2021 Ford F-150 Problems: 1,052 Complaints, 29 Recalls

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 F-150 and 2023-2026 F-250 SD vehicles equipped with 8-inch SYNC infotainment screens. A software error may cause the rearview camera image to be obstructed by the infotainment home screen menu when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk: An obstructed rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: The accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 9, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C37. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on on July 31, 2026.

Recall number 26V489000 · Recall details

Power train: automatic transmissionReported June 24, 2026 · 741,195 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Navigator, Expedition, 2020-2021 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2021 F-150 vehicles. The transmission park pawl may engage while the vehicle is in motion, resulting in park system damage.
Risk: Park system damage may result in a vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, and inspect and replace any damaged transmission components as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 10, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in April 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S48. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on on June 26, 2026.

Recall number 26V402000 · Recall details

Electrical system: integrated trailer brake controlReported February 20, 2026 · 4,381,878 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2026 F-150, 2022-2026 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, Maverick, 2024-2026 Ranger, 2023-2026 F-600 SD, 2022-2027 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, and 2026 E-Transit vehicles. When towing a trailer, the integrated trailer module (ITRM) may lose communication with the vehicle, possibly causing a loss of brake and turn signal lights, or a loss of brake function. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk: Trailer lights or brakes that do not function can reduce the driver’s ability to control the trailer and decrease the trailers visibility to other road users, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: The integrated trailer module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 25, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C10. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on beginning March 17, 2026.

Recall number 26V104000 · Recall details

Visibility: sun/moon roof assemblyReported October 24, 2025 · 174,853 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, 2021-2023 F-150, 2022 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, and F-450 SD vehicles. The moonroof wind deflector clips may be inadequately attached to the moonroof frame, which can result in the wind deflector detaching from the vehicle.
Risk: A detached wind deflector can become a road hazard and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair the moonroof wind deflector as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 10, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SB7. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on beginning October 30, 2025.

Recall number 25V729000 · Recall details

Fuel system, gasoline: delivery: fuel pumpReported July 7, 2025 · 850,318 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco, Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, 2021-2022 Lincoln Navigator, Mustang, F-150, and 2022 Expedition vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump may fail, which can result in an engine stall while driving.
Risk: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the low pressure fuel pump on super duty vehicles and update the powertrain control module (PCM) software on all other affected vehicles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 27, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S75.

Recall number 25V455000 · Recall details

Exterior lighting: back up lightsReported May 23, 2025 · 10 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles equipped with the Onboard Scales feature that were repaired incorrectly under recall 24V443. An over-the-air software update to the body control module (BCM) may have disabled both reverse lights.
Risk: Inoperative reverse lights may fail to alert others that the vehicle is reversing, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the body control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 27, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S57.

Recall number 25V348000 · Recall details

Back over prevention: softwareReported May 9, 2025 · 1,076,138 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco, F-150, 2021-2024 Edge, 2022-2025 Escape, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600, 2022-2024 Expedition, 2022-2025 Transit, 2021-2023 Mach-E, 2024 Ranger, Mustang, 2021-2023 Lincoln Nautilus, 2022-2024 Navigator, and 2023-2024 Corsair vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera image to delay, freeze, or not display when the vehicle is in reverse.
Risk: A frozen or missing rearview camera image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: The accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air update, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on June 26, 2025. Additional letters will be mailed once the final remedy is available on each phase. Owner notification letters were sent on October 8, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S49.

Recall number 25V315000 · Recall details

Power train: automatic transmission: control module (TCM/PCM/tecm)Reported March 14, 2025 · 567 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 22V‑188. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for low transmission fluid pressure may falsely activate and cause the transmission to unexpectedly shift into neutral.
Risk: An unexpected shift into neutral will cause a loss of drive power and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S24.

Recall number 25V169000 · Recall details

Electrical system: integrated trailer brake controlReported February 28, 2025 · 10,952 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 F-150, 2022 Maverick, Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 22V‑193. Due to a software error, a towed trailer equipped with an electric or electric-over hydraulic brake system may not brake.
Risk: Loss of trailer brake functionality can extend the distance required to stop, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the integrated trailer brake control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 11, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S18.

Recall number 25V132000 · Recall details

Equipment: other: labelsReported November 8, 2024 · 27,678 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk: Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.

