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2021 Ford Bronco Sport

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

More warning signs than most Bronco Sport years

Owner complaints for the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport are substantially higher than the model-year median of 130.5.

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When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

196 reports with mileage · 493 unknown

NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.

What to inspect

Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.

  • Electrical System. Review the 209 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Power Train. Review the 181 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Engine. Review the 147 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

18 crash reports16 fire reports8 injury reports

Power Train complaints

181 reports
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Mileage unknown · Jan 26, 2024
Power Train

The car suddenly started jerking in and out of gear and then completely stalled. The gear shift would not move and the car would not start. The car had to be towed to the dealership. Their service advisor stated, "DTCs are PSI related codes & metal in fluid. Believe internal transmission issues are present." There were no probl…

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The car suddenly started jerking in and out of gear and then completely stalled. The gear shift would not move and the car would not start. The car had to be towed to the dealership. Their service advisor stated, "DTCs are PSI related codes & metal in fluid. Believe internal transmission issues are present." There were no problems noticed or earning lights prior to this incident. The car is kept in a garage overnight and has mostly highway miles. It is regularly services by certified shops.

NHTSA ODI #11567985

Mileage unknown · Dec 10, 2023
EnginePower TrainUnknown Or Other

Car stopped while driving. Couldn’t get the car into neutral to move it out of the road. Would not crank. Leaking oil.

NHTSA ODI #11559397

Mileage unknown · Nov 14, 2023
Power Train

Grinding noise from backend, vehicle went into limp mode and I was not able to accelerate, rpms were bouncing. Was able to cruise the rest of the way home at 40mph. Researching and finding that there were recalls on RDU on certain vehicles but not my particular bronco. I do not take my vehicle off reading. I drive interstate…

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Grinding noise from backend, vehicle went into limp mode and I was not able to accelerate, rpms were bouncing. Was able to cruise the rest of the way home at 40mph. Researching and finding that there were recalls on RDU on certain vehicles but not my particular bronco. I do not take my vehicle off reading. I drive interstate to and from work. Car is 2 years old and RDU should not being going bad other than poor lubrication from manufacturer

NHTSA ODI #11555110

Mileage unknown · Nov 8, 2023
Power Train

Driving i10 west and my vehicle lost power shifted hard and went in limp mode. Wrench light came on with these warning awd/powertrain, hill assist front end collision unavailable, won’t shift to park

NHTSA ODI #11554113

Mileage unknown · Oct 3, 2023
Power TrainService BrakesUnknown Or Other

When reversing there is the absolute worst extremely loud embarrassing metallic screeching sound, considerable to a ships horn. Once you press brake fully and come to a complete stop the sounds ceases, let go of the brake it come right back. You can put it in drive and then back to reversing, same thing. Dealership was infor…

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When reversing there is the absolute worst extremely loud embarrassing metallic screeching sound, considerable to a ships horn. Once you press brake fully and come to a complete stop the sounds ceases, let go of the brake it come right back. You can put it in drive and then back to reversing, same thing. Dealership was informed in 2022, said they fixed it. Spring/Summer of 2023 after complaining again was told part was ordered, could not be told what part. September 2023 was told no part was ordered, issue was fixed. October 2023 had a male take my bronco in for repairs and answers, parts are now reordered, parts are back ordered since this is a recall, no time frame on repair. When you check my vin for recalls, all recalls are closed. I am under the impression that my Dealership never has done recall work and only clearing them off as completed.

NHTSA ODI #11548015

30,000 miles · Sep 5, 2023
Electrical SystemEnginePower Train

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact stated while at a stop light, the vehicle shut off with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The message "Service Collision Assist" and "System Powering Down" were displayed. After the engine cooled down, the contact was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was ta…

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The contact owns a 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact stated while at a stop light, the vehicle shut off with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The message "Service Collision Assist" and "System Powering Down" were displayed. After the engine cooled down, the contact was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who was unable to find a cause for the failure. The contact stated that the failure had reoccurred. The vehicle was not repaired. On another occasion while driving 15 MPH and slowing down, the vehicle lost motive power with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact attempted several times to restart the vehicle, but the vehicle would not restart. The contact was able to push the vehicle off the roadway and had the vehicle towed to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.

