Underhood Fire Risk Prompts Ford to Issue Recall

Ford has issued a recall for approximately 119,000 vehicles due to a fire risk, reports CBS News.

Included in the recall are certain 2016-2018 Focus, 2019 Explorer, 2024 Explorer, 2013-2018 Focus, 2013-2019 Escape, and 2015-2016 MKC vehicles equipped with a 2.0L engine.

The problem lies with the engine heating block, which are prone to cracking and leaking coolant. This could lead to a short circuit when the engine block heater is plugged into a 110-volt electrical supply, creating a fire risk in parked vehicles.

“The risk of fire is only present when the heater is plugged into an electrical outlet,” said Ford in a statement.

Owners of recalled vehicles have been advised to immediately stop using the engine block heater and not plug it into any power source. The automaker is developing a new block heater element, and will offer it as a remedy once it’s available. Alternatively, vehicle owners may also have the block heater removed, and a threaded plug installed at a Ford dealer for no cost.

Notices are expected to be mailed to owners beginning Feb. 13, with more to be sent once the final repair is available.