Ford has launched a recall for 343 Bronco and Bronco Raptor SUVs from model years 2022-2023 because their steering wheels can lock, leaving drivers unable to turn and potentially causing an accident. The recall affects 283 Bronco Wildtrak models from the 2023 model year and 60 Bronco Raptors from model year 2022.
Ford tells the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that the SUVs may have cracked steering wheel ball nut retainers. The crack can allow ball bearings in the steering assembly to move out of place and wedge, locking the wheel.
Ford knows of one warranty claim but no accidents related to the defect. A customer brought in a Raptor that had lost power steering assistance and made a grinding noise when turning. Technicians found the cracked nut on examination.
Despite the scary-sounding nature of the problem, Ford has not issued a stop-driving alert for the SUVs. But we’d advise anyone whose Bronco makes a grinding noise on turning to stop driving it immediately and contact their dealership.
Dealers will replace the entire steering gear to fix the problem. Recall repairs are always free.
Many cars are recalled, often more than once, during their lifespan. Automakers try to contact every owner but don’t always reach them all. Find out whether your car has any outstanding recalls with the easy VIN tool at our recall center.
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