NHTSA ODI #11542788

Mileage unknown · Aug 27, 2023
EnginePower TrainService Brakes

Transmission locked in park while attempting to move off of a traffic light. Brakes locked up, unable to start car. Was stuck in the middle lane on a busy street.

NHTSA ODI #11541061

Mileage unknown · Aug 16, 2023
Electrical SystemEnginePower Train

I currently am at 14,000 miles on my2021 Bronco Sport. I have had no issues prior to what happened to me on August 9th. While I was at a light my car went completely black with no warning and I was not able to put on hazard lights or put it in neutral to get off the busy highway. I had to call 911 as cars were zipping up clos…

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I currently am at 14,000 miles on my2021 Bronco Sport. I have had no issues prior to what happened to me on August 9th. While I was at a light my car went completely black with no warning and I was not able to put on hazard lights or put it in neutral to get off the busy highway. I had to call 911 as cars were zipping up close to mine and I was only able to wave my arms to get them to see my car was unoccupied. I was screamed at, honked at all while frantic trying to explain to the 911 operator that I needed a deputy to come and put his lights on behind my car to prevent an accident. My car sat in the middle of the highway with no warning lights on until a tow truck arrived. We then found out there is a way to release the gear and put it into neutral so we could push it to the side of the road. The car was towed to the house where I then had to have another tow truck come get it and tow it to the dealership where i was already waiting for a part. (Differential) At this point it has now been 8 days and i have no updates on what actually happened to my car but in my discovery I have read that this is a more common occurrence than not. Just while waiting in the Enterprise waiting room, waiting for my rental I met a girl with the same exact issue. How many others is this happening to and when will Ford recall this model car before someone is killed? I want answers and want to make sure when they say my car is fixed that it truly is fixed. I am scared to death to drive it now that I even have purchased road flares so I am ready for the next break down, because I truly believe it will happen again.

NHTSA ODI #11538977

Mileage unknown · Aug 10, 2023
Power TrainUnknown Or Other

Beginning at approximately 25,000 miles the vehicle started exhibiting stuttering at low speeds (<10 mph) while turning. this happened in both forward and reverse and turning either direction. I originally reported it as possible CV joint issue. Dealer informed me it was a known issue and drained and replaced the RDU fluid. Issu…

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Beginning at approximately 25,000 miles the vehicle started exhibiting stuttering at low speeds (<10 mph) while turning. this happened in both forward and reverse and turning either direction. I originally reported it as possible CV joint issue. Dealer informed me it was a known issue and drained and replaced the RDU fluid. Issue went away but resurfaced around the 50,000 mile mark. same results that the issue went away. Issue came once again at ~ 75,000 miles at which point I was informed that it was no longer covered by warranty. I paid to have same "fix" done, however the issue did not go away. Ford has stated that they will not cover cost of repair even though this is an existing issue identified under warranty and not corrected. Issue currently has a NHTSA communication (10187981)

NHTSA ODI #11537691

Mileage unknown · Jun 21, 2023
Electrical SystemPower Train

After coming down an incline in my garage at work I stopped at a red light, took my foot off of the brake to let the brake assist kick in and my auto idle kicked off as well. Within seconds my car shut off and the instrument panel started flickering. I got SEVERAL error messages flashing by quickly including the "Park Brake Mal…

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After coming down an incline in my garage at work I stopped at a red light, took my foot off of the brake to let the brake assist kick in and my auto idle kicked off as well. Within seconds my car shut off and the instrument panel started flickering. I got SEVERAL error messages flashing by quickly including the "Park Brake Malfunction Service Now" error. I tried to turn the car back on and kept hearing a clicking sound followed by all of the lights flashing again. I couldn't shift to any other gear and was stuck at this intersection unable to move the car or get the windows to open or do anything. Opened the hood to check the battery and everything looked clean and tightly connected. Jiggled the terminal and let it shut down completely. Tried starting again and it worked this time. This has happened once in this same spot before. I took it in to the dealership and they are currently "trying to recreate the issue to get the error message." The true safety concern is for this to happen while on the highway or even in the middle of an intersection. It seems to happen out of nowhere and the fact that the car cannot be put in neutral doesn't even allow for moving it to a safer location.

