Ford is scrambling after uncovering a serious design issue that could lead to an under the hood fire. The company has announced a large scale recall affecting around 119,000 vehicles across several popular models. The problem is serious enough that Ford is urging drivers to stop using a specific feature immediately.
The recall impacts multiple Ford vehicles built between 2013 and 2024. This includes certain Ford Focus, Ford Explorer, Ford Escape, and Lincoln MKC models that are equipped with a 2.0L engine. While not every vehicle from those years is affected, the total number involved is significant.
Ford recall over engine block heater fire risk
The issue centers on the engine block heater. This is a component many drivers use in cold weather to warm the engine before starting the car. Ford discovered that the block heater can crack over time. When it cracks, coolant can leak out.
That coolant can then come into contact with electrical parts. If the heater is plugged into a standard household outlet, the moisture can cause a short circuit. That short circuit can spark a fire while the vehicle is parked.
Federal safety regulators have backed up Ford’s findings. They confirmed that the cracked heater and coolant leak combination creates a real fire risk when the heater is plugged in.
Signs your Ford vehicle may be affected
Ford says there are several warning signs drivers should watch for. You might see coolant spots under your car. You could notice the cabin not heating properly. A low coolant warning may appear on the dashboard. The engine could overheat. In some cases, drivers may smell smoke without an obvious cause.
Ford is being very clear on one point. Owners should not plug in the engine block heater under any circumstances until the issue is fixed.
What Ford is doing next
Ford says it is working on a redesigned block heater that will solve the problem. Once it is ready, affected customers will receive the new part free of charge. Until then, Ford is offering another option.
Drivers can choose to have the block heater removed entirely. A dealership will take out the faulty heater and seal the opening with a threaded plug. This service will also be done for free. The power cord will be stored so it can be reused later if the new heater is installed.
Ford plans to notify affected owners by mail in early February. The permanent fix is expected to be available by April.
So far, Ford says there have been no reported injuries or accidents tied to this issue. However, the company has acknowledged that 12 Ford Escape owners have claimed their vehicles caught fire, which raised red flags and triggered the recall.
For now, Ford stresses that the danger only exists when the heater is plugged in. Leaving it unplugged removes the immediate risk until repairs are completed.
