:
3.0L twin-turbo V6 418 HP 440 lb-ft torque

Regular Bronco:
2.3L turbo I4 270 HP 310 lb-ft torque OR 2.7L twin-turbo V6 310 HP 400 lb-ft torque

Winner: Raptor by a huge margin. The Raptor has 108-138 HP more than the regular Bronco. The power difference is very noticeable especially when climbing steep hills or accelerating on the highway.

Suspension

Bronco Raptor:
HOSS 4.0 with FOX Live Valve 3.1 dampers 13-14 inches suspension travel 2-inch lift

Regular Bronco:
Standard 4×4 suspension with G.O.A.T. modes approximately 8-9 inches travel

Winner: Raptor no question. The FOX Live Valve suspension is in a completely different league. The regular Bronco suspension is good but the Raptor suspension is exceptional for aggressive off-roading.

Tires

Bronco Raptor:
37-inch BFGoodrich KO2 all-terrain standard

Regular Bronco:
30-35 inches depending on trim level

Winner: Raptor. The 37-inch tires are the largest on any production SUV and they provide incredible off-road traction and ground clearance.

Dimensions

Bronco Raptor:
85.7 inches wide 77.8 inches tall 13.1 inches ground clearance

Regular Bronco:
75.9 inches wide 73 inches tall 8.3 inches ground clearance

Winner: Raptor for off-roading. The Raptor is 6.4 inches wider 2.5 inches taller and has 4.8 inches more ground clearance. But the regular Bronco is better for daily driving and parking.

Price

Bronco Raptor:
68500 base 2023 to 90035 2025-2026 up to 100000+ loaded

Regular Bronco:
30800 base to 60000 loaded

Winner: Regular Bronco for value. The Raptor costs more than double the price of a base Bronco. You really have to want that extreme off-road capability to justify the cost.

Off-Road Capability

Bronco Raptor:
37-inch water fording Baja mode FOX suspension 13-14 inch travel

Regular Bronco:
33.5-inch water fording 6 G.O.A.T. modes standard suspension

Winner: Raptor. The Raptor can go places the regular Bronco cant. The extra suspension travel ground clearance and tire size make a huge difference on extreme terrain.

Daily Drivability

Bronco Raptor:
Acceptable ride loud tires 15 MPG fuel economy large size

Regular Bronco:
Better ride quieter 18-20 MPG easier to park

Winner: Regular Bronco. For daily driving the regular Bronco is more practical with better fuel economy a quieter ride and easier parking.

Body Styles

Bronco Raptor:
4-door only

Regular Bronco:
2-door and 4-door

Winner: Regular Bronco for options.

Value Proposition

Bronco Raptor: Best for serious off-roaders desert racing extreme adventures
Regular Bronco: Best for daily driving moderate off-roading budget-conscious buyers

Ive told customers if you do serious off-roading every weekend and money isnt a concern get the Raptor. If you off-road occasionally and want better daily drivability get a regular Bronco with the Sasquatch package.

Common Ford Bronco Raptor Problems

Now lets talk about problems cause every vehicle has them.

2022-2023 Steering Gear Recall CRITICAL

This is the most serious problem with the Bronco Raptor. Ford issued a safety recall for 2022-2023 Bronco Wildtrak and Raptor models because an internal component of the steering gear can be damaged during assembly.

The Problem:
The steering gear has an internal component that can be damaged during the assembly process. If this component fails it can lead to increased steering effort or complete loss of steering control. This is a serious safety hazard especially at highway speeds.

Fords Response:
Ford advised owners NOT to drive affected vehicles. They offered free tow service to Ford dealers for repairs. This is how serious the problem is Ford literally told people not to drive their 70000-90000 dollar SUVs.

How to Check:
Use your VIN to check on NHTSAs website or Fords recall website. If your vehicle is affected get it towed to a Ford dealer immediately for free repair.

Personal Experience:
I had a customer with a 2023 Raptor who got the recall letter. He was terrified cause he had been driving it for months not knowing there was a steering problem. Ford towed it to the dealer and replaced the steering gear for free but it was a scary situation.

