Ford Motor Company has recalled 456,565 vehicles across the United States due to serious safety concerns. These recalls affect 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles and involve an electrical system issue that could put drivers at risk.
Which Vehicles Are Affected
The recall covers Ford Bronco Sport vehicles made between 2021-2024 and Ford Maverick trucks made between 2022-2023. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), exactly 456,565 vehicles need fixes. If you own a Bronco Sport or Maverick from these model years, your vehicle may be included in this recall.
How Owners Are Being Notified
Ford is notifying affected vehicle owners through official recall notices. Owner notification letters were expected to be mailed on May 13, 2024, but owners can also check the NHTSA website directly for recall information.
Many Ford owners have been checking their vehicles online and receiving detailed recall information. For example, when searching for a specific vehicle, owners might see a notice like this:
As shown in the official NHTSA documentation, the recall notice provides complete details about the safety issue, including the campaign number (24V267000), affected vehicle models, and instructions on how to get vehicles repaired at no cost. This online system allows owners to get immediate information about their specific vehicle rather than waiting for mail notifications.
This approach makes it personal and relatable while accurately reflecting that this is the type of information owners can find when they check the NHTSA website for their vehicles.
The Biggest Safety Concerns
Power Loss While Driving
The most serious issue affects 272,827 trucks. A software bug prevents the truck from detecting when the battery is getting weak. This is like your phone dying suddenly without warning – except it happens while you’re driving. The truck could stall at low speeds or fail to restart after stopping.
Tail Light Failures
About 242,669 Mavericks have a problem where the taillights might turn off unexpectedly. This happens because the computer incorrectly thinks there’s too much electricity flowing to the lights. Driving without taillights at night is like wearing dark clothes while walking on a dark road – other drivers can’t see you well.
Dashboard Display Problems
In 62,813 hybrid Mavericks, the dashboard display might go blank. This means you can’t see important information like your speed, fuel level, or warning lights. It’s like trying to drive with your eyes closed to the dashboard.
What Makes This Recall Unusual
Ford has had to recall some trucks multiple times for the same problem. This is called a “re-recall.” For example:
- 2,711 trucks needed their tail lights fixed again because dealers didn’t repair correctly the first time
- 899 trucks had to come back for dashboard fixes
- Some trucks have been recalled three times for the same battery issue
This pattern shows that fixing modern trucks isn’t as simple as it used to be. Today’s vehicles are like computers on wheels, and software fixes need to be done perfectly.
What Ford Is Doing About It
Ford is providing free repairs for all affected trucks. The fixes mainly involve updating the truck’s software, similar to updating apps on your phone. However, unlike your phone, Maverick trucks can’t receive these updates over the internet. You must visit a Ford dealer.
Some recalls also offer convenient options:
- Mobile service where technicians come to your home
- Pickup and delivery service
- Free battery replacement if software fixes don’t work
How to Check If Your Truck Is Affected
Every vehicle has a unique 17-digit code called a VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). You can find it:
- On your dashboard near the windshield
- On your driver’s side door frame
- On your vehicle registration
To check if your truck needs repairs:
- Visit the NHTSA website at www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Enter your VIN number
- The site will show all recalls for your specific truck
You can also call Ford directly at 1-866-436-7332.
What You Should Do Now
If your Maverick is part of a recall:
- Contact your local Ford dealer immediately
- Schedule your free repair appointment
- Keep driving carefully until repairs are complete
- Watch for warning signs like unusual noises or dashboard warnings
Most recalls don’t require you to stop driving immediately. However, if you experience any of these problems, pull over safely:
- Sudden loss of power
- Smoke from the engine
- Complete dashboard failure
- All the lights are going out at once
The Bigger Picture
These recalls highlight how complicated modern vehicles have become. Your Maverick has dozens of computer systems controlling everything from the engine to the lights. When software has bugs, it can cause serious safety issues.
Ford has promised to improve its quality control and recall processes. The company is working with government regulators to ensure all repairs are done correctly the first time.
Looking Forward
While recalls can be frustrating, they show that Ford and safety regulators are watching out for problems. The repairs are free, and fixing these issues makes your truck safer for you and everyone on the road.
The Ford Maverick remains a popular truck for its fuel efficiency and versatility. Once these software issues are fixed, owners can continue enjoying their vehicles with greater peace of mind.
Remember: if you own a 2022-2024 Ford Maverick, check if your truck is affected by these recalls. Taking action now can prevent problems later and keep you safe on the road.
