Ford recalls SUVs over A/C failure, fire risk

Dearborn, MI – September 4, 2022 – Ford (NYSE:F) has issued a recall for 198,482 SUVs over a faulty motor which powers the cars’ air conditioning. Its failure may lead to a fire, increasing the risk of injury to the car occupants.

The recall covers the following models: 

  • 2015 – 2017 Ford Expedition
  • 2015 – 2017 Lincoln Navigator 

Recall summary

The air conditioning used by cars relies on a blower motor mounted behind the glove box. This motor is responsible for providing ventilation inside the cabin when the windows are closed, by blowing air through the dashboard vents.     

In the affected vehicles, the front blower motor may fail during operation due to unknown reasons.

The component involved in this recall is the blower motor and wheel assembly with part number CL14-19846-AA. 

Recall risks

The defective motor may present an increased risk of fire to the vehicle’s interior. This also increases the danger of a crash or injury.  

Warning signs

The fan may stop working. In addition to that, the driver may perceive a “burning smell” or see smoke coming from the instrument panel vents while the vehicle’s engine is running. 

Other Ford recalls and lawsuits

Ford is facing a lawsuit regarding alleged defects on the Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUV models. The allegations stem from complaints that the company failed to promptly recall the vehicles involved in the lawsuit.

The 2020-2021 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator were also included in an earlier recall issued in April 2022 due to faulty windshield wipers, as reported.

Repair

Dealers will replace the front blower motor assembly with a new and improved component. The repair will be done free of charge, and Ford will reimburse customers who paid for their own repairs prior to the recall being issued. 

Affected owners will be notified on or around September 16, 2022. 

Is your vehicle part of this recall?

More than 198,000 vehicles are included in this Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator blower motor recall. To see if your vehicle is affected, run a Ford or Lincoln recall check using MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.  

Joseph EstabilloFord recalls SUVs over A/C failure, fire risk