Ford Owner Help · Bronco
How to Remove the Top on a Ford Bronco
Front panels come off in about a minute with no tools. Pick your top below for every step.
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Pick Your Top
Covers 2021 and newer 2-door and 4-door Broncos. Park level, set the brake, and have a padded spot for panels.
Front and Middle Panels
- Lower the sun visors and release the header latch above the windshield.
- Driver panel: turn the three L-shaped latches, release the fourth, and lift it off (about 12 lb).
- Passenger panel: same as the driver side. You can drive with just the front panels off.
- 4-door middle panel: release the latches on both sides and lift it off (about 27.5 lb, easier with two people).
Rear Shell (Full Removal)
- Roof rack first, if equipped: front cover screws (T30), rack nuts (13 mm), rear triangle fasteners (triangular tool).
- Open the tailgate, raise the rear glass, and disconnect the wiring harness and washer hose.
- Remove the rear-section bolts, typically two at the C-pillar and four on each side at the base.
- Lift the shell straight up off the locating pins with a second person (about 80 lb 2-door, 68 lb 4-door).
Fold It Back
- Lower the visors and release the two front header latches.
- Push the top up and back so the fabric folds into an S shape, until the driver-side lever sits parallel to the sport bar and latches.
- Secure it with the two straps from the glove box, around the linkage, not the weatherstripping.
Remove It Completely
- Remove the side windows, then the rear window, and fold the top back.
- In the cargo area, pop the covers over the rear mounting points above each wheel well.
- Remove the three 13 mm bolts on each side. Put a rag in the gap so bolts don't drop inside.
- Release the rear-corner latches and lift the top off with a second person.
Tools (in the Bronco Kit)
| Tool | Used for |
|---|---|
| 13 mm hex socket | Soft-top frame bolts, roof-rack nuts, windshield caps |
| T30 Torx | Roof-rack cover screws |
| T50 Torx | Hard-top rear-section bolts (some years) |
| Triangular bolt tool | Roof-rack triangle fasteners |
| Ratchet | General fastening |
The kit lives under the cargo-area floor panel.
Putting It Back On
- Hard top rear shell: seat it on the locating pins, torque the bolts to 18 ± 3 lb-ft, and reconnect the harness and washer hose. Reinstall panels middle, passenger, then driver.
- Soft top: seat it on the locating pins and torque the six frame bolts to 15 ± 2 lb-ft. Rear window first, then the sides.
- Check every latch and bolt before you drive.
Let Tom's Ford Help
Stripped a bolt, lost a panel bag, or want the top swapped for the season? Our service team handles removal and reinstallation, and our Parts Center sources genuine Ford panels and hardware. Free pickup and delivery within 20 miles of Keyport.
Missing a panel, bag or bolt? Send a parts request with your VIN and we'll find the genuine Ford part.
Bronco Top Removal: FAQs
Can one person take the top off a Bronco?
The front panels, yes. They're light and tool-free. The rear hard-top shell and the full soft top need a second person.
Do the tools come with the Bronco?
Yes. The 13 mm socket, T30, T50, ratchet and triangular tool are in the kit under the cargo floor panel.
How much do the Bronco roof panels weigh?
Front panels are about 12 lb each, the 4-door middle panel about 27.5 lb, and the rear shell about 80 lb (2-door) or 68 lb (4-door).
Can I drive with just the front panels off?
Yes. Make sure every remaining latch is secure first.
What's the torque spec for reinstalling the top?
Hard-top rear bolts: 18 ± 3 lb-ft. Soft-top frame bolts: 15 ± 2 lb-ft.
Do I need to disconnect anything to remove the hard top?
Yes. Disconnect the rear wiring harness and washer hose before lifting off the rear shell.
Do I have to remove the roof rack first?
Only if you have one and you're removing the rear hard-top shell.
Does removing the top void my warranty?
No. It's a designed feature. Reinstall and torque everything correctly.
The information on this page is provided as a general guide for Ford owners, for convenience only. Procedures, locations, and specifications vary by model, year, and trim and may change over time. Always follow your vehicle's Owner's Manual, which takes precedence over anything on this page. These steps are not a substitute for professional service, and some can risk personal injury or vehicle damage if done incorrectly — proceed at your own risk, and contact a qualified technician if you are unsure. Tom's Ford assumes no liability for any loss, injury, or damage arising from use of this information.