2015-2016 Ford F-150 Block Heater Fire Risk Recall

Why This Matters: Safety Risk

This recall is critical due to a potential fire hazard. If the block immersion heater is located too close to hot engine components, its cable can become damaged. This damage can lead to a resistive short, which increases the risk of overheated or melted wiring, significantly raising the chance of a fire.

What's Being Recalled

Ford Motor Company is recalling certain 2015-2016 F-150 pickup trucks. Specifically, the recall applies to vehicles equipped with 3.5L GTDI engines that have block immersion heaters. The issue stems from these heaters being potentially relocated from their originally installed position, leading to the safety concern.

How to Check if Your Vehicle is Affected

Owners of 2015-2016 Ford F-150 trucks with 3.5L GTDI engines should be aware of this recall. Ford began notifying owners on April 9, 2020. You can also contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 and reference Ford's recall number 20S08, or visit the NHTSA website at www.safercar.gov and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to confirm if your specific vehicle is included in the Ford F-150 block heater recall.

Manufacturer's Remedy

Ford will address this issue by notifying affected owners. Dealers will inspect the block heater's location and its cable. If necessary, they will replace the affected components free of charge. If replacement parts are not immediately available, dealers will temporarily disable the existing block heater cable to prevent its use until the proper parts can be installed.

Important Warnings for Owners

Owners should be aware that if replacement parts for the Ford F-150 block heater are not available at the time of their service appointment, dealers will disable the existing block heater cable. This means the block heater will not be functional until the permanent repair can be completed. This measure is taken to mitigate the fire risk until the correct components can be installed.

Source: NHTSA Recall ID: 20V098000