2021 Ford F-150 Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2021 Ford F-150, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Powertrain (other)29625.6%
- Visibility13011.2%
- Electrical12310.6%
- Exterior lighting1079.3%
- Engine978.4%
- Driver assistance938.0%
- Brakes817.0%
- Fuel system796.8%
- Steering383.3%
- Body & structure353.0%
- Other / unspecified353.0%
- Suspension131.1%
- Interior & seats111.0%
- Seat belts50.4%
- Airbags50.4%
- Transmission50.4%
- Tires & wheels30.3%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
i have had this at the dealer for the recall 4 months with no fix insight
My F150 10R80 transmission is throwing a P076F code. And the shifting has become very harsh and eratic all across the 10 gears. Hesitations, high revs, hard shifts, etc. This is a known issue by Ford and they have issued TSBs on the issue. They acknowledge that it is a design flaw within the transmission and have issued fixes. But if you are outside of the 60,000mi warranty, the burden of the costs falls on me, the owner. $9400 to replace the transmission with a new Ford transmission here in Colorado. This is a known problem in the design but Ford is not stepping up to help. They let the burden fall on the owner.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
When using the window wipers, they become inoperable. Stopping in the middle of the window, pausing when moving, or completely stopping and unable to get them to start moving until they begin to move on their own. This has occurred multiple times and at multiple different speeds of operation for the wipers. This was a previous recall issued by Ford that has been completed on the vehicle yet the same result is occurring.
The rear window basically has 3 parts. Driver side, center sliding section, and passenger side. Only the driver side section defrost. According to online forums specifically for Ford trucks, this is a common issue. Ford’s Special Service Message (SSM) 48490 does reference this as a known issue.
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
The safety daytime running lights are failing prematurely. My car has 32,000 miles and my DRL is burnt out on the passenger side. Online forums confirm that this is happening to many, many people. It’s a safety hazard for other drivers because the cost to repair is substantial and people aren’t fixing them. Ford should fix this as a recall.
*Brake system failure, complete shut down of vehicle. *Vehicle unable to start. *Vehicle was taken directly to Peoria Ford ( 9130 W Bell Rd, Peoria, AZ 85382) via tow truck on XXX Confirmed when dropped off of brake system failure and vehicle not functioning. *Vehicle was inspected on XXX which we were originally told it was the battery. Although the vehicle was in for trailer software recall on XXX and during inspection at that time battery was in good health. *No warnings until attempting to use the vehicle on XXX and received the brake system failure alert. Vehicle would also not lock. *After battery was replaced by Peoria Ford I was then told the brake system would not release and would need Actuator misalignment reset/replaced.
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
Daytime Running Light failure in headlight assembly. Second time it occurred. Had the first headlight assembly replaced while under warranty. I am now outside of the warranty mileage and the other side's headlight DRL has failed.
Left side headlight went dark. Started dimming now is full out
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start whenever the outside temperature was hot. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled. The vehicle started and then shut down. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was contacted and informed the contact that parts for NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V455000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) were on backorder. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 65,000.
*Brake system failure, complete shut down of vehicle. *Vehicle unable to start. *Vehicle was taken directly to Peoria Ford ( 9130 W Bell Rd, Peoria, AZ 85382) via tow truck on XXX Confirmed when dropped off of brake system failure and vehicle not functioning. *Vehicle was inspected on XXX which we were originally told it was the battery. Although the vehicle was in for trailer software recall on XXX and during inspection at that time battery was in good health. *No warnings until attempting to use the vehicle on XXX and received the brake system failure alert. Vehicle would also not lock. *After battery was replaced by Peoria Ford I was then told the brake system would not release and would need Actuator misalignment reset/replaced.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
The EPAS (Electric Power Assisted Steering) module experienced an internal sensor failure, causing a sudden and complete loss of power steering assist. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request and the EPAS module has been retained. The loss of power steering occurred without warning while the vehicle was in motion, requiring significantly greater physical force to maintain control of the steering wheel. This creates a serious risk of losing vehicle control, particularly at higher speeds, during lane changes, or in emergency maneuver situations. Because the failure occurs randomly and without any prior indication, there is no opportunity to safely prepare or pull over before it happens, putting both the driver and other motorists at risk. Yes. The issue has been acknowledged by multiple Ford dealerships and independent mechanics, all of whom confirmed this is a known and recurring problem with this vehicle’s EPAS system. Numerous online automotive forums also document other owners experiencing the identical failure, suggesting this is a widespread issue rather than an isolated incident. The vehicle was inspected by an authorized Ford dealership, which confirmed the EPAS module failure and acknowledged familiarity with the issue. No warning lights, dashboard messages, unusual sounds, or handling changes occurred before the failure. The power steering loss happened suddenly and without any prior symptoms, leaving no opportunity to anticipate or react to the malfunction before it occurred.
