First Oil Change on my 2024 Badlands 2.0L Engine.

[GoHack]

I went and did my first oil change today on my new 2024 Badlands 2.0L engine.

It had 1250 miles on it, and while it may not have needed it yet, I like to do an oil change after the initial break in, in order to remove any break in materials, possible metal chips from the manufacturing process, including any possible casting material and such.
The dealer of course told me that it doesn't need it until around 7500 miles.

I went, for now, w/Ford's Motorcraft Full Synthetic Oil (5W-30), including using a Napa Gold (Wix) oil filter.
The dealer also told me that it only needs the Semi-Synthetic oil, but I did it mainly due to the turbo when it comes to the temperatures that it runs at, as well as its RPM's that it spins at.
Local temperatures run in the 100's here where I live during the summer months.

I figure to do the next oil/filter change at around 5000 miles, where I'll switch over to Amsoil Full Synthetic 5W-30 oil, together w/one of their oil filters, and change it every 5000 miles or so after that.
Pennzoil Platinum is said to be pretty good, but w/the turbo, I decided to go w/Amsoil.
If it were a non-aspirated engine, I would go w/the Pennzoil, which I have used in the past on my previous Jeep.

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[jkernitzki]

I went and did my first oil change today on my new 2024 Badlands 2.0L engine.

It had 1250 miles on it, and while it may not have needed it yet, I like to do an oil change after the initial break in, in order to remove any break in materials, possible metal chips from the manufacturing process, including any possible casting material and such.
The dealer of course told me that it doesn't need it until around 7500 miles.

I went, for now, w/Ford's Motorcraft Full Synthetic Oil (5W-30), including using a Napa Gold (Wix) oil filter.
The dealer also told me that it only needs the Semi-Synthetic oil, but I did it mainly due to the turbo when it comes to the temperatures that it runs at, as well as its RPM's that it spins at.
Local temperatures run in the 100's here where I live during the summer months.

I figure to do the next oil/filter change at around 5000 miles, where I'll switch over to Amsoil Full Synthetic 5W-30 oil, together w/one of their oil filters, and change it every 5000 miles or so after that.
Pennzoil Platinum is said to be pretty good, but w/the turbo, I decided to go w/Amsoil.
If it were a non-aspirated engine, I would go w/the Pennzoil, which I have used in the past on my previous Jeep.

Pretty much the plan for my ’25 when it shows up. Fresh oil & filter after break in, then again at 5K and every 5K after that.

Likely a new battery every two years as well. Phoenix is brutal on those. When they go, they go suddenly. I don’t think I’ve gotten more than 3 years from one on any of my cars here.

 

[CancunBadlands]

Oil change is cheaper than a Turbo, perfect

 

[GoHack]

Took my BL's up into the Sierra's today, into the Inyo National Forest near Bishop, CA, trying to break her in offroad.
No issues to report.

Anyone know if there is a much better description someplace of what Goat Mods to use off-road vs. what is shown in the owner's manual?
The owner's manual appears to be too general.

Also too, are there any upgradable Modes for the Bronco Sport , Badlands?




Finally, on the way back home I went through Dead Valley from the Nevada entrance.
The temperature down in the lower valley was 116 F. ?
They had posted advisories stating not to use your A/C, for fear of overheating your car/truck.
Boy I'm glad I went w/the Full Synthetic engine oil. ?

UPDATE:

I forgot to mention here, after all the dust and such on the outside, nothing, that I could see anyway, got inside my BL. ? I must have driven around 20 miles offroad yesterday.

When I got her home, I went and rinsed her down and then brought her to my local car wash early this morning for a good wash, after which I went and gave her a vacuum.

 

[Mark S.]

https://fordauthority.com/2022/09/ford-bronco-sport-g-o-a-t-modes-explained/

 

[GoHack]

https://fordauthority.com/2022/09/ford-bronco-sport-g-o-a-t-modes-explained/

Thanks, but what about simple gravel roads.

I could have left it in Normal Mod, but the gravel road wasn't that perfect.

