When the Bronco Sport hit showrooms back in early 2021, excitement for all things Ford Bronco was swirling. The promise of rugged capability at a friendly price point while bearing the Bronco nameplate proved attractive to buyers. While based on the same platform as the Ford Escape and Ford Maverick, the Bronco Sport boasted a few exclusive tricks over its platform mates (like G.O.A.T. mode all-wheel drive) that set it apart. But like any vehicle, there have been issues along the way, and the Bronco Sport has its fair share of known problems.
This guide draws on Brian Medford’s original reporting and NHTSA recall records, with recall details reviewed September 20, 2026. Campaigns cover specific vehicles and build ranges. Check your VIN and current dealer instructions before assuming a recall applies or has been completed.
Suspension recalls: when the do-not-drive warning applies
Certain 2021–2026 Bronco Sports are included in NHTSA recall 26V-340 for a front lower control-arm ball joint that may separate from the steering knuckle. Ford traced the concern to improper assembly. A separating joint can compromise steering and control.
If your vehicle has this open recall, follow Ford’s instruction not to drive it. Contact a Ford or Lincoln dealer to arrange an inspection at your location or towing for service. Dealers inspect the left and right front ball-joint attachments and repair them as necessary at no charge. This warning applies to affected vehicles, not every Bronco Sport.
A separate campaign, 21V-075, covers certain 2021 models with loose or missing rear suspension subframe bolts. Ford’s repair includes inspecting the hardware and related components, correcting damage as needed and aligning the rear suspension.
Fuel leaks, oil leaks and the newer piston recall
Certain 2021–2024 Bronco Sports with the 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine fall under recall 25V-467, Ford campaign 25S76. A fuel injector can crack and leak gasoline near hot engine components, increasing fire risk.
The distinction between an interim repair and a final remedy matters here. NHTSA’s July 2025 notice described an engine-control software update as an interim repair while a final remedy was being developed. The campaign replaces earlier injector recalls, and vehicles repaired under those earlier campaigns still require the new final remedy. A prior software update or drain-tube installation should not be treated as proof that all injector recall work is complete. Ask Ford to check the current instructions and repair availability for your VIN.
Engine oil can also present a fire risk. Recall 22V-191 concerns certain 2021–2022 Bronco Sports with the 1.5-liter engine and a potentially damaged oil separator. Dealers inspect for damage or leakage and replace the separator and seals where needed.
Update: Recall 26V-548, Ford campaign 26S61, also includes certain 2026 Bronco Sports. Incorrectly manufactured piston domes may fail and cause loss of drive power. The August 31, 2026 notice calls for inspection and engine long-block replacement if needed; it anticipated final remedy availability in December 2026. Confirm the latest timing with Ford rather than assuming parts are already available.
SYNC glitches and rearview-camera failures
Owners have reported infotainment screens going black, freezing or continuing to display a rearview image after leaving reverse. The original report cited NHTSA complaint 11629720 describing those symptoms after a SYNC update. A complaint documents an owner’s experience; it does not establish how often a problem occurs across all vehicles.
For certain 2021–2024 Bronco Sports, recall 25V-442, Ford campaign 25S72, addresses a software error that can leave the rearview display blank or stuck on the camera image. The listed remedy is a free software update.
Check whether the specific recall applies before assuming a reboot fixes the underlying issue. A persistent camera or screen problem deserves dealer diagnosis even if a particular recall does not apply to your vehicle.
Stop-start failures and checking repair history
Certain 2021–2024 Bronco Sports were recalled under 24V-267 because the vehicle might not properly detect a weakening 12-volt battery. The result could be a failure to restart after an automatic stop or a low-speed stall, potentially accompanied by loss of electrical accessories. The repair calls for control-module software updates.
There is an important follow-up: recall 25V-158 covers some vehicles recorded as repaired even though the correct software had not been installed. An old repair invoice alone is not enough; have a dealer confirm the latest campaign status and software for your VIN.
The Bronco Sport still offers an appealing mix of size and capability, but buyers should check repair history carefully. Run the VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup and confirm completed and outstanding work with Ford. This guide covers selected known issues, not every recall or a prediction that every Bronco Sport will experience them.
Adapted from Brian Medford’s Pickup Truck + SUV Talk article published June 15, 2026. We Talk Cars staff refreshed the recall details and added the later piston campaign. Original photo credits retained.
