In May, Ford Motor Company recalled an estimated 39,013 2021 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles because an engine compartment fire may occur while driving or parked, even with the ignition is in the "off" position. Recently, the automaker identified a remedy for this issue, communicated repair procedures to dealers, and is working to make parts available as soon as possible.  

Specifically, owners of the affected SUVs with an 800-watt cooling fan system —which is about one-third of the recalled vehicle population — can get their repair done immediately. Dealers will first inspect the battery junction box for melting damage, and if so, will replace the entire component. Next they will remove the engine fan ground wire from the battery junction box.

However, for the remaining affected vehicles with a 700-watt cooling fan system, the repair is the same, except for the installation of an auxiliary box with a wire jumper. Parts for this repair are expected to be available starting in early September. Customers were notified on July 8 via FordPass. There will be follow-up communication to customers of vehicles with 700-watt systems when parts are ready. 

The automaker continues to advise owners affected by this recall to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the dealer services their vehicle for this recall problem. Vehicles may pose a risk of under hood fire, including while the vehicle is parked and off. 

To date, Ford has received 21 reports of under hood fires and one reported injury. However, the manufacturer is not aware of any accidents related to this issue.

The automaker also said it is expanding the recalled population to include a total of 66,221 Expedition and Navigator SUVs in the U.S. built between July 27, 2020 and Aug. 31, 2021.