The catalytic converter (or converters) on a Ford Bronco are located along the underside of the vehicle in the exhaust system. In most Broncos equipped with EcoBoost engines, you’ll find at least one catalytic converter mounted close to the engine and a second one further back along the exhaust path. The exact layout can vary by engine and model year.
In more detail, modern Broncos rely on a dual-catalyst setup to meet emissions standards. The close-coupled converter heats quickly after startup and the second converter handles additional emissions reduction downstream. Locations are along the exhaust pipe from the engine toward the rear axle, protected by heat shields and brackets. Always ensure the vehicle is safely supported and the exhaust is cool before inspecting or working near the system.
Typical catalytic converter layout by engine
Below are the common locations for the catalytic converters on the two main Bronco engines in current production (as of 2024–2026).
2.3L EcoBoost Bronco
For the four-cylinder turbo EcoBoost option, Ford typically uses a two-converter arrangement: a close-coupled catalytic converter just downstream of the exhaust manifold, and a second converter farther back along the exhaust path before the rear section.
- Close-coupled catalytic converter: located immediately after the exhaust manifold, on the downpipe coming from the engine. This cat is designed to heat up quickly for emissions control.
- Main catalytic converter: located downstream along the mid-pipe/exhaust stream, typically under the front half of the vehicle and ahead of the mid-resonator/rear section.
These two converters work together to reduce pollutants before exhaust exits through the tailpipe. Always ensure the engine is off and the exhaust is cooled before inspecting or handling.
2.7L EcoBoost Bronco
The V6 EcoBoost option usually employs a similar dual-cat layout: a close-coupled cat near the engine and a secondary cat further back along the exhaust line.
- Close-coupled catalytic converter: mounted directly downstream of the engine’s exhaust manifold on the downpipe, designed for rapid light-off after startup.
- Main catalytic converter: located downstream along the exhaust run, typically situated under the front half of the Bronco before the mid-pipe or rear exhaust components.
Again, the two converters work in tandem to meet emissions standards. If you’re diagnosing issues, consult a technician; catalytic converters can be hot and require proper precautions.
How to visually identify catalytic converters
Look for two metallic canisters in the undercarriage, connected to the exhaust pipes with heat shields and hangers. They are usually rectangular or cylindrical with inlet/outlet pipes on either end, and are covered by a heat shield. The closer-to-the-engine unit is typically shorter and located near the engine crossmember; the downstream unit lies farther back along the exhaust path toward the rear of the vehicle.
Safety and maintenance considerations
Do not attempt to remove or modify catalytic converters yourself unless you are a trained automotive professional. Tampering with emissions systems is illegal in many jurisdictions and can void warranties. If you suspect a damaged converter, consult Ford service and have the exhaust inspected with the vehicle safely supported and cooled.
Summary
The Ford Bronco’s catalytic converter setup generally includes two converters: a close-coupled cat near the exhaust manifold and a second downstream cat along the exhaust path. This arrangement occurs on the common EcoBoost engines (2.3L and 2.7L) across recent model years. Locating them involves looking under the Bronco along the exhaust route from the engine toward the rear axle; always prioritize safety and consult a professional for inspection or service.