Submerged Ford Electric Vehicle Guidance

Vehicle submersion can be caused by a flood or other extreme weather conditions. Here’s what you need to know should there be a risk of your Ford electric vehicle being submerged or if your vehicle experiences submersion in water.

Prepare for Potential Flooding — Best Practices

If a submersion event (e.g., hurricane) is in the forecast and it is safe for you to preemptively move your vehicle, Ford recommends you move your vehicle to a location that is not at risk, such as to a location on higher ground. Keep in mind that charging infrastructure may also be impacted, so Ford recommends fully charging.

If you are unable to move your vehicle to an area that is not at risk of flooding, consider the following best practices which may help prevent damage:

• Unplug the charger from your vehicle.
• Reduce the state of charge. This can be done by driving the vehicle ahead of time and leaving it unplugged, or by turning on the climate control to max. The aim is to have the charge level as low as possible in the event the vehicle becomes submerged.
• Ideally, lift the vehicle so that the high voltage battery is above a potential flood line by raising it on a jack stand, ramp, etc.
• Leave your vehicle in a water-tight car cover, or similar product, specifically designed to protect vehicles from flooding.

Handling a Submerged Vehicle

Know what to do if your electric vehicle has been exposed to prolonged submersion.

If you notice fire, smoke, audible popping/hissing or heat coming from your vehicle, step away and immediately contact your local first responders.

1. Treat your vehicle as if it has been in an accident and contact your insurance company.
2. Do not attempt to operate the vehicle until an authorized Ford technician has inspected it.
3. Safely tow the vehicle at least 50 ft (15 m) from structures or other combustible materials such as other cars and personal property.
   1. Ford owners in the US can request Roadside Assistance through the FordPass App^®* under the ‘Service’ tab or by calling 1-800-241-3673.
   2. For information on how to safely tow or move your vehicle, review your vehicle manufacturer’s guidance. Ford owners can review in the Owner’s Manual available in vehicle or found on Ford.com under ‘Support’.

Note: The battery management system is designed to self-diagnose any potential shorts caused by water or corrosion within the entire high voltage system. If red hazard lamp or error messages are shown, follow the instructions and contact a Ford Dealer.

^*The FordPass App, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available through a free download. Message and data rates may apply.