Used 2021 Ford Bronco for Sale nearChicago, IL

How much does the 2021 Ford Bronco cost?

Prices have softened 9.80% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.

There are 2,048 listings available, which gives you a meaningful amount of inventory to compare.

If you find a listing below $37,113.16, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.

Is the 2021 Ford Bronco a good car?

Generally — the 2021 Ford Bronco earns a 4.47/5 user rating and an 8.00/10 expert rating. The model scores 9/10 across Look and feel and Form and function.

Drivers consistently praise its design, smooth ride, and versatility, and many also highlight its powerful performance and advanced tech features. The Bronco’s off-road focus and strong capability come through clearly, while the hardtop models get especially positive attention. On the other hand, the ride can get noisy in soft-top setups, and some owners mention roof-fit concerns and dealership pricing frustrations.

That lines up with the overview: you’re looking at a purpose-built off-roader that puts capability and character ahead of everyday refinement. With 30.5% of listings marked as good or great deals, you still have room to shop selectively.

Is the 2021 Ford Bronco reliable?

Owners rate it 4.47/5, a solid signal of long-term satisfaction.

User feedback points to a vehicle that feels dependable, fun to live with, and strong over the long haul, especially when you value versatility and capability. The expert drive notes also emphasize how sure-footed it feels on the trail, with balanced handling, smart electronics, and a setup that inspires confidence in off-road use.

The ownership trade-off is that a used Bronco’s long-term risk depends heavily on how hard it was driven and how well it was maintained, especially if it saw frequent trail use.

What should I look for when buying a used 2021 Ford Bronco?

Accident-free inventory is solid at 89.4% — always verify the vehicle history report.

You should still check the history report carefully, because off-road use can leave wear that doesn’t always show up in photos. Prioritize a thorough inspection of the roof, doors, suspension, tires, and any signs of trail damage or water intrusion. It also makes sense to focus on how the vehicle was equipped, since some comfort and safety features depend on package selection.

Key things to evaluate:

• Trim level: The Base trim starts with a more basic safety setup, while higher trims can add more convenience and driver-assistance equipment through packages.
• Powertrain: You get a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder with 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, or an optional twin-turbo 2.7-liter four-cylinder with 310 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque; the 2.3-liter pairs with a seven-speed manual, while the 2.7-liter uses a 10-speed automatic.
• Safety package: Ford Co-Pilot 360 can add pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot information system with cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping system, auto high-beam headlamps, and a rear-view camera with backup assist grid lines; the High Package adds a 360-degree camera, a forward-sensing system, and side-view mirror LED approach lamps.
• Infotainment: The Bronco uses SYNC 4 with enhanced voice recognition, an 8-inch standard touchscreen, an available 12-inch touchscreen, and available wireless device charging with the Lux Package.
• Fuel efficiency: Poor fuel economy is one of the Bronco’s clear compromises.

Which 2021 Ford Bronco trim should I buy?

The 2021 Ford Bronco is offered in 7 trim levels: Base, Big Bend, Black Diamond, Outer Banks, Badlands, Wildtrak, First Edition.

Here's the short version:

• Base: This is the entry point if you want the Bronco’s core off-road identity at the lowest price, but it starts with a more basic safety setup and fewer convenience features than higher trims.
• Big Bend: This is a smart value choice if you want a step up in everyday usability, and it can add the Mid Package for more driver-assistance and convenience equipment.
• Black Diamond: This trim is aimed at buyers who want more trail-ready capability and can also add the Mid Package, making it a stronger pick if you plan to use the Bronco hard.
• Outer Banks: This is the better fit if you want a more polished, comfort-oriented Bronco, and it can be paired with the High Package for more advanced safety and camera tech.
• Badlands: This is the trim to target if off-road capability is your priority, and it also supports the High Package for added safety tech.
• Wildtrak: This is the more expensive performance-oriented choice in the lineup, and it can also be equipped with the High Package.
• First Edition: This is the top-end, fully loaded version for buyers who want the most exclusive Bronco experience and are willing to pay for it.

The safety-package note to keep in mind is that the Mid Package is available on Big Bend and Black Diamond, while the High Package is available on Outer Banks, Wildtrak, and Badlands.

Is now a good time to buy a used 2021 Ford Bronco?

This looks like a moderate, selective buyer’s market, so you can shop with some leverage if you’re patient.

• Deal availability: 30.5% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Inventory: There are 2,048 listings available.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 9.80% compared with last year.
• Clean inventory: 89.4% of listings are accident-free.

If you find a listing below $37,113.16, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.

What is the 2021 Ford Bronco's resale value?

The current average of $37,093 sits slightly below last year's $41,124.

That price movement suggests the market has cooled from a year ago, which can help you buy more carefully now but may also limit upside if you plan to resell soon. For future sellers, the current softness means condition and equipment will matter even more when it’s time to list. Well-kept examples with desirable packages should hold buyer attention better than rougher trucks with visible wear.

Vehicles with solid owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.47/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.

Is the 2021 Ford Bronco safe?

It earns a 7/10 safety score from our experts.

Ford Co-Pilot 360 can include pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot information system with cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping system, auto high-beam headlamps, and a rear-view camera with backup assist grid lines. The High Package adds a 360-degree camera, a forward-sensing system, and side-view mirror LED approach lamps.

One important caveat is that safety equipment is package-dependent, so lower trims start with a more basic setup. The Bronco also has removable doors, which is part of its appeal but not a safety advantage.

Should I buy a 2021 Ford Bronco or consider a different year?

If you're weighing the 2021 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:

Choose the 2021 if:

• 30.5% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Accident-free inventory is solid at 89.4% — always verify the vehicle history report.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 9.80% compared with last year.
• Owners rate it 4.47/5 — a solid satisfaction signal.
• It marks the Bronco’s long-awaited return with a sharp off-road focus and strong trail capability.

Consider the 2022 if:

• At $38,205, the 2022 costs more than the current year's $37,093 average.
• It broadens appeal with a deeper model roster and better pavement manners.

The bottom line: If you want the better value today, the 2021 is the stronger buy because prices have eased and inventory is healthy. If you’re willing to spend more for a broader lineup and a slightly more polished driving experience, the 2022 is the better alternative. For most used shoppers, the 2021 makes the most sense unless you specifically want the next year’s expanded model range.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from August 28, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.