Ford has issued a major recall for 565,691 Bronco SUVs from the 2021 through 2026 model years after identifying a wiring harness issue that could increase the risk of an engine compartment fire. According to documents from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the affected wiring harness may wear against nearby engine components, potentially leading to an electrical short and fire.
Wiring Harness Wear Can Lead to Fire Hazard
According to NHTSA documents, the engine bay wiring harness can come into contact with nearby engine components. Without sufficient abrasion protection, repeated movement may wear through the harness’s outer covering and expose the wires inside.
If the wiring becomes exposed, it can short circuit and generate sparks. Ford said owners may notice smoke entering through the air vents, warning lights, or flames coming from the passenger side of the engine compartment.
Ford Investigation Identified 15 Related Cases
Ford’s Critical Concern Group began investigating the issue in June after several Broncos experienced fires. Engineers reviewed more than 80 vehicles and found evidence of wiring harness contact on some of them.
The company identified 15 cases in which the wiring harness appeared to be involved. The reports included warranty claims and legal complaints submitted between October 2024 and June 2026.
Ford said no crashes or injuries have been linked to the issue.
Free Repairs Available for Affected Owners
To address the problem, Ford dealers will install additional abrasion tape and protective sheathing around the wiring harness at no cost to owners. The repair is intended to prevent further wear and reduce the risk of electrical shorts.
Dealers have already been notified of the recall, while owner notification letters are expected to be mailed in August. Owners can also check whether their vehicle is included by using Ford’s online VIN lookup tool.
Recall Covers 2021-2026 Ford Bronco Models
The recall applies to 565,691 Ford Bronco SUVs from the 2021 through 2026 model years. Owners of affected vehicles are encouraged to verify their VIN and have the repair completed even if their Bronco is not showing any signs of the issue.
The recall follows a recent Ford Bronco recall involving fender flares and addresses a separate issue involving the engine bay wiring harness and potential fire risk.
