Why did the engine in my 2021–2022 Ford Bronco 2.7 suddenly fail?

Short answer: Some 2021–2022 Broncos with the 2.7L EcoBoost suffered sudden engine failures because intake valves cracked and broke. Ford recalled them (recall 24S55). The dealer runs a test, and engines that fail it are replaced free. Ford also added a longer coverage program for valve failures after the recall check. Run your VIN now.

Symptom: A sudden misfire, rough running, loud noise or loss of power while driving, sometimes ending with an engine that won't run at all.

What to check first

1. Run your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or a Ford dealer for recall 24S55 (NHTSA 24V635).
2. Get the recall inspection done even if your engine runs fine. It's what qualifies you for Ford's follow-up coverage.
3. If the engine misfires suddenly, pull over safely and have it towed rather than driving on it.
4. Ask about Ford program 24N12 if a valve-related failure happens after the recall inspection.

Likely causes

1. Cracked or broken intake valves. Ford's recall says the intake valves may break while driving. Dealers run an engine cycle test and replace the engine if needed, free.
2. Other misfire causes (coils, plugs). Worth ruling out, but don't assume a misfire on these engines is minor until the recall is checked.

What it usually costs

Recall repairs and qualifying engine replacements are free. Ford's 24N12 program covers a no-cost replacement long block for a later valve-related failure, generally up to 10 years or 150,000 miles, after the recall inspection is done.

Is it safe to keep driving?

If your truck hasn't had the recall inspection, get it done soon. A valve failure can cause a sudden loss of power in traffic. If it starts misfiring or knocking, don't keep driving it. Verify with a mechanic.

DIY or shop?

Dealer only. The recall test and any engine replacement are done by Ford dealers for free.

Recalls, bulletins and complaints in plain words

• Recall 24V635 (Ford 24S55), 2021–2022 Bronco and other models with the 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost: intake valves may break while driving, causing engine failure and a loss of drive power. If your car is part of this recall, the dealer tests the engine and replaces it if needed, for free.
• Ford Customer Satisfaction Program 24N12: after the recall inspection, a later valve-related engine failure can get a free replacement long block, generally through 10 years or 150,000 miles.
• NHTSA investigation EA23002 looked into these intake valve failures before the recall.
• Recall 26V468 (2021–2026 Bronco): a separate engine compartment wiring harness can be damaged and short. Dealers add protective sheathing free.
• NHTSA complaints: 65 keyword-matched complaints for Ford BRONCO 2021–2022 (of 611 unique complaints queried, NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-17; keywords: valve, engine fail, loss of power, lost power, engine seized, misfire, engine replace, blown).

What owners report

• Bronco6G owners shared their 2.7 blown engine experiences, many at low mileage, and some waited a long time for replacement engines.
• A long 2.7 engine failure tracking thread logs failures and pushes Ford to act, and owners later asked whether the 2.7 failures were fixed for later builds.

My take

My advice as a former finance manager: if you're buying a used 2021–2022 Bronco 2.7, ask for proof that recall 24S55 was done before you sign. It protects you, and it's what keeps the 24N12 coverage available to you.

Vehicle focus: 2021–2022 Ford Bronco with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6.

Safety / mechanic note

A sudden engine failure can cause a loss of power in traffic. Verify with a mechanic.