The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says Ford is recalling as many as 119,000 vehicles in the United States because the engine block heater may short-circuit and lead to a fire.
The automaker added that the recall covers more than 300,000 vehicles across North America.
According to NHTSA, the recall affects certain 2019 and 2024 Ford Explorers, 2016–2018 Ford Focus models, as well as 2013–2019 Ford Escape, 2013–2018 Ford Focus, and 2015–2016 Lincoln MKC vehicles equipped with 2.0L engines.
Owners can check if their vehicle is part of the recall by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA website. www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
NHTSA explained in its recall documents that the engine block heater may crack and leak coolant, which could cause a short circuit when the heater is plugged in. “An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire,” the agency stated.
The safety risk only arises when the block heater is connected to a power source, NHTSA added. Potential warning signs include coolant puddles under the vehicle, reduced cabin heating, powertrain overheating, or a low coolant level warning. In some cases, the issue may also damage the electrical wiring, leading to a smoke odor, according to the agency’s documents.
Ford advised owners not to use the block heater until the official repair is performed. The company will begin sending interim owner notification letters on February 9.
“Ford is currently developing a newly designed engine block heater element,” the automaker said in a statement to ABC News. “Once parts are available, Ford will notify customers to visit a dealer for a free replacement.”
Ford also mentioned that an alternative solution is available for owners who wish to have the block heater disabled.
“Customers who select this option can have a Ford dealer remove the block heater element and install a threaded plug at no cost,” the company stated. The heater cord will be kept in the vehicle for the owner until the redesigned element becomes available for installation.
As of December 3, Ford told NHTSA that it had received 12 reports from Ford Escape 2.0L owners claiming that fires were caused by this issue. The automaker said it is not aware of any accidents or injuries linked to the problem.
