1996 Ford Bronco
1996 Ford Bronco Overview
In 1996, this new type of off-road vehicle stampeded onto the scene and into the hearts of adventurers all around the world, laying the groundwork for the current sport utility vehicle. Along with numerous important safety advances, the fifth-generation 1996 Ford Bronco was also known for being very pleasing to the sight. This latecomer to the party had a more aerodynamic design, as well as a slew of other attractive improvements on the interior and outside of the vehicle.
The car had smoother lines, especially on the front end than in previous versions, which was a plus. Aerodynamics was further improved by the designers, who used streamlined outside mirrors to accomplish this. Bronco debuted with an exciting, new assortment of paint colors and combinations that were said to be some of the most striking in the company’s 30-year history, further emphasizing its new look.
In the year 1996, Bronco’s reputation for capability, durability, and off-road prowess had already gained widespread recognition. The Ford Bronco was often the vehicle of choice for rangers with the United States Forest Service and Border Patrol personnel in the United States.
What was added?
There is a new trick turn signaling system for the 1996 Bronco, which is incorporated in the side view mirror surfaces and contains turn signal indications that vehicles following the Bronco may see flashing but which the driver cannot see. The device does not interfere with the driver’s ability to see through or utilize the mirrors at any time of day or night.
Additionally, a redesigned bumper meant to help in engine cooling, an enhanced hub locking system, and the removal of the anti-theft system are all included in the changes. In addition, Eddie Bauer’s accent color is changed to a new shade of tan for the 1996 season.
Regardless of how rough the going gets on or off the beaten path, the Ford Bronco does all it can to smooth out the bumps, thanks to significant features such as body-on-frame construction and heavy-duty gas-pressurized shock absorbers.
Additionally, the seating is well-constructed and solidly built. The adaptability of the 1996 Ford Bronco is also very noteworthy, with a rear bench seat that can be folded down and lots of cargo room for hauling all your things.
Performance
It’s offered with a variety of V8 engines: a 5.0-liter with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission, or a 5.8-liter with 210 horsepower and just an automated transmission. California-bound 5.8-liter engines are being changed to mass airflow fuel metering and sequential fuel injection to comply with pollution regulations. All Broncos are equipped with part-time four-wheel drive with a dual range. Both engines are equipped with multi-port electronic fuel injection systems. With the 5.0-liter engine and 4-speed automatic transmission, the towing capability is 6,600 Ibs, and with the 5.8-liter engine and 5-speed automatic transmission, the towing capacity is 7,000 Ibs. The Trailer Towing Package, which may be purchased separately, is required when the 1996 Ford Bronco is fully equipped. Choose the Touch Drive motorized shift transfer case, which is offered for the ultimate in 4-wheel driving simplicity.
Trim Series
The Ford Bronco family offers a wide range of aesthetic and comfort options. The XL, XLT, and the new XLT Sport are all available.
XL Trim
A driver-side airbag supplemented the safety belts, an electrical outlet for plugging in minor devices, an electronic AM/FM stereo radio, interval windshield wipers, tinted glass, vinyl bucket seats, and more are all standard on the Bronco XL. When the 3-passenger rear bench seat is folded, there is 78.8 cubic feet of cargo capacity available. With a 5.0-liter V-8 engine, Twin-Traction Beam independent front suspension, and 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, this full-size sport utility vehicle is well-equipped.
XLT
Comfortable cloth captain’s chairs with power adjustable lumbar supports (leather seating surfaces are available), full-length cloth headliner and carpeting, speed control, tilt steering wheel, tachometer, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are all standard features on the well-equipped Bronco XLT.
XLT Sport
Ford’s ruggedness is legendary. There’s a lot of elegance and comfort here. There are also other convenience features. The Exterior Sport Package for Bronco XLT brings it all together in a stylish package. A color-keyed grille, headlight surround, bumpers, and cab steps are included. In addition, there are black electric aero mirrors. The fabric captain’s seats with power-adjustable lumbar supports and a tachometer to monitor the pulse of the 5.0-liter multi-port EFI V-8 are among the XIT model’s outstanding features. Bronco XIT Sport, the all-new Bronco. If you’re serious about 4-wheeling, it’ll take you everywhere you want to go.

Owner Manual
The 1996 Ford Bronco Owners Manual was included with the original purchase of the vehicle and covers the operation and routine maintenance of the truck. In addition to the owner’s manual above, most other years of the Ford Bronco Owners Manual, service manual, and parts catalog are also available.
Safety Features
In the fifth generation, more improvements were made to the overall safety of the vehicle. The rear-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) was replaced with a four-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS), and a driver-side airbag was introduced in 1994. The roof had been modified to accommodate 3-point seatbelts for the back passengers, as well as a safety front crumple zone integrated into the chassis and a brake light located in the middle of the vehicle. As a consequence of the safety enhancements, the Bronco could no longer be purchased with a lift-off hardtop attached (from a legal standpoint). While it was still technically conceivable, the higher mounts for the now-required 3-point seatbelts, as well as the required center brake light, were installed above the rear window of this hardtop. Ford removed all information regarding the hardtop from the vehicle owner’s manual in order to prevent customers from removing it themselves.
Verdict
This old Ford Bronco has been in the automotive sector for many years and is a true war veteran of the Ford lineup of SUVs. It’s designed to be one of the hardest SUVs available on the market today. Besides being a great off-road vehicle, the 1996 Ford Bronco makes a superb family vehicle, thanks to its many safety features. If you’re looking for something a bit different from the usual crop of Jeep Wranglers and Land Rover Defenders, this vehicle could be just up your alley.