My 2021 Ford F-150 intermittently displays the warning message “Reverse Brake Assist Not Available – See Manual” when the vehicle is placed in reverse. When this message appears, the reverse brake assist / parking collision warning feature is not available, which may reduce safety while backing up. The vehicle was inspected by a Ford dealership. The dealership confirmed DTC U3000:49 in the IPMA module and identified Ford TSB 23-2040 as applicable to the concern. The dealer stated that the repair requires an IPMA software/module update and calibration. The quoted repair cost was approximately $1,100. This appears to be a software/programming-related condition affecting a driver assistance and brake-related safety feature, not normal wear and tear or a failed mechanical component. The warning is intermittent, but it has appeared multiple times. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. No crash, injury, or fire has occurred. Ford Customer Support was contacted and case number XXX was opened. Ford advised that no active warranty, recall, or customer satisfaction program currently provides repair cost coverage, and that because this involves Reverse Brake Assist, I may choose to file a safety concern report with NHTSA. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
THIS TRUCK THAT I HAVE PURCHASED FROM PALM COAST FORD HAS A RECALL EVERY MONTH THAT KEEPS ME FROM UTILIZING THE VEHICLE. THE LATEST RECALL THAT THERE IS NOT A FIX FOR YET, I WAS TOLD IS A COMPLETE RISK AND I SHOULD NOT EVEN DRIVE THE TRUCK. I REQUEST THAT YOU LOOK INTO ALL OF THE RECALLS THAT HAVE BEEN LISTED ON THIS PARTICULAR VEHICLE AND KNOW THAT I AM TAKING THIS UP WITH FORD, BUT ALSO WANTED TO INFORM YOUR DATABASE OF THE ISSUES AS WELL. I HAVE ONLY HAD THE TRUCK FOR ABOUT A YEAR AND IT HAS BEEN RECALL AFTER RECALL AND THIS ONE THERE IS NOT EVEN A FIX FOR IT TILL NEXT YEAR, AND I AM NOT SUPPOSED TO EVEN DRIVE IT CAUSE IT IS HAZARDOUS.
My 2021 Ford F-150 intermittently displays the warning message “Reverse Brake Assist Not Available – See Manual” when the vehicle is placed in reverse. When this message appears, the reverse brake assist / parking collision warning feature is not available, which may reduce safety while backing up. The vehicle was inspected by a Ford dealership. The dealership confirmed DTC U3000:49 in the IPMA module and identified Ford TSB 23-2040 as applicable to the concern. The dealer stated that the repair requires an IPMA software/module update and calibration. The quoted repair cost was approximately $1,100. This appears to be a software/programming-related condition affecting a driver assistance and brake-related safety feature, not normal wear and tear or a failed mechanical component. The warning is intermittent, but it has appeared multiple times. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. No crash, injury, or fire has occurred. Ford Customer Support was contacted and case number XXX was opened. Ford advised that no active warranty, recall, or customer satisfaction program currently provides repair cost coverage, and that because this involves Reverse Brake Assist, I may choose to file a safety concern report with NHTSA. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
I've noticed that the vehicle struggle when acceleration, specially at full stop (stoplight and intersection). Feels like the engine is going to die out if I step on gas pedal.
