Need Help and Suggestions for Bronco Sport Transport after Breakdown

[RogueRodney]

Hey BS’ers!

Hope everyone is well, I have recently accepted a new job in Boise Idaho, I’ve been looking to move to the area for years and finally was given the opportunity.

On 9/24, movers came and loaded everything up into trucks and took it away for delivery on 10/1. I stayed in Texas for a few days to wrap up a few things and hit the road in Lakota (my Ford Bronco Sport Badlands from 2023) on 9/27.

I broke up the journey into several sections, first targeting Salina Kansas to see my son in KSU’s aviation program, then on to Cheyenne Wyoming. After that we were going to hit Jackson Wyoming before cruising into Boise Idaho.

My plan was to post how well the Bronco Sport handled the trip and rave about its performance on the road.

On Day 1, I got a late start due to a flat tire, but headed out much later than planned around 3:30 p.m., but Lakota performed as expected. It was wonderful on the highway despite being loaded down with a cargo carrier and cargo bag that were fully loaded. It ran like a dream.

Back on track on Day 2, we got going around noon, abit later than I wanted. The trip through rural Kansas was beautiful in a very “home on plains” way, and we made great time on the roads, crossing into Nebraska.

I had never been in Nebraska before and that highway had SO MANY 18 Wheelers, but everyone was great and respectful, I was shocked! Driving overall was a dream, we were making great time and about 12 minutes out of Ogalla Nebraska (about 2.5 hours from Cheyenne) when suddenly I went to pass an 18 wheeler, and the car just stopped accelerating.

At first I thought I had disabled the cruise control or something, but after fiddling with that, and then trying to accelerate with the pedal it was clear something was wrong. The car stopped all acceleration, and I was able to effectively glide to the shoulder, where I stopped and put on my hazards.

The car then flashed a message about removing all peripherals, and shutting off the vehicle and restarting it.

It did not shutdown normally, but after pressing and holding the start/stop button, it did shutdown. After that I pressed the button to restart and like every light on the console lit up. I was unable to turn the car back on or even get it in neutral.

For those not versed in the ways of South West Nebraska, it is rural! Businesses shut down Friday at 5 p.m in general and don’t open again till Monday morning. This issue happened at 5:15 p.m. on Saturday!

I had to be in Boise to meet the move in to the new home on 10/1 (Tuesday), so I couldn’t afford to wait till Monday to get on the road (it would have been about a 13.5 hour drive straight), if I managed to leave first thing Monday morning.

Anyway, one thing about Southwest Nebraska, the people are amazing! Kent’s Towing in Ogalla loaned me a car for Saturday night and Sunday morning at no charge (Thanks Dan!), and a gentleman named Dillon at Hertz rental in North Platte came in early on Sunday to get me in a rental (a Toyota 4 Runner). I was able to crush the rest of the trip, driving for longer hours in the 4 Runner to arrive on time and move in.

But now my Bronco Sport is stuck in Ogalla. Currently it is running fine, and there were no codes thrown to show anything was incorrect. Fox Ford in Ogalla’s mechanic believes that since it was low on gas, that was what caused the outage, but I had 32 miles to empty and was around 12 miles to a gas station.

I know there was a recall for this issue, but my car has had the repair.

The reason I moved was to start a new job, which begins Monday (10/7). Tomorrow (10/3) is my son’s first day at school, and I have a physical for my new position.

In short, I don’t have the capacity to take off work to travel there to pick up the car, and even if I did, I would be worried about it breaking down again.

Need thoughts and suggestions about how to get the car to me. I’m still working through things, but so far I’ve been charged for the hotel cancellation in Cheyenne, incurred costs for a hotel in North Platte, incurred costs for renting a car because my car was not operational, am incurring $50 a day in fees for the rental, and the dealership is working with me, but at this time has no way to transport the vehicle to me in Boise.

I’m afraid if I take off my new employment to try to pick up the car, it will just break down again in Wyoming or central Idaho, there is alot of open space in those states.

Thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks Team!

F

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[Dude]

You stated you had Recall 24S24 completed.

You probably need a new battery - the most likely fix and best solution is to get a new AGM Battery installed.

You’ll be glad you did.

Make sure you or the installer runs the BMS Reset (procedure is in the owners manual and repeated below for your convenience).

You then should have no further issues in getting your Bronco Sport home but you may want to have a full check up of the charging system at a dealership close to home.

