Ford Motor Company has issued a safety recall for approximately 149,449 Bronco SUVs due to a potential defect in the rear shock absorbers. The recall affects 2021-2024 model year Broncos equipped with the Badlands trim or Sasquatch package.
The Issue
The long flange rear shock absorbers in affected vehicles may experience corrosion between the external reservoir, mounting flange, and damper body. This corrosion can lead to the separation of the external reservoir from the shock absorber.
If the external reservoir detaches, it could create a road hazard for other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash. Ford estimates that approximately 30% of the recalled vehicles may have this defect.
Affected Models
| Model Year | Trim/Package | Wheel Base |
|---|---|---|
| 2021-2024 | Badlands | Short |
| 2021-2024 | Badlands | Long |
| 2021-2024 | Sasquatch | Short |
| 2021-2024 | Sasquatch | Long |
Chronology and Investigation
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Office of Defect Investigation contacted Ford on October 31, 2024, regarding four Vehicle Owner Questionnaires alleging failures of Ford Bronco long flange rear shock absorbers. Three of these reports mentioned external reservoir detachment.
Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group initiated an investigation on November 14, 2024. The investigation revealed that the design of the mounting flange between the damper body and external reservoir had been changed from a long flange to a short flange assembly on May 1, 2024, for Badlands vehicles and July 23, 2024, for Sasquatch package vehicles.
Laboratory testing conducted between November and December 2024 showed that the long flange variant shock absorbers were more susceptible to crevice corrosion than the short flange variant.
Reported Incidents
As of December 11, 2024, Ford had received:
- 551 warranty claims
- 1 field report
- 2 customer reports
These reports were received between March 27, 2023, and November 18, 2024. Ford has not received any reports of accidents or injuries related to this condition.
Remedy and Notification
Ford is currently developing a remedy for the issue. The automaker will notify dealers on January 21, 2025. Owner notifications are scheduled to be mailed between February 3 and February 7, 2025.
Owners will be informed that Ford’s investigation is ongoing and that they will be contacted when further information is available. In the meantime, owners should be aware of potential warning signs, including a bouncy ride, unusual noise, or fluid leaking near the rear wheels.
Ford has stated that owners who have already paid for repairs related to this issue may be eligible for reimbursement, in accordance with the recall reimbursement plan on file with NHTSA.
Symptoms to Look for Before the Shock Absorber Fails
Ford Bronco owners should be vigilant for several symptoms that may indicate potential shock absorber issues before complete failure occurs:
Excessive Bouncing: If your vehicle continues to bounce excessively after hitting a bump instead of settling quickly, this could signal weakening shock absorbers.
Steering and Handling Issues:
- Poor steering response or a feeling that the vehicle is wandering on the road
- Increased body roll or sway when cornering
- Vibration in the steering wheel, especially on smooth roads
Braking Problems:
- Nose-diving when braking, where the front of the vehicle dips sharply
- Increased stopping distance
Unusual Noises:
- Clunking or knocking sounds, particularly when driving over bumps
Visual Cues:
- Uneven or premature tire wear, including cupping or scalloping of the tires
- Visible fluid leaks near the shock absorbers or rear wheels
Ride Quality Changes:
- A generally bouncy or unstable ride
- Rear squat during acceleration
Owners should be aware that these symptoms may develop gradually. Regular inspections and attention to changes in vehicle performance are crucial. If any of these signs are noticed, it’s advisable to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified technician promptly to prevent potential safety hazards and more extensive damage.
How Long Will the Recall Repair Take?
Ford has not yet specified an exact timeframe for the recall repair of the affected Bronco models. However, based on similar recall procedures, we can estimate the following:
Repair Time Estimate
- The actual repair process is expected to take less than half a day once parts and procedures are available.
- However, several factors may extend the overall timeline:
- Parts Availability: Ford is still developing a remedy for the issue. This may cause initial delays.
- Appointment Scheduling: Given the large number of affected vehicles (149,449), there may be wait times for scheduling service appointments at dealerships.
- Repair Complexity: The fix will likely involve replacing or modifying the rear shock absorbers, which could be more time-consuming than a simple software update.
Owners can contact Ford’s customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website at www.nhtsa.gov to check if their vehicle is affected by this recall.
Find your Ford Bronco’s recall information: https://www.ford.com/support/recalls/
Article Last Updated: January 31, 2025.
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Michael Kahn is the publisher of The Weekly Driver, serving as writer, photographer, and content creator. With a keen eye for storytelling and a passion for adventure, he specializes in uncovering the stories and experiences of automobile enthusiasts. Michael’s work is inspired by his love for off-the-beaten-path road trips, global exploration, and the pursuit of exceptional culinary experiences, all captured through the lens of a world traveler and automotive enthusiast.