The contact's son owns a 2021 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the owner attempted to start the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to start. The owner replaced the battery, and the vehicle was towed to the dealer and was diagnosed with a fuel pump failure. The contact was informed that the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that parts were unavailable for the repair. Additionally, the owner was informed that the repair could be paid for out-of-pocket and a request for reimbursement could be made when parts became available. The owner declined to pay out of pocket for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer requested that the vehicle be removed from the dealer lot. The vehicle was towed to an alternative dealer for storage because the vehicle was inoperable. The owner then received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V455000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and two cases were filed. The failure mileage was approximately 66,000.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
Electronic power steering rack failed. Vehicle matches the build date and Dearborn plant of Recall 21S28 but VIN is excluded.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while parking the vehicle, the vehicle unexpectedly lost power steering functionality. The contact opened and closed the driver's side door to reset the vehicle, and the power steering function was restored; however, the failure recurred while driving. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with a PSCM internal failure and steering mechanism ball retainer failure. The mechanic determined that the failure was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V407000 (Steering) and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, and the issue was confirmed after a diagnostic test, but the contact was informed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
After a day of heavy rain, the vehicle stalled at a stop light and would not restart. The steering wheel and transmission locked, preventing the vehicle from being placed in neutral, creating a safety hazard as the vehicle was immobile in traffic. No warning lamps appeared prior to the failure. The vehicle required a tow. The dealer confirmed water had intruded through the passenger side cowl/firewall seam due to inadequate factory sealing, tracking down and pooling directly onto the Body Control Module (BCM) mounted on the passenger side firewall. The BCM failed due to water damage, causing PATS desynchronization and the no-start condition. The BCM failure subsequently shorted out the starter motor. Dealer replaced the BCM, repaired the leak, and replaced the starter. Total repair cost approximately $3,200. Failed components are available for inspection at the dealership. This identical failure; passenger side cowl water intrusion leading directly to BCM damage — is documented across numerous 2021+ F-150 owner forums, indicating a widespread factory sealing defect at the cowl/firewall/inner fender seam junction.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at 70 MPH, the contact noticed an unusual grinding sound. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road. The contact noticed a lot of unusual clicking or rattling sounds. In addition, several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that upon exiting the vehicle, the contact noticed a fire underneath the vehicle. In addition, the drive shaft was detached. The contact stated that the fire burned out independently. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. The contact stated that the drive shaft had scorching around it. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. In addition, the contact stated that the recall, NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V986000 (Power Train, Structure), was performed on the contact's VIN about six months ago. The dealer was not made aware of the failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 111,000.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
Took my 2021 Ford F 150 in for recall 23s65 and oil change and was told vehicle was unsafe to drive and even though parts according to ford where available the dealer said they were on back order with no ETA of when they would be available and they would put me in a rental for the time being. I’ve been told 3 times now by Ford parts are available but yet the dealership keeps saying they’re still on back order.
My Ford F-150 is subject to Manufacturer Recall Number23S65/NHTSA Recall Number23V896. I asked for the repair multiple times, but the dealership repeatedly told me that the parts were on backorder. The hub bolt on my right rear tire cracked and the truck was making a high pitched sound. I took it to the dealer and they said the bolt was cracked and driving it in that condition is dangerous. The truck is not safe to drive, but the parts remain on backorder indefinitely.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
My Ford F-150 is subject to Manufacturer Recall Number23S65/NHTSA Recall Number23V896. I asked for the repair multiple times, but the dealership repeatedly told me that the parts were on backorder. The hub bolt on my right rear tire cracked and the truck was making a high pitched sound. I took it to the dealer and they said the bolt was cracked and driving it in that condition is dangerous. The truck is not safe to drive, but the parts remain on backorder indefinitely.
A certified independent inspection company discovered welding on the main chassis of my Ford F-150. The welding is located on the front left frame area. I purchased the vehicle brand new, and it has never been in any accident or collision. This welding on a critical structural part creates a serious safety risk. Frame integrity may be compromised in normal driving or in the event of an impact. I transport my children daily in this vehicle, and I am afraid to drive it due to the possibility of structural failure. The official Ford dealer inspected the vehicle and kept it for approximately three weeks but provided no explanation or repair. The regional Ford office has delayed their technical report for more than five months with no response. The defect has been confirmed and is permanent. No warnings or lights appeared prior to discovering the issue. This is a manufacturing-related structural defect affecting vehicle safety, stability, and integrity. A proper safety resolution is required.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
While driving my 2021 Ford F-150 PowerBoost, the vehicle issued a pre-collision warning followed immediately by a restraint system warning. The airbag then deployed without any collision or impact. There was no crash, obstacle, or reason for deployment. The airbag deployment shattered the windshield and caused interior damage. This appears to be a false activation of the pre-collision system and unintended airbag deployment, creating a serious safety hazard. This could easily result in injury or loss of vehicle control. The vehicle needs to be investigated for a potential defect in the airbag system, sensors, or pre-collision assist system.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the tailgate opened unexpectedly. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the tailgate unintendedly opened and closed independently. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and was diagnosed with a fault in the tailgate switch. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.
Seat belts
Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.
