Ford Explorers, Rangers, and Broncos Recalled For Engine Failure

Ford is recalling roughly 1,500 Explorer, Ranger, and Bronco vehicles equipped with the company's 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine after discovering a manufacturing defect that could lead to engine failure and a loss of drive power.

According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the issue comes from a valvetrain component known as a roller finger follower (RFF). In affected 2025 and 2026 model-year engines, the part could break away from the valve stem during engine assembly, potentially causing severe engine damage.

If the part fails while driving, the engine could fail unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.

The issue first surfaced on March 13, 2026, when technicians at Ford's Cleveland Engine Plant came across an engine with a dislodged roller finger follower during a routine production audit. Just days later, Ford reviewed a warranty claim involving a 2026 Ranger making abnormal engine noise, which the company traced to the same issue.

Ford has identified 12 reports related to the issue, including nine warranty claims and three field reports. The automaker says it is not aware of any crashes, injuries, or fires connected to the defect. Rather than replacing individual components, Ford plans to install a new long block.

The company will begin mailing interim notification letters on June 15, 2026, informing customers of the potential safety risk. Because replacement parts are not yet available, a second round of notifications will be sent once repairs can begin, which Ford thinks will happen in November.

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