Recall number 24V852000 · Recall details

Engine and engine cooling: engine: hard parts internal/mechanicalReported August 23, 2024 · 90,736 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.
Risk: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.

Recall number 24V635000 · Recall details

Exterior lighting: back up lightsReported June 14, 2024 · 159 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles equipped with the Onboard Scales feature. An over-the-air software update to the body control module (BCM) may have disabled both reverse lights.
Risk: Disabled reverse lights cannot alert others that the vehicle is reversing, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the body control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are were mailed June 26, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S38.

Recall number 24V443000 · Recall details

Power train: axle hubsReported December 22, 2023 · 112,965 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with the Trailer Tow Max Duty package and a 9.75-inch heavy duty axle with a 3/4 float axle design. The rear axle hub bolt may fatigue and break, which can result in damage to the axle hub splines.
Risk: Damaged axle hub splines can result in a vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is in park without the parking brake applied or cause a loss of drive power. Both of these conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the left and right rear axle shaft assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 9, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S65.

Recall number 23V896000 · Recall details

Parking brake: electricalReported July 21, 2023 · 870,701 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with a single exhaust system. Contact with the rear axle housing may damage the wiring harness, causing the electric parking brake to activate unexpectedly.
Risk: Unexpected activation of the electric parking brake while driving increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will install a protective tie strap, tape wrap, and replace the harness as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 12, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S35.

Recall number 23V509000 · Recall details

Visibility: windshield wiper/washer: linkagesReported March 10, 2023 · 222,454 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles. The windshield wiper arms may break, causing the windshield wipers to fail.
Risk: Inoperative windshield wipers can reduce visibility in certain conditions, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the wiper arms, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 13, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S10. This recall expands previous recall number 22V‑250.

Recall number 23V163000 · Recall details

Visibility: windshield wiper/washer: motorReported November 15, 2022 · 483,082 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 F-150 vehicles. The front windshield wiper motor may become inoperative, causing the wipers to fail.
Risk: Inoperative windshield wipers can reduce visibility in certain conditions, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the front windshield wiper motor, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 30, 2023. Remedy parts are expected in the 3rd Quarter of 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S71. This recall expands previous recall number 22V‑142.

Recall number 22V842000 · Recall details

Structure: frame and members: underbody shieldsReported August 12, 2022 · 58,203 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 F-150 vehicles. Underbody heat and noise insulators may loosen and contact the aluminum driveshaft, which could damage the driveshaft and cause it to fracture.
Risk: A fractured driveshaft can cause a loss of drive power, or a loss of vehicle control if the driveshaft contacts the ground. Additionally, unintended movement could occur while parked if the parking brake is not engaged. Any of these scenarios increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair the driveshaft, as necessary, and properly attach the underbody insulators, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 1, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S53.

Recall number 22V623000 · Recall details

Fuel system, gasoline: storageReported June 10, 2022 · 1 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling one 2021 F-150 vehicle. A single vehicle may have been assembled without a fuel tank front attachment resulting in an unsecured fuel tank attachment strap.
Risk: An improperly attached fuel tank increases the risk of a fuel leak and potential for fire.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair (if necessary) the fuel tank strap bracket, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 1, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S42.

Recall number 22V414000 · Recall details

Visibility: windshield wiper/washer: linkagesReported April 14, 2022 · 652,996 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 F-150, Expedition, 2020-2022 Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, and 2020-2021 Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The windshield wiper arms may break, causing the windshield wipers to fail.
Risk: Inoperative windshield wipers can reduce visibility in certain driving conditions, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace both front windshield wiper arms, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risk, were mailed on May 24, 2022. Remedy parts are expected to be available 3rd Quarter 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 21, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S26.

Recall number 22V250000 · Recall details

Power train: automatic transmission: control module (TCM/PCM/tecm)Reported March 25, 2022 · 47,084 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for low transmission fluid pressure may falsely activate and cause the transmission to unexpectedly shift into neutral.
Risk: An unexpected shift into neutral will cause a loss of drive power and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 12, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S15.

Recall number 22V188000 · Recall details

Electrical system: integrated trailer brake controlReported March 25, 2022 · 391,836 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 F-150, 2022 Maverick, Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 vehicles. Due to a software error, a towed trailer equipped with an electric or electric-over hydraulic brake system may not brake.
Risk: Loss of trailer brake functionality could result in extended stopping distance, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the integrated trailer brake control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S17.

