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Where is the block heater cord on a Ford F350?

The block heater cord is usually mounted on the front passenger side of the vehicle, near the bumper, at a weatherproof 120-volt outlet.


In practice, the exact spot can vary by model year and engine. Many diesel Power Stroke engines route the outlet to the front bumper or grille area, sometimes behind a protective cap. Some configurations tuck the cord into the engine bay or near the firewall. If you can't find a receptacle, your truck may not be equipped with a factory block heater, or it might be in a different location due to trim or regional specification. Always consult the owner's manual or your Ford dealer for model-specific guidance.


Common locations to check on Ford F-350


Use these typical spots as starting points when you’re hunting for the block heater outlet. Look for a weatherproof, 120-volt receptacle with a protective cap or door.



  • Front bumper area, passenger side: A mounted weatherproof 120V outlet is commonly located here, sometimes behind a bumper cover or near the tow hook.

  • Grille/radiator support vicinity: Some trucks route the cord along the front core support to a location near the grille for easy access in cold weather.

  • Engine bay near the firewall: In certain configurations, the outlet terminates inside the engine compartment with a short extension to a visible receptacle.

  • Inner fender or wheel well area (passenger side): If access from the bumper is restricted, the outlet may be tucked behind splash shields along the passenger-side front wheel area.


If you still can't locate a block heater outlet after checking these areas, your F-350 may not have a factory-installed block heater, or the cord might be placed in a region specific to your model year or regional build. Contact a Ford dealer or service technician for confirmation.


Summary


Block heater cords on Ford F-350s are typically found on the front passenger side near the bumper, with variations by year and engine. Start at the bumper, then check the grille core support, engine bay firewall area, and the passenger-side inner fender. When in doubt, consult the owner's manual or a Ford service professional to verify your exact configuration.

How do I know if my F350 has a block heater?


It's go all the way back in the engine. Block. Yeah it's not can cannot see it only you can see is the end of this wire. So so look for the wire.



Do 6.7 powerstrokes have a block heater?


Yes, the 6.7L Powerstroke can be equipped with a block heater, but it was not standard on all models and may be an optional feature or a factory-installed option. To check if your truck has one, look for a silver-wrapped cord running from the engine block toward the front bumper, typically located on the passenger side. If your truck doesn't have the factory-installed heater, you can have a block heater element and cord added as an aftermarket part. 
How to check if your truck has a block heater

  • Look for the cord: On the passenger side of the engine, check along the frame rail for a silver-wrapped cord. It runs from the back of the engine toward the front bumper. 
  • Check for the plug: If you find the cord, there should be a plug near the front of the truck. If there is no cord, there might be a solid plug in the block with an Allen head, usually located above the starter. 
  • Consult your window sticker: The most definitive way to know is to check the original window sticker for your vehicle; it will list the block heater as an option if it was installed from the factory. 

If your truck does not have a block heater
  • You can install one: If you don't have the factory option, you can have a block heater element and cord installed as an aftermarket part. 
  • Where to find parts: You can purchase a block heater element and cord kit for a 6.7L Powerstroke from a Ford dealer or a third-party supplier. 



Where is the block heater located?


The block heater cord is typically located near the front grille or along the sides of the engine bay, sometimes hidden behind a small tab or a piece of brightly colored tape. For vehicles without an external cord, the heater is installed directly into the engine block, often as a plug-in element on the side, or an oil pan heater. The exact location can vary significantly by vehicle model, so check your owner's manual for the specific placement in your car.
 
This video shows how to find the block heater cord in the engine bay: 56sCBC News SaskatchewanYouTube · Jan 20, 2024
Common locations for the cord

  • Front grille: Many trucks have a cord and plug tucked behind a tab or cover, often near the front grille. 
  • Engine bay: Look for a cord, sometimes wrapped in brightly colored tape, on either the left or right side of the engine bay. 
  • Behind a panel: Newer vehicles may hide the cord behind a small panel or cover for aesthetic reasons. 

This video shows how to find the block heater plug on Ford F-150: 1mJason GillettYouTube · Oct 29, 2025
Locations of the heating element
  • Engine block: If you can't find a cord, the heater may be already installed on the engine block. It's often a plug-in element that replaces a freeze plug on the side of the block. 
  • Oil pan: Some heaters are installed directly on the oil pan. 

What to do if you can't find it
  • Check the owner's manual: This is the most reliable way to find the exact location for your vehicle. 
  • Look for a factory-installed heater: Even if the cord is missing, the heater element may be installed on the engine block. You can purchase and install a cord to use it. 



Where is the block heater plug on a 2012 6.7 Powerstroke?


The 2012 6.7 Powerstroke block heater plug is located in the front bumper, typically on the passenger side, near the license plate area. You can identify it by a black rubber cap or a visible plug attached to a heavy-duty wire that runs from the front of the truck towards the engine block on the passenger side. If you don't see the plug, your truck may not be equipped with a block heater. 
This video shows the location of the block heater plug on a Ford Super Duty: 13sHammerdown MotorsportsYouTube · Feb 1, 2022
Step-by-step guide to finding the plug

  1. Look near the front bumper: Go to the front of your truck. The plug is often hidden behind a small access door or clip near the front bumper or license plate area. 
  2. Check the passenger side: On the 6.7 Powerstroke, the plug is commonly located on the passenger side of the bumper. 
  3. Look for the cap: Search for a black rubber cap or a visible electrical plug. 
  4. Trace the wire (if you find the plug): If you find the plug, you can follow the heavy-duty wire to see that it runs towards the engine block on the passenger side of the truck. 
  5. Confirm if your truck has one: If you cannot find the plug, it is likely that your truck was not ordered with the block heater option. You may be able to confirm this by checking your vehicle's build sheet. 

You can watch this video to see how to replace the block heater cord on a Ford Powerstroke: 37sDieselTechRonYouTube · Nov 29, 2015


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.