Were they Sand, a little, but no.

Were they Slippery, yes, but w/no ice, snow, or mud, but loose gravel.

Were they Mud/Ruts, a little when it comes to Ruts, but there was no Mud.

Were they Rock Crawl, I didn't face anything as extreme as that, so no.

 

[Dude]

Thanks, but what about simple gravel roads.

I could have left it in Normal Mod, but the gravel road wasn't that perfect.

Were they Sand, a little, but no.

Were they Slippery, yes, but w/no ice, snow, or mud, but loose gravel.

Were they Mud/Ruts, a little when it comes to Ruts, but there was no Mud.

Were they Rock Crawl, I didn't face anything as extreme as that, so no.

Normal Mode is your best bet for all conditions as this allows the computer to make quick decisions on your behalf. If you are familiar with the terrain you could switch say to one of the 4x4 modes if you knew that would be helpful (could shave off milliseconds of computer decision making)

Normal Mode is good for gravel roads

 

[jkernitzki]

They had posted advisories stating not to use your A/C, for fear of overheating your car/truck.

That's because nobody knows how to even monitor temp gauges anymore. Hell, they tape over idiot lights so they won't be bothered by them. If you want a frightening idea of how badly people operate and maintain their cars, check this out: https://www.youtube.com/justrolledin

 

[RSH]

Offroad I leave my Badlands in normal mode 90% of the time, I only switch modes or lock the 4wd and the differential if I start loosing forward momentum.

 

[GoHack]

That's because nobody knows how to even monitor temp gauges anymore. Hell, they tape over idiot lights so they won't be bothered by them. If you want a frightening idea of how badly people operate and maintain their cars, check this out: https://www.youtube.com/justrolledin

I watched it.
Oh my god, I didn't realize just how stupid people truly are. ?

 

[jkernitzki]

I watched it.
Oh my god, I didn't realize just how stupid people truly are. ?

Shoulda bought stock in Great Stuff, right?

 

[GoHack]

Normal Mode

Normal mode serves as the default setting for everyday driving on paved roads. The Bronco Sport prioritizes comfort, fuel efficiency, and predictable handling in this mode. Throttle response is linear and progressive, while the transmission focuses on smooth shifting and optimal gear selection for balanced performance and economy.
The all-wheel-drive system in Normal mode operates primarily in front-wheel drive, sending power to the rear wheels only when slip is detected, helping to conserve fuel during regular driving conditions. Steering effort is calibrated for easy maneuverability at various speeds, from parking lots to highways.

Eco Mode

Designed to maximize fuel efficiency, Eco mode adjusts several systems to reduce energy consumption. The throttle response becomes more gradual to encourage gentle acceleration, while the transmission shifts earlier to keep the engine operating at lower RPMs.
Climate control operation is also modified in Eco mode, with slightly reduced power to decrease engine load. The all-wheel-drive system minimizes power sent to the rear wheels in this mode, further enhancing fuel economy by lowering drivetrain losses. For drivers looking to stretch their fuel between fill-ups, this mode provides tangible benefits during longer journeys.

Sport Mode

When the road ahead invites more spirited driving, Sport mode transforms the Bronco Sport character for enhanced performance. Throttle mapping becomes more aggressive, with quicker response to pedal inputs. The transmission holds gears longer, downshifts more readily, and generally keeps the engine in its power band.
Steering response tightens with increased weight and feedback, while the electronic stability control allows for more driver expression before intervening. The all-wheel-drive system also becomes more proactive about sending power to the rear wheels, improving cornering dynamics and providing a more engaging driving experience on winding roads.

Slippery Mode

Designed for wet or icy conditions, Slippery mode prioritizes stability and traction when grip is compromised. Throttle sensitivity is significantly reduced to prevent wheelspin, and transmission shifts are smoother and occur at lower RPMs to avoid sudden torque spikes that could cause a loss of traction.
The traction control system becomes more vigilant, quickly addressing wheel slip by applying brakes to specific wheels and redistributing power. Additionally, the all-wheel-drive system maintains a more balanced torque split between front and rear axles, providing greater stability on treacherous surfaces. This mode proves invaluable during winter driving or when navigating rain-slicked roads.

