IllustrationWhile in reverse when you press on the breaks they squeal.
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.
About this comparison →How this year compares
Owner complaints by model year
Compare all Bronco Sport years →Counts vary with age, sales and reporting. They are not failure rates.
What owners reported most
All reported categories
Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.
When problems were reported
Mileage at the reported incident
640–25K
5725–50K
3850–75K
2475–100K
13100–150K
0150K+
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
Service Brakes complaints
101 reportsMy 2021 Bronco Sport suddenly died on [XXX]. The parking brake engaged unexpectedly, locking all four brakes and resulting in a significant skid mark. An error message flashed: “Park Not Available. Apply Park Brake Before Exiting,” and the park gear light blinked. I turned off the engine again, but the car was dead when I tried…
Read full complaint
My 2021 Bronco Sport suddenly died on [XXX]. The parking brake engaged unexpectedly, locking all four brakes and resulting in a significant skid mark. An error message flashed: “Park Not Available. Apply Park Brake Before Exiting,” and the park gear light blinked. I turned off the engine again, but the car was dead when I tried to restart it. After getting a jump start, the car turned on. However, the parking brake engaged again shortly after. I was able to drive it off the road. My wife, a research librarian, found that many others have reported issues related to “Sudden Death Syndrome." See below. [XXX] [XXX] ). The car was towed from PA, where we were visiting, to Stanford Ford, where we purchased it on [XXX]. On 11/13, the dealership told us there was a short circuit in the wiring connected to the solenoid and estimated $900.00 for labor. At noon on 11/15, the technician was test-driving the car. By 4:17 PM, I was told it was ready. 5 min. later, they told me it wasn't ready due to another issue. At 11:15am on 11/18, we were informed the issue was a short circuit in the transmission, costing $13,000. How is that possible? The car is only three years old! We've faced many recalls with this car, the last just this past August, but the most dangerous issue is the unexpected engagement of the parking brakes, causing chaotic behavior. Given the number of similar incidents, it's hard to believe there hasn't been a recall. We could have been injured or even killed if we had been driving over 40 mh and driving in heavy traffic, or worse, on the highway. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact stated that while reversing during morning startup and depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle made an abnormal loud moaning sound. The contact stated that the abnormal loud sound increased over time. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the loc…
Read full complaint
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact stated that while reversing during morning startup and depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle made an abnormal loud moaning sound. The contact stated that the abnormal loud sound increased over time. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer several times, where the failure was acknowledged, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was opened, but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 2,000.
Brakes Made loud squeaks noise when in reverse. Have taken into dealer multiple times and not fixed. They say an issue with Bronco Sports but my vin does not show on recall. Worried about brake failures or issues that could arise. They replaced front rotors and deglazed pads. Spent 462.19 and problem never fixed.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact stated that while in reverse with the brake pedal depressed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the brakes. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed that the failure was a manufacturing defect; however, no remedy w…
Read full complaint
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact stated that while in reverse with the brake pedal depressed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the brakes. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed that the failure was a manufacturing defect; however, no remedy was available to repair the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 37,800.
The contact's husband owns a 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact stated while reversing, the vehicle made an abnormal bumping and squealing sound. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the squealing sound was caused by the brake pad material, and the bumping sound was caused by the brake calipe…
Read full complaint
The contact's husband owns a 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact stated while reversing, the vehicle made an abnormal bumping and squealing sound. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the squealing sound was caused by the brake pad material, and the bumping sound was caused by the brake calipers and rotor material. The dealer informed the contact the failure was a manufacturing defect. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
When I back out of driveway or any parking space, the brakes make a loud moaning noise along with what is almost a grinding noise. It does not matter the time of day, the temperature, or humidity. The car makes the noise every time it is used. This has been an ongoing issue since owning the car in 2021, and it has been to the de…
Read full complaint
When I back out of driveway or any parking space, the brakes make a loud moaning noise along with what is almost a grinding noise. It does not matter the time of day, the temperature, or humidity. The car makes the noise every time it is used. This has been an ongoing issue since owning the car in 2021, and it has been to the dealership on three occasions to have the issue looked at. The brakes and brake pads look good and nothing else is visibly wrong. This has been an ongoing issue since shortly after purchase in 2021.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact stated that while the vehicle was in reverse(R) and reversing at approximately 3 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed, and the rear brakes were making an abnormally loud screeching sound. The contact was able to stop the vehicle, but the noise was abnormally loud. The contact …
Read full complaint
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact stated that while the vehicle was in reverse(R) and reversing at approximately 3 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed, and the rear brakes were making an abnormally loud screeching sound. The contact was able to stop the vehicle, but the noise was abnormally loud. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was constant. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where the rear brakes were found to be operating normally. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 35,563.
