After months of delays, Ford finally looked like it had turned a corner with the Bronco, which it could finally start sending out to buyers. But for a handful of them, there is yet another twist in the saga.
Ford and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have issued a recall for 553 2021 Broncos. The vehicles are being called back to the dealerships as a result of a faulty passenger airbag that might not inflate properly.
The recall notice states that, in the event of a crash, the airbag vent could open prematurely, resulting in an improper deployment. Not only would that mean that the vehicles fail to comply with federal crash regulations, but there is also an increased risk of injury during a crash.
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The root of the issue appears to be a batch of improperly folded airbags sent to Ford by Joyson Safety System. The automaker is, fortunately, able to trace the parts to their vehicles. Although the Broncos involved in the recall don’t have sequential VIN numbers, the automaker does know that they were produced between July 18, 2021, and August 17, 2021.
Ford is not aware of any injuries relating to the recall and was able to determine the likelihood of failure thanks to computer models that analyzed the potential effects of the premature vent opening.
Ford will inform owners starting November 15 and they will be instructed to bring their vehicle in to their local dealership to have a replacement airbag installed at no cost.
Owners who are concerned about their Bronco can seek information by calling Ford’s toll-free line at 1-866-436-7332 or by contacting their local dealer.