Recall number 22V193000 · Recall details

Visibility: windshield wiper/washer: motorReported March 11, 2022 · 157,306 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles. The front windshield wiper motor may become inoperative, causing the wipers to fail.
Risk: Inoperative windshield wipers can reduce visibility in certain conditions, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the front windshield wiper motor, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 22, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S12.

Recall number 22V142000 · Recall details

Structure: frame and members: underbody shieldsReported December 16, 2021 · 184,698 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 F-150 vehicles. Underbody heat and noise insulators may loosen and contact the aluminum driveshaft, which could damage the driveshaft and cause it to fracture.
Risk: A fractured driveshaft can cause a loss of drive power, or a loss of vehicle control if the driveshaft contacts the ground. Additionally, unintended movement could occur while parked if the parking brake is not engaged. Any of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair the driveshaft as necessary, and properly attach the underbody insulators, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 4, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S56.

Recall number 21V986000 · Recall details

Air bags: sensor: side impactReported October 15, 2021 · 777 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Super Duty F-250, F-350, 2021 F-150, Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The front-door side impact pressure sensor modules may have been damaged during supplier assembly, which can cause the side impact air bags to not deploy properly in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 214, "Side Impact Protection."
Risk: An air bag that does not deploy properly during a crash increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver and passenger front door side impact sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 3, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C26.

Recall number 21V805000 · Recall details

Seat belts: front: webbingReported August 23, 2021 · 16,430 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 Super Cab vehicles. The front seatbelt webbing may be incorrectly routed.
Risk: A misrouted seatbelt may not adequately restrain an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to perform a preliminary self-inspection of the front seatbelts. If the passenger-side seatbelt fails inspection, owners should not use the passenger seat until the repair is performed. If the driver-side seatbelt fails inspection, owners should not drive their vehicle until the repair is performed. Dealers will inspect the front seatbelts and, if the webbing is misrouted, will replace the seatbelt retractor and pretensioner, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 14, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C20.

Recall number 21V653000 · Recall details

Service brakes, hydraulicReported July 15, 2021 · 56 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles. The electronic brake booster may leak brake fluid into the electronic control unit, which could result in reduced braking performance.
Risk: Reduced braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the electronic brake booster assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 28, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S33.

Recall number 21V533000 · Recall details

Steering: rack and pinionReported May 29, 2021 · 223 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles. The steering gear may have internal damage, which could result in difficulty steering, or the inability to rotate the steering wheel while driving.
Risk: Loss of steering control can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Owners are advised to not drive their vehicles until the repair is complete. Vehicles will be towed in for service, and dealers will remove and replace the steering gear, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 4, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S28.

Recall number 21V407000 · Recall details

Power train: driveline: driveshaftReported May 24, 2021 · 4,436 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles. The two-piece driveshafts may have been improperly assembled, which could result in driveshaft separation.
Risk: Driveshaft separation may result in a sudden loss of drive power, or unintended vehicle movement if the vehicle is in park without the parking brake applied, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the driveshaft, and replace it if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 15, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S25.

Recall number 21V381000 · Recall details

Visibility: windshield: critical fastenersReported February 18, 2021 · 79,017 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 and 2020-2021 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 212, "Windshield Mounting."
Risk: In the event of a crash, if the windshield separates from the vehicle, it can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove and reinstall the windshield, free of charge. The recall began April 16, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C06.

