Bodine returned to Budd Moore's team in 1989 driving the No. 15 Motorcraft Ford. Brett recorded a top 5 finish at Michigan and a total of 6 top tens, moving up one spot to finish the season 19th in points. He also placed 2nd in the Winston Open, just missing out on making the All-Star Race.  Overall, Brett's performance improved in his sophomore campaign as Brett's average finished improved by three spots. Late in the 1989 season, Brett made the decision to leave Bud Moore's team due to that team's sponsorship uncertainty for the 1990 season. Brett also had disagreements with Bud Moore on the type of chassis that the team was using (rear steer vs. front steer).