- Nearly 180,000 Ford Bronco and Ranger models recalled over loose seat bolts.
- Supplier process error weakened adhesive, allowing bolts to loosen over time.
- Fix involves seat removal and inspection, with replacements installed if needed.
Ford’s recall count keeps climbing, and its latest issue sounds strangely familiar. This time, it’s nearly 180,000 Bronco and Ranger models that may have seat bolts that can loosen or even fall out.
According to NHTSA documents, 179,698 vehicles from the 2024 to 2026 model years are affected, that number breaking down as 62,255 Ranger pickups and 117,443 Bronco SUVs. The problem centers on the front seat height adjustment pivot bolts, which might not stay put over time.
Related: A Sun Visor Set A Ford Ranger On Fire, And Now 140,000 Are Recalled
If those bolts work loose or come out entirely, the seat structure can shift. That obviously isn’t ideal, and in a crash it could increase the risk of injury. Drivers might notice warning signs beforehand, including squeaks, rattles, or a loose feeling seat, the recall notice says.
What’s interesting is how this differs from a similar recall on the same vehicles that we covered last year. Back then, the issue was blamed on assembly workers missing or not properly tightening bolts. This time, the root cause lies further up the supply chain.
Ford says a supplier introduced a torque-check process during production, but it had an unintended consequence. The check was performed before the adhesive on the bolt threads had fully cured, reducing its effectiveness and allowing bolts to loosen over time. So instead of missing hardware, this recall is about hardware that’s there but may not stay secure.
Many Complaints, But No Accidents
Ford became aware of the issue after monitoring warranty claims and investigating reports from vehicles built during that production window. The company logged dozens of claims but says it isn’t aware of any crashes or injuries linked to the defect so far .
The fix is straightforward, though it does involve some shop time. Dealer technicians will remove both front seats, inspect the pivot bolts, and replace components if needed.
It’s all free of charge, of course, but it’s another embarrassing entry in Ford’s ever-growing recall tally. After racking up more than 150 recalls last year, 2026 isn’t exactly off to a quieter start.
