Ford is recalling more than 119,000 US vehicles over an issue with the engine block heater that could short circuit and cause an underhood fire, auto safety regulators said Wednesday.
The recall includes certain 2013-2018 Focus, 2013-2019 Escape, 2015-2016 MKC, 2019 Explorer and 2024 Explorer cars, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The recall covers 119,075 vehicles.
An estimated 1,191 cars have the defect.
Over time, the engine block heater in the impacted vehicles might crack and develop a coolant leak – causing it to short circuit when the vehicle is parked and the block heater is plugged in.
Drivers may notice coolant spots on the driveway or garage floor, a loss of cabin heat, powertrain unit overheating or a warning indicator for low coolant levels.
A leak can also cause heat damage to the block heater electrical wiring, so drivers may notice an odor or smoke.
Owners should bring their vehicle to a Ford dealership, where the block heater will be replaced, free of charge.
People should not plug in the block heater until the engine is fixed.
Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed out by Feb. 13, 2026.
Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, likely in April 2026, according to the NHTSA.
