Ford Recalls Over 500,000 Broncos For Potential Engine Fire - Road & Track

What the report says

Road & Track reports that Ford is recalling 565,691 Bronco SUVs in the United States because of a potential engine-compartment fire risk. The affected vehicles cover the 2021 through 2026 model years, representing almost the entire U.S. run of the current-generation Bronco, according to the outlet’s comparison with overall sales figures.

The issue involves the engine compartment wiring harness. Ford recall documents cited by Road & Track say movement between the harness and nearby parts, combined with limited abrasion protection, can wear through the wiring. If internal circuits become exposed, intermittent shorts may produce arcing, heat or sparks that could ignite flammable material under the hood. The article says drivers may have little warning beyond smoke entering the air vents or an instrument-cluster message shortly before flames are visible, with the fire source identified on the passenger side of the engine bay.

Road & Track says Ford began investigating the matter in June and, as of July, knew of 15 field incidents in which an engine-bay fire originated at the wiring harness. Seven involved Bronco Raptor models, which Ford linked to greater movement between the harness and surrounding components. The company also inspected more than 80 Broncos and found signs of rubbing or chafing in a small number of them.

Dealers will install convolute sheathing and abrasion tape on the wiring harness at no cost to owners. Broncos built after June 28 already received enhanced protective covering, according to the report. Owner notification letters are expected to be sent by August 28.