Ford SUV Recall Alert

Ford Recalls: A Deep Dive

Recently, Ford put the brakes on over 400 vehicles due to some serious issues that could leave drivers in a bit of a bind—or worse. Specifically, the recall involves a large group of 404 Escape and Bronco Sport vehicles and a very small group of three Explorer SUVs.

Oil Leak Issues

In the first and more significant recall, 404 Ford Escape and Bronco Sport vehicles from model years 2023 to 2025 are under scrutiny. These cars were flagged because of an oil leak issue that could potentially lead to an engine fire. Back in March, Ford had to fix one of these 2025 model vehicles due to a missing cylinder head ball plug—a crucial part involved in preventing oil leaks. When this plug comes loose, oil leaks can occur, ultimately causing engine failure. Ford zeroed in on the issue and realized a batch of cylinder heads had not been heat-treated properly due to a power outage at the supplier’s facility.

Customers whose vehicles are affected by this recall can expect Ford to replace the cylinder heads to avoid any serious engine damage. It’s a classic case of maintaining safety by taking preventive action, even if it involves replacing an entire component. This recall has been filed under number 25V372 by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Loose Calipers

Now, for the trio of Explorer SUVs, things are a bit different. These 2025 model vehicles are dealing with a loose or missing brake caliper bracket bolts issue, found during a routine inspection after an owner noted some unusual clunking sounds. These brakes, critical for safe driving, were not torqued to the right specifications during prior repairs.

While only three vehicles are affected, the potential risk of brake failure makes this issue critical. Ford plans to inspect and correct the torque on these caliper bolts, ensuring drivers maintain control of their vehicles. This has been tagged as recall number 25V371.

On the Road

Driving one of these Ford models generally feels quite rewarding, with the Escape offering a smooth and efficient ride thanks to its compact SUV architecture. Meanwhile, the Bronco Sport delivers rugged capability for off-roading, making it a solid choice for adventurous types. The Explorer, on the other hand, stands out with its spacious interior and solid on-road performance.

Comparatively, the Escape and Bronco Sports are more agile than many other SUVs, such as the Toyota RAV4. Yet, the Escape might not feel as powerful when lined up next to, say, a Subaru Forester. The Explorer, with its robust handling and family-friendly features, doesn’t fall short when matched against the likes of the Honda Pilot.

But, issues like oil leaks and loose calipers serve as reminders of the complexity behind these machines. They highlight the importance of manufacturing precision and the swift response when things go slightly off track.

At the end of the day, these recalls underline not just the importance of driver safety but also the vigilant measures Ford undertakes to address them before they escalate into real-world problems.