Battery Sensor Reset (Battery Management System (BMS) Reset):
When you install a new battery, reset the battery sensor by doing the following:
1. Switch ignition on, and leave the engine off.
Note: Complete Steps 2 & 3 within 10 seconds.
2. Flash the high beam headlamps five times, ending with the high beams off.
3. Press and release the brake pedal 3 times.
The battery warning lamp flashes 3 times to confirm that the reset is successful.

Also see this post for battery recommendations: https://www.broncosportforum.com/forum/threads/bronco-struggles-to-turn-over-getting-charging-system-service-now-message-multiple-alerts-upon-ignition.12221/post-203654

 

[RogueRodney]

Dude:

Thanks for the reply. I appreciate the suggestion.

I've pampered my Bronco Sport, I have done various mods/upgrades on it. Back in December 23, it started having an electrical problem and was in the shop for two weeks. At that time, trying to fix the concern, the dealer replaced a ton of stuff (alternators, computer modules, etc). They did not replace the battery, but after reading various posts regarding the battery, I purchased this beast: Optimal YellowTop AGM Battery (at least I think that is the one, looks like it), and asked the dealership to install it, which they did).

Since the dealership installed the battery, I'm assuming they did it right... During that checkup, they also checked out all my light modifications (light bars, fog lights, etc), and they said everything was good with those as well.

In short, it shouldn't be a battery concern, though I wouldn't rule anything out.

But I do appreciate the suggestion.

F

 

[Dude]

In short, it shouldn't be a battery concern, though I wouldn't rule anything out.

That’s kind of a pun, ‘in short’ since there could be a “short circuit” with all the mods but you probably aren’t in the mood for humor.

Did you check to make sure the battery ground wire which attaches to the right front (drivers side) fender is tight? Some owners reported this was loose which caused problems similar to yours.

Another thing that came to mind since you have the lift installed, skids and larger tires … at any time was the vehicle in water that say exceeds a foot or more? Reason I ask is another owner reported similar electrical issues, had the dealership go over the electrical system like you did but the issues remained.

Finally, relative to the Dec 2023 event when you had to put your vehicle with the dealership, when were each of the electrical modifications done? That would include the ambient lighting, rock lights, off road lighting, etc. And how soon after the electrical work was done was the first indication of a problem? (You did say above the dealership checked all electrical mods and found those good)

When was the new Optima battery installed and when was Recall 24S24 completed?

Sorry for all these questions, just looking for clues

If you don’t trust driving the vehicle home from where it is you might have to check into a one way flat bed transport truck to haul it back but those typically are expensive

 

[Dude]

it could well be a fuel issue or even the new optima battery could be defective.

you stated the dealership found no codes were stored. And the only messages are what you saw displayed which sound exactly like the messages output from a low battery condition (Recall 24S24 does have new messaging which sounds like could be what you saw). Possibly the (new) alternator isn’t charging the battery,

Please check your FordPass App and post pics of the stored Messages (in the App, on the main screen top right press the icon that looks like a person then open Messages). Please post pics of the stored messages from the point the vehicle shut itself down in Nebraska and from the electrical issues that occurred prior to the December 2023 event.

You will want to get a voltage readout device - one of those along with suggested usage is posted at this link:

https://www.broncosportforum.com/forum/threads/recall-work-failed.11628/post-198582

 

[Uncle Buck]

As to your original question as to how to get your vehicle from Ogalla to Boise...

I certainly appreciate your situation regarding not missing work at a brand new job.

There are companies that offer door-to-door shipping services. Do a Google search for "car shipping companies" and you'll find some. I have never done this myself but a friend has, and as I recall it was pretty simple. I have no idea of cost, but the websites I just looked at offer free estimates.

Best of luck, both with getting your Sport to Idaho, and also with your new job. What a great place to live and work – congratulations!

 

[RogueRodney]

That’s kind of a pun, ‘in short’ since there could be a “short circuit” with all the mods but you probably aren’t in the mood for humor.

Did you check to make sure the battery ground wire which attaches to the right front (drivers side) fender is tight? Some owners reported this was loose which caused problems similar to yours.

Another thing that came to mind since you have the lift installed, skids and larger tires … at any time was the vehicle in water that say exceeds a foot or more? Reason I ask is another owner reported similar electrical issues, had the dealership go over the electrical system like you did but the issues remained.

