Ford recalls Escape and Bronco Sport SUVs over risk of fire

Dearborn, MI – April 5, 2022 – Ford (NYSE:F) has issued a recall for 345,451 vehicles due to the risk of an underhood fire because of an engine issue. This recall comes on the heels of at least 21 warranty claims and reports of fires, many of which occurred despite “low time in service and… low vehicle mileage.”

The recall covers the following Ford models with 1.5L engines:

  • 2021 Ford Bronco Sport
  • 2022 Ford Bronco Sport
  • 2020 Ford Escape
  • 2021 Ford Escape
  • 2022 Ford Escape 

Recall summary

The oil separator is part of the engine that maximizes its performance and increases horsepower by filtering away excess air and other gases that mix with motor oil during the engine’s normal operation, according to LSX Magazine.

In the recalled vehicles, a crack may develop at the edge of the oil separator housing, causing the seals to fail and leading oil to leak out close to the engine. 

The component involved in this recall is the oil separator with part number HX7G-6C757-BA.

Recall risks



If the oil gets close to a heat source,  it could lead to a fire in the engine bay, increasing the likelihood of injury. For more on the risk of engine fires, please see this article about a BMW recall due to a similar issue.

Warning signs

Drivers may smell burning oil or see smoke coming from the engine bay.

Other Ford recalls 

Ford issued a recall for the 2021-2022 Bronco Sport and 2021-2022 Escape vehicles in December 2021 over reduced braking performance, as reported.

In September of the same year, the same model-years were recalled due to the risk of engine stall. The recall also included the 2021 Lincoln Corsair.

There was a small Ford Bronco recall in December 2021 due to a misaligned radar module that may make it difficult for the vehicle to keep a “safe distance” from other vehicles, upping the risk of a crash.

The repair

Dealers will inspect the oil separator on the affected vehicles for damage or oil leaks. If either are found, the oil separator and seals will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Ford will reimburse owners who have already paid for repairs related to this recall.

Affected owners will be notified between April 18, 2022 and April 22, 2022. 

Is your vehicle part of this recall?

More than 345,000 vehicles are included in this Ford oil leak recall. To do a Ford recall check, please use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.  

Joseph EstabilloFord recalls Escape and Bronco Sport SUVs over risk of fire

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