by New Ford Recall: Nearly 180,000 Broncos and Rangers Over Seat Bolt Issues
Ford has once again faced a massive vehicle recall, and this time the issue is strikingly familiar. It concerns nearly 180,000 Bronco SUVs and Ranger pickup trucks, where the seat mounting bolts may loosen or even fall out.
According to documents from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall covers 179,698 vehicles from the 2024 to 2026 model years. This number includes 62,255 Ranger pickups and 117,443 Bronco SUVs. The problem involves the front seat height adjustment bolts, which may lose their secure fastening over time.
How Dangerous Is the Malfunction and How to Recognize It
If these bolts loosen or fall out completely, the seat structure may shift. This is, of course, unacceptable, and in the event of a crash, it could increase the risk of injury. The recall notice states that drivers may notice warning signs in advance, including squeaks, rattles, or a feeling of seat looseness.
Why This Recall Differs from the Previous One
Interestingly, this situation differs from a similar recall of the same models we reported on last year. At that time, the cause was attributed to assembly line errors where bolts were either skipped or insufficiently tightened. This time, the root cause lies deeper in the supply chain.
Ford explains that a supplier introduced a torque verification process during production, but this had unintended consequences. The verification was performed before the adhesive on the bolt threads had fully cured, reducing its effectiveness and allowing the bolts to loosen over time. Thus, instead of missing parts, this recall involves parts that are in place but may not remain securely fastened.
Many Complaints, But No Crashes
Ford learned of the problem after monitoring warranty claims and investigating reports of vehicles built during that period. The company recorded dozens of complaints but states it is unaware of any crashes or injuries related to this defect.
How the Problem Will Be Fixed
The fix is straightforward, though it requires some time in the workshop. Dealer technicians will remove both front seats, inspect the mounting bolts, and replace components if necessary.
All work is, of course, free of charge, but this is yet another unfortunate entry in Ford’s growing list of recalls. After the company issued over 150 recalls last year, 2026 is starting just as intensely.
This situation once again draws attention to quality control issues in Ford’s manufacturing processes. While the company actively responds to identified defects, repeated recalls, even with different root causes, point to systemic challenges in the supply chain and production. For Bronco and Ranger owners, this means an additional trip to the dealer, but fortunately, it is free. Meanwhile, the absence of recorded crashes due to this issue provides some relief, though it does not remove the reliability concerns of these popular models from the agenda.
