Owners of certain 2021–2026 Ford Bronco and Bronco Raptor vehicles should be aware of a newly identified defect involving the engine compartment wiring harness. The problem can allow wiring to become damaged over time, potentially creating a short circuit that could lead to smoke or, in rare cases, an engine compartment fire. Approximately 565,691 vehicles in the United States are affected.
What Is the Problem?
According to Ford and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), some Broncos and Bronco Raptors were built with insufficient abrasion protection on the engine wiring harness. As the vehicle is driven, the harness can rub against nearby engine components, eventually wearing through the protective covering and exposing electrical wires.
If the wiring becomes damaged, it may create an electrical short circuit that can generate heat or sparks inside the engine compartment.
- Drivers may notice warning signs before a more serious problem develops, including:
- Smoke entering the cabin through the air vents
- Dashboard warning messages
- A burning odor while driving
- In rare cases, flames from the passenger side of the engine compartment
Any of these symptoms should be taken seriously, as an engine compartment fire can significantly increase the risk of injury and vehicle damage.
How Was the Defect Identified?
Ford’s investigation began after receiving reports from customers who experienced smoke and engine compartment fires. Engineers determined that under certain conditions, movement of the engine wiring harness could allow it to chafe against nearby components, eventually damaging the insulation protecting the wires.
Although the vast majority of affected vehicles are not expected to develop the problem, Ford concluded that the potential safety risk warranted a nationwide safety campaign. Only about 1% of the affected vehicles are estimated to actually have the defect.
Have There Been Any Fires or Injuries?
Ford has confirmed 15 reports of engine compartment fires believed to be related to this issue. The good news is that no crashes have been linked to the defect and no injuries have been reported.
Even so, an electrical short that develops while driving has the potential to create a dangerous situation, making it important for affected owners to have the problem addressed promptly.
How Will Ford Fix the Problem?
Ford dealers will perform the repair free of charge.
The repair involves:
- Inspecting the engine wiring harness.
- Installing protective abrasion-resistant sheathing.
- Applying additional protective tape where necessary to prevent future rubbing.
Owner notification letters are expected to begin mailing in late August 2026, and owners can also check their VIN through NHTSA or contact a Ford dealership to determine whether their Bronco is included.
What Should Owners Do?
If you own a 2021–2026 Ford Bronco or Bronco Raptor, watch for signs such as smoke from the HVAC vents, burning odors, or unexpected dashboard warnings. While many affected vehicles will never experience the defect, these symptoms should not be ignored.
Once you receive notification that your vehicle is included, schedule the repair with your Ford dealer as soon as possible. The protective wiring upgrade is designed to prevent future damage before it can create a safety hazard.
Know Your Rights if Problems Continue
Most Broncos included in this safety campaign should be successfully repaired with Ford’s recommended fix. However, if your vehicle continues to experience repeated electrical issues, warning lights, engine compartment smoke, or other significant defects after multiple repair attempts, you may have rights under your state’s lemon law or other consumer protection statutes.
Keeping detailed records of repair visits, service invoices, and communications with the dealership can help protect your rights if the problem cannot be permanently resolved.
