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The Definitive Guide on Ford's G.O.A.T. Mode

Updated on Jan 28, 2025

Greatest Of All Time? Adorable barnyard Animal?

Ford Motor Company created G.O.A.T. Mode—" Goes Over Any Terrain"— to be more than just a catchy name.

It’s the secret weapon that transforms your Ford Bronco or Bronco Sport into an all-terrain beast, ready to tackle whatever comes your way, from slick city streets to gnarly off-road trails full of mud ruts. Whether you’re cruising the highway or blazing new paths in the great outdoors, G.O.A.T. Mode has your back.

So, buckle up, and let’s dive into what makes this feature so epic!

What is G.O.A.T. Mode?

G.O.A.T. Mode is part of the Bronco's Terrain Management System, giving you the ability to conquer any surface with ease in only a few seconds. 

This system allows the Bronco to adapt to whatever type of terrain is beneath its tires—from mud and sand to snow and rock crawl mode—by adjusting throttle response, steering sensitivity, traction control, and transmission shift points. It’s like having a terrain expert riding shotgun, telling you exactly how to tackle each challenge.

Ford's G.O.A.T. Modes are available on the following models:

  • Ford Bronco: All trim levels come equipped with G.O.A.T. Modes, with higher trims offering additional modes for enhanced off-road capabilities.

  • Ford Bronco Sport: This compact SUV also features G.O.A.T. modes tailored to its design and intended use.

Get to Know the G.O.A.T. Modes

Let’s take a look at each G.O.A.T. Mode available in the Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport, plus a handy table breaking down what makes each mode unique. From high-speed sand sprints to rock-crawling control, there’s a G.O.A.T. Mode for every situation.

Mode

4WD Mode

Traction Control

Front Diff Lock

Rear Diff Lock

Throttle Response

Steering

Sway Bar Disconnect

Normal

2H

Normal

Available below 24 mph when in 4L

Available below 24 mph

Normal

Normal

Can be activated in 4H or 4L modes

ECO

2H, 4L is not available

Normal

Open, cannot be locked

Open, can be locked below 24 mph

Soft

Soft

Cannot be activated

Sport

2H (4A if equipped)

Off

Not available

Available below 24 mph

Aggressive

Tight

Cannot be activated

Slippery

4A or 4H

Extra

Available below 24 mph

Available below 24 mph

Soft

Soft

Cannot be activated

Sand

4H, 4L selectable

Extra

Available below 24 mph when in 4L

Locked

Normal

Soft

Can be disconnected

Mud/Rut

4H, 4L selectable

Off

Available below 24 mph

Locked

Normal

Soft

Can be disconnected

Rock Crawling

4L

Off

Available below 24 mph

Locked

Soft

Tight

Automatically disconnects

Baja

4H, 4A not selectable

Off

Open, can be locked below 24 mph when in 4L

Open, can be locked at any speed

Aggressive

Tight

Can be disconnected in 4H or 4L


Here’s a quick taste of what each G.O.A.T. Mode can do:

  • Normal Mode: Smooth, steady, and perfect for your daily drive. This default mode is ideal for everyday driving, maintaining vehicle performance for a comfortable experience on road.

  • Sport Mode: Tight steering, sharp throttle response, and plenty of fun—ideal for tearing up the asphalt. It optimizes shifting for a more responsive driving experience.

  • Slippery Mode: Specifically designed for wet, icy, or slippery surfaces, helping maintain control by adjusting torque distribution and traction control settings.

  • Mud/Rut Mode: Grip, traction, and plenty of mud-slinging excitement—perfect for light off-road excursions and traversing muddy ruts or rutted paths.

  • Rock Crawling Mode: Maximum control for those tight spots, steep climbs, and uneven terrains. It engages lower gears and four-wheel drive lock to provide optimum rock climbing ability.

  • Sand Mode: Designed for loose terrain like dry sand, helping you maintain momentum and reduce wheel spin by optimizing throttle response and traction control.

  • Eco Mode: Optimizes fuel efficiency for those moments when maximum fuel efficiency is a priority, ideal for on-road cruising and getting the most out of your tank.

  • Baja Mode: Built for high-speed off-road driving, this mode delivers aggressive throttle response and tight steering, making it perfect for loose surfaces and keeping the adventure thrilling.

Mastering G.O.A.T. Mode

Using G.O.A.T. Mode is a breeze—just turn the dial on your dashboard, and you’re ready to go. Each mode has its own unique icon, making it easy to see what you're using at a glance. And don’t worry if conditions change mid-adventure—the Bronco can switch modes on the fly.

Say you’re cruising along and suddenly hit some gnarly rocks. No problem—just twist the dial to "Rock Crawling," and watch as the Bronco adjusts everything from traction control to suspension to get you through safely. It’s like having a co-pilot who knows exactly what you need for the road ahead.

Plus, features like the front trail camera allow you to see obstacles up close and personal, ensuring optimal traction and momentum even on the toughest trails.


Take Your Bronco to the Next Level

G.O.A.T. Mode is just one of the many standout features that make the Ford Bronco and Ford Bronco Sport true adventure machines. With these terrain modes, you can take your Bronco from the city to the wild without breaking a sweat. It’s time to take control, master the trails, and make every trip unforgettable—whether it's deep snow, rocky trails, or slippery surfaces.

Which G.O.A.T. Mode do you use most often? Are there any features you wish Ford would add to these modes?

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