Ford Recalls Escape, Bronco Sport, and Explorer SUVs Over Fire and Brake Safety Risks

Ford Motor Company has issued two separate safety recalls in the United States, affecting a small number of 2023–2025 SUVs. Though limited in scale, the defects pose serious safety concerns, including engine fires and potential brake failure.

History Behind the Recall

The larger of the two recalls involves 404 units of the 2023–2025 Ford Escape and 2025 Bronco Sport. Filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this safety action stems from a missing or improperly treated cylinder-head ball plug. The issue was traced back to two power outages at the supplier’s facility, which disrupted proper heat treatment of the metal components. As a result, some plugs may loosen or fall out entirely, leading to an oil leak. If leaking oil contacts hot engine parts, it could increase the risk of an engine fire.

The second, smaller recall covers just three 2025 Ford Explorer SUVs. According to Ford, these vehicles may have loose or missing front brake caliper bolts due to incomplete repairs before delivery. One customer even reported hearing a “clunking noise.” Improperly secured calipers can result in a loss of front brake function or even damage to the wheel, greatly increasing the chance of a crash.

Which Vehicles Are Affected

  • Ford Escape (2023–2025) – 404 vehicles
  • Ford Bronco Sport (2025) – Included in the 404-unit count
  • Ford Explorer (2025) – 3 vehicles

What Owners Need to Do Next

Ford will notify affected owners by mail. Escape and Bronco Sport owners will receive free cylinder head replacements at Ford dealerships. Explorer owners will receive an inspection; if bolts are loose, they’ll be tightened. If bolts are missing, Ford will replace the caliper and pads at no charge.

For updates, owners can check their vehicle’s recall status via the NHTSA or Transport Canada websites using their VIN.

How Ford Owners Can Take Back Control

While this recall has been communicated to owners, many continue to be unhappy with the solutions provided by automakers. These problems have the potential to escalate into further action, underlining the importance of protecting consumer rights.

If you struggle with vehicle troubles and feel cornered against big vehicle brands, remember it is always better to have experts with you. With extensive experience and successful cases at hand, The Lemon Firm is your best bet. With dedicated team members always at your disposal, the package becomes too good to be true. So, if your car is giving you a headache, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Call 833 Lemon Firm and speak with a case analyst today!

About the Author
Sepehr Daghighian is a partner with CCA that is well-versed in all aspects of lemon-law litigation. A 2005 graduate of Loyola Law School, Mr. Daghighian has been practicing litigation throughout the state of California for over 13-years. In this time, Mr. Daghighian has advocated on behalf of California consumers in hundreds of lemon law cases throughout our great state. Mr. Daghighian has also successfully tried numerous such cases to verdict in both Federal and State Court.