Ford Bronco Recall 2025 – 230k SUVs Affected by Blank Screen [Report]

Ford Motor Company has issued a significant recall affecting nearly 230,000 of its popular SUVs. The Ford Bronco Recall 2025 alert targets a critical software error that can cause the digital instrument panel to fail at startup, leaving drivers without essential safety information.
If you own a newer Bronco or Bronco Sport, this issue could affect you. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has flagged this defect because a blank dashboard hides vital data like vehicle speed, fuel levels, and warning lights, significantly increasing the risk of a crash. Here is everything you need to know about the issue and the free fix available.
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Which Vehicles Are Affected?

The recall encompasses a specific batch of vehicles produced over the last year and a half. It involves 2025-2026 model year Bronco and Bronco Sport SUVs.
- Production Dates: The affected vehicles were manufactured between March 7, 2024, and November 3, 2025.
- Total Units: Approximately 229,609 vehicles are potentially involved.
- Defect Rate: Ford estimates that 100% of the recalled vehicles contain the faulty software, although connected vehicle data suggests about 68% are actively susceptible to the glitch.
The Problem: Why Does the Screen Go Blank?

The root cause is a software error in the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC). According to the recall report, the issue occurs when the vehicle’s internal network attempts to “wake” the cluster from sleep mode.
If this wake-up signal happens within a specific, narrow timing window, it triggers a “memory protection fault.” This fault prevents the display from powering up, resulting in a completely black screen when you start the car.
This isn’t the first time Ford has faced this issue. A similar defect led to the recall of over 355,000 F-Series trucks in August, tracing back to the same Tier 1 supplier, Visteon.
The Fix: Software Update Required
The good news is that this is a software-based problem, which means it has a relatively simple fix. Ford dealers will update the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) software to disable the memory protection feature that is causing the conflict.
- Cost: The repair is free of charge.
- Method: You can visit a Ford or Lincoln dealer for the update. Alternatively, Ford may roll out this fix via an Over-the-Air (OTA) update for capable vehicles, saving you a trip to the service center.
- Timeline: Notification letters will be mailed to owners starting December 8, 2025.
Is Your Car Safe to Drive?
While Ford is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to this specific Ford Bronco Recall 2025, driving without a working speedometer or warning lights is dangerous and illegal in many jurisdictions.
The company has received 12 warranty claims related to this issue since May 2025. If your screen goes blank, you should contact your dealer immediately.
Conclusion

This latest recall pushes Ford’s total for the year to over 135 separate campaigns, affecting millions of vehicles. While the company is working to fix these quality snags, safety remains the priority. If you own a 2025 or 2026 Bronco, keep an eye on your mailbox this December and check your VIN on the NHTSA website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which models are included in the Ford Bronco Recall 2025?
The recall affects 2025-2026 Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport SUVs manufactured between March 7, 2024, and November 3, 2025.
What causes the Bronco instrument cluster to go blank?
A software timing error during startup triggers a memory fault, preventing the digital display from turning on.
Is the repair free for the blank screen issue?
Yes, Ford will update the software free of charge at dealerships or via an over-the-air update.
Has anyone been hurt due to this defect?
No, Ford has reported no accidents or injuries related to the blank instrument cluster issue so far.

