The Ford Bronco Raptor is already a beast when it comes to off-road capability. With its twin-turbo V6 engine, FOX Live Valve shocks, and 37-inch all-terrain tires, it’s built to tackle rocky trails, desert dunes, and muddy paths with ease. But for those who want to take their Bronco Raptor to the next level, there are several key modifications that can enhance performance, durability, and off-road dominance.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best off-road upgrades for the Ford Bronco Raptor, helping you maximize its capability on extreme terrain.
1. Suspension Upgrades for Better Ground Clearance & Ride Comfort
The Bronco Raptor already has class-leading suspension, but upgrading it can improve articulation, ride quality, and overall durability for extreme trails.
Best Suspension Upgrades:
✔ Aftermarket FOX or King Coilovers – Increases suspension travel for better shock absorption.
✔ Long-Travel Suspension Kits – Perfect for extreme rock crawling and desert racing.
✔ Adjustable Control Arms – Improves stability and alignment for lifted Broncos.
✔ Upgraded Sway Bar Disconnects – Allows more wheel articulation for better off-road control.
✔ Recommended Brand: King Shocks, ICON Vehicle Dynamics, FOX Racing Shocks
💡 Why Upgrade? More suspension travel means smoother rides over rough terrain and better approach angles for rock climbing.
2. Bigger & More Aggressive Off-Road Tires
The Bronco Raptor comes with massive 37-inch BFGoodrich KO2 tires, but upgrading to a more aggressive tread pattern or larger size can improve traction in mud, snow, and deep sand.
Best Off-Road Tires:
✔ 40-inch Nitto Trail Grapplers – Best for deep mud and rocky terrain.
✔ Toyo Open Country M/T – Ideal for extreme off-road durability.
✔ BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 – Great balance of grip and durability.
✔ Recommended Size: 38-inch or 40-inch tires for maximum ground clearance.
💡 Why Upgrade? Larger tires improve traction, breakover angles, and overall off-road stability.
3. Heavy-Duty Skid Plates & Rock Sliders
While the Bronco Raptor has underbody protection, upgrading to thicker, more durable skid plates and rock sliders will help protect your vehicle from serious underbody damage on rough trails.
Best Armor Upgrades:
✔ Steel or Aluminum Skid Plates – Protects the engine, transmission, and fuel tank from rocks.
✔ Rock Sliders (Frame-Mounted) – Prevents damage to the doors and body when crawling over boulders.
✔ Front & Rear Differential Covers – Shields axles from direct impacts.
✔ Recommended Brand: ARB, RCI Metalworks, DV8 Offroad
💡 Why Upgrade? Stronger armor ensures your Bronco Raptor survives even the most punishing off-road conditions.
4. Winch & Recovery Gear for Extreme Terrain
If you’re serious about off-roading, a winch and recovery gear are must-haves to pull yourself out of tough situations.
Best Recovery Mods:
✔ 12,000+ lb Winch (Warn, Smittybilt, or ComeUp) – Essential for pulling your Bronco out of mud or deep ruts.
✔ D-Ring Shackles & Soft Shackles – Provides strong tow points for recovery.
✔ High-Lift Jack – Helps lift the Bronco when changing tires on rough terrain.
✔ Kinetic Recovery Rope – Absorbs shock and makes pulling easier.
💡 Why Upgrade? A winch setup can save you from getting stranded when tackling remote off-road trails.
5. High-Performance LED Light Bars & Spotlights
Off-roading at night? Upgrading to powerful LED lights can improve visibility on dark trails, deep forests, and desert dunes.
Best Lighting Mods:
✔ 40-inch Roof-Mounted LED Light Bar – Ideal for night driving and Baja-style off-roading.
✔ Ditch Lights (Mounted on A-Pillars) – Helps illuminate side trails and obstacles.
✔ Rear LED Chase Lights – Adds visibility in dusty conditions.
✔ Upgraded LED Headlights – Improves brightness and clarity on dark roads.
✔ Recommended Brand: Rigid Industries, Baja Designs, KC HiLites
💡 Why Upgrade? Brighter lights improve safety and visibility when navigating extreme terrain at night.
6. Snorkel for Deep Water Crossings & Dusty Trails
A snorkel helps prevent water from entering the engine during deep water crossings and keeps your intake clean in dusty environments.
✔ Best for river crossings and desert off-roading
✔ Raises air intake above water level to prevent hydro-lock
✔ Prevents dust and dirt from clogging the engine filter
✔ Recommended Brand: ARB Safari Snorkel, AEV Snorkel Kit
💡 Why Upgrade? Protects your engine from water and debris, extending its lifespan in harsh environments.
7. Regear for Larger Tires & Better Performance
If you’re running larger 38-inch or 40-inch tires, upgrading your gear ratio will help maintain performance, fuel economy, and low-end torque.
✔ Stock Ratio: 4.7:1
✔ Best Regearing Option: 5.13:1 or 5.38:1 for larger tires
💡 Why Upgrade? Helps regain lost acceleration and towing power after installing bigger tires.
8. Roof Rack & Cargo Storage for Overlanding
For long off-road adventures, upgrading your roof rack and cargo storage allows you to carry extra gear, camping equipment, and fuel.
✔ Best Storage Mods:
✔ Heavy-duty roof rack for tents, fuel cans, and gear
✔ Rear-mounted jerry can holders for extra fuel
✔ Lockable toolboxes for secure storage
✔ Recommended Brand: Rhino-Rack, Front Runner, Yakima
💡 Why Upgrade? Increases storage capacity for long overland trips and off-road expeditions.
Final Verdict: Best Upgrades for Your Ford Bronco Raptor
🔹 Essential Upgrades for Off-Roading:
✅ Suspension Lift & Long-Travel Shocks – Improves ground clearance
✅ Bigger 38” or 40” Mud-Terrain Tires – Better grip on extreme terrain
✅ Steel Skid Plates & Rock Sliders – Protects the underbody from damage
✅ 12,000+ lb Winch & Recovery Kit – Essential for self-recovery
✅ LED Light Bars & Spotlights – Improves visibility at night
✅ Snorkel Intake System – Protects the engine in water crossings
With these off-road mods, your Ford Bronco Raptor will be unstoppable on any trail. Whether you’re rock crawling, dune bashing, or overlanding, these upgrades will boost performance, durability, and overall off-road capability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the first mods I should do to my Ford Bronco Raptor?
A: The best first mods are bigger tires, a suspension lift, and skid plates for better protection and off-road capability.
Q: Can I fit 40-inch tires on my Bronco Raptor?
A: Yes! But you’ll need a suspension lift and re-gearing for the best performance.
Q: Does the Ford Bronco Raptor need a regear for larger tires?
A: Yes, if you upgrade to 38-inch or 40-inch tires, regearing to 5.13:1 or 5.38:1 is recommended.
Q: Is a winch necessary for off-roading?
A: Yes! A winch can help pull you out of mud, sand, or deep ruts, making it one of the most important off-road accessories.
🚙 Which mod would you upgrade first? Let us know in the comments! 👇