Ford Recalls 119,000 Vehicles Over Engine Block Heater Fire Risk

Ford is recalling about 119,000 U.S. vehicles after federal regulators said defective engine block heaters can crack, leak coolant and short‑circuit, creating a fire risk when the heaters are plugged in. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the recall covers certain 2013–2018 Focus, 2013–2019 Escape and 2015–2016 Lincoln MKC models, as well as some 2016–2018 Focus and 2019 and 2024 Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.0‑liter engines and block heaters. Owners are being told not to plug in the heaters until repairs are made; dealers will replace the heaters free of charge. Interim letters warning of the safety risk are expected to be mailed beginning February 13, with follow‑up notices once a final repair is available, which NHTSA says should be in April. The action underscores ongoing scrutiny of automotive electrical components as a source of fire hazards, and owners relying on block heaters in cold climates may need to adjust how they use their vehicles until the recall work is completed.