Ford Motor Company has initiated a safety recall of 119,075 U.S. vehicles spanning model years 2013–2018 Focus, 2013–2019 Escape, 2015–2016 MKC, 2019 Explorer and 2024 Explorer after regulators identified a potential crack in the engine block heater that can lead to coolant leaks, electrical shorting and even underhood fires. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 1,191 vehicles may already exhibit the defect. Owners will receive interim notification letters by February 13, 2026, advising them to avoid plugging in the block heater until the component is replaced free of charge at authorized Ford dealerships. Final remedy letters are expected in April 2026.

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has granted deposit insurance to Ford Motor Company’s industrial bank application, enabling the automaker to offer a broader suite of financial services directly to consumers and dealers. This approval follows similar clearance for General Motors and marks a strategic push by both legacy automakers to integrate financing, leasing and insurance products under one roof. Ford plans to capitalize on its large retail footprint and existing Ford Credit customer base, targeting an initial rollout of deposit and loan offerings by late 2026.

Ford’s decision last December to pivot away from large electric trucks toward hybrid and traditional combustion vehicles has fueled a 33% rally in its share value over the past year. The shift will incur a $19.5 billion non-cash impairment charge but is expected to improve profit margins as the EV business moves back to sustainable profitability. Through the first three quarters of the year, Ford reported a 3% revenue increase to $141.4 billion, while adjusted operating income was impacted by a supplier fire at Novelis in New York. Analysts now forecast adjusted earnings per share of $1.52 in 2026, up from $1.10 in 2025, valuing the stock at roughly nine times forward earnings.