Recall number 21V090000 · Recall details

See all 29 recalls for the 2021 Ford F-150

Defect investigations

Loss of Motive PowerOpened September 29, 2023, closed October 31, 2024

On July 22, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) granted a Defect Petition (DP22001) and opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE22007) to investigate allegations of loss of motive power in model year (MY) 2021 Ford Bronco vehicles equipped with 2.7L EcoBoost engines. Complainants were reporting sudden engine failure while driving resulting in a loss of motive power, often without the ability to restart. During PE22007, the cause of engine failure and loss of motive power in the subject vehicles was determined to be intake valve fracture, and the full scope of vehicles affected by the subject defect was identified as all MY 2021-2022 Ford and Lincoln models equipped with either the 2.7L or 3.0L EcoBoost engines, referred to as the âNanoâ engine family.Â If an intake valve fractures in the subject engines, it may drop into the cylinder and contact the piston, often resulting in catastrophic engine damage. On September 29, 2023, PE22007 was upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA23002) to further investigate the subject defect across the full scope of affected vehicles. During EA23002, ODI visited Ford facilities to review technical information related to intake valve fracture in âNanoâ engines, coordinated with the federal safety agencyâs Vehicle Research and Testing Center (VRTC), and analyzed updated field data relating the subject defect. Forensic analysis of fractured intake valves demonstrated that the defective components exhibited âgrinding burnâ or out of specification hardness in the area of the keeper grooves. The presence of grinding burn is evidence that during the groove grinding phase of production, the temperature of the valve became sufficiently high to alter the microstructure of the material and is indicative that the valve supplierâs manufacturing processes were not within control specifications. Grinding burn results in a hard, brittle microstructure and high residual stresses toward the surface of the valve. Through normal engine loading, a valve with grinding burn will likely fracture at the area of highest vulnerability, which is the third keeper groove. In its response to the EA23002 Information Request (IR) letter, Ford provided evidence of 396 customer complaints (including field reports), 825 warranty claims, and 936 engine exchanges. When considering both ODI and manufacturer failure report data, there have been reports representing 1066 unique vehicles within the subject vehicle population. Analysis of the failure report data demonstrates that vehicles equipped with potentially defective intake valves were built within a production âspike periodâ of May 2021 â October 2021. The beginning of the spike period corresponds to a ramp up in production at the valve supplier manufacturing facility, and the end of the spike period aligns with the implementation of several mid-production process improvements and the decision to change the metal alloy used to produce intake valves from âSilchrome Liteâ to âSilchrome 1â. Ford began investigating the subject defect in July 2021, determined the root cause, and took corrective measures for the new production vehicles. Analysis of the failure report data demonstrates that these corrective actions were successful in eliminating the risk of intake valve fracture for subject vehicles produced after October 2021. However, Ford did not take any field action to address vehicles produced during the spike period, and in the several months following the implementation of the production changes, a significant number of field failures continued to occur. It is Fordâs assessment that not all valves produced during the spike period are defective, and that failures associated with the subject defect occur at low time in service. Analysis of the failure report data demonstrates that the vast majority of failures have occurred before 20,000 miles with over half of all reported failures occurring before 5,000 miles. The rate of reported failures related to the subject defect has steadily decreased since November 2021. ODI coordinated with the federal safety agencyâs National Center for Statistics and Analysis (NCSA) to conduct statistical analysis and predict the number of future failures associated with the subject defect. The results of this analysis, and the trends identified through the failure report data are generally consistent with Fordâs assessment that defective intake valves will likely fail at a low time in service and indicate that the majority of subject vehicles equipped with defective valves have already experienced a failure. On August 23, 2024, Ford submitted recall 24V635 for subject vehicles equipped with âNanoâ engines and built within the production spike period identified above (total population 90,736 vehicles). The remedy includes an inspection at a Ford/Lincoln dealership where the lifetime engine cycles of the vehicle will be determined. If a vehicle does not meet a threshold for lifetime engine cycles, the dealership will conduct a high RPM engine cycle accumulation procedure, which aims to identify if the vehicle is equipped with defective intake valves. Any vehicle that fails the accumulation procedure will receive an engine replacement under the recall. In addition to recall 24V635, Ford has stated that it will launch customer satisfaction campaign 24N12, which will provide extended warranty coverage to the subject vehicles through the earlier of 10 years or 150,000 miles. In view of the recall action being taken by Ford, ODI is closing this Engineering Analysis. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to

EA23002

Technical service bulletins for the 2021 Ford F-150 654

Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.

Oct 30, 2026 OtherA Cloud Assisted Diagnostic based on connected vehicle information is available for this VIN. The presence...
Oct 29, 2026 Service bulletinCustomer Satisfaction Program 25M01--Owner Letter Certain 2021 Model Year F-150 3.0L Diesel Engine and...
Oct 27, 2026 Service bulletinThis bulletin supersedes 25-2236
Oct 22, 2026 Service bulletinThis bulletin supersedes 26-2226
Oct 21, 2026 Service bulletinThis bulletin supersedes 26-2226
Oct 16, 2026 Service bulletinThis bulletin supersedes 26-2238
Oct 14, 2026 Service bulletinThis bulletin supersedes 26-2297
Oct 13, 2026 Over-the-air update25S75 Recall remedy -Powertrain Control Module update to introduce logic to prevent low pressure fuel pump...
Oct 8, 2026 Service bulletinSome 2020-2026 Aviator/Explorer/F-150/Bronco/Ranger vehicles equipped with a 2.7L or 3.0L (non-diesel)...
Sep 22, 2026 Service bulletinThis article supersedes TSB 25-2466 to add Bronco Sport, Escape, Maverick and Corsair, as well as removing...

