# Ford Recalls 565,000 Broncos Over Engine Fire Risk
WASHINGTON, July 24 (Reuters) – Ford Motor Co. is recalling more than 565,000 Bronco and Bronco Raptor SUVs in the United States due to a wiring harness defect that can cause engine compartment fires, even when the vehicle is turned off.
The recall affects model years 2021 through 2025. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) confirmed the defect involves a short circuit in the engine wiring harness. This can ignite a fire regardless of whether the SUV is running or parked.
The Root Cause: Wiring Harness Short Circuit
A wiring harness in the engine compartment can short circuit, increasing fire risk. Ford acknowledged the defect after investigating multiple customer complaints. The company has not yet provided a permanent fix.
“We are aware of the risk,” Ford said in a statement. “Dealers will inspect and replace the wiring harness free of charge once parts are available.”
Affected Models and VIN Check
| Model | Model Years | Estimated Vehicles Affected |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Bronco | 2021-2025 | ~500,000 |
| Ford Bronco Raptor | 2022-2025 | ~65,000 |
Owners can check if their vehicle is affected by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at NHTSA.gov or Ford’s recall website.
Real-World Risks
The fire risk is not theoretical. A short circuit can occur while driving or when the vehicle is parked in a garage. This raises concerns about property damage and personal safety.
Ford advises owners to park outdoors away from structures and flammable materials until the fix is applied. The company is working on a remedy but has not announced a timeline.
Legal and Financial Implications
Reuters reported on litigation risks. Multiple law firms are investigating potential class-action lawsuits. The recall may also impact resale value. Owners should document any issues and keep recall correspondence for future claims.
What Ford Owners Should Do Now
1. Visit NHTSA.gov or Ford’s recall website.
2. Enter your VIN to confirm eligibility.
3. Schedule a dealer appointment for inspection.
4. Park outdoors away from structures.
5. Monitor for unusual smells or smoke.
6. Do not ignore the recall.
Ford will notify owners by mail. Parts may not be immediately available. Interim advice: park outdoors.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Which Ford Bronco models are affected by the engine fire recall?
- A: The recall affects approximately 500,000 Ford Broncos (2021-2025) and 65,000 Ford Bronco Raptors (2022-2025) in the United States.
- Q: What causes the fire risk in recalled Broncos?
- A: A wiring harness defect in the engine compartment can short circuit, causing a fire even when the vehicle is turned off and parked.
- Q: How can I check if my Bronco is part of the recall?
- A: Enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on NHTSA.gov or Ford’s official recall website to see if your SUV is affected.
- Q: Is there a permanent fix available yet?
- A: Ford has not provided a permanent fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the wiring harness free of charge once parts become available.
Extended Reading
For more details, visit Reuters’ coverage of the Ford recall or NHTSA’s official recall database.