Ford Is Telling Bronco Sport and Maverick Owners Not to Drive over a Suspension Defect

Why It Matters

The defect can instantly strip steering control, posing a severe safety risk and potentially eroding consumer confidence in Ford’s newer models.

Key Takeaways

• Recall covers 4,653 Bronco Sport and Maverick SUVs and trucks
• Defect stems from partially seated front lower control‑arm ball studs
• Ford will tow and repair at no cost to owners
• Issue traced to Hermosillo plant before June 1 2025
• No injuries reported, but loss of steering control possible

Pulse Analysis

Ford Motor Co. has issued a “Do Not Drive” recall for 4,653 2021‑2026 Bronco Sport SUVs and 2022‑2026 Maverick compact pickups after discovering a suspension flaw that could cause sudden loss of steering control. The automaker flagged the problem as Designated 26S36 and instructed owners to park their vehicles until a dealer‑approved inspection and repair are completed. This recall arrives on the heels of a 180,000‑vehicle Ranger and Bronco recall earlier this year, underscoring an accelerated pace of safety actions at Ford and raising questions about its quality‑control processes.

The root cause lies in the front lower control‑arm ball joint, where the ball stud was sometimes only partially seated in the wheel knuckle during assembly at Ford’s Hermosillo Stamping and Assembly Plant. A missing or loosely fastened pinch bolt can allow the ball joint to separate while driving, instantly stripping the driver of steering authority. Because the defect offers no audible or tactile warning, the risk is confined to a sudden mechanical failure, typically early in a vehicle’s service life, prompting the urgent “Do Not Drive” directive.

Ford will cover all repair costs, including towing, and has begun dealer outreach with mailed notices slated for early June. While no injuries have been reported, the recall could dent consumer confidence in Ford’s newer models, especially as the company competes with rivals that tout rigorous quality assurance. Industry analysts expect the incident to spur tighter assembly‑line checks and may accelerate adoption of automated verification systems across the sector. For owners, the immediate priority is to verify VIN eligibility and schedule service before the defect manifests.