Ford Recalls Over 270,000 Broncos and Mavericks Due to Potential Battery Failure

The National Highway and Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced a recall of 272,817 Ford Bronco Sport and Maverick models.

In the case of the Ford Bronco Sport, the recall concerns 2021 through 2023 models, and for the Maverick, it concerns the 2022 and 2023 models. The recall largely centers around the potential for failure of the 12-volt battery, leading to a loss of power for the vehicle or a failure to start in the first place. According to the NHTSA, other possibilities include the hazard lights failing and the car stalling when it comes to a stop.

Following a thorough investigation from the automaker’s Low Voltage Power Supply team, the culprit was identified as Chinese-manufactured Camel batteries.

“This investigation identified internal manufacturing defects in the Camel EFB batteries, including failures of the battery’s Cast On Strap (COS) and internal weld failures, both of which can lead to open circuits. The customer claims and warranty returns related to alleged LOMP failures demonstrate a higher concentration in warmer weather states,” the NHTSA reported.

According to ABC News, Ford has ramped up its recall reporting process after having been fined by the U.S. government for moving too slowly on an earlier recall. The automaker must submit to monitoring by an independent third party for three years as a result.

And as FOX Business reported, Ford was not aware of accidents, fires, or injuries connected to the potential battery failure as of November 2024.

Ford Will Replace Batteries at Dealerships Free of Charge

Owners of affected vehicles will be notified by mail if possible and will be instructed to take their vehicle to a local Ford or Lincoln dealer to have their vehicle inspected for a Ford Absorbed Glass Mat 12-volt battery. Even if one is not present, one will be installed at no cost to the owner.

Per NBC News, notices will be mailed out beginning around Feb. 3.