When Ford reintroduced the Bronco in 2021 after a decades-long hiatus, it quickly became one of the most sought-after SUVs on the market. With its rugged design, off-road prowess, and nostalgic appeal, the Bronco captured the hearts of adventurers and automotive enthusiasts alike. However, this iconic vehicle has hit a major speed bump. Ford is recalling nearly 150,000 examples of the Bronco due to a potentially serious issue with the rear suspension system. While the problem only affects certain trims and packages, the recall underscores a growing concern about durability—and leaves thousands of owners waiting for answers.
A Problem That’s Hard to Ignore
The recall, assigned number 25V-025 by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), applies to 149,994 units of the 2021 through 2024 Bronco manufactured between September 23, 2020, and July 23, 2024. Specifically, the issue impacts vehicles equipped with the Badlands trim or the Sasquatch Package—two popular configurations known for their enhanced off-road capabilities. According to Ford, the long-flange rear shock absorbers in these models may experience corrosion between the external reservoir, the mounting flange, and the damper body. This corrosion can eventually lead to the separation of the external reservoir from the shock absorber.
If you’re wondering why this matters, consider what happens when a remote reservoir detaches while driving. At best, the vehicle’s ride quality becomes bouncy and unpredictable; at worst, the detached component could pose a hazard to other drivers on the road. Signs that something might be wrong include unusual noises, leaks near the rear wheels, or an excessively harsh ride. Unfortunately, there’s no warning light or alert system to notify drivers before the reservoir falls off—a fact that prompted the NHTSA to step in.
As of now, Ford has received 551 warranty claims related to this issue but reports no accidents or injuries stemming from it. Still, the potential danger is significant enough to warrant a massive recall effort. For many owners, the problem has already caused frustration. One owner told the NHTSA that the external reservoirs “fell off at or around 36,000 miles,” while another described how the detachment caused the vehicle to “bounce uncontrollably.” Online forums dedicated to Bronco owners are rife with similar complaints, with some users pointing out that exposure to road salt exacerbates the corrosion.
Why Only Certain Broncos Are Affected
What makes the Badlands trim and Sasquatch Package particularly vulnerable? Both configurations come standard with specialized off-road equipment designed to handle extreme terrain. The Sasquatch Package, for instance, includes upgraded shocks, larger tires, and increased ground clearance—all features meant to enhance performance in challenging environments. While these modifications make the Bronco more capable off-road, they also expose critical components like the rear suspension system to harsh conditions, including moisture, debris, and corrosive substances like road salt.
Ford estimates that approximately 30% of the recalled vehicles exhibit signs of the defect. Given the scale of the recall, this translates to tens of thousands of Broncos potentially affected by the issue. It’s worth noting that not all Broncos are included in the recall—only those equipped with the specific combination of hardware found in the Badlands and Sasquatch variants. Owners of base-model Broncos or those without the affected packages need not worry—for now.
No Immediate Solution in Sight
While Ford is taking steps to address the problem, don’t expect a quick fix. Starting February 3, the automaker will begin notifying affected owners via mail—but here’s the catch: Ford doesn’t yet know how it plans to remedy the issue. In its communication with the NHTSA, the company stated that “the remedy is under development” and anticipates spare parts becoming available in the third quarter of 2025. Until then, owners are left in limbo, unsure of whether their vehicles are safe to drive or if further damage could occur.
For those who have already paid out-of-pocket to repair the corroded suspension components, Ford has promised reimbursement once a formal solution is implemented. While this gesture may ease some financial burdens, it does little to alleviate the inconvenience and uncertainty faced by thousands of Bronco owners. Many rely on their vehicles for daily commutes, weekend adventures, or even work-related tasks, making the lack of clarity especially frustrating.
Lessons Learned—and Questions Raised
This recall raises important questions about quality control and durability testing, particularly for vehicles marketed as rugged, go-anywhere machines. The Bronco’s reintroduction was heralded as a triumph, blending modern engineering with classic charm. Yet, issues like this remind us that even the most celebrated models aren’t immune to flaws. Critics argue that Ford should have anticipated the risks associated with exposing sensitive components to harsh environments, especially given the Bronco’s intended use case.
Some observers speculate that cost-cutting measures during production may have contributed to the problem. Others point to the challenges of balancing performance enhancements with long-term reliability. Whatever the root cause, the recall highlights the delicate balance automakers must strike between innovation and dependability.
What Owners Can Do in the Meantime
If you own a Bronco affected by the recall, staying informed is your best course of action. Keep an eye on your mailbox for official correspondence from Ford and monitor updates from both the automaker and the NHTSA. In the meantime, pay close attention to any changes in your vehicle’s handling or unusual sounds emanating from the rear suspension. If you suspect something is amiss, contact your local dealership immediately to discuss diagnostic options.
For peace of mind, avoid driving in areas where road salt is heavily used until the issue is resolved. Additionally, regular maintenance checks can help identify early signs of corrosion before it leads to catastrophic failure. While these precautions won’t eliminate the problem entirely, they can reduce the likelihood of encountering issues on the road.
Looking Ahead: Will This Impact the Bronco’s Legacy?
Despite this setback, it’s unlikely that the Bronco’s reputation will suffer irreparable harm. The model remains immensely popular, with waitlists stretching months—or even years—for certain configurations. Ford’s proactive response to the issue, coupled with its commitment to reimbursing affected customers, demonstrates a willingness to take responsibility and make things right.
Still, the recall serves as a reminder that no vehicle is perfect—not even one as beloved as the Bronco. As Ford works to develop a permanent solution, the automaker must also reflect on how to prevent similar issues in the future. Whether through improved materials, better protective coatings, or enhanced durability testing, ensuring the Bronco lives up to its legendary status should remain a top priority.
In the grand scheme of things, recalls are an unfortunate but inevitable part of the automotive industry. They test the resilience of brands and the patience of consumers. For Ford, resolving this suspension issue will be crucial not only for maintaining customer trust but also for safeguarding the Bronco’s legacy as a symbol of adventure and reliability. Until then, thousands of owners will simply have to wait—and hope—that their beloved SUVs return to form stronger than ever.
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