The release of the 2021 Ford Bronco has been eventful, to say the very least. Ford has been hit harder than many automakers by supply chain interruptions and shortages. The release of the highly-anticipated SUV has been delayed multiple times, frustrating buyers. A possible leak of the coming Bronco’ manual may have revealed some exciting secrets that might make the SUV worth the wait. The 552-page document

Hybrid 2021 Bronco Confirmed

On page 370 of this massive PDF, under the heading “Storage,” readers will find information on hybrid battery systems. The manual reads: “We recommend the following actions for your vehicle: When storing your vehicle for greater than 30 days, the state of charge should be approximately 50%. Additionally, we recommend disconnecting the 12V battery, which will reduce system loads on the HV battery.”

A hybrid model is mentioned again in the “Scheduled Maintenance” section. In describing the function and benefits of the Intelligent Oil-Life Monitoring system, the Bronco owner’s manual states: “a message appears in the information display at the proper oil change interval. This interval may be up to one year or 10,000 mi (16,000 km), hybrid vehicles could exceed 10,000 mi (16,000 km).”

Hybrid-specific voice commands further confirm a plug-in is on the way. Drivers will be able to view or change their charging schedule using voice command options. They can also ask for an update on the current charging cycle and upcoming events.

Bronco fans are surprised by a few features and caveats

The moment an alleged 2021 Ford Bronco owner’s manual was posted to Bronco6G, enthusiasts could not wait to sink into the massive document. Right away, comments began rolling in about surprising features and limitations. On such surprise is that only turbocharged Broncos with the 2.3-liter Ecoboost inline-4 will be equipped with a stock boost gauge.

Further research found that Bronco owners will be able to turn off the SUV’s auto start/stop feature with a dashboard-mounted switch. This setting will not be saved, and drivers will need to follow the same process every time they start their Bronco.

Some were excited to find instructions for disabling the onboard modem. This allows drivers to take their SUVs offline if they choose. Some may prefer to skip over the air firmware updates and appreciate having the ability to disable these automatic updates. Some prefer to disable the modem.

Speculations fly where details are light

As much as this document has revealed, it also brings up more questions. There are a few confusing passages. Page 302 recommends drivers reset their fuel shut-off switch in the case of a collision. This system reduces the risk of fire in the event of a crash and can be set off without much impact. The manual does not specify the location of this vital switch.

The released manual has few details and very little information about the SUV’s infotainment system. These systems can make or break the owner’s experience of owning a new vehicle. It’s only natural that buyers who have waited so long for their Broncos would want more insight into this vital system.

Ford has not confirmed if this is the official manual or if an updated version will accompany the 2021 Bronco after it’s delivered. Without word from the manufacturer, it’s not completely official. A 552-page hoax would be unlikely, but it’s best to think of this leaked PDF as unofficial until Ford makes a statement.