NHTSA ODI #11528100

Official recalls

16

26V340000 · Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Ball Joint

May 27, 2026

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2026 Bronco Sport and 2022-2026 Maverick vehicles. The front lower control arm ball joints may have been incorrectly installed or incorrectly repaired at the vehicle assembly plant, allowing the control arm to disconnect from the front wheel knuckle.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A detached control arm can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy is completed. Dealers will inspect and repair the front lower control arm ball joints as necessary, free of charge.Owner notification letters were mailed September 2, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S36. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on May 29, 2026.

25V685000 · Equipment:electrical:engine Block Heater

Oct 10, 2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed December 3, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated September 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.

25V467000 · Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System

Jul 11, 2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2020-2022 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will update the engine control software. In addition, dealers will replace the high-pressure fuel rail assembly and fuel injectors, free of charge. As an interim repair, dealers will update the engine control software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed August 29, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in July 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S76. This recall expands and replaces previous recall numbers 22V-859, 24V187, and 25V165. Vehicles previously remedied under 22V-859, 24V187, and 25V165 will need to have the new final remedy performed once it is available.

25V442000 · Back Over Prevention:software

Jun 27, 2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.

25V158000 · Electrical System:body Control Module/bcm; Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (tcm/pcm/tecm)

Mar 14, 2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 24V-267. The body and power train control modules may fail to detect a change in the 12-volt battery state of charge.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: An undetected low battery charge can result in a loss of electrical accessories such as hazard lights, or cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will recalibrate the body control module and power train control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 23, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S26.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (tcm/pcm/tecm)

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 24V-267. The body and power train control modules may fail to detect a change in the 12-volt battery state of charge.

Consequence: An undetected low battery charge can result in a loss of electrical accessories such as hazard lights, or cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will recalibrate the body control module and power train control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 23, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S26.

Electrical System:body Control Module/bcm

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 24V-267. The body and power train control modules may fail to detect a change in the 12-volt battery state of charge.

Consequence: An undetected low battery charge can result in a loss of electrical accessories such as hazard lights, or cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will recalibrate the body control module and power train control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 23, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S26.

25V165000 · Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System

Mar 14, 2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape and 2021-2023 Bronco Sport vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall numbers 22V-859 or 24V-187. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S21.

25V019000 · Electrical SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V Battery

Jan 17, 2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco Sport and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles. The 12-volt battery may experience degradation and suddenly fail.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: Battery failure can result in a loss of electrical accessories, including the hazard lights, or cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and if necessary, replace the 12-volt battery, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 2, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S02. Vehicles in this recall were previously repaired under 24V-267 and will need to have the new remedy completed.

24V267000 · Electrical System:body Control Module/bcm; Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (tcm/pcm/tecm)

Apr 12, 2024

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles. The body and power train control modules may fail to detect a change in the 12-volt battery state of charge.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: An undetected low battery charge can result in a loss of electrical accessories such as hazard lights, or cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will recalibrate the body control module and power train control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 4, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S24.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Electrical System:body Control Module/bcm

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles. The body and power train control modules may fail to detect a change in the 12-volt battery state of charge.

Consequence: An undetected low battery charge can result in a loss of electrical accessories such as hazard lights, or cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will recalibrate the body control module and power train control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 4, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S24.

Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (tcm/pcm/tecm)

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles. The body and power train control modules may fail to detect a change in the 12-volt battery state of charge.

Consequence: An undetected low battery charge can result in a loss of electrical accessories such as hazard lights, or cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will recalibrate the body control module and power train control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 4, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S24.

22V859000 · Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System

Nov 18, 2022

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Escape and 2021-2023 Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will update the engine control software to include fuel injector leak detection and install a drain tube, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed January 9, 2023. Remedy parts are expected to be available in 1st Quarter of 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed February 28, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S73. This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under 22V-191. Vehicles previously remedied under 22V-191 will need to have the new remedy performed.

