Top Mods For Sixth Gen (2021 Plus) Ford Broncos
Ford made a big swing in the market a couple years ago bringing back the Bronco: the iconic Ford SUV of the past. Since the re-release, the sixth generation Ford Bronco has been galloping up in sales proving to be a very capable daily driver, weekend overlander, and a decent off-road machine with the right mods.
While Ford offers a bunch of options from the factory in terms of color, trim levels, entertainment, and more, they are still built to be sellable to the average person. Well, if you’re here, YOU are not the average person. You’re here to mod your Bronco, and make it yours. Here is a list of some of the top mods you can do to your sixth generation Ford Bronco.
Please keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list by any means. This is just to get you pointed in the right direction.
INTERIOR
The interior of any vehicle is where you spend the most amount of time, so why not tailor it to exactly what you need? Let’s dive into what you can do.
All Weather Floor Mats ($195)
One of the first and last things you touch when you get in and out of your truck are your floor mats, and they will get dirty: snow, mud, dirt, sand, pet hair… They will collect everything. All weather floor mats make cleaning a breeze. Being made from a durable rubber, in most cases you can just hose them off (outside of your ride) and be done. While you can get universal fitting ones, this kit is right from Ford to ensure the best fit, and they feature the Bronco horse right on it for a nice added touch. Ford’s site says these are specifically for the Sport model, so make sure you pick up ones for your right trim level.
Door Sill Protectors ($49)
Regardless if you’re getting in and out of your Bronco with boots or flip flops, you can risk scuffing your door sills over time. These overlays fit right over the painted area on your 2021-2023 Bronco. The overlays from TUFSKINZ have a similar look and feel as spray in bed liner, which will ensure extra protection. With these being a licensed Ford product, they feature the iconic bucking bronco right on them. You also have the option to find the same ones with “BRONCO” on it. This particular kit is for the three-door model, but Ford offers different kits depending on your Bronco’s configuration.
Cargo Area Security Drawer for Four Door Broncos ($789)
The rear cargo area is a bit limited on space, and what space there is does not allow for much organization. This drawer kit changes all that. This direct bolt on kit requires no drilling or permanent modifications. Using the existing tie-down locations, simply bolt it down, and you’re done. The carpeted floor keeps noise down, and the adjustable dividers truly allow you to fit whatever you’d like inside. When you need something out of it, no need for leaning in: just slide it out, and you can reach it. The heavy duty lock allows for extra security. “BRONCO” is across the drawer face for some extra branding, and four tie-down locations remain on top to allow better versatility.
Center Console Safe ($339)
If you’ve even had the need to lock up things inside your vehicle, but still have them close at hand, a center console safe could be the way to go. This is great to protect your valuables or perhaps a firearm if you need to leave your vehicle for some reason. This safe comes right from Ford, so you can be certain that it will fit well and install seamlessly. While you will lose “normal” access to your console storage, if you need hidden security, this won’t matter to you. Looks good, feels good, and operates as intended. What more can you ask for?
Molle Gate System for Swing Gate ($119)
If you need a great way to store your smaller items in an easy and consistent method, molle is the way to go. There are plenty of panels available for your Bronco, but this one through Ford’s site allows you to make use of the inside of your Bronco’s gate. Once mounted, you can add almost anything to it that mounts to molle: tools, a first aid kit, and tons of pouches to hold small things like batteries, fishing or hunting supplies, and whatever else you can think of. Take this “wasted space,” and transform it into one of the most useful storage locations on your Bronco.
First Aid Kit ($39)
Speaking of a first aid kit, this one from Ford includes assorted bandages, gauze and adhesive tape, an emergency survival blanket, gloves, scissors, and more all in a fire-retardant Ford branded case. While not exactly a “mod,” it is something that you should have in every vehicle that you drive, because you never know. Speaking of which…
Off-Road Assistance Kit ($199)
If you plan on using your Bronco for off-roading, anything can happen (especially those in non-Ford vehicles on the trails that you will have to help). In all seriousness, it’s always best to be prepared for anything, and this kit will help you do that. Included in the “Bronco” branded case that doubles as a backpack is a fire extinguisher, a fold-up shovel, twelve in one multitool, camelback water reservoir, survival blanket, a first aid-kit, and more. Never wander into the unknown without preparing for it. Again, not a “mod,” but a great thing to have.
Seat Covers ($20 - $350)
Since we talked about floor mats protecting your floor, we have to talk about seat covers covering your seats. These can go from basic to almost new upholstery. There are universal ones that will literally only cover your seats, which while great for protection against muddy clothes, pet hair, and kids, they don’t offer much style. You can get all the way up to fancy leather ones with colored stitching that will form fit over your bland factory cloth seats. Not only do all of these change the look of your SUV, but they also protect your seats, so when it’s time to sell, your seats look new, increasing your resale value. Prices vary depending on the style you go with.
