Ford’s Trail Turn Assist feature on the Bronco SUV has come under scrutiny from two drivers when they found broken axle welds after using the feature. We reached out to Ford to find out what they know about the problem. According to the automaker, there isn’t a problem at all.
We recently told you about how these two Bronco owners found broken axle welds after using Trail Turn Assist. The feature intentionally brakes the inside wheel while allowing the outer one to turn in an effort to reduce the turning circle in tight spots. It’s a valuable feature off-road but it’s vital to use it within the performance window that Ford designed. That requires using it with factory-approved parts in factory-approved situations.
In fact, when reached for comment, a spokesperson said that “Ford is not aware of any claims with Trail Turn Assist when the feature is used as intended on loose surfaces while off-road, as instructed in the Bronco’s owner manual. If an aftermarket product causes a Ford part to fail, the cost of repairs and any related damages are not covered by Ford.” It also pointed us to a frequently asked question on its website which we’ve posted below.
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With that in mind, the automaker specifically highlighted how in each case from the original story, the Bronco in question has modifications.
In the first, the owner has a Baja kit with coilovers and bypass dampers. While the forum participants aren’t sure if those mods should void the warranty coverage, Ford seems certain.
In the other case, the Bronco also had a Baja suspension kit but this time, it’s a long-travel prerunner version with upper and lower trailing arms. It also features 37-inch tires. These mods are a no-go, evidently.
When we asked what it was that excluded these Broncos from warranty coverage we got one sentence: “The photos of both Broncos show modifications that include new trailing arms, control arms, shocks and bigger tires.”
So that puts the debate to bed it seems. If you own a Ford Bronco and want to keep your factory warranty coverage you’re welcome to go off-road. Just don’t add the aforementioned modifications and expect Ford to pick up the tab if something like Trail Turn Assist fails.