Finally, relative to the Dec 2023 event when you had to put your vehicle with the dealership, when were each of the electrical modifications done? That would include the ambient lighting, rock lights, off road lighting, etc. And how soon after the electrical work was done was the first indication of a problem? (You did say above the dealership checked all electrical mods and found those good)

When was the new Optima battery installed and when was Recall 24S24 completed?

Sorry for all these questions, just looking for clues

If you don’t trust driving the vehicle home from where it is you might have to check into a one way flat bed transport truck to haul it back but those typically are expensive

Dude:

Thanks for the reply/help.

I did not check to make sure the wire was grounded, but all the work that has been done on my car has been done by professionals. I get it, that doesn't mean it was done right, but it does raise the possibilities. The lift was done by the the dealership in McKinney Texas, the skid plates and rock rails were done by 4 wheel auto parts in Frisco Texas, all lighting modifications were done by the lead technician at Car toys in McKinney Texas and I'm as confident as I can be that the man was an expert on installations without actually knowing anything about car electronics myself.

All work on on the lighting was done 3-4 months before any electrical concerns with the car in December 23. The dealership apparently knows the tech at Car Toys (they are like 2 blocks from each other), and they checked over Car Toys' work and approved it while they had the car. As mentioned, they had it for two weeks and were replacing everything, so if they could have pointed at the additions as a concern, I'm sure they would have.

The battery was installed by the dealership while the car's electrical concerns were being investigated, they had the car for at least 3 days after the battery was installed. I don't have exact dates for 24S24, but it was MUCH later than the December concern, like May/June of 24.

I really WANT to trust the Bronco Sport, but with the way it acted, and with the terrain I have to cover, I really don't. It will be covering longer distances with at least as hard driving from Ogalla Nebraska to Boise. The weather is now cooler, so if it was a heating problem (no indication of that but if it was), then it should be better for it.

Honestly just really disappointed in the vehicle/Ford. This is the first time I've ever been seriously let down by a vehicle I've owned as I get everything done to it at all the right maintenance points.

I will say that driving the 4Runner after the Bronco Sport was like wrestling a pig (disclaimer, I've never wrestled a pig, but I would think it would be kinda like it). The body on frame vehicle did not have near the comfort level on the road and it's passing capability (this was a rental so it is likely a base model), was not near as good. But that said, it worked, and my car didn't...

I'll try to get a response to your other post in abit.

Much thanks for your thoughts/suggestions.

F

 

[RogueRodney]

As to your original question as to how to get your vehicle from Ogalla to Boise...

I certainly appreciate your situation regarding not missing work at a brand new job.

There are companies that offer door-to-door shipping services. Do a Google search for "car shipping companies" and you'll find some. I have never done this myself but a friend has, and as I recall it was pretty simple. I have no idea of cost, but the websites I just looked at offer free estimates.

Best of luck, both with getting your Sport to Idaho, and also with your new job. What a great place to live and work – congratulations!

Uncle Buck:

Yes, unfortunately that is where I landed as well and started on it last night, will likely try to get that ironed out today. I appreciate the advice my friend.

Happy Trails...

F

 

[RogueRodney]

Team:

Dude, I know I owe you information, and I'll get to that as soon as I'm able. Sorry in the middle of a move, working on the car, getting ready for a new job, etc.

Just in case anyone is reading this and would like to know how things worked out, I ended up contacting Monarch Transport Group which is a broker that works with other transport people, and they are going to pickup and deliver my vehicle to my home in Boise. The price was more reasonable than I had anticipated, though it was still money I shouldn't have had to pay because my car should have never broken down in the first place, sorry still abit too soon for me.

I have to say, I'm disappointed in my Bronco and I guess in Ford in general. I highly value reliability in my vehicles, and while I admit I was putting the vehicle through its paces, it was nothing that it shouldn't have handled and nothing that the Toyota 4 Runner I rented didn't handle.

My plan was to enjoy exploring the area and drive to Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Wyoming, Utah, etc. with my new vehicle, I'm now wondering how realistic that plan is given the concern I encountered.

I fully understand that all manufacturers have some concerns, and that vehicles can break down, but this is the first one that has ever let me down, and as far as I can tell it was in perfect working order for this type of trip, nothing that it shouldn't have been able to handle.

Sincerely,

F

 

[Mwittke5857]

You stated you had Recall 24S24 completed.

You probably need a new battery - the most likely fix and best solution is to get a new AGM Battery installed.

You’ll be glad you did.

Make sure you or the installer runs the BMS Reset (procedure is in the owners manual and repeated below for your convenience).

