Ford is recalling 149,449 Bronco SUVs because of rear shock absorbers that could corrode and shed parts—but it hasn’t yet devised a remedy.
The recall covers 2021-2024 Badlands models, and models equipped with the Sasquatch off-road package. Both configurations include long flange rear shocks that can experience corrosion between the external reservoir, mounting flange, and the shock body that could cause the reservoir to fall off, according to the NHTSA.
The location of this potential corrosion creates a jacking force eroding a weld that holds the external reservoir in place. If the reservoir separates and falls off the vehicle, it could create a hazard to other road users, as well as preventing the shock absorber from working properly due to loss of fluid.
Consequentially, even if drivers don’t notice parts falling from their vehicles, they may notice a bouncy ride, unusual noises, or leaking fluid near the rear wheels if the external reservoir detaches, the NHTSA said.
Ford told the NHTSA that it received 551 warranty claims related to this issue as of Dec. 11, 2024, but that it is not aware of any related crashes or injuries.
A fix for this problem is currently under development. Ford plans to notify owners by mail beginning Feb. 3 to make them aware of the issue, and will send a follow-up notification when the remedy is ready. Owners who pay for any related repair work out of their own pockets will qualify for reimbursement.
Owners looking for additional information can call Ford’s customer service department at 1-866-436-7332 or visit the automaker’s recall site. Ford’s reference number for this recall is 24S64.
This is the second recent Ford Bronco recall involving detaching suspension components. In October of last year, Ford recalled 2,416 Broncos and Ranger pickup trucks because of potentially missing or improperly torqued retention nuts that could have caused front upper control arms to separate from their mounting points.