Image Credit: Ford.Ford is recalling more than half a million Bronco SUVs in the United States after identifying a defect that could increase the risk of an underhood fire. The recall affects certain 2021 through 2026 model year Bronco and Bronco Raptor models equipped with an engine compartment wiring harness that may become damaged over time.According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the issue stems from insufficient abrasion protection on the engine wiring harness. Repeated contact with nearby components can wear through the protective covering, eventually exposing electrical wires.If the wiring becomes exposed, it may intermittently short circuit and create electrical arcing inside the engine compartment. In some cases, that could ignite nearby materials and lead to an engine bay fire.AdvertisementAdvertisementFord says it is aware of 15 reported fires that may be linked to the defect, although the automaker has not reported any crashes or injuries associated with the issue. Owners of affected vehicles will be asked to visit a dealership for a free repair.Wiring Harness Can Wear Through Over TimeImage Credit: Ford.The recall covers 565,691 Bronco and Bronco Raptor SUVs built for the 2021 through 2026 model years. According to Ford's investigation, movement between the engine compartment wiring harness and surrounding components can gradually wear away the harness's protective covering.As the abrasion progresses, internal wires may become exposed. That damage can create intermittent short circuits capable of producing electrical sparks inside the engine compartment, increasing the possibility of a fire.Drivers May Notice Warning SignsFord says affected vehicles may provide warning signs before a fire develops. Owners could notice smoke entering the cabin through the air vents or warning messages appearing on the instrument cluster.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe company traced the issue through an internal investigation that examined reports involving both standard Bronco models and the high-performance Bronco Raptor. Engineers found evidence of harness wear during inspections of dozens of vehicles, with Raptor models appearing to be more susceptible because of differences in their design and suspension layout.Free Repair Available Through Ford DealersImage Credit: Ford.To correct the issue, Ford dealers will install additional protective convolute sheathing and abrasion tape around the engine compartment wiring harness. The added protection is intended to prevent future chafing and reduce the likelihood of exposed wiring.The repair will be performed free of charge for affected owners. Ford has already begun notifying dealerships, while owner notification letters are scheduled to be mailed between August 24 and August 28.How Owners Can Check Their VehicleOwners who believe their Bronco or Bronco Raptor may be included in the recall can verify their vehicle using its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through the NHTSA recall database or by contacting a Ford dealership.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe recall applies only to Bronco and Bronco Raptor models covered by the campaign and does not include the smaller Bronco Sport. Ford encourages owners to arrange the repair as soon as notification is received to minimize the potential risk associated with the wiring harness defect.If you want more stories like this, follow Guessing Headlights on Yahoo so you don't miss what's coming next.
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