NHTSA Complaint #11700017 — 2021 FORD BRONCO SPORT

While driving my 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, I experienced a strong chemical/fume smell entering the cabin, which caused headache and nausea. I later found that the battery installed in the vehicle had vent holes with visible liquid residue indicating leakage. I did not authorize or install this battery — it appears the battery was changed without my knowledge while the vehicle was in a lender’s possession. This created a serious safety concern because the fumes entered the HVAC system and the vehicle became unsafe to operate. I had the vehicle towed to two separate Ford dealerships. Both refused to inspect the HVAC system or provide a proper safety diagnosis. One dealer admitted the battery had “traces of leaking fluid,” but no diagnostic inspection was performed, and they attempted to close the repair order without documenting the safety concern. I was forced to replace the battery out of pocket just to safely drive the vehicle, but the original leaking battery and the exposure incident should still be investigated. My safety was put at risk, and the dealerships refused proper inspection or remediation.