22V191000 · Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:oil/lubrication

Mar 25, 2022

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape and 2021-2022 Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. The engine oil separator housing may crack and develop an oil leak.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the oil separator for damage or oil leaks, and replace the oil separator and seals, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 18, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S21.

21V922000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc:caliper

Nov 23, 2021

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco Sport and Escape vehicles. The rear brake linings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can affect braking performance. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: During certain situations, the driver may have to apply more brake pedal force, and the distance required to stop the vehicle may be extended, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the front brake pads, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 17, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C31.

21V809000 · Visibility:sun/moon Roof Assembly

Oct 15, 2021

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Bronco Sport vehicles. The moonroof glass may not have been bonded correctly to the moonroof frame, which could result in the glass panel detaching from the vehicle.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A detached glass panel can become a road hazard, and increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the moonroof glass date code and replace the glass, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 18, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S46.

21V625000 · Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump:control/drive Module

Aug 10, 2021

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, and 2021-2022 Bronco Sport vehicles. The fuel delivery module may leak inside the fuel tank, causing low fuel pressure which could result in an engine stall.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel delivery module, free of charge. Interim notification letters (remedy not available) were mailed on September 30, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on December 14, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S38.

21V074000 · Suspension:front:control Arm

Feb 16, 2021

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Bronco Sport vehicles. These vehicles may have been produced with incorrect front lower control arms.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: An incorrect lower control arm may affect vehicle handling and control, increasing the risk of a rollover crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the front lower control arms, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 9, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S03.

21V075000 · Suspension:rear

Feb 16, 2021

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Bronco Sport vehicles. The rear suspension subframe assembly may have loose or missing bolts.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: Loose or missing bolts may affect the vehicle's handling and control, increasing the risk of a crash. It could also reduce the vehicle's performance in a rear impact crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear suspension bolts, and secure or replace the bolts, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 10, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S04.

21V011000 · Power Train:driveline:driveshaft

Jan 15, 2021

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Edge, 2020 Lincoln Nautilus and Ford Escape and 2021 Lincoln Corsair and Ford Bronco Sport vehicles. An inadequate amount of lubricant in the rear drive unit may cause seizure of the rear drive axle.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: If the rear drive unit seizes, there may be a loss of drive and/or a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will check the rear drive unit lubricant level. Axles found to have lubricant at the minimum level will be filled to the full level. Axles found to be below the minimum lubricant fill level will be replaced, free of charge. This recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S02.

Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗

NHTSA investigations

2

RQ24014 · Loss Of Motive Power

Opened Nov 15, 2024 · Closed Oct 10, 2025

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Electrical SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V Battery

On January 31, 2024, The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE24002) to investigate loss of motive power allegations in model year (MY) 2021 Ford Bronco Sport vehicles. Consumers reported a loss of engine power accompanied by complete electrical system failure either while driving or after stopping at a traffic light or stop sign. The vehicles generally could not be restarted, and the incidents were commonly diagnosed by dealerships to a failed 12-Volt (12V) battery. On April 12, 2024, Ford issued safety recall 24V-267 covering 456,565 MY 2021-2024 Ford Bronco Sport and MY 2022-2023 Ford Maverick vehicles. The recall addressed loss of motive power resulting from sudden degradation of the 12V battery during the drive cycle. The recall remedy consisted of software updates to the body control module and the powertrain control module. The updated software aimed to provide warning to consumers when the battery is failing and inhibit certain vehicle functions which can lead to loss of motive power incidents. Additionally, Ford removed the existing 12V Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB) as both a service component for the subject vehicles and original equipment for newly built Bronco Sport vehicles (during MY 2024 production), replacing it with a more robust absorbed glass mat (AGM) battery. The same AGM battery had been incorporated into Ford Maverick production in late 2022. Following recall 24V-267, ODI received loss of motive power complaints in vehicles that had previously received Ford’s software-based remedy. Consumers reported that they did not receive warnings related to the 12V battery or the vehicle’s electrical system before the loss of power. On November 15, 2024, ODI opened Recall Query (RQ24014) to assess the effectiveness of the 24V-267 recall remedy. On January 19, 2025, Ford issued recall 25V-019 covering 272,817 MY 2021-2023 Bronco Sport and MY 2022-2023 Ford Maverick vehicles. The new recall addressed the same hazard as 24V-267 but required replacement of the existing 12V battery with an AGM battery as the remedy. Ford reported that following the opening of RQ24014, it evaluated several field-returned 12V batteries, and determined that EFBs produced by battery supplier Camel potentially contained internal manufacturing defects causing loss of motive power. Ford further concluded that the software updates provided in the 24V-267 recall remedy were unable to detect battery failures quickly enough to avoid loss of motive power. Vehicles previously within the scope of recall 24V-267, but outside of the scope of recall 25V-019, are equipped with EFBs produced by a different battery supplier (Clarios). When recall 25V-019 was issued, Ford had not identified any Clarios EFBs exhibiting the same failure mode as the Camel EFBs. In light of Ford’s recall action, ODI is closing this Recall Query. The agency will continue to monitor loss of motive power complaints in Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with Clarios EFBs and reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

