Ford recalls vehicles with defective engine components

Dearborn, Mich. – Jan. 10, 2019 – Ford Motor Company has recalled approximately 874,000 vehicles potentially equipped with defective engine components, according to a company press release. The campaign affects multiple models, including:

  • 2015-2019 Ford F-150 pickup trucks assembled between March 18, 2014, and Nov. 17, 2018, at manufacturing sites in Kansas City and Dearborn, Missouri.
  • 2017-2019 Ford Super Duty pickup trucks assembled between Oct. 8, 2014, and Nov. 17, 2018, at manufacturing sites in Avon Lake, Ohio and Louisville, Kentucky.

More than 410,000 of the recalled vehicles were sold in U.S. dealerships, while the remainder wound up in the Canadian market.

The Defect

The vehicles involved in the action may contain AV outlet-compatible engine block heaters vulnerable to water intrusion. In the event that liquid enters these components, the cables and associated splice connectors within could corrode over time, increasing the likelihood of shorting. Should this occur, the engine block heater may falter or create an electrical current capable of tripping household breakers and ground-fault-circuit-interrupter outlets. That said, the defect does not pose a threat to occupants.

Ford has received just one report detailing an instance of property damage linked to the defective component thus far.

Timeline of Events

The automaker has yet to release information on the investigation that yielded the recall.

The Solution

Ford has directed dealers to inspect and, if necessary, replace the defective engine block heaters installed in recalled vehicles free of charge. However, the company has yet to release an owner notification timeline. Those in need of immediate assistance prior to the start of the campaign can contact Ford customer service personnel by calling (800) 392-3673. Owners can also reach out to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration by calling the Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.

Sean ReyesFord recalls vehicles with defective engine components