Fuel Injector Problem: 2021-2024 Ford Bronco Sport and 2020-2022 Ford Escape

On 2025-07-28 10:22:12

If you own a 2021-2024 Ford Bronco Sport or 2020-2022 Ford Escape equipped with a 1.5L Dragon GTDI engine, your vehicle may be at risk of an underhood fire due to a fuel injector problem. The issue could result in a vehicle fire, making it essential to take immediate action to ensure your safety on the road.

The Problem:

The fuel injector in these vehicles may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment, which can accumulate near hot surfaces and ignite, resulting in an underhood fire. This increases the risk of injury to occupants and bystanders.

Safety Risk:

Liquid fuel and/or fuel vapor that accumulates near a sufficiently hot surface may ignite, resulting in an underhood fire. This can lead to serious consequences, including: Crash, Fire, Death and Injury.

Cause of the Problem:

A cracked fuel injector allows fuel to leak at a high rate into the cylinder head, which can travel out via a drain hole and down onto hot surfaces on the exhaust/turbo system. This can cause fuel to accumulate near hot surfaces, increasing the risk of an underhood fire.

Warning Signs:

If your vehicle is affected, you may notice:

  • Fuel odor both outside and inside the vehicle.

  • Smoke or flames emanating from the engine compartment or underbody.

  • Instrument cluster warnings.

 

Chronology of Events:

The issue was first identified in November 2022, when Ford's Field Review Committee (FRC) approved a Field Service Action to address the risk of underhood fire due to fuel leaks from cracked injectors. Since then, several updates and investigations have taken place, including:

  • March 1, 2024: Ford's FRC approves an update to the engine control software and adds a drain tube to reduce the risk of underhood fires.

  • April 11, 2024: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opens a Recall Query to assess the adequacy and safety consequences of the remedy.

  • July 23, 2024: Ford's Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) opens an investigation into a vehicle that experienced an underhood fire after receiving the initial remedy.

 

Remedy:

The remedy is currently under development. As an interim repair, dealers will update the engine control software. Owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed August 18, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the final remedy is available.

 

Recall Details:

  • Ford's recall number: 25S76

  • NHTSA campaign number: 25V-467

  • This recall expands and replaces previous recall numbers 22V-859, 24V-187, and 25V-165.

  • Vehicles previously remedied under 22V-859, 24V-187, and 25V-165 will need to have the new final remedy performed once it is available.

Take Action Today:

If you're concerned about your Ford Bronco Sport or Ford Escape vehicle and have experienced repeated problems that the manufacturer is unable to fix, or you just have questions about your rights under the Lemon Law, Lemon Law Attorneys have the experience to help you navigate the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Don't wait – take action today to protect your rights as a consumer!