From owner reports, verbatim
1. Electrical System Failure: While traveling on highway, alternator failed suddenly within 2 minutes of “service soon” and “check electrical system” warnings. Caused complete loss of motive power, electronic parking brake locked up while driving, loss of power steering, all gauges failed, transmission shifted into park while in motion. Battery was damaged (“fried”). Engine continued running for several minutes after stop without ability to shut off ignition. Incident documented by Ohio State Highway Patrol. 2. Seat Belt Issue: Driver-side seat belt interlock sticks in unlocked position, creating risk of failure to lock during a crash. 3. Electronic Parking Brake: Intermittently engages while vehicle is moving downhill to a stop (mostly at or below 5 mph). Parking brake light flashes three times then turns solid while in motion. Ford TSB indicates vehicle not eligible for related recall. 4. Infotainment System: Intermittently freezes, requiring forced reboot. Preceded by audio glitches, laggy dash computerized systems. 5. Transmission: Severe clunk and physical jolt when decelerating from ~30 mph to 8 mph. Also occurs during acceleration, particularly upshifts from 2nd to 3rd and 3rd to 4th gears, more pronounced when turning. 6. 4WD System: Intermittently fails to disengage from 4WD HI to 2WD HI. “Failure to shift” message appears several minutes after command to return to 2WD HI. 7. Front Differential/Axle: Previously, faulty front differential housing fractured due to system malfunction, causing intermittent loss of front driveline engagement in 4WD LO (250-500ms delay then re-engagement under throttle). Ford replaced front differential and axle under warranty after vehicle out of service for 2.5 months. Abbreviations: 4WD HI = 4-Wheel Drive High Range; 2WD HI = 2-Wheel Drive High Range; TSB = Technical Service Bulletin.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH, the contact was cut off by another vehicle that had pulled out in front of the vehicle. The contact depressed the brake pedal with force to keep from crashing into the vehicle. The contact stated that the seat belt pretensioner held firmly in place; however, the passenger's seat belt failed to restrain the passenger in the seat. The contact stated that the passenger almost crashed into the front passenger’s side dashboard. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the passenger’s side seat belt retractor and pretensioner needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V653000 (Seat Belts); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 46,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
While driving my 2021 Ford F-150 PowerBoost, the vehicle issued a pre-collision warning followed immediately by a restraint system warning. The airbag then deployed without any collision or impact. There was no crash, obstacle, or reason for deployment. The airbag deployment shattered the windshield and caused interior damage. This appears to be a false activation of the pre-collision system and unintended airbag deployment, creating a serious safety hazard. This could easily result in injury or loss of vehicle control. The vehicle needs to be investigated for a potential defect in the airbag system, sensors, or pre-collision assist system.
Started after McGee ford did a service on my truck Apparently they told ford they repaired electrical recalls which I wasn’t having issues with nor did I know They did anything! They did however erase the recalls so that was 8-2024 shortly after my truck experienced major electrical issues, another dealership told me it was gonna be 6k and 4 weeks to fix I was in awe I left with my truck that had no blinkers no air bags and so on 15 safety codes! I battled this for a year and then my parking break locked up while driving 70 on the highway! That’s the recall megee claimed they fixed I’m not rich single dad 100% of rhe time and I sure my kids everywhere daily, I do research call ford find intact i had a recalll so im thinking it will get fixed! 6 weeks later they not fixed i was told 2 days Now heritage and ford won’t fix it they want megee ford the certified service and dealer to pay for it. It’s winter im a contractor in Vermont they let me borrow a Sentra with summer tires on it. Couldn’t make it off my road. I’m still driving my kids around! I almost reck once a day as the whole system is messed up now! I feel like I’m being bullied and picked on because of my nationality
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Transmission
Reports naming the automatic or manual transmission, including shifting behaviour, shudder, slipping and transmission control modules.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power, leaving the contact stuck in the middle of the roadway. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the transmission. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 127,000. The VIN was not available.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving on a neighborhood street at approximately 25 MPH, a faint whistling sound could be heard from the rear passenger side, and when accelerating the sound progressed. The sound was also present while turning. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to a tire shop where it was inspected and informed that there was a bolt and washer that had been sheered off causing further damage to the axle of the vehicle. The contact was advised that the vehicle was not safe to drive. The vehicle was then taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed that NHTSA campaign number 23V896000 (POWER TRAIN) was a probable cause for the failure. The contact has stated that the dealer and manufacturer have not been very transparent with the process of remedying the vehicle and received a loaner vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 62,000.VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
Tires making noise and not in balance /out of round. I had a authorized tire company check tires on their machines and a report was written. They said the tires were defective.BIGBRANDTIRE COMPANY PASO ROBLES,Calif. 93446 Phone 805-238-5097
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50 MPH, the transmission suddenly shifted to neutral and the vehicle would no longer accelerate. The vehicle began to roll forward and rolled off the road. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who diagnosed that the transmission and transfer case had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 2,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .