2023 Ford Bronco Sport transmission problems

Filed Oct 22, 2026 · Transmission · LA

I am filing this complaint regarding the complete transmission failure of a 2023 Ford Bronco Sport at approximately 94,140 miles on [XXX]. Prior to the failure, the vehicle owner experienced mechanical problems and contacted Banner Ford on [XXX], regarding these concerns and an outstanding manufacturer recall. Banner Ford advised that diagnostic testing was necessary and scheduled an appointment for [XXX]. However, because this vehicle was the owner's only means of transportation and the dealership did not provide a requested loaner, she was unable to attend the appointment. Just four days later, on [XXX], the transmission completely failed. The owner also sought assistance from Kirk Brothers Ford in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and incurred two separate towing expenses during the process of obtaining service. Following the failure, Ford representatives advised that the dealership discovered metal shavings associated with the transmission damage. Ford subsequently denied warranty coverage and financial assistance, citing the metal shavings. However, Ford has not provided a detailed technical explanation identifying the underlying cause of the transmission failure or whether it resulted from an internal mechanical defect. Additionally, the vehicle had an outstanding PCM software recall. Despite repeated inquiries, we have not received documentation explaining whether the recall condition was evaluated as a possible contributing factor. I am concerned about the potential safety risks associated with premature transmission failure, including possible loss of propulsion or acceleration while driving. I have also identified other publicly reported Ford Bronco Sport transmission failures occurring before 100,000 miles. I respectfully request that the federal safety agency investigate whether these failures indicate a recurring transmission defect affecting 2023 Ford Bronco Sport vehicles, review relevant manufacturer technical service bulletins. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Sep 27, 2026 · Driver assistance, Engine · OH

Vehicle had turbo,All wheel drive module and transmission all go out at once at 106,000 miles. Vehicle was well maintained and taken care of.

Filed Jul 24, 2026 · Transmission · VA

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The vehicle’s drivetrain or all-wheel-drive system appears to be malfunctioning. During turns, the vehicle runs rough, feels as though it is binding or shuddering, and becomes harder to accelerate. The exact failed component has not yet been diagnosed. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request, and I have a service appointment scheduled in approximately two weeks. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The reduced acceleration and rough operation while turning make the vehicle respond unpredictably. This could prevent me from accelerating safely through an intersection, entering traffic, or avoiding another vehicle or hazard. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? No. The problem has not yet been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center. I have an appointment scheduled in approximately two weeks for inspection and diagnosis. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No. The vehicle and suspected component have not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others. An inspection appointment is scheduled in approximately two weeks. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No warning lamps or dashboard messages appeared. The symptoms consisted of rough running, shuddering or binding while turning, and reduced acceleration. The symptoms first appeared recently when the vehicle had approximately 48,000 miles.

Filed Jun 8, 2026 · Transmission · LA

My vehicle is currently experiencing drivability issues including: * Wrench warning light with “See Manual” message, * Hesitation during acceleration, * Intermittent reduced engine power, * Prior fuel odor concerns, * Unsafe acceleration response while driving.

Filed Jun 1, 2026 · Electrical, Fuel system · FL · crash

On May 15, 2006 I was turning slowly into a parking space perhaps 3 to 5 miles an hour. My vehicle suddenly surged forwarded and accelerated on its own. I hit a wall. No warning lights appeared. No crash warning or any beeping of any sort. My car had a recall for the fuel injector. In October 2025 Ford sent out someone to adjust the software at my home. I do not believe a tube was ever inserted. Witnesses reported I was going slow and the car accelerated. I eat at the location almost every day so they watch for my car and whether there were 1 or 2 people. So it is not just a random witness. I do not know what parts are involved other than to say there was an un commanded acceleration and engine surge.

Filed May 28, 2026 · Transmission · FL

My vehicle makes a horrible noise when I’m driving and making a turn. According to a mechanic shop I took my vehicle to, the RDU vent hose that was put on by the manufacturer is highly susceptible to get clogged and drawing in outside moisture causing this horrible noise. The mechanic stated that they have seen this issue with other Ford Bronco Sport vehicles.

Filed May 17, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · TX

On or about December 2025, the vehicle began emitting strong fuel/exhaust fumes through the air conditioning vents during operation. The fumes were noticeable inside the passenger cabin and created concerns of toxic exposure and possible fire risk. The condition was reported to an authorized Ford dealership, Hacienda Ford, which retained the vehicle for inspection for approximately two months. The dealership acknowledged concerns involving the fuel system/fuel injectors and performed inspection procedures and software-related recall work; however, the vehicle was later returned without replacement or repair of fuel system components. After the vehicle was released, the same fuel/fume odor condition reoccurred during normal driving, including an incident where the fumes became overwhelming inside the cabin while driving toward [XXX] . The vehicle is associated with an open safety recall identified as manufacturer recall 25S76 / the federal safety agency campaign 25V467, described as “remedy not yet available.” Despite repeated reports of fuel/exhaust fumes and concerns involving possible fuel injector defects, Ford Motor Company and the dealership have not provided a written determination that the vehicle is safe to operate. A formal final escalation letter was sent to Ford Motor Company demanding a safety determination, alternate repair authorization, reimbursement of towing expenses, and clarification regarding open recalls and known fuel system issues. The letter was delivered on April 29, 2026, but no response was received within the requested deadline. The consumer believes the vehicle may present an ongoing safety hazard involving fuel vapor intrusion and potential fire risk. The defect remains unresolved. The vehicle remains parked. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed May 4, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · TX

I was driving on the highway and my car started making a lot of noise. I got a notice “The Engine system has detected a fault.” Then another notification saying 4 wheel drive was disabled and then my car stopped running, leaving me stranded in the middle of the highway. My car would start, but it would not go into any gear. When I tried putting it in gear, I got a notification that said “Powertrain Malfunction/Reduced Speed Your Malfunction warning is on because your vehicle’s transmission cannot be shifted or moved out of park.” I had to wait in the middle of the highway for approximately 30-45 minutes for a tow truck to come, and the whole time, there were cars traveling 80 mph swerving to miss me. I was sincerely afraid for my life.

Filed Apr 27, 2026 · Transmission · AR

2023 Bronco Sport had its serpentine belt replaced in February of 2026 because it was loose causing my engine to overheat. I had to have it towed because I was sitting on the side of the road. Then in April of 2026 the Bronco started making horrible loud clanging sounds and jerking when it was put in gear. Towed again to the shop. Now I am told this 3 year old car needs a new transmission. Doing research i have found that several Bronco owners have the same problem. Why does Ford not have a recall for this!! My mechanic was looking for a rebuilt one and can't find one because the demand for them is higher than what the supply is. This should tell you something!!

Filed Mar 4, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · MI

The fuel injectors are failing, the vehicle smells of gasoline fumes in the cabin if the vehicle and we are now getting check engine lights due to emissions which I contribute to the failing fuel injectors which have been under recall for quite some time now and Ford does not seem to want to fix this issue. They can only tell us they do not have a fix yet at this time. My understanding this is a very dangerous issue as the vehicle can catch on fire due to this malfunction. I have young children who all ride in this vehicle.