United StatesCertain Ford 2016–2018 Focus, 2019 Explorer, and 2024 Explorer vehicles are included in this recall; involved VINs became searchable on NHTSA.gov on January 16, 2026. The engine block heater may crack, leak coolant and short when plugged in, increasing fire risk; owners are advised not to plug in the block heater until the vehicle is remedied, dealers will replace the block heater free of charge or owners may choose a threaded blanking plug and removal of the electrical cord, and interim letters were mailed February 13, 2026 with a final remedy expected in October 2026.
What's being recalled
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Focus, 2019 Explorer, and 2024 Explorer vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
How to identify it
NHTSA campaign 26V012000; Manufacturer campaign 25SA4
The hazard
An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
What to do
Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed February 13, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in October 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on January 16, 2026. This recall expands previous recall number 25V685.
The official notice
This page is a summary of the notice published by U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, collected from U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Check the original before you act on it.
Read the official notice (opens in a new tab)