Manufacturers do their best to produce quality products. Unfortunately, those products occasionally have defects that must be repaired. Consumers need to keep an eye out for these recalls, which may require them to take their vehicles in for repairs.
What should you know about Ford engine recalls? Ford has announced two recalls to do with their engines in 2020. These include:
- E-series stall recalls
- Engine block heater cable recalls
- Engine cylinder head recalls
Within this article, we’ll talk about the E-series recall, engine block heater cable recalls and engine cylinder head recalls involving Ford vehicles as well as what to do if your vehicle is recalled.
E-Series Stall May Occur
NHTSA Recall ID: 20V-175
The E-series stall recall was issued because some 2021 model year E-series vehicles completed between May 2019 and January 2020 could have frame-mounted wire harnesses that chafe against the frame. Over time, these may become damaged. The harness contains circuits that support both the anti-lock braking system and fuel pump, which means that the engine may stall unexpectedly due to the damage.
An engine with this problem could stall unexpectedly while in drive. There would be no warning, and there would be no ability to restart the vehicle. This greatly increases the risk of a collision.
Owners of these vehicles should take their car to the Ford or Lincoln dealership to have the wire harnesses inspected for any chafing damage. If no damage is found, anti-abrasion tape will be installed. If chafing is discovered, then the technician will need to install a new wire and apply anti-abrasion tape.
Engine Block Heater Cable Damage Could Lead to Fire
NHTSA Recall ID: 20V-098
Ford issued a recall on 13,854 vehicles, all 2015–2016 Ford F-150s with 3.5L GTDI engines and block immersion heaters with a heater cable in proximity to higher engine temperatures than in other vehicles. This can result in damage.
An inoperative engine block heater could lead to a tripping of the household breakers and GFCI outlets if the vehicle is parked and plugged in. Overheating could occur, as well as melted wiring and fire.
Ford is remedying this issue by sending out mail to Ford owners and instructing them to take their vehicles to Lincoln or Ford dealerships. There, the technicians will look for block heaters mounted to the engine block. If one is present, the vehicle will require repair. The heater element, cable or both may need to be replaced based on their findings. Owners will not be charged for this service through their dealership.
Engine Cylinder Head Leak Could Lead to Fire
NHTSA Recall ID: 17V209000
In March 2017, Ford issued a recall on approximately 208,584 2014 Ford Escape, 2013–2015 Ford Transit Connect, 2014–-2015 Ford Fiesta ST, and 2013–2014 Ford Fusion vehicles equipped with 1.6L GTDI engines. The affected vehicles may experience fires under the hood as a result of an overheated engine cylinder head.
When the engine head overheats, it cracks and results in oil leaks that could spur fires. Since coolant may leak, starting a cold engine causes rapid heating, localized overheating and cracking. If there is a problem, the vehicle should warn drivers with an engine overheat warning on the front instrument cluster. There may also be a visible coolant leak.
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Drivers can take their vehicles to a Ford or Lincoln dealership to have a coolant level sensor, hardware and software installed for free.
How Do You Handle Open Ford Engine Recalls?
If you aren’t sure if you have to worry about Ford Engine recalls, it’s a good idea to check with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website. There, you can enter your vehicle’s VIN into the search box, or you can search by make, model and year. If there are any recalls, you’ll be able to see them all and how to remedy them.
Ford offers a customer service line to help in case of recalls. You can call 1-866-436-7332. They will direct you to a dealership where you can get the assistance you need. Don’t forget; if you need to buy a new vehicle, always check its Vehicle History first!