PE24002 · Loss Of Motive Power

Opened Jan 31, 2024 · Closed Aug 19, 2024

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Electrical SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V Battery

On January 31, 2024, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE24002 to investigate allegations of loss of motive power in model year (MY) 2021 Ford Bronco Sport vehicles. At that time, ODI had received 31 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs), with consumers commonly reporting a loss of engine power accompanied by complete electrical system failure which occurred either while driving, or after coming to a stop. The investigation revealed that MY 2021-2024 Ford Bronco Sport and certain MY 2022-2023 Ford Maverick vehicles are equipped with a 12V enhanced flooded battery (EFB), which may experience an abrupt failure during a drive cycle. The failure is the result of an internal corrosion issue, which is influenced by long exposure to high under-hood temperatures. If the sudden loss of 12V battery voltage is not detected by the vehicle’s battery management sensor, the vehicle can experience a loss of power event without providing any warning to the driver. Following a loss of power due to battery failure, the vehicle may be without all 12V accessories including hazard lights and typically will not be able to be restarted. In its March 2024 response to ODI’s information request, Ford provided 367 customer complaints (including field reports, lawsuits, and legal claims) and 1005 warranty claims relating to the alleged defect. When combining ODI and manufacturer failure report data, there are 1,368 unique VINs represented across MY 2021-2023 Ford Bronco Sport vehicles. One of the VOQs submitted to NHTSA reported a minor rear-end collision resulting from a loss of power event. Included within Ford’s complaints were a reported single-vehicle collision and a vehicle fire which occurred following a loss of power event at a traffic light (fire cause and origin was not determined). Additionally, across ODI and manufacturer data, there were 12 allegations of either acid leaking from the 12V battery or smoke emitting from the battery area within the engine compartment. On April 12, 2024, Ford submitted recall 24V267 for MY 2021-2024 Ford Bronco Sport and certain MY 2022-2023 Ford Maverick vehicles (total population 456,565). The recall remedy provides updated calibrations to the body control module and powertrain control module. Ford indicated that the update will result in improved detection of 12V battery state of charge during drive cycles and will provide notification to the driver if the battery significantly degrades while driving. Additionally, Ford has replaced the EFB with an absorbed glass mat (AGM) battery as both a service component for the subject vehicles and as original equipment for Bronco Sport vehicles with production dates beginning in mid-March 2024. The warranty claim rate for peer vehicles equipped with an AGM battery is substantially lower than that for the subject vehicle population. In view of the recall action being taken by Ford, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Electrical SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V Battery