You then should have no further issues in getting your Bronco Sport home but you may want to have a full check up of the charging system at a dealership close to home.

Battery Sensor Reset (Battery Management System (BMS) Reset):
When you install a new battery, reset the battery sensor by doing the following:
1. Switch ignition on, and leave the engine off.
Note: Complete Steps 2 & 3 within 10 seconds.
2. Flash the high beam headlamps five times, ending with the high beams off.
3. Press and release the brake pedal 3 times.
The battery warning lamp flashes 3 times to confirm that the reset is successful.

Also see this post for battery recommendations: https://www.broncosportforum.com/forum/threads/bronco-struggles-to-turn-over-getting-charging-system-service-now-message-multiple-alerts-upon-ignition.12221/post-203654

In for a penny, in for a pound. If and when my battery starts to go (or I lose confidence in it), I'm going lithium-ion

 

[Mt Goat]

Rodney,

Hope you are settling in to your new life in Boise and that the chaos of your trip there has settled down. Any updates on your Bronco and what may be going on/what may have caused the problem? Don't know if you've had it looked at yet of not, but keep us posted.

 

[Dude]

@RogueRodney … have you had any luck getting the issue diagnosed? What causes the issue you listed in your post #1?

 

[RogueRodney]

Team:

My apologies, I know I need to post an update, especially since so many of you were so incredible in offering help.

As a recap, I moved from Texas to Idaho, I started a new job, and I'm a single Dad. I've had like no life for about the last 6 weeks.

A few things I'll mention, Idaho is paradise! The people here are incredible! My new job is a complete dream. I've been fortunate enough to acquire employment at St. Luke's and I cannot rave about this awesome organization and it's people enough! Even my new home is beautiful (it's a rental, but it is incredible)!

I am finally starting to get free time, I have yet to find out anything new about the concerns I experienced. In general, it runs terrific. There have been a few oddities though.

If I have both windows down (passenger and driver, and the back windows partially down as well), if I try to roll up both front windows at the same time, the driver's side window goes up, and the passenger's side window goes down? After the driver's side is rolled up, I am then able to roll up the passenger's side normally.

Once, this evening, I climbed into the car and pressed the brake to start the car and this weird throb went through the vehicle. It did it several times. It then started and ran fine but....

Despite the fact that it has been performing well, I have a serious lack of confidence in it. I do plan to take it to the the Lithia Ford dealership here in the next week or two, but haven't had a chance to do so yet since I just started a new job.

I will post an update as soon as possible. Thank you all for the advice and support.

God bless, and Happy Trails.

RR

 

[RogueRodney]

Minor Update, Still No Information:

I went to Lithia Ford in Boise Idaho today, I confess I had some inflated hopes that I may encounter a Ford representative that seemed to care. Sadly that didn't seem to be the case.

I was told that there was a 2 week wait list to drop off my car, which would place it in queue. The queue was 3-4 days, of course there is no loaner, so I would have to rent a car. The Service Agent (I'm not going to name them that seems cruel, I get most of this wasn't his fault), said most likely they wouldn't be able to tell me anything more than Fox Ford in Ogalla did (by the way shout out to them, I can't say they really helped much, but they were nice and worked with me to get the car back). If Lithia tests it and it works without errors, and there are no codes to pull, there likely wouldn't be anything they can do. I got the impression he was telling me to not bother dropping it off.

I know that this likely happens to all auto makers, but for the last like 12-15 years I've been in a Honda. Even with about 200K miles it never left me stranded. I never had to wait 2 weeks to get my car into a service bay, and I never felt like I was completely driving on a wing and a prayer.

Before buying the Bronco Sport, I seriously considered holding off, but like I said my old car had ALOT of miles, zero value, and I didn't see anything else on the market (or coming) that I really loved (if the new Toyota FJ had been out, I wouldn't have bought a Bronco Sport).

Funnily (it is a word now, I just made it one), after I do this, I'm going to fill out a financing thing to buy my son a 2021 Ford Ranger. But while I was leaving the dealership, I was strongly tempted to tell him to get a Tacoma....

You could say "Buy American," but my kids are 1/2 Japanese and a dual citizens, so no matter how he goes he is supporting his team....

Just sad that this is what we should expect.

RR

 

[Mark S.]

Funnily (it is a word now, I just made it one)

Sorry to hear about your experience. It seems to be getting more and more common. Hope this makes you smile.

https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/funnily

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