Ford Motor Co. is recalling 272,827 of its Bronco and Maverick vehicles due to a power-related issue that could cause the vehicles to unexpectedly stop or fail to start.
This recall affects models manufactured between February 2021 and October 2023, during which the automaker used a specific 12-volt battery from Camel Battery, a Chinese supplier.
The problem stems from internal manufacturing defects in the batteries, including weld failures that could lead to open circuits, as detailed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Although the issue can cause power loss, including the inability to turn on hazard lights, there have been no reports of accidents, fires, or injuries linked to the defect.
Ford stopped using the affected batteries in October 2023, and it is believed that only around 1% of the affected vehicles may experience the issue. To address the problem, the company will implement software updates to improve battery problem detection and provide warnings to drivers when an issue arises.
The recall follows a previous recall in which similar power-related issues were identified in 2021-2023 Ford Bronco Sport SUVs and 2022-2023 Ford Maverick pickups. Ford had committed to reviewing and improving its recall procedures after being fined for slow response times to an earlier recall, and will be monitored by an independent third party for the next three years.
With input from ABC News and the Associated Press.
