Ford Recalls Nearly 700,000 Broncos & Escapes: Fuel Injector Crack Could Cause Fire
What’s the Problem?
On July 16, 2025, Ford announced a recall of approximately 694,271 SUVs—including the Bronco Sport (2021–2024) and Escape (2020–2022)—due to cracked fuel injectors. These cracks may allow fuel to leak into the engine compartment, significantly increasing the risk of under‑hood fires
Affected Models
2021–2024 Ford Bronco Sport with the 1.5‑L “Dragon” engine
2020–2022 Ford Escape with the same engine
Owners of both retail and fleet vehicles are included in this recall.
Safety Hazards & Warning Signs
Fuel leaking onto hot engine parts can ignite, causing fires in the engine bay. While no injuries or accidents have been reported, fuel odor, smoke, or visible flames in the engine compartment are clear warnings
Ford’s Interim Fix
Dealerships have already begun applying a two-pronged repair:
Engine control software update to detect drops in fuel rail pressure—power is reduced, and a warning prompt is shown to drivers.
Installation of a fuel drain tube to redirect any leaking fuel away from ignition sources
These measures are intended to reduce fire risk temporarily while a permanent solution is developed.
Lemon Law & Legal Implications
Even with a software patch and drain tube, cracked injectors remain a serious defect. Several key legal issues arise here:
Safety risk: Fire potential qualifies as a "substantial impairment" under state lemon laws.
Incomplete remedy: Without injector replacements, the defect could recur, prompting additional concerns and legal ramifications.
Extended warranty: Ford typically extends warranty coverage on recalled parts—keep documentation to ensure coverage applies.
Repeated repairs: Multiple fixes or lack of a full resolution may satisfy lemon‑law criteria for legal action.
Under California law, if the same defect continues after a reasonable number of repair attempts, or if your vehicle has been out of service for 30+ cumulative days, you may have a valid lemon law claim.
What You Should Do Now
Check your VIN via Ford’s recall site or NHTSA to see if your vehicle is part of the recall
Schedule the free interim repair (software update and drain tube) immediately.
Monitor closely for signs of fuel odor, smoke, warning lights, or loss of power.
Document everything: service dates, warning signs, repair attempts, communications, and any vehicle downtime.
Consider legal counsel if symptoms persist or repairs fail. You may be eligible for a buyback, replacement, or cash settlement.
🛑 Protect Your Rights Under California Lemon Law
Don’t wait for the defect to escalate. If your Bronco Sport or Escape continues to show issues after the recall repair—or remains frequently in the shop—you could qualify for lemon‑law relief such as:
Vehicle repurchase
Replacement vehicle
Cash reimbursement for associated expenses like towing or rentals
Contact Valero Law, APC at (424) 299‑4447 or fill out our free Lemon Law case evaluation form today. We help clients hold vehicle manufacturers accountable when safety and reliability fall short.