Turbocharger Issues

The 3.0L twin-turbo engine can have turbocharger problems including decreased power unusual noises or complete turbocharger failure.

Symptoms:

• Decreased power or acceleration
• Whining or whistling noises from engine bay
• Check engine light
• Blue or black smoke from exhaust

Causes:

• Turbocharger wastegate sticking especially if driven slowly all the time
• Turbocharger bearing failure
• Oil contamination

Prevention:
Occasional aggressive driving helps prevent the wastegate from sticking. Let the engine idle for 30 seconds after hard driving to let the turbos cool down. Regular oil changes are critical.

Repair Cost:
2000-3500 per turbocharger. Since theres two turbos if both fail youre looking at 4000-7000 bucks.

Electrical Gremlins

The Bronco Raptor has had various electrical issues reported by owners.

Apple CarPlay Problems:
The wireless Apple CarPlay works inconsistently. Some owners have to use a wired connection for reliability.

Dash Warning Lights:
Random warning lights including ABS traction control and stability control. Some cases these lights come on during adverse weather due to sensor recalibration issues.

Electronic System Malfunctions:
One owner reported the entire dashboard lighting up deactivating ABS traction control and stability track and preventing the use of four-wheel drive during a snowstorm. This is a serious problem for an off-road vehicle.

Solution:
Software updates from Ford dealer. Use wired CarPlay if wireless doesnt work.

Repair Cost:
200-800 depending on the issue.

Suspension Wear

The high-performance FOX suspension can experience premature wear especially with aggressive off-roading.

Problem:
The shocks and struts wear out faster than regular Bronco suspension due to the extreme demands of off-roading.

Symptoms:

• Reduced ride quality
• Clunking noises
• Oil leaks from shocks

Repair Cost:
1500-2500 for FOX shock replacement. The FOX shocks are expensive but theyre rebuildable which can save money.

Transmission Troubles

Some owners have reported rough or jerky shifting.

Causes:

• Low transmission fluid
• Worn clutches
• Malfunctioning solenoids

Repair Cost:
800-1500

Hardtop Wind Noise

The removable hardtop can create increased wind noise especially after removing and reinstalling panels.

Solution:
Proper reinstallation and weatherstripping replacement.

Repair Cost:
100-300

Minor Issues

• Limited Rear Seat Space: Cramped for full-sized adults
• Seat Comfort: Some owners can feel the metal frame through seat padding
• No Ventilated Seats: Major complaint for a premium vehicle
• Small Center Console: Limited storage
• GOAT Modes Default: Modes reset to Normal on restart

Other Recalls

• Seat frame bolts 2025 models
• Instrument panel cluster failure 2025-2026
• Suspension fasteners 2024-2025
• Rear glass installation some instances

Always check for recalls using your VIN on NHTSA or Ford websites.

Ford Bronco Raptor Pricing & Trim Levels

The Bronco Raptor pricing has increased significantly over the years.

2023 Model Year:
Base MSRP 68500
Typical selling price 70000-75000
Loaded 75000-80000

2024 Model Year:
Base MSRP approximately 73000
Typical selling price 75000-80000
Loaded 80000-85000

2025-2026 Model Year:
Base MSRP 90035 official
Typical selling price 90000-95000
Loaded 95000-100000+

Optional Packages:

• B&O Sound System 1000-1500
• Advanced Technology Package 2000-3000
• Lux Package 3000-4000

Used Pricing:

• 2023 with 10000-20000 miles 60000-70000
• 2024 with 5000-15000 miles 70000-80000

Dealer Markups:
Early 2023 models had dealer markups of 10000-30000 over MSRP. Current 2025-2026 models still have markups of 5000-15000 in some areas. Shop around and avoid markups if possible.

Resale Value:
The Bronco Raptor doesnt hold value as well as the F-150 Raptor. Expect 20-30% depreciation in the first 3 years. Still better than regular Bronco which depreciates 15-25%.

Off-Road Capability & Performance

The Bronco Raptor is designed for extreme off-road use.

Desert Racing:
Baja mode is designed for high-speed desert running. The FOX Live Valve suspension adjusts in real-time to absorb bumps and jumps. With 13-14 inches of suspension travel you can hit jumps at 60-80 MPH and the suspension just soaks it up.