Interior Vinyl Trim ($2 - $15)
The interior of the Bronco looks good, very good. But what if you want to spice it up a bit? Afterall, you need it to be yours. 21 Offroad offers an inexpensive solution with vinyl trim accents that cover various locations in your Bronco. There are 20 different color options, including factory Ford colors, so you can match your exterior, or change things up. They are easy to install, look great, and if you ever want to remove them, you can simply peel them off. You can get one piece, or all six locations that they cover.
EXTERIOR
While the interior is what you see, the exterior is what everyone else sees, so do you want them seeing the same Bronco that everyone else sees? Nah. Here are some ideas to make your Bronco stand out on the trail, or Walmart parking lot. We don’t judge.
Windshield CrossLink Lightbar Kit ($1700)
Okay, okay… Once the sticker shock has passed, nothing says “off-road” like a light bar. A good LED light bar can be expensive, as seen here, but you get what you pay for. This kit from Diode Dynamics offers a heavy duty, bolt-on light bar with a 6000K bright white or 3000K amber combo beam of light from each pod. They come with an 8 year warranty, so you can shop with confidence. While a roof/windshield mounted light bar does stand out a bit visually, it offers some of the best illumination you can get when it comes to off-roading.
Ditch Lights ($260)
I don’t want to get too crazy with lighting, but if you want a cheaper option, or even more lighting with the light bar, ditch lights are a great solution. Ditch light mount near the a-pillars, and this kit from Diode Dynamics requires no cutting or drilling. These lights, when mounted properly, illuminate the corners of your SUV that a light bar might not be able to see, like the “ditches” on the side of the road you are on. While they can be used for a substitute for a light bar, it’s not advised, as they won’t have the same effect. This will still give you better illumination and that off-road look you could be going for.
Fender Flares ($520)
Fender flares look cool and offer protection of your paint and the less fortunate who have to travel behind you in jealousy. They also may be required by your local laws if your wheels and tires are not allowed to extend past your vehicle’s body or fenders. These flares are standard with the Sasquatch Package, so dress up your lower spec Bronco with some notoriety. They easily install with ¼ turn fasteners, work with up to 35” tires, and are available for 2 and 4 door models. Being straight from Ford, you can be confident in fitment and quality.
Step Bars/Side Steps ($615)
Regardless if you get them for looks or to actually help you get in and out of your Bronco, step bars give you that look that any off-road vehicle should have. This kit uses factory mounting positions, so there is no drilling, cutting, or welding required. This particular kit is for 2 door models, but of course you can find these for your 4 door one as well. Keep in mind that these are NOT sliders. Sliders will protect the side of your ride from rocks while on the trial. While some sliders can double as steps, it doesn’t always work the other way around.
Safari Bar Kit ($600)
Your front bumper is the first line of defense against the wilderness (or the first thing those eager to get out of your way will see in their rear view mirror). Make a statement and protect your Bronco with something like this Safari Bar Kit that will mount directly to your front end if you have the optional Modular Front Bumper. This 2-inch diameter, black powder coated tube will take a beating before your Bronco does, allowing your wallet to stay safely away from the costs of a body shop. Let’s face it… It looks good too.
Bomber Rear Bumper ($1750)
Like with the front, there are tons of options for rear bumpers. This Bomber Rear Bumper from Addictive Desert Designs is just one that they offer. This will completely transform the rear of your Bronco into an aggressive off-road machine. You can choose five different options for mounting cube lights to make sure you can see everything on the dark trails. This bumper allows you to use the factory tow hooks and parking sensors without worry. It’s fully bolt-on and made in the USA!
Grille Lettering ($50)
The “BRONCO” lettering across the front of your SUV looks good, so why not make it stand out? These overlays from TUFSKINZ place directly over the factory molding with your choice of 20 different color opinions. These include factory colors, carbon fiber, different variations of black, a patriotic red, white, and blue, and more! Match your body color, or mix it up to fit your style.
Hood Scoop Trim ($449)
If you’re looking for a muscular look to really stand out from the crowd, this stick-on hood scoop will take care of that. While non-functional, the looks are worth it. Peel off the double sided tape, and stick it on. Instantly transform the front of your once boring Bronco to be one of the most badass looking ones on the road and trails. The satin black finish will compliment the rest of the black trim on the Bronco, and the high impact multilayer ABS Senoplast polymer won’t add extra weight, should that be a concern.
Yakima Roof Mounted Cargo Platform ($1117)
Roof racks and cargo platforms are a must for any serious off-roader, and even the casual overlanding adventurer. As mentioned, storage space in the Bronco can be on the more limited side, and you’ll want to keep the more sensitive and important stuff inside for extra protection and quicker access. For the rest, a roof rack is key! Why a cargo platform though? If you have to just have one, a cargo platform offers more mounting solutions, and the extra surface area is perfect for a rooftop tent for those camping tips. There are TONS of options out there. This is just one that you can get directly from Ford. Find the one that fits your needs and budget the most!
