If you’re a new Ford Bronco owner, there’s a decent chance your windshield’s already taken a hit – and we mean literally. From stress cracks to flying rocks to sudden temperature swings, new owners are finding out the hard way just how vulnerable these big upright windshields can be.

‍

So let’s walk through the most common causes of windshield cracks on the Ford Bronco, what causes them, what other owners are saying, and what (if anything) can be done to protect your glass. Real stories, real solutions – no fluff.

Crack in First Hour Off The Lot: Is This Normal?

There’s no sense in sugarcoating it – some drivers are seeing chips and cracks within hours of picking up their Bronco.

One new owner reported getting a rock chip on the drive home from the dealership. A week later, it ran the full height of the glass:  “Got my first chip about an hour after… Crack ran all the way from bottom to top within a week.”

And they’re not alone. Multiple commenters echoed the same experience. Brand new truck, brand new crack.

‍

Why it happens:

The Bronco’s nearly 90° vertical windshield definitely gives it a unique and rugged look, but the design unfortunately makes it more susceptible to direct impact. Combine that with thin OEM glass and it’s a recipe for early damage.

‍

What can you do about it?

‍
Windshield protection film, like ULTRA, is the ideal defense for vehicles with vertical windshields, like Bronco. ExoShield ULTRA is a thick, optically clear layer that absorbs the force of flying rocks and road debris before it can damage the glass beneath. It adds a critical layer of impact resistance without affecting visibility or appearance.

‍

Ever Experienced a Crack Due to a Temperature Change? 

Cracks don’t always need a flying rock to start. Sometimes it’s something as simple as a change in weather. 

One Bay Area driver mentioned watching a clean split creep across their windshield just two hours after a major temperature change and that’s with zero impact sustained.

‍

Thermal stress (caused by heat expansion or sudden cold exposure) can compromise the glass, especially if it’s already under tension. This is particularly common in climates with big morning-to-afternoon temperature swings like the High Plains of Colorado, or the Desert Southwest of Nevada or New Mexico, or the Intermountain West in places like inland Oregon or British Columbia. 

‍

Temperature changes have an even greater impact when small chips are already present, which is why windhsield protection film is always a smart choice

‍

Back-to-Back Windshield Cracks — What’s Going On? 

If you think one crack is bad, try three.

Some Bronco owners have reported having to replace or repair their windshields on an annual basis. One Redditor shared that in just 2.3 years, they were already on their third windshield.

‍

This isn’t just bad luck – it’s an emerging pattern.

‍

Warranty Coverage: What Will Ford Actually Pay For?

Here’s the good news: stress cracks – those caused by design flaws, thermal stress, or body pressure – may be covered under Ford’s warranty if they occur within 12 months or 12,000 miles.

The bad news, though? Most cracks aren’t stress cracks. They’re stone chips.

“Depending on the age… Ford covers stress cracks in windshields for 12 months/12,000 miles.”

‍

Unfortunately, standard impact damage (like from gravel or road debris) doesn’t usually qualify for any coverage, even if it happens early.

‍

OEM vs. Aftermarket: Is One More Durable?

There’s no official consensus, but many Bronco owners say aftermarket replacements seem to hold up better than the OEM glass.

One driver had to replace their factory windshield twice in six months. After switching to an aftermarket version, they haven’t had an issue since.

Others suggest brands that use thicker laminate or come with built-in UV/stress protection may offer better resilience, though prices vary.

‍

Luck vs. Design: What's Really to Blame?

There’s no two ways about it. The Ford Bronco’s windshield shape definitely makes it more vulnerable to damage – but that’s not the whole story.

“Everyone will say welcome to Bronco ownership… but I’m 14 000 miles in without any windshield chips. Sometimes you just are unlucky.”

‍

So yeah – while the design does put it at higher risk, some drivers go years without a crack. But others barely make it past the dealership.

it’s where you drive, how you park, and whether or not the gravel gods are in your favor.

‍

So, Where Do We Go From Here?

Yes, Bronco windshields are known for cracking — and while flying rocks are often to blame, they’re not the only cause. You’re definitely not alone in facing this frustrating issue. In fact, there are entire online communities sharing their experiences and frustrations with what seems to be a common problem for Bronco owners.

‍

If you want to prevent future cracks, your best move might be to install a protective windshield film like ExoShield ULTRA. It also helps to park in shaded or enclosed spots to avoid heat stress, and try not to tailgate — especially on gravel roads. And here’s a pro tip: if you think something might’ve hit your windshield, check it right away. Catching a small chip early could save you from a full-blown crack later.