WARN Elite Series Front Bumper with Grille Guard Tube

For the last several days, images and write-ups of WARN’s Elite Series Front Bumper with Grille Guard Tube have been circulating. Outlets, including MotorTrend and Bronco6G, have shared their thoughts on the bumper, and Bronco Nation’s [USER=11250]@gizmohd[/USER] posted about it in the forums along with camera relocation instructions.

The WARN Elite Series Front Bumper with Grille Guard Tube is priced at $1,799.99 and made in the USA.

WARN describes it as:

• Tested to 12,000 lbs. pulling capacity
• Integrated off-road jack lifting points
• Welded, one-piece construction uses 3/16” thick steel
• Bumpers available with or without grille guard tube
• Grille guards constructed of large diameter, welded steel tubing for maximum durability
• Welded eyelets for D-shackles providing increased recovery options
• Bumper designs provide generous tire clearance and accommodate oversize tires Integrated light ports to mount aftermarket fog lights

The Bronco’s forward-facing camera will be blocked by the grille guard tube and an upright mounted winch control box. However, buyers can retain the camera’s functionality if they select the Elite Bumper without grille guard tube, and relocate the winch’s control pack from atop the winch. Control box relocation hardware is available.

WARN and Ford: Integrated Design

The 2021 Bronco’s camera is an issue for the Ford Performance Bronco Winch Kit as well, showcased in the Built Wild accessories line. While the kit was co-developed by Ford and WARN engineers for OEM-level fit, finish, durability, and vehicle integration, it is only available for 2021 Broncos without a front camera.

However, even with that limitation, the beauty of adding the Built Wild kit to your Bronco is the designed tie-in. Adding a heavy chunk of metal to the front of your vehicle could be a problem for safety –– if Ford had not planned for it in advance. According to Ford chief program engineer Eric Loeffler, the Bronco was crash-tested with and without the WARN winch kit. Once you add the optional kit to your Bronco, your software will be re-flashed at the dealership, so airbags deploy as designed.

All that to say, whether you’re going with the OE Modular Front Bumper plus the Built Wild Ford Performance Bronco Winch Kit or this Elite Series Front Bumper and winch, WARN understands the exact specs of your Bronco. For many off-roaders, winches will not be needed. But if you’re going to outfit your vehicle with a winch and bumper to support it, it may be a good idea to choose a manufacturer well-aware of your vehicle’s specifications and nuances.