Spare Tire Cover ($50 - $155)
Spare tires look cool, but if you want to keep mud and other junk out of them, a tire cover not only does that, but it offers some great real estate for you to show off: funny messages or images, the American flag, Bronco or Ford related stuff, and so much more. Extreme Terrain offers many options, but you can even find sites (like Etsy) that allow you to custom create your own.
PERFORMANCE
Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about performance mods. Regardless if you want to tackle the highways more efficiently or create a serious overlanding machine, there are plenty of performance mods you can do to your sixth generation Ford Bronco.
Cold Air Intake With Tune ($950)
Let me first start off by saying cold air intakes on modern vehicles (without a tune) can be very finicky with all the computerized stuff, so this specific kit is recommended only for 2021 2.7L Broncos. Of course you can find them for your specific model as well, but this Level 1 kit from Roush Performance will crank out 40 extra horsepower and 70 foot pounds of torque. This kit comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty, so you don’t have to worry about adverse effects from the extra power.
Exhaust ($415 - $1200)
And exhaust is almost for looks as much as it is performance and sound. Yes, the sound will change, which will add to the aggressive look and feel of the Bronco, but it will also open up some of the factory restricted airflow, allowing a bit more power to be felt with your butt-dyno. There are plenty of options to choose from with sound and style: raspy, throaty, one single pipe on one side, one on each, two on each side! If you can think of it, it’s probably out there. Shop around and watch lots of YouTube videos so you can get a better idea of how it will sound on your Bronco.
Leveling Kit ($160)
Lifting your Bronco is probably the biggest no-brainer when it comes to an off-road SUV. Not only does it look good, but it gives you more clearance on the trails. A leveling kit is one of the most inexpensive ways to do it. A leveling kit is basically a “spacer” in your suspension. This 1.25 inch leveling kit from ReadyLift is perfect, as it does not overextend your stock suspension. Going too high with a leveling kit and a factory suspension could lead to an unpleasant ride and potential failures over time. Remember that stock parts always work best with stock parts.
Coilover Lift Kit ($2100)
Your best option for lift, performance, and reliability would be a coilover kit. Without going into too much detail a coilover kit has the spring and shock together. This allows for easy installation, but also an assurance that the two parts will work well together. This kit from Ford Performance is a 2 inch kit. While more expensive, this won’t put extra stress on factory shocks and springs since they are being replaced. Serious about off-road performance? Get coilovers! Just make sure you get the right one for your Bronco: check compatibility.
Skid Plates ($220 - $1100)
Skid plates and “body armor” are essential to any serious off-roader. Sliding across or slamming down on a rock can have very expensive consequences if you are not prepared. Your engine, transfer case, and transmission are all high dollar items that you want to keep away from the wilderness, and skid plates get that done. They simply bolt on under your vehicle, and take the hit before anything else. RCI Metalworks offers a skid plate for your engine, transmission, and transfer case. If you bundle them all together, you save! You can get them in steel for the most protection or aluminum for still great protection, but at a much lighter weight. Whichever route you decide, protect your investment!
Final Thoughts
That was a lot, I know… But guess what? There are even TONS of other things we didn’t mention. Plenty of mods we didn’t talk about, and tons of other brands and styles of the ones we did. Regardless, I hope this helped give you a better idea of what you can do with your sixth gen Ford Bronco. Don’t forget to stop by Ryze Off-Road for more information, tips, and tricks about your Ford F-150, Ranger, and Bronco. We are also continuously expanding our selection of parts to become your number one stop for mods as well. Either way, mod on, and make your Bronco your dream Bronco!
Images
All Weather Floor Mats - Courtesy Ford
Door Sill Overlays - Courtesy Ford
Cargo Drawer - Courtesy Ford
Center Console Safe - Courtesy Ford
Molle Gate Panel - Courtesy Ford
First Aid Kit - Courtesy Ford
Off-Road Assistance Kit - Courtesy Ford
Seat Covers - Courtesy Extreme Terrain
Interior Vinyl Trim - Courtesy 21 Offroad
Light Bar - Courtesy Diode Dynamics
Ditch Lights - Courtesy Diode Dynamics customer Issac V.
Fender Flares - Courtesy Ford
Side Steps - Courtesy Ford
Safari Bar - Courtesy Ford
Rear Bumper - Courtesy Addictive Desert Designs
Front Grille Letter Overlay - Courtesy TUFSKINZ
Hood Scoop - Courtesy Ford
Roof Cargo Platform - Courtesy Ford
Spare Tire Cover - Courtesy Extreme Terrain
Cold Air Intake with Tune - Courtesy Roush
Exhaust - Courtesy Stage 3 Motorsports
Leveling Kit - Courtesy ReadyLift
Coilovers - Courtesy Ford Performance
Skid Plates - Courtesy RCI Metalworks