Service Message 2021–2023 Bronco No 3rd Gear Engagement and/or a Grinding Noise Going into 3rd and/or… — 55284

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Special Service Message · SSM 55284

This is a Special Service Message, not a recall. SSMs are informational notes Ford sends dealers about a known condition or a change in procedure. They are not repair orders, and they don't by themselves change what is covered.

Published: Oct 27, 2026
Applies to: Bronco (2021–2023 model years)

Restrictions stated in the source:

• Equipment: equipped with a MT88 manual transmission

Summary (official text)​

Some 2021-2023 Bronco vehicles equipped with a MT88 manual transmission may exhibit no 3rd gear engagement and/or a grinding noise going into 3rd and/or 4th gear. This may be due to the 3rd/4th gear shift fork. To correct this condition, replace the following parts: <br /><br /> *3rd gear (MU7Z-7101-A)<br /> *3rd/4th gear synchronizer assembly (MU7Z-7124-M)<br /> *4th gear synchronizer ring plate (MU7Z-7M157-A)<br /> *3rd/4th gear shift fork (TU7Z-7230-A)<br /> *All other one-time use parts as instructed by Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 308-03<br /><br /> Refer to WSM, Section 308-03 > Disassembly and Assembly of Subassemblies > Input Shaft, Steps 1-5. Inspect and replace any other damaged parts as needed.<br /><br /> Note: 3rd gear is part of the input shaft. The 4th gear assembly is part of the output shaft assembly and does not require replacement, unless damage is found. In this transmission, 4th gear uses a synchronizer ring to align the synchronizer assembly with the gear during shifts.<br /><br /> For access to the target components, refer to WSM, Section 308-03 > Removal > Transmission and

Sources​

• SSM 55284 (PDF, NHTSA document 11038697) — Oct 27, 2026

Details from NHTSA as of Oct 27, 2026. If NHTSA or Ford revises this notice, this post is updated and significant changes are noted in a reply. The linked documents are the authority, and a dealer can confirm whether it applies to your VIN.

Have you experienced this issue with your vehicle? Let us know your model year and engine, plus any diagnosis or repair details.