Rock Crawling:
Rock Crawl mode with Trail Control makes technical rock crawling easy. The electronic locking differentials front and rear ensure all four wheels turn together. The 13.1 inches of ground clearance lets you clear obstacles that would stop a regular Bronco.

Water Fording:
With 37 inches of water fording capability the Bronco Raptor can drive through deep water crossings. Thats 3.5 inches more than a regular Bronco.

Sand Dunes:
Sand mode optimizes throttle and traction for sand. The 37-inch tires provide flotation and the 418 HP engine climbs steep dunes with ease.

Mud & Snow:
Slippery mode handles low-traction conditions. The BFGoodrich KO2 tires are excellent in mud and the 4WD with locking diffs gets you through.

Personal Experience:
One customer took his 2024 Raptor to Moab and climbed trails that regular Broncos struggled with. He said the FOX suspension made it feel smooth even on rough rocks and the power was incredible for climbing steep grades.

Daily Drivability & Comfort

Surprisingly the Bronco Raptor is acceptable for daily driving.

On-Road Performance:
The ride is comfortable on pavement. The 418 HP provides terrific acceleration. The exhaust sounds wonderful especially in Sport mode.

Noise Levels:
The 37-inch tires create significant interior noise at highway speeds. Wind noise from the hardtop especially if removed and reinstalled. The exhaust can be loud use Quiet mode for neighborhoods.

Fuel Economy:
EPA rated 15 MPG city 16 MPG highway 15 MPG combined. Real-world 12-14 MPG with aggressive driving. Highway 16-18 MPG with gentle driving. Excessively thirsty compared to regular Bronco 18-20 MPG.

Parking & Maneuverability:
The large size 85.7 inches wide makes parking difficult. Trail Turn Assist helps with tight turns. The 360-degree camera is essential for parking.

Visibility:
Rearview mirror partially obstructed by spare tire and third brake light. Backup camera helps. Blind spots due to wide fenders.

Comfort:
Front seats comfortable with Code Orange stitching. Rear seats cramped for adults. No ventilated seats major complaint. Some owners can feel seat frame through padding.

Cargo Space:
Similar to regular 4-door Bronco. Removable hardtop and doors for open-air freedom. Small center console storage.

Buying a Used Ford Bronco Raptor – Complete Guide

If youre buying a used Bronco Raptor heres what to check.

Steering Gear Recall CRITICAL:
Check if recall has been completed VIN lookup. 2022-2023 models most affected. Do not buy until recall is completed.

Turbocharger Inspection:
Listen for unusual noises whining whistling. Check for oil leaks around turbos. Test acceleration should be strong and smooth. Any turbo issues expensive repair 2000-3500 per turbo.

Suspension Check:
Inspect FOX shocks for leaks. Test drive on rough road should be smooth. Listen for clunks or rattles. Premature wear common with aggressive off-roading.

Electrical System:
Test Apple CarPlay wireless and wired. Check all warning lights. Test 360-degree camera. Verify all G.O.A.T. modes work.

Hardtop Inspection:
Check for wind noise. Inspect weatherstripping. Make sure panels fit properly. Test removal installation if possible.

Off-Road Use Assessment:
Ask seller about off-road use. Inspect undercarriage for damage. Check bash plates for dents scratches. Heavy off-road use more wear.

Maintenance Records:
Regular oil changes every 5000 miles. Transmission fluid changes. Differential fluid changes. Any major repairs.

Test Drive Tips:
Drive at least 20 minutes. Test acceleration should be strong. Test all G.O.A.T. modes. Listen for unusual noises. Check steering feel should be light and responsive.

Questions to Ask Seller:
Why are you selling? How much off-roading have you done? Has steering recall been completed? Any problems or issues? All maintenance records available? Any modifications?

Ford Bronco Raptor Maintenance Tips

Oil Change Schedule:
Every 5000 miles with synthetic oil. Critical for twin-turbo engine. Use recommended oil spec 5W-30 synthetic.

Turbocharger Care:
Occasional aggressive driving prevents wastegate sticking. Let engine idle for 30 seconds before shutoff after hard driving. Regular oil changes critical.