See all 654 bulletins for the 2021 Ford F-150

2021 Ford F-150 fuel economy

Official EPA estimates in miles per gallon (MPGe for electric). Ranges cover trims that share the same engine.

Engine	Drive	City	Highway	Combined
3.5L 6‑cyl Hybrid	RWD	25	26	25
3.5L 6‑cyl Hybrid	4WD	24	24	24
3.0L 6‑cyl Diesel	4WD	20	27	23
2.7L 6‑cyl	RWD	20	26	22
3.3L 6‑cyl	RWD	20	24	21
2.7L 6‑cyl	4WD	18-19	24	20-21
3.5L 6‑cyl	RWD	17-18	24	20
5.0L 8‑cyl	RWD	17	24	19-20

What 2021 Ford F-150 owners say

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed Nov 9, 2026 · Driver assistance, Transmission · SC

10R80 Transmission downshifts violently when slowing down and shifting between 5-3 almost replicating being rear ended. Happens several times a week and worse when ambient temperature is low

Filed Nov 9, 2026 · Visibility · TX

Windshield wipers are beginning to get stuck in the up position to the point where I have to go and push it down by hand. This is created unsafe driving in rain because it cannot clean the windshield properly. I talked with a mechanic and they let me know that many other ford vehicles are having the same issue and a recall has been put out for that defect for other vehicles, but not the f150. There are no warning lights.

Filed Nov 8, 2026 · Steering · IA

Ever since Ford Safety Recall 21S56 (the federal safety agency Campaign 21V986) for the sagging underbody insulation and driveshaft was performed on my vehicle, the truck has suffered severe, transient losses of power steering assistance. This dangerous failure occurs specifically when driving over or splashing through standing surface water, such as during normal rain or wet roadway conditions. Upon water contact with the vehicle's underbody, the Electronic Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system instantly experiences an electrical or network communication fault, resulting in a sudden, total loss of steering assist and making the heavy truck incredibly difficult and hazardous to control. The physical reassembly and modification of the underbody heat shields during the recall execution directly disturbed, damaged, or altered the routing of the main high-current steering rack wiring harness, connectors, or structural frame grounding strap located in that immediate service corridor. Moisture intrusion across these compromised electrical pathways triggers an absolute safety system shutdown of the power steering assistance. The local dealership is refusing to inspect their workmanship or remedy this severe safety hazard, falsely claiming that their obligation expired under a standard 12-month commercial warranty, leaving a known federal safety defect incomplete and dangerous to operate on public roads.

Filed Nov 8, 2026 · Transmission · TX

My F-150 with the 10r80 is notoriously awful, and unfortunately scary. Violent large downshifts and gear hunting leaves you wonder if you’re going to be being stranded or not. Fortunately for my extended warranty, I got my torque convertor replaced, but the dealer declined I needed transmission rebuild or replacement. Now out of warranty with a truck recently paid off, my nightmare is still current, I’m now facing not only a $7,000+ transmission bill, but I genuinely fear on a normal commute that something could be very wrong. Thousands upon thousands of people have the exact same fear and issue as me. I hope there will be a resolution.

Filed Nov 7, 2026 · Transmission · NJ

When driving the vehicle the transmission seems to not be able to find the proper gear. It shifts hard from 4th to 3rd it will shift into different gears at highway speed which has become extremely dangerous and shifts hard from park to drive. My truck is equipped with the Ford 10R80 transmission. This vehicle is not safe to drive at times and seems to be a manufacture defect in the way the transmission was built. Please issue a recall on this transmission so my vehicle can be safe to drive.

