Big Bend....Loving It, But?

[pressure23]

Hi, I'm loving my new 2023 Big Bend. I find it responsive, peppy and plenty fun. Just like the ride of it. Historically have been in lots of Highlanders and minivans. But I'm getting worried reading about the issues with the 3 cylinder 1.5. To me it's plenty of power. I don't plan on doing intense off roading, but want it capable in snow and on the beach and from what I understand it is. Should I worry about this 1.5? I didn't realize there was a 2.0 trim out there. Want to love my Big Bend, but if anyone has 1.5 3 cylinder troubles, please share!

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[AlmostBroncoSport]

I've had two leaky water pumps before 35k miles on my BB, but allegedly they've got a new revision of the part. I'd advise you keep an eye on your engine coolant level. For me, the first symptom both times was the heater blowing cold air while the vehicle was in park, even when the engine was totally warmed up. It would work fine when the vehicle was rolling, but shift into park, and it blew cold. Other than that, the engine itself has been totally reliable with no problems.

 

[pressure23]

Kennedy, thanks for the update and the coolant heads up!

 

[Mark S.]

There are many, many (hundreds of thousands? millions?) of these engines in operation around the world. If there were widespread issue with reliability I think we'd know about them. The only issue I've heard about that would cause me concern is the several members here who've had water pumps replaced. As Kennedy notes, just keep an eye on your coolant level. The leak those with the issue report is so very slight you likely won't smell it (which is the most common way to "find" a coolant leak), so you'll have to rely on the level in the reservoir. I would make yourself a reminder on your phone to check it at least once a week. If the coolant level drops significantly--say from the max line to below the min line--in a month or less it's time for a service visit.

 

[SportWest]

Should I worry about this 1.5? I didn't realize there was a 2.0 trim out there. Want to love my Big Bend, but if anyone has 1.5 3 cylinder troubles, please share!

I went from the 1.5 Big Bend to a Badlands. No trouble with the 1.5 and I was impressed by the power considering it's a 1.5 three-banger. But ultimately I wanted more power and really like the performance of the 2.0 with premium fuel.

 

[Hot Rod Mike]

Don’t know what your build date was but the water pump problem was corrected late 2022. I have a 2023 and my friend that works at Ford said they have had no problems with the 1.5 Broncos since 2022. If I were you I would not worry about it. If you maintain it and don’t beat the crap out of it Most likely you will have no problems. I am a car guy for the last 55 years and have no complaints with my 1.5 Bronco. Mostly freeway driving 75-85 Mph over the High Sierras with no problem at all. All my off road is mostly snow and you will find more than enough power and low end torque to suit you. Enjoy your Bronco

 

[pressure23]

Mike, thanks for note....yeah I mean I don't mind a few things here and there, right, that's part of owning something you like, just didn't want a disaster looming.....wonder if I can find out my build date? Is that on the door panel? Thanks again. I am not going to do anything drastic and just enjoy it and keep on top of it! I'm laughing because I also have a 1994 Grady White and I trust that 100 times more than a lot of the newer build factory boats..nohting but confidence in it....maintenance of course is key.

 

[pressure23]

Don’t know what your build date was but the water pump problem was corrected late 2022. I have a 2023 and my friend that works at Ford said they have had no problems with the 1.5 Broncos since 2022. If I were you I would not worry about it. If you maintain it and don’t beat the crap out of it Most likely you will have no problems. I am a car guy for the last 55 years and have no complaints with my 1.5 Bronco. Mostly freeway driving 75-85 Mph over the High Sierras with no problem at all. All my off road is mostly snow and you will find more than enough power and low end torque to suit you. Enjoy your Bronco

 

[pressure23]

Build date is 02/2023

 

[Blue oval fan]

Just over 20k on mine with no issues. 5k oil changes. Like others have said check coolant. Before any of my monthly work trips I pop the hood and give it a look over.

No regrets here getting the 1.5, it does just fine even in the NC/SC hills. Only feels underpowered when I give it the beans going 75+mph to pass, even then once it gets going 90+ comes quickly enough.

My old escape had the exact same engine, I think I did something like 32k+ miles on it before selling. Again zero issues and again 5k oil changes. Not sure if my premature maintenance schedule really did anything but it certainly can't hurt.

 

[Hot Rod Mike]

Just over 20k on mine with no issues. 5k oil changes. Like others have said check coolant. Before any of my monthly work trips I pop the hood and give it a look over.

No regrets here getting the 1.5, it does just fine even in the NC/SC hills. Only feels underpowered when I give it the beans going 75+mph to pass, even then once it gets going 90+ comes quickly enough.

My old escape had the exact same engine, I think I did something like 32k+ miles on it before selling. Again zero issues and again 5k oil changes. Not sure if my premature maintenance schedule really did anything but it certainly can't hurt.

Lol ran mine up to a 100 mph with no issues.

 

[Hot Rod Mike]

Build date is 02/2023

I doubt very much I’d you’re going to have any problems I change the oil every 5k with Mobil 1 synthetic as with all my cars. After owning over a 110 cars and trucks from 400/500/600 horsepower the 1.5 suits me just fine. Good Luck and enjoy

 

[pressure23]

Mike, i take a lot of credence in your comments after i read the 110 truck ownership stat! Wow!

 

[Mark S.]

I also have a 1994 Grady White and I trust that 100 times more than a lot of the newer build factory boats..nohting but confidence in it....maintenance of course is key.

And familiarity. If you keep it long enough you'll get there with your Bronco Sport too.

 

[Barry S.]

Lol ran mine up to a 100 mph with no issues.

Pull over. License and registration please.?‍

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