Transmission Fluid:
Change every 60000 miles. Dont believe lifetime fluid. Helps prevent shifting issues.

Differential Fluid:
Change every 50000 miles. Especially important with off-road use. Front and rear differentials.

Suspension Maintenance:
Inspect FOX shocks regularly. Check for leaks. Rebuild every 50000-75000 miles if heavily used off-road.

Tire Maintenance:
Rotate every 5000-7500 miles. Check pressure regularly especially for off-road. 37-inch tires expensive to replace 400-500 each.

Recall Completion:
Check for recalls regularly VIN lookup. Get recalls completed ASAP especially steering.

DIY vs Mechanic:
Oil changes can do yourself if you have tools. Suspension work leave to professionals. Turbo work definitely leave to professionals. Electrical leave to professionals.

Cost-Saving Tips:
Buy parts online cheaper than dealer. Use independent mechanic for non-warranty work. Do simple maintenance yourself. Keep up with regular maintenance prevents big problems.

Conclusion

The Ford Bronco Raptor is the ultimate off-road SUV for serious enthusiasts. This buyers guide covered specs features problems and pricing to help you make an informed decision about buying a Bronco Raptor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ford Bronco Raptor worth it? 

Yes if youre a serious off-road enthusiast who wants the ultimate capability. The Bronco Raptor offers 418 HP twin-turbo engine FOX Live Valve suspension 37-inch tires and extreme off-road capability that no regular Bronco can match. But it costs 68500-90000 which is double the price of a base Bronco. For daily driving and moderate off-roading a regular Bronco is better value. For desert racing rock crawling and extreme adventures the Raptor is worth every penny.

What problems does the Ford Bronco Raptor have? 

The most serious problem is the 2022-2023 steering gear recall where internal components can be damaged during assembly leading to loss of steering control. Ford advised not to drive affected vehicles. Other common problems include turbocharger issues decreased power unusual noises electrical gremlins Apple CarPlay dash warning lights suspension wear from aggressive off-roading transmission troubles rough shifting and hardtop wind noise. Most issues are covered under warranty.

How much does a Ford Bronco Raptor cost? 

The 2023 Ford Bronco Raptor started at 68500 MSRP. The 2024 model was around 73000. The 2025-2026 models start at 90035 MSRP. Loaded models can exceed 100000. Early models had dealer markups of 10000-30000 over MSRP. Used 2023 models with 10000-20000 miles sell for 60000-70000. The Raptor is significantly more expensive than a regular Bronco which starts at 30800.

Whats the difference between Bronco Raptor and regular Bronco? 

The Bronco Raptor has a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 418 HP vs regular Broncos 2.3L turbo I4 270 HP or 2.7L V6 310 HP. The Raptor features HOSS 4.0 suspension with FOX Live Valve and 13-14 inches travel vs standard suspension. It comes with 37-inch BFGoodrich tires vs 30-35 inches. The Raptor is 6.4 inches wider 2.5 inches taller and has 4.8 inches more ground clearance. It costs 68500-90000 vs 30800-60000. The Raptor is only available in 4-door while regular Bronco offers 2-door and 4-door.

Is the Bronco Raptor good for daily driving? 

Yes surprisingly the Bronco Raptor is acceptable for daily driving. The ride is comfortable on pavement acceleration is terrific with 418 HP and the exhaust sounds wonderful. However the 37-inch tires create interior noise at highway speeds fuel economy is poor 15 MPG combined and the large size 85.7 inches wide makes parking difficult. For daily driving a regular Bronco is more practical with better MPG 18-20 MPG quieter ride and easier parking. But if you want extreme off-road capability AND daily drivability the Raptor delivers both.

What year Bronco Raptor is best?

The 2024-2026 Ford Bronco Raptor models are best because the 2022-2023 steering gear recall issues have been addressed and early production bugs are fixed. The 2023 model year had the most complaints. If buying used get a 2024 model with the steering recall completed. The 2025-2026 models have the latest updates and improvements. Avoid 2022-2023 unless the steering recall has been verified as completed. All Bronco Raptors are essentially the same generation so differences between years are minimal.