2021 Ford E-350, E-450 Are Too Hot To Handle, So They’re Being Recalled

Certain E-350 and E-450 vehicles have been recalled as part of a safety campaign conducted by Ford and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

These models were equipped with engine covers that have mispositioned insulation, allowing the cover to get excessively hot.

The heat coming from the engine compartment could lead to elevated temperatures inside, and this issue could be even worse on vehicles with the Stationary Elevated Idle Control (SEIC) or the Battery Charge Protect (BCP). Coming in contact with certain areas could cause skin burns to the driver and/or front seat passenger.

Ford first became aware of the problem in September of 2020, when they were asked to inspect a 2021 E-Series 7.3L gas ambulance for elevated temperature concern, and their thermal measurements revealed that the temperatures exceeded their requirements.

A total of 29,344 units of the 2021 E-350 and E-450, with a 100 percent estimated defect rate, made between May 11, 2019, and November 13, 2020, are included in this safety recall. These will be inspected by Ford’s technicians for gaps between the insulation and the rubber seal, and if they find any, then they will install engine cover insulation patches on both sides of the inner lower corners. Subsequently, the dealers will update the powertrain calibration for heat management under elevated idle conditions in vehicles with the SEIC and/or BCP.

With the recall expected to begin on February 8, owners should hear from the Blue Oval soon, but in the meantime, they can contact them at 1-866–436-7332, or reach out to the NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236.