Ford Motor Company has issued a critical safety recall affecting 149,449 Bronco SUVs, marking the latest chapter in the Ford Bronco Recalled saga. The recall targets 2021–2024 Bronco Badlands trims and vehicles equipped with the Sasquatch off-road package, both of which include rear dampers with remote reservoirs vulnerable to corrosion.
The Core Issue: Long-Flange Dampers and Corrosion
At the heart of the problem lies the rear damper’s long-flange design, which Ford identified as prone to accelerated corrosion. Over time, moisture and environmental factors degrade the connection between the reservoir tube, mounting flange, and damper body. This corrosion creates a “jacking force” that weakens the weld, eventually causing the reservoir to separate. Owners might notice symptoms such as unusual noises, reduced ride stability, or even the reservoir tube dislodging entirely.
Ford’s internal analysis, submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on January 25, 2025, estimates that 30% of affected vehicles could develop this issue. The automaker acknowledged that the flaw poses both safety and performance risks, particularly for drivers navigating rugged terrain—a key selling point for the Badlands and Sasquatch editions.
NHTSA Investigation and Ford’s Proactive Shift
The NHTSA launched a preliminary probe in October 2024 after receiving four consumer complaints, three of which reported complete reservoir detachment. By November 2024, Ford’s engineering team traced the problem to the long-flange damper design. In response, the company swiftly transitioned to a short-flange variant in newer production models, which preliminary testing suggests resists corrosion more effectively.
Despite this redesign, Ford has yet to finalize a repair strategy for vehicles already on the road. Owners of impacted Broncos will receive official notification starting February 7, 2025, urging them to monitor their vehicles for signs of suspension wear until a permanent fix is available.
What Owners Should Know
- Affected Models: 2021–2024 Bronco Badlands and Sasquatch editions.
- Symptoms: Clunking noises, excessive bouncing, or visible separation of the rear damper’s reservoir.
- Interim Guidance: Ford advises owners to avoid aggressive off-road use and schedule a dealership inspection if abnormalities arise.
Broader Implications for Ford’s Off-Road Reputation
The Bronco’s revival has been central to Ford’s strategy in the competitive off-road SUV market. This recall, however, underscores the challenges of balancing durability with complex engineering. While the short-flange damper represents a step forward, the delay in resolving existing vehicles risks eroding consumer trust. Industry analysts emphasize that Ford’s handling of this recall—particularly its transparency and repair timeline—will be critical to maintaining the Bronco’s hard-earned credibility.
Looking Forward: Repairs and Accountability
Ford has committed to accelerating parts production and testing to address the defect. Meanwhile, the NHTSA urges impacted owners to report additional incidents via its Safety Hotline. The Ford Bronco Recalled campaign underscores the importance of rigorous quality control in vehicles designed for extreme conditions.
Outbound Links
- NHTSA Recall Database – Track recalls and file safety complaints.
- Ford Official Recall Information – Updates on repairs and dealer instructions.
- Consumer Reports: Understanding Vehicle Recalls – Guide to navigating automotive recalls.