On January 31, 2024, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE24002 to investigate allegations of loss of motive power in model year (MY) 2021 Ford Bronco Sport vehicles. At that time, ODI had received 31 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs), with consumers commonly reporting a loss of engine power accompanied by complete electrical system failure which occurred either while driving, or after coming to a stop. The investigation revealed that MY 2021-2024 Ford Bronco Sport and certain MY 2022-2023 Ford Maverick vehicles are equipped with a 12V enhanced flooded battery (EFB), which may experience an abrupt failure during a drive cycle. The failure is the result of an internal corrosion issue, which is influenced by long exposure to high under-hood temperatures. If the sudden loss of 12V battery voltage is not detected by the vehicle’s battery management sensor, the vehicle can experience a loss of power event without providing any warning to the driver. Following a loss of power due to battery failure, the vehicle may be without all 12V accessories including hazard lights and typically will not be able to be restarted. In its March 2024 response to ODI’s information request, Ford provided 367 customer complaints (including field reports, lawsuits, and legal claims) and 1005 warranty claims relating to the alleged defect. When combining ODI and manufacturer failure report data, there are 1,368 unique VINs represented across MY 2021-2023 Ford Bronco Sport vehicles. One of the VOQs submitted to NHTSA reported a minor rear-end collision resulting from a loss of power event. Included within Ford’s complaints were a reported single-vehicle collision and a vehicle fire which occurred following a loss of power event at a traffic light (fire cause and origin was not determined). Additionally, across ODI and manufacturer data, there were 12 allegations of either acid leaking from the 12V battery or smoke emitting from the battery area within the engine compartment. On April 12, 2024, Ford submitted recall 24V267 for MY 2021-2024 Ford Bronco Sport and certain MY 2022-2023 Ford Maverick vehicles (total population 456,565). The recall remedy provides updated calibrations to the body control module and powertrain control module. Ford indicated that the update will result in improved detection of 12V battery state of charge during drive cycles and will provide notification to the driver if the battery significantly degrades while driving. Additionally, Ford has replaced the EFB with an absorbed glass mat (AGM) battery as both a service component for the subject vehicles and as original equipment for Bronco Sport vehicles with production dates beginning in mid-March 2024. The warranty claim rate for peer vehicles equipped with an AGM battery is substantially lower than that for the subject vehicle population. In view of the recall action being taken by Ford, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

Electrical SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V Battery

On January 31, 2024, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE24002 to investigate allegations of loss of motive power in model year (MY) 2021 Ford Bronco Sport vehicles. At that time, ODI had received 31 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs), with consumers commonly reporting a loss of engine power accompanied by complete electrical system failure which occurred either while driving, or after coming to a stop. The investigation revealed that MY 2021-2024 Ford Bronco Sport and certain MY 2022-2023 Ford Maverick vehicles are equipped with a 12V enhanced flooded battery (EFB), which may experience an abrupt failure during a drive cycle. The failure is the result of an internal corrosion issue, which is influenced by long exposure to high under-hood temperatures. If the sudden loss of 12V battery voltage is not detected by the vehicle’s battery management sensor, the vehicle can experience a loss of power event without providing any warning to the driver. Following a loss of power due to battery failure, the vehicle may be without all 12V accessories including hazard lights and typically will not be able to be restarted. In its March 2024 response to ODI’s information request, Ford provided 367 customer complaints (including field reports, lawsuits, and legal claims) and 1005 warranty claims relating to the alleged defect. When combining ODI and manufacturer failure report data, there are 1,368 unique VINs represented across MY 2021-2023 Ford Bronco Sport vehicles. One of the VOQs submitted to NHTSA reported a minor rear-end collision resulting from a loss of power event. Included within Ford’s complaints were a reported single-vehicle collision and a vehicle fire which occurred following a loss of power event at a traffic light (fire cause and origin was not determined). Additionally, across ODI and manufacturer data, there were 12 allegations of either acid leaking from the 12V battery or smoke emitting from the battery area within the engine compartment. On April 12, 2024, Ford submitted recall 24V267 for MY 2021-2024 Ford Bronco Sport and certain MY 2022-2023 Ford Maverick vehicles (total population 456,565). The recall remedy provides updated calibrations to the body control module and powertrain control module. Ford indicated that the update will result in improved detection of 12V battery state of charge during drive cycles and will provide notification to the driver if the battery significantly degrades while driving. Additionally, Ford has replaced the EFB with an absorbed glass mat (AGM) battery as both a service component for the subject vehicles and as original equipment for Bronco Sport vehicles with production dates beginning in mid-March 2024. The warranty claim rate for peer vehicles equipped with an AGM battery is substantially lower than that for the subject vehicle population. In view of the recall action being taken by Ford, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.