NHTSA Complaint #11709814 — 2017 FORD F-350 SD

Driving uphill at approx 20mph near my home. Loud bang/explosion from engine or front driver-side wheel well. Red alarm flashed on instrument cluster (something like “Front Brake Failure”) and strong odor of fuel or exhaust entered cab. I immediately pulled into a pullout and put vehicle in park when I noticed flames coming from the engine compartment through the gaps in hood and wheel well. I splashed a small amount of water on the driver side front tire, but the fire continued to grow. I backed away to a safe distance and called 911. Within 5 minutes, the entire engine compartment was on fire and I captured on video explosions as the fire raged Local fire department arrived within 15 minutes, but the entire engine and cab had already been destroyed by fire. Had I been driving at high speed or with passengers, this incident could have resulted in serious burn injuries and death. Had I been driving during summer months, this incident would have caused a devastating wildfire. Had I been in traffic, I may have caused a multi-car wreck. There were absolutely no warning indicators that such a violent incident could occur. Tow truck driver said it may have been a fuel filter issue which has caused other Super Duty’s to experience sudden and catastrophic engine compartment fires. Minimal research showed me that NHSTA is investigating Ford Super Duty for this very issue. My F350 is model year 2017. I also have video of fluids dripping from the burning vehicle and the droplets are on fire which leads me to believe that leaking fuel — possibly from a cracked plastic filter — may be to blame for this incredibly dangerous incident. The vehicles remains have been searched by California Highway Patrol and the remains are currently being investigated by State Farm Auto Insurance claims experts.