Sand Mode

Sand mode optimizes systems for low-traction, high-resistance environments for adventures that take the Bronco Sport to beaches or desert terrain. Aggressive throttle mapping helps maintain momentum through soft surfaces, while the transmission holds lower gears to keep power readily available.
Traction control parameters are adjusted to allow appropriate wheel slip, which helps the tires dig through loose sand rather than just spinning on top. The all-wheel-drive system directs more torque to the rear wheels, aiding propulsion through challenging sandy terrain. This mode transforms the Bronco Sport into a surprisingly capable beach cruiser or desert explorer.

Mud/Ruts Mode

When the trail becomes rutted or muddy, this specialized mode configures the Bronco Sport to handle the challenges of slippery, uneven terrain. Throttle control is moderately aggressive, providing power when needed while avoiding excessive wheel spin that could dig the vehicle deeper into mud.
The transmission maintains lower gears to ensure consistent torque delivery, while the all-wheel-drive system maximizes traction by quickly sending power to wheels with grip. This mode also increases the sensitivity of the brake-based traction control, allowing it to react more quickly to changing conditions. Mud/Ruts mode demonstrates the genuine off-road Bronco credentials beyond just looking the part.

Rock Crawl Mode (Badlands and First Edition)

Exclusive to higher-trim models equipped with the advanced 4×4 system, Rock Crawl mode is designed to navigate rocky terrain requiring precise control and maximum traction. This mode activates the most specialized configuration of the vehicle’s systems, including:

• Ultra-responsive throttle calibration for precise inching over obstacles
• First-gear lock to eliminate unwanted shifts during critical maneuvers
• Maximized brake traction control intervention
• Rear differential lock engagement (on equipped models)
• Hill descent control activation for controlled downhill navigation

In Rock Crawl mode, the Bronco Sport demonstrates capabilities that exceed most competitors, allowing drivers to navigate terrain typically reserved for more specialized off-road vehicles.

Real-World Applications: When to Use Each Mode

Daily Driving

• Normal Mode: For regular commuting, highway cruising, and general driving on paved surfaces. This balanced setting provides comfortable ride quality and reasonable fuel efficiency.
• Eco Mode: Ideal for long highway stretches or when prioritizing fuel economy during the daily commute, particularly useful on longer trips when extending range between fill-ups.
• Sport Mode: Perfect for more enthusiastic driving on winding backroads or when merging onto highways, providing more responsive throttle and improved handling characteristics.

Challenging Conditions

• Slippery Mode: The go-to setting when roads are wet, icy, or lightly snow-covered. Also valuable on gravel roads where traction may be compromised.
• 
  
• Sand Mode: Essential for beach driving, desert exploration, or any loose, granular surfaces that require momentum and specific power delivery to prevent bogging down.

Off-Road Adventures

• Mud/Ruts Mode: Engage when navigating muddy forest trails, rutted farm roads, or any situation with soft, uneven terrain that requires enhanced traction management.
• Rock Crawl Mode: Reserved for technical off-road situations involving larger obstacles, steep inclines/declines, or rocky terrain that demands precise wheel placement and careful throttle control.

 

[John Kulakowski]

Wifes 2025 BS (Badlands) 2.0 l 200 miles
'Me' - 2023 B (Outerbanks) 2.7 l 6600 miles

For the 2025 BS, I'll change the oil (5w-30: latest recommendation) at 1000 miles. I'm old school. As prior threads indicated, Ford (consumer) vehicles haven't used break-in oil in many decades. My dealership 'recommends' 7000 miles. As long as you don't go crazy with the engine, tran, 4x4. You probably get away with 5000 mile oil change. Piece of mind.

Besides, at the rate of recalls, one will probably be on the engine anyways. So a oil change at 1000, 5000, 7000 isn't going to matter.

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