Ford was the most recalled automaker in 2023, and things haven’t calmed down much this year. The company recently recalled 90,736 vehicles for an issue involving engine intake valves, which can break while driving.
The recall affects the 2021-2022 Bronco, Edge, Explorer, F-150, Lincoln Aviator, and Lincoln Nautilus models with the 2.7- or 3.0-liter EcoBoost engines. Though the 2022 model year is included, Ford said it revised its valve material and construction in late October 2021, which remedied the issue.
The documentation states that the engines in those vehicles may have intake valves with a “propensity to crack and break.” If an intake valve fails, it could cause “catastrophic engine damage resulting in a loss of motive power.” The failures relate to the valves’ hardness at the third keeper groove location in the valve component. Owners may see an engine malfunction or check engine light if the problem exists. They may also notice that the vehicle is running rough prior to it losing power.
Unfortunately for Ford and its owners, this is one recall that can’t be fixed with an over-the-air update. Dealers will inspect the vehicle to determine if its engine has met Ford’s defined number of engine cycles. Those with less use will be cycled at the dealer using an OEM servicing procedure. If the engine does not pass the cycle accumulation test, the dealer will replace the engine. Ford said it may reimburse owners who had already paid for repairs, depending on their eligibility.
[Images: Ford]
Become a TTAC insider. Get the latest news, features, TTAC takes, and everything else that gets to the truth about cars first by subscribing to our newsletter.