Filed Nov 6, 2026 · Lights, Transmission · FL

10r80 transmission failed at 80k miles. There were multiple occasions where leaving a stoplight it would move and then basically go into neutral while hunting for gears to start moving again. The drls on the headlights have both failed so now in between westher events and day/night events the vehicle no longer has a working drl. If it is cloudy and the headlight sensor doesn’t trigger the headlights to come on there will be no lighting from the front of the vehicle at all

Filed Nov 6, 2026 · Lights, Transmission · FL

Filed Nov 6, 2026 · Transmission · TX

Hi my name is [XXX]. I bought my 2021 F-150 used with 40k miles. I love my truck and spend the money to keep up with all of the maintenance in hopes that it will last me a long time. At 61k miles, my transmission blew which seems insane to me. These 10 speed transmissions and known CDF drum failures are happening to so many people I talk to. I’m filing a complaint bc even my new transmission is experiencing hard shifts already after driving it for 9k miles. How many transmissions will I have to go through before Ford takes accountability. It’s unfortunate that these trucks cost so much money and then you potentially have to dump another $20k into it before even reaching 100k miles. I’m filing a complaint because I believe Ford should recall the CDF drum failures a do right for the customer. To my knowledge, these issues were fixed around 2024 models. Additionally, my transmission went out on a toll road where the speed limit is 85mph. I lost significant power and had to reduce my speed to 55-60mph which is a huge safety concern when people are passing you going 30mph faster than you. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Nov 6, 2026 · Transmission · FL

Automatic 10 speed transmission often downshifts very hard from 8th/10th down to 2nd/3rd when trying to accelerate, causing sudden loss of speed. This is incredibly dangerous while traveling at higher rates of speed on highways and interstates. I have almost been rear ended several times while this happens because my truck will downshift with a very hard jolt (sometimes even locking the tires for a split second), then decelerate from 60/70 mph down to 20/30 mph with fast moving traffic right behind me. Since the break lights aren't engaged there is no visual warning to drivers behind me that my truck is slowing down to a crawl. These transmissions are a safety hazard for everyone on the roads, and Ford needs to be held accountable for this.

Filed Nov 5, 2026 · Lights · CA

Component Affected: Exterior Lighting: Daytime Running Lights / Headlight Assembly Description of Defect and Safety Risk: The driver-side integrated LED Daytime Running Light (DRL) failed completely due to an internal component/diode malfunction within the factory-sealed headlight housing. This is a premature component failure at only 79,800 miles and is a widely documented systemic defect across this model year's F-Series production run. This issue constitutes a significant safety hazard rather than a standard wear-and-tear maintenance item. Because the LED system is an engineered, hermetically sealed assembly, it cannot be serviced by replacing a simple bulb. The failure permanently reduces the vehicle's forward visibility profile to oncoming traffic during daytime hours and compromises the driver's intent to signal presence. I request that the federal safety agency investigate this systemic component failure as a safety-related defect warranting a manufacturer recall, rather than classifying it as routine light bulb degradation.

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Questions about the 2021 Ford F-150

Is the 2021 Ford F-150 reliable?

Owners have filed 1,052 complaints about the 2021 Ford F-150, close to a typical F-150 model year.

What is the 2021 Ford F-150 year score?

The 2021 Ford F-150 scores 70 out of 100 (average). The score compares it with the other model years of the Ford F-150: 75 is a typical year, 50 means twice the usual complaints, and serious complaints and recalls lower it.

What is the most common problem with the 2021 Ford F-150?

Transmission and drivetrain, with 329 complaints, typically around 58,000 miles. Next is visibility (132).

How many recalls does the 2021 Ford F-150 have?

29 recalls, covering back over prevention, power train and electrical system.

Was there a recall on the 2021 Ford F-150 transmission?

Yes, 5 recalls: 26V402000, 25V169000, 23V896000. Check your VIN to see if your car still needs the free repair.

What year does the Ford F-150 have bad transmission?

The Ford F-150 model years with the most transmission complaints are 2013 (1,346 complaints), 2018 (1,022 complaints) and 2011 (830 complaints).

What gas mileage does the 2021 Ford F-150 get?

Official estimates for the 2021 Ford F-150 range from 19 to 25 mpg combined. The most efficient version (3.5L 6-cyl hybrid, RWD) gets 25 city and 26 highway.

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2021 Ford F-150 problems

The worst 2021 Ford F-150 problems

Headlights failing or too dim

Jerking or lurching

Harsh or hard shifting

Problems by type

Specific symptoms reported on the 2021 Ford F-150

Trouble codes owners of the 2021 Ford F-150 mention

Recalls 29