Ford is recalling 456,565 of its best-selling vehicles, the 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2022-2023 Maverick, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The automaker seeks to fix a problem related to the powertrain and body control modules in which the calibrations may fail to detect a sudden change in the vehicle’s battery state of charge. The issue can lead to a loss of electrical accessories, as well as cause a loss of drive power that can lead to a crash, according to the NHTSA recall notice dated April 12.
Ford says an incorrect calibration strategy of the powertrain and body control modules designed to detect a sudden drop in battery voltage can cause a no-start condition or stall while coming to a stop at low speeds. In some cases, it may also result in a loss of 12-volt accessories, including the hazard warning lights.
An estimated 100% of the recalled vehicles have the defect, but Ford’s engineering team says its currently reviewing manufacturing records to determine the exact number of affected vehicles. The automaker says it can trace powertrain and body control module calibrations on the vehicles to determine which ones require an update.
As the industry transitions to building more software-defined vehicles, these types of costly and safety-related recalls, which are often inconvenient for customers by requiring a visit to a dealer, may be avoidable and remedied via an over-the-air update. Recalls can also impact consumer confidence and brand reputation.
Ford also issued a separate recall in March for some 2022-2023 Bronco Sport models and 2022 Escape crossovers equipped with 1.5-liter engines. The recall was for a fuel injector that could crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment, increasing the risk of fire. The fix, which affects around 42,650 vehicles, includes dealers updating the vehicles’ engine control software to add fuel injector leak detection capability, as well as the installation of a drain tube to reduce the risk of a fire in the engine bay.
For the latest recall, Bronco Sport and Maverick owners are being asked to call Ford’s toll-free line or contact a local Ford or Lincoln dealer that can access specific information about the recalled vehicles from the automaker’s Automotive Service Information System database.
Recall notification letters are expected to be mailed to customers May 13.
