Top-Spec Bronco Under the Microscope
If you want the wildest Ford Bronco money can buy, the Bronco Raptor is it. This beast comes loaded with all the off-road goodies: a high-strung EcoBoost engine, long-travel suspension, and enough heavy-duty gear to blast through just about anything.
What sets the Raptor apart from the standard Bronco is its hulking, extra-wide stance. Those massive fender flares stretch over chunky off-road tires, making the SUV look even meaner while keeping mud and rocks from peppering the bodywork.
Ironically, it’s those oversized flares that have landed Ford in hot water. The company is recalling 36,046 Bronco Raptors because the flares can work themselves loose – and sometimes even fly off while you’re driving. Only the Raptor models are affected, so your regular Bronco is safe from spontaneous fender loss.
Ford
What Went Wrong
The voluntary safety recall hits Bronco Raptors built from late 2021 all the way through 2026. Ford figures about 4% of these SUVs are actually at risk, but that’s still a lot of flares waiting to make a break for it.
So, what went wrong? Ford says the supplier’s tools weren’t up to snuff, which led to some fender flare mounting holes being the wrong size or full of stray fibers. That means the clips can’t grab on tight, and over time, the flares start to wiggle loose.
If you’re driving a Bronco Raptor, keep an eye out for warning signs: gaps between the flare and the body, sagging, or weird rattling and flapping noises, especially on the highway. If a flare does make its escape, it could turn into road debris and cause trouble for everyone else.
Ford began investigating the issue after a 2026 Bronco Raptor lost a front fender flare at highway speed. That led to a stop-ship order for new models as engineers tried to figure things out. So far, Ford has counted 370 warranty claims and dozens of reports, but thankfully, no crashes or injuries have been linked to runaway flares.
Ford
Here’s What Owners Should Do
Ford will send out letters to owners, asking them to bring their Bronco Raptor to a Ford or Lincoln dealer for a free checkup.
Dealers will check the flares and swap out any dodgy clips or fasteners. If a flare is already loose, they’ll fix it up. If one has already gone missing, you’ll get a brand-new flare and hardware, all for free.
Dealers will get the heads-up starting August 7, with letters to owners going out soon after. If you think your flares are starting to loosen up, be wary and book an inspection as soon as you get the recall notice.
Ford
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