By Shawn Henry 
Ford Motor Company has issued a recall for nearly 59,000 vehicles spanning ten models after discovering that a defect in the engine block heater could cause under-hood fires. The recall affects several Ford and Lincoln models equipped with 2.0-liter or 2.3-liter engines and block heater systems, according to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
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The problem stems from cracks that can develop in the solder joints of the block heater, allowing coolant to leak into electrical components. When the coolant evaporates, it can leave behind conductive salt deposits capable of creating a short circuit — particularly when the heater is plugged into a 110-volt outlet without a functioning circuit breaker or ground fault interrupter.
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Ford has advised affected owners not to plug in their engine block heaters until repairs are completed. Replacement parts are being redesigned, and repairs will be made free of charge once available.
Owners might notice early warning signs such as coolant puddles, reduced cabin heat, engine overheating, low coolant alerts, or smoke and odor from the engine bay. Ford began sending initial notification letters on October 20, 2025, with follow-up notices expected once new parts are ready in February 2026.
So far, Ford has received reports of 46 vehicle fires, most from Canada, but no related injuries or accidents have been confirmed.
The recall impacts a wide range of vehicles, including:
- 2020–2023 Ford Explorer – 15,216 units
- 2019–2024 Ford Ranger – 12,701 units
- 2021–2024 Ford Bronco – 8,107 units
- 2022–2024 Ford Maverick – 4,277 units
- 2016–2018 Ford Explorer – 4,517 units
- 2016–2019 Lincoln MKC – 4,235 units
- 2021–2024 Ford Bronco Sport – 4,020 units
- 2020–2022 Ford Escape – 3,723 units
- 2019–2020 Ford Fusion – 1,334 units
- 2020–2022 Lincoln Corsair – 876 units
Owners can check if their vehicle is included by visiting NHTSA.gov, calling 1-866-436-7332, or contacting a Ford or Lincoln dealer. The Ford recall number is 25SA4, and NHTSA’s campaign number is 25V685.
As automakers continue grappling with post-pandemic supply challenges and stricter safety regulations, this recall adds to the growing list of electrical system issues confronting the industry.
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