2015–2016 Lincoln MKC and 2013–2019 Ford Focus, Escape recall: Equipment: electrical, engine block heater
Recall at a glance
- Campaign number
- 26V011000
- Reported
- January 15, 2026
- Manufacturer
- Ford Motor Company
- Part
- Equipment: electrical, engine block heater
- Vehicles affected
- About 116,672
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Focus, 2013-2019 Escape, and 2015-2016 MKC vehicles equipped with a 2.0L engine. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
Safety risk
An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
The fix
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 plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed March 6, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S01. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on January 16, 2026.
Affected models
Model years listed by NHTSA for this campaign. Only vehicles within the build range in the notice are affected.
Frequently asked questions
Which vehicles are affected by this recall?
Ford Escape (2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019); Ford Focus (2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018); Lincoln MKC (2015, 2016). Check your VIN to confirm.
What is the safety risk?
An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
What is the fix?
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 plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed March 6, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final…
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall data for passenger vehicles, recalls since 2013, shown as published. This site is independent and not affiliated with NHTSA or any manufacturer. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and follow your manufacturer’s notice. Terms and disclaimer.