To avoid an apparent risk of sudden failure, Ford is replacing the 12-volt batteries in the impacted vehicles.

A manufacturing defect in the vehicles' 12-volt batteries can cause them to stall at low speeds, or not restart after stopping. The automaker will fix the flaw for free.

Ford recalled hundreds of thousands of vehicles because of concerns over battery failure issues, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said.

Subject vehicles were produced for the 2021 through 2023 model years for the US market, with the cut-off date being October 20, 2022

The problem is due to a manufacturing defect in 12-volt starter batteries used in these vehicles. To fix the problem, Ford dealerships will replace them with new absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries, free of charge. Owners who already paid for new batteries out of pocket will be eligible for reimbursement from the automaker.

Ford is recalling more than 272,800 examples of its Bronco Sport SUV and Maverick pickup truck over an issue with the 12-volt battery that may cause a loss of drive power.

Ford is recalling more than 270,000 cars across the U.S. after customers reported battery failures that have affected functions including the steering and hazard lights. Models affected by the recall include 2021-2023 Bronco Sport SUVs and 2022-2023 Maverick trucks,

Instead of updating software to detect failing batteries, Ford will now replace the faulty batteries on Maverick and Bronco Sport models.