Why is the Bronco being recalled?

Recalls happen when safety defects or regulatory noncompliance are identified; automakers issue recalls to fix these issues at no cost to owners. The Bronco is subject to recalls when Ford or regulators determine a specific safety risk requires corrective action.

In this article, we explain why recalls occur for the Bronco, what kinds of issues have historically triggered recalls, how you can check whether a particular Bronco is affected, and what steps to take if your vehicle is reported in a recall. The goal is to help owners understand the process and stay informed about the latest official notices.

What can trigger a Bronco recall

Recall campaigns are typically issued after investigations by regulators or the manufacturer identify safety defects or noncompliance with safety standards. The Bronco, like other vehicles, can be recalled for a range of issues that could impact occupant safety or vehicle functionality.

• Defective airbags or airbag inflators that may fail to deploy properly or deploy unpredictably


• Faulty fuel system components or leaks that could pose a fire risk


• Electrical system faults or software glitches affecting critical functions such as brake systems, steering assist, or airbag deployment


• Steering or suspension component failures that could affect handling or control


• Seat belt pretensioner or anchorage defects that may reduce occupant protection


• Transmission or driveline issues that could cause unexpected movement or stall

Recall campaigns are model-year and production-date specific, so not every Bronco is affected. If your vehicle is included, you’ll receive official notification and instructions for repair at no cost to you.

How to check if your Bronco is affected

To determine whether your Bronco is covered by an active recall, you should verify the vehicle’s VIN against official recall notices and contact the dealer for next steps. Below are the reliable methods to check.

1. Locate your VIN. The 17-character Vehicle Identification Number is found on the dashboard near the windshield, the driver’s door jamb, or your vehicle registration documents.


2. Use the official recall lookup tools. Enter your VIN on the NHTSA Recall Database (or the equivalent national regulator in your country) to see any open recalls for your exact VIN.


3. Consult Ford’s official recall notices. Visit Ford’s Owner or Safety Recall pages and search by VIN or model year to view current recalls specific to the Bronco.


4. Contact your local Ford dealer. If a recall affects your vehicle, the dealer can confirm, schedule a free repair, and explain any required actions.

Even if you don’t see a recall listed for your VIN, it’s wise to monitor official sources, as new recalls can be issued after initial notices. Keeping contact information up to date with Ford and the dealer helps ensure you receive timely notices.

VIN-based recall checks and reliable sources

For accuracy and up-to-date information, rely on these trusted resources:

• NHTSA recall database: search by VIN or browse recalls by make/model


• Ford Customer Service and Ford Owner portal: verify notices and schedule repairs


• Your local Ford dealership: in-person confirmation and service scheduling

Owners who receive a recall notice should not drive a recalled vehicle if the notice warns of a potential safety risk before the remedy is performed; otherwise, plan a repair appointment as soon as possible.

What happens during a recall repair

When a Bronco is recalled, the process is standardized to ensure safety and compliance. Here’s what to expect during a typical recall service.

1. Dealer verification: The dealer confirms the recall using the VIN and manufacturer-notified repair procedures.


2. Free remedy: Repairs or replacements are performed at no cost to the owner, including parts and labor.


3. Repair duration: Depending on the issue, the repair may be completed in a single visit or may require multiple appointments if parts are on backorder.


4. Driving considerations: In some recalls, there may be temporary driving restrictions or warnings until the repair is completed.

Owners should bring all relevant documents, including the recall notice and proof of ownership, to streamline the service process and ensure the correct recall is addressed.

Bottom line

Recalls for the Ford Bronco are issued to address verified safety defects or regulatory noncompliance. The specific issues, affected model years, and production dates vary by recall notice. The best approach is to check your Bronco’s VIN against official recall databases, contact Ford or your dealer for confirmation, and schedule any recommended repairs promptly.

Summary

recalls are a critical safety mechanism that helps ensure vehicles like the Ford Bronco remain safe on the road. By staying informed, verifying your VIN, and acting quickly when a recall is announced, you can minimize risk and keep your Bronco in top condition. Always rely on official notices and trusted sources for the most accurate, up-to-date information.

Does the new Ford Bronco have issues?

New Ford Broncos have been reported to have issues with electronics, transmission, and engine components, leading to numerous recalls and owner complaints. Common problems include glitches in the infotainment and gauge cluster screens, jerky or clunky automatic transmission behavior, hesitation in acceleration, and minor to moderate engine problems like oil leaks, though some significant issues have been resolved through recalls. Hardtop roofs have also been a frequent source of complaints, with problems ranging from leaks to cracking. 
Electrical and software issues

• Infotainment and screens: Some owners report screens freezing, being slow to respond, or going blank. 
• Drive modes: The "GOAT" (Goes Over Any Terrain) mode selector can sometimes fail to engage the correct settings, requiring a vehicle restart to reset. 
• Wipers and cameras: Recalls have addressed issues like a rear camera not displaying an image and a customer satisfaction program for wiper motors needing a software update. 

This video discusses common Ford Bronco problems, including issues with the infotainment system: 58sPerformance On WheelsYouTube · Jul 5, 2025
Powertrain and mechanical problems

• Transmission: Some owners experience a jerky or clunky automatic transmission, especially when shifting between gears or into drive. 
• Engine: Issues have included engine hesitation and oil leaks due to faulty seals or gaskets. Recalls have addressed specific engine components, such as the 2.7L engine's intake valves. 
• Suspension: Recalls have been issued for issues like loose lower control arm fasteners on some models. 
• Hardtop roof: The original hardtop (MIC) was known for leaks and defects; a second version was released but still has issues with cracking and "honeycombing". 

This video discusses common Ford Bronco problems, including potential engine and transmission issues: 56sFuel ForceYouTube · Aug 16, 2024
Other common issues

• Front door bungees: The rubber bungees used to hold items in the front door pockets wear out quickly. 
• Leaks: Besides hardtop leaks, there have been reports of oil leaks from the pan and drive shaft seal. 
• Minor details: Owners have noted other minor issues like rubber wearing off window switches. 

This video discusses common Ford Bronco problems, including issues with the hardtop roof: 54sMicah MuzioYouTube · Dec 5, 2024

Why is no one buying Broncos?

And over the last couple of years there are certain models of the Broncos with dealer markups of $5,000 to $10,000. And some even reaching $20,000. Over MSRP. Which has now led to the Broncos.

Why are broncos getting recalled?

Now, more than 200,000 2025-2026 Broncos and Bronco Sport models are being recalled because their instrument panel displays do not show critical information, such as warning lights or vehicle speed. The failures increase the risk of a crash, so some models are being recalled for “instrument panel display failure.”

Which Ford Bronco to avoid?

What are the worst Ford Bronco years? The new Ford Bronco was plagued with recalls, complaints, and quality issues when it returned, so we'd steer clear of 2021 and 2022 model years. CarComplaints.com even calls 2022 the worst model year, due to engine problems.