DV8 Off-Road Spec Series Bumpers Review Front and Rear

Written By Graham Taylor

IDV8 Off-Road Spec Series Bumpers Review
Vehicle: 2023 Ford Bronco Badlands (2” Lift)
Review by Graham Taylor – Arizona Broncos
Date: April 25, 2025

After spending some time researching bumper options for my Bronco, I finally pulled the trigger on the DV8 Off-Road Spec Series bumpers. While I considered a range of options—including higher-end choices like Addictive Desert Designs (ADD)—I ultimately chose DV8 for its solid design, local Arizona connection, and more affordable price point.

Yes, it’s well-known that while DV8 and ADD are both under the Horsepower Automotive Group, ADD products are manufactured in the U.S., and DV8’s are imported. Still, DV8 offers strong value—and I’ve been pleasantly surprised by just how capable this bumper setup really is.

Background

This wasn’t a “need” purchase—I was running the stock modular bumper with the Ford/Warn winch setup without any issues. I simply wanted something different. Ironically, after pushing the new bumper through some serious obstacles, I realized it was more of a “need” than I thought.

Note: If your Bronco has adaptive cruise control or a front camera, you'll need relocation kits for both—DV8 makes these, and I had already installed them with my original winch setup.

Packaging

DV8 nailed it on packaging. Every steel component came wrapped in padded rubber, and the box was filled with expanding foam. Unboxing was a bit of a hassle, but it was worth it to see everything arrive in pristine condition. All hardware was present, and I had zero powder coat issues—though I’ve seen some others mention this online.

Just make sure you’ve got a space ready for all the packing materials. There's a lot of it.

Installation & Assembly

The instructions from DV8 were clear and easy to follow. As a step-by-step kind of guy, that was appreciated. I had a couple buddies help out with the front bumper install—it’s heavy once the winch, sensors, and lights are installed, so expect a two- or three-person job. The rear bumper, on the other hand, was super straightforward. One person with a jack stand can handle it.

Pro tip: Before installing the bumpers, I highly recommend adding a frame horn gusset kit, especially if you’re running a winch. DV8 doesn’t make one, but ADD and LOD do.

YouTube was a helpful backup when I needed some extra clarity. If you’re a weekend DIY’er, plan on a full day to install both bumpers.

Front Bumper Impressions

This bumper looks and performs great. The improved approach angle and ground clearance are immediately noticeable—no more scarring like I had on the modular bumper. I’ve taken it through some tough trails and haven’t hit it once.

My current setup:

  • Winch: Warn Zeon 10S

  • Pods: 4x Rigid 3” pods in the wings

  • Light bar: 20” single row inside the bumper

  • Bull bar: 4 Harbor Freight RoadShock Edge lights

Despite instructions recommending pre-installing the pods, you can access them afterward—it’s just a tight squeeze. The sensor fitment was tricky; OEM bezels didn’t fit great, so I grabbed replacements on Amazon. Wiring was easy thanks to the built-in zip-tie tabs.

My only concerns are minor: the skid plate attachment. DV8 uses button-head screws for the wings, and I broke one during a light impact. It's a minor flaw, but something I’d like to address going forward. I was also disappointed that DV8 does not put more emphasis on or supply the frame horn gusset.

Rear Bumper Impressions

The rear bumper also looks fantastic and delivers a major improvement in departure angle. With the stock steel bumper, I had already trashed the license plate and hit the corners a few times. Since installing the DV8, it’s taken on rocky ledges without a scratch.

I like how the pod placements add a layer of mesh protection, similar to the front. My only gripe: the sensor bezels. Reusing the OEM ones isn’t practical, and aftermarket options may be necessary.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I’m really happy with this bumper combo. It looks aggressive, performs better than expected, and adds serious off-road capability to the Bronco. If you’re considering this setup from DV8, I’d definitely give it a thumbs up. I’ll report back after I’ve put it through even more abuse—but so far, it’s been a rock-solid upgrade.

Graham Taylor