Ford Focus recalled over fire hazard

Recall date

January 15, 2026

Source

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Official notice title

Ford Motor Company recalls 2016–2024 Ford Focus, Explorer

Recall number

26V012000

Brand / firm

Ford

Sold / distributed

Potentially affected: 2,403 units

Why it was recalled

An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.

What was 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.

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 April 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.. Follow the official notice for full instructions.