Since the purchase of the Bronco Sport in 2021, I have intermittently taken it in for required service. However, there have been times when I have had to take it in for hearing noise coming from when I make turns, and it sounded like my break pads were making the sound of wear. A recent report did address the break pad concern, …
Read full complaint
Since the purchase of the Bronco Sport in 2021, I have intermittently taken it in for required service. However, there have been times when I have had to take it in for hearing noise coming from when I make turns, and it sounded like my break pads were making the sound of wear. A recent report did address the break pad concern, and they were replaced. Intuitively something told me to check my fluid levels and the engine air filter, along with the cabin air filter. They both needed replacing, which I did on my own. The mechanic who put on my break asked me questions about the Bronco, I explained to him that I was having issues with take off, and have had to take it in for recalls since make the purchase. He asked me to open the hood. What he found was oil leaking around was oil leaking around my turbo. I was shocked. Because it had not been long since it was serviced. I was told to not drive it too far because there were reports of some Broncos catching on fire. When I would take it in to Town AND Country Ford, where it was purchased, they would tell me that they could not find anything wrong repeatedly, supposedly one of the recalls was fixed. Yet, I still hear the noise when I make turns. Another Ford dealership around the corner from where I live and I decided to take it there to see if I could get different results. No help. They have changed my oil I hope. Then there is Bates Ford in Lebanon, Tennessee. I have taken it there for oil change and informed them of issues. This is the last dealership who inspected the Bronco. They did not tell me about the oil leak. I drive 10 miles to work weekly. 100 miles every other month to visit elderly relatives. So, I have not put too much wear and tear on the Bronco and do not drive it hard. Please, If you are able to help in this area, it is much appreciated. I have 54,000 miles on it
The vehicle was traveling on a major highway when at a red light the car stopped and the auto start/stop engaged and the car turned off. After the car turned off I could not restart it. All power to the car was lost. No lights, radio, nothing. I attempted to put the car in neutral to move it off the highway, however the car is d…
Read full complaint
The vehicle was traveling on a major highway when at a red light the car stopped and the auto start/stop engaged and the car turned off. After the car turned off I could not restart it. All power to the car was lost. No lights, radio, nothing. I attempted to put the car in neutral to move it off the highway, however the car is designed in a way it can not simply just be shifted into neutral. I grabbed the owners manual and read I needed to pull the manual park release cable located under the steering wheel. I pull the cable nothing. At this point I’ve called the local police department and they send out 2 officers. They attempt to shift the car into neutral as well, to no luck. I read the electronic parking break needs to be turned off but the car needs power to do this. My car has no power. A man comes with a jumper box and attempts to jump the car when it starts smoking. The battery has full voltage however it’s not transferring power to the car. I have to sit in the middle of a highway for 2 hours until a tow truck can tow my car. In those 2 hours I was at a significant risk of bodily and property damage and also risking harm to the other drivers on the road. Ford has no suggestion how to fix my specific problem. They’ve not taken into account a situation where there is no power to turn off the electronic parking break, to pull the cable and shift the car into neutral. The Ford service department had no idea how to replicate the situation to try and fix it. All I asked Ford for was a way to safely be able to remove my car from the middle of traffic the next time it happens. They have told me they can not help me. The Delaware city police department sent two officers who witnessed the event. Prior to the loss of power there was no warning. $1000 later I had a new starter put in and Ford did some recall work on it. However in my opinion the car is unsafe in the event power is lost again on the road.
Official recalls
1626V340000 · 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
2RQ24014 · 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.