Faulty Engine Parts in Ford Bronco Sport and Escape Could Cause Fires or Crashes

Hundreds of Ford vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines are being recalled after it was discovered that a defect in the engine’s cylinder head could lead to oil leaks, increasing the risk of fires or engine failure. The recall affects certain 2023–2025 Ford Escape and 2025 Bronco Sport models, all of which were built with cylinder heads that may not have been properly heat treated due to power outages at a supplier’s facility in Mexico.

According to Ford Motor Company and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the flaw lies in the hardness of the cylinder head material, which can result in engine ball plugs being expelled under oil pressure. This leads to oil leakage, which, if exposed to hot engine or exhaust components, poses a fire hazard. Additionally, a sudden loss of oil can cause the engine to seize, potentially leading to loss of vehicle control and an increased chance of a crash.

A total of 404 vehicles are affected by the recall, including 42 Bronco Sport models produced between November 15, 2024, and April 7, 2025, and 362 Escape models manufactured from April 14, 2023, through May 5, 2025. Although Ford is not aware of any injuries or accidents caused by the issue so far, it is advising owners not to drive the affected vehicles and to park them outside away from buildings or other vehicles.

Owners will be notified by mail between June 23 and June 27, 2025, and will be asked to bring their vehicles to a Ford or Lincoln dealership for a free replacement of the cylinder head assembly. The new parts will be fully heat-treated to meet safety specifications. Those looking to determine if their vehicle is affected can contact Ford directly or check through a local dealer using the Ford OASIS system.

Article by multiple contributors, based upon information from Ford Motor Company and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration press release.

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