Top 5 Raptor-Inspired Mods for Your Bronco
Last Updated February 15, 2024 | Meghan DrummondThe new Bronco Raptor has some truly enviable mods and features. Instead of turning green with envy, get out your tools and add these mods for an off-road performance boost.
As an added bonus, many of these parts can be installed on 2-door or 4-door Broncos. You can also just add the modifications that are important to you. If you care more about brakes than the exhaust, go for a brake upgrade now and decide on an exhaust later. When you’re doing your own upgrades, you get to decide how to prioritize your budget and time. If you're looking for ways to avoid breaking the bank, be sure to check out our guide on the best cheap Bronco mods.
Raptor-Sized Wheels and Tires
The Bronco Raptor’s most headline-inspiring feature is its 37” tires, which come mounted on 17” wheels. There are also two beadlock-capable wheel options.
This is probably the easiest modification to complete yourself, and you’ll have way more options. Not only can you get beadlock-capable wheels, but you can pick out a set with a unique design or color. With wheel and tire packages, you’ll get a mounted set that’s balanced and ready to bolt on.
And don’t feel limited to the Raptor’s 17” wheels. With aftermarket options, you can get 20” wheels for an even more aggressive look.
Fender Flares
The Bronco Raptor’s fender flares are almost as big as its tires. Whether you love them or hate them, they are useful. While fender flares can add style, that’s not their main purpose.
Fender flares deflect rocks and debris. This keeps your vehicle’s body safe. It can also be an advantage on the road. Oversized tires can kick rocks onto other vehicles. This not only makes you a jerk, it can also cause legal issues.
To accompany big tires, a big set of fender flares makes sense. But you can get flares for your Bronco that add protection while still being more subtle than the Raptor’s.
Raptor-Inspired Trail Protection
Another feature on the Bronco Raptor that’s useful is its added off-road armor. Even with great ground clearance, rocks and debris can bounce up and damage vulnerable components. That’s why the Raptor features several skid plates.
Luckily, you can add some of this protection to the standard Bronco as well. These are some of the easiest pieces to add, and they can be added all at once or as needed. Pick out the armor that’s most important to you.
Exhaust Upgrades
One of the features the Bronco Raptor has that gives it a great sound and better power is a less restrictive exhaust. This modification is also easy to add, and by selecting it yourself you have more options. Get a loud exhaust, or opt for something a little milder for neighborhood driving. There are tons of great exhaust options to open up your Bronco’s exhaust.
While the Bronco Raptor’s exhaust is 30% more efficient than the base Bronco’s system, many aftermarket options can increase flow even more.
Lift Kits for Raptor Height!
If you’re planning on putting big tires on your Bronco, then you’ll need some extra clearance. Even if you’re not, extra ground clearance is a great way to improve your off-roading capability.
Installing a Bronco lift kit is easy and kits are available in a wide range of heights depending on your model. Go big and maximize your ground clearance. Or, get a little less lift if you’re more interested in how your Bronco behaves on the highway. Then, protect your new suspension components with Bronco rear shock skid plates and never worry about damage from debris again.
Noteworthy Runner-Ups
While those might be the top five mods, there are a few runners-up worth nothing.
Bigger brakes are important if you’re getting bigger wheels and tires. And added brake cooling means you’ll be able to enjoy more stopping power and less brake fade.
If you’re going to 37” tires, you’ll need to add a brake light extension. That will allow it to clear your spare tire so you can stay safe.
If you’re looking to add a lot of great mods at once, then check out a kit like this Roush one. Kits combine several popular parts, adding some synergy and compatibility to your modifications.
New seats aren’t just for comfort. The Bronco Raptor comes with special Recaros that aren’t available for sale. But you can add some racing seats to your Bronco. With more support and harness capability you’ll be ready for some serious trail runs.
Cold air intakes are a popular modification for most vehicles. With better filtration and the ability to pull in cooler air, your engine will last longer. And produce more power.
Off-Road Like a Pro in Any Bronco
With or without a Raptor upgrade, your Bronco was designed to go off-road. While the right mods can help boost your performance, ultimately, it comes down to getting the experience you need. So make sure you know where to go off-roading, brush up on your vocabulary, and make sure you’re stocked on recovery gear. As long as you’re willing to get muddy, there’s no terrain your Bronco can’t handle.