Ford Bronco Sport and Ford Maverick Control Arm Separation - Don't Drive
Control Arm Separation Defects: A Serious Safety Risk for California Drivers
When purchasing a new vehicle, consumers expect it to be safe, reliable, and free from manufacturing defects. Unfortunately, some vehicles leave the factory with serious defects that can compromise driver safety and lead to dangerous accidents. One such issue is control arm separation, a defect that can cause a driver to lose steering control and significantly increase the risk of a crash.
What Is a Control Arm and Why Is It Important?
The control arm is a critical component of a vehicle's suspension system. It connects the wheel assembly to the vehicle's frame and helps maintain proper wheel alignment while allowing the suspension to move smoothly over bumps and uneven road surfaces.
When a control arm fails or becomes disconnected, the affected wheel may lose stability, causing steering problems, loss of vehicle control, tire damage, and in severe cases, accidents that can result in serious injuries.
Factory Defects Can Cause Control Arm Separation
In some instances, control arm separation is caused by manufacturing defects or improper assembly during production. Even a small error in the installation of suspension components can create a significant safety hazard for vehicle owners.
A recent example involves certain Ford vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a critical "Do Not Drive" recall for certain 2021–2026 Ford Bronco Sport and 2022–2026 Ford Maverick vehicles due to improperly assembled ball joints. According to the recall, the defect can cause the control arm to disconnect from the steering knuckle, potentially resulting in a loss of vehicle control and an increased risk of a crash.
Owners of affected vehicles should immediately determine whether their vehicle is included in the recall and follow all manufacturer safety instructions. Drivers can check their vehicle's recall status through the NHTSA Recall Lookup tool using their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Signs of a Potential Control Arm Problem
Drivers should pay attention to warning signs that may indicate suspension or control arm issues, including:
Clunking or knocking noises from the suspension
Vehicle pulling to one side
Uneven tire wear
Excessive vibration while driving
Poor steering response
Visible suspension damage
If you experience any of these symptoms, your vehicle should be inspected as soon as possible by a qualified repair facility.
California Lemon Law and Suspension Defects
Under California's Lemon Law, consumers may be entitled to compensation if a vehicle contains a substantial defect that affects its use, value, or safety and the manufacturer is unable to repair the problem after a reasonable number of repair attempts.
Safety-related defects involving steering, suspension, or vehicle control systems are often considered serious defects because they can place drivers, passengers, and others on the road at risk of injury.
Depending on the circumstances, eligible consumers may be entitled to:
A vehicle buyback
A replacement vehicle
Reimbursement of repair-related expenses
Recovery of attorney's fees and costs
Contact Naderi Law Group
Phone: (323) 892-1563
Email: ray@naderilawgroup.com
If your vehicle has experienced recurring suspension issues, control arm defects, steering problems, or has been subject to a safety recall and repeated repair attempts, you may have rights under California's Lemon Law.
The attorneys at Naderi Law Group help California consumers hold vehicle manufacturers accountable and pursue the compensation they deserve. Contact our office today for a free consultation to discuss your situation and determine whether your vehicle may qualify as a lemon