Ford Recalls Over 119,075 U.S. Vehicles Due to Fire Risk

Ford Motor Company has issued a safety recall affecting 119,075 vehicles in the United States after regulators and the automaker found a defect in the engine block heater system that could raise the risk of fire under certain conditions. 

The recall, coordinated with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), centers on a flaw in the engine block heater, a device designed to warm engine coolant in cold weather. In affected vehicles, the heater can crack and leak coolant, potentially causing a short circuit and increasing the chance of an under‑hood fire when the heater is plugged into an electrical outlet. 

What’s Affected

Models included in the recall cover several Ford and Lincoln nameplates equipped with 2.0‑liter engines: select 2016–2018 Ford Focus, 2013–2019 Ford Escape, 2019 and 2024 Ford Explorer, and 2015–2016 Lincoln MKC vehicles.

Ford and federal regulators emphasize that the fire risk is only present while the engine block heater is plugged into a 110‑volt outlet. Owners should avoid plugging in the heater until repairs are made.

Official Ford Statement

In a statement shared with news outlets including ABC News, Ford confirmed that it is developing a new engine block heater element to replace the defective components. Once new parts are available, owners will be contacted to bring their vehicle to a Ford dealer for a free replacement. 

For drivers who want an immediate alternative, Ford is also offering an optional interim fix: dealers will remove the current block heater and install a threaded plug at no charge, with the heater cord returned to the owner for safekeeping until the new element is ready.

Timeline and Notifications

Interim safety letters are expected to begin mailing in early February, with final remedy notifications to follow when parts are ready, likely in April. 

Safety Signals to Watch For

NHTSA’s recall documentation warns owners to be alert for:

• Coolant spots on pavement or garage floors
• Loss of cabin heater performance
• Powertrain overheating
• Warning lights for low coolant
• Heat damage, smoke, or unusual smells under the hood 

Despite the fire risk, Ford reports no confirmed accidents or injuries linked to the defect so far. 

What Owners Should Do Now

Affected owners should:

• Check their VIN on the NHTSA recall lookup tool
• Not plug in the engine block heater until repair
• Watch for recall notices by mail from Ford
• Schedule a free repair appointment once parts are available

This recall reinforces the importance of monitoring vehicle safety notifications and acting promptly on manufacturer and regulator guidance to prevent potential hazards.

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