2021 Ford F-350 Sd 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-350 Sd, 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
- Fuel system3631.9%
- Engine1513.3%
- Electrical1210.6%
- Powertrain (other)108.8%
- Driver assistance98.0%
- Visibility76.2%
- Interior & seats54.4%
- Brakes54.4%
- Suspension54.4%
- Steering43.5%
- Body & structure32.7%
- Tires & wheels10.9%
- Other / unspecified10.9%
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
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
Vehicle went into limp mode and we towed it to the dealership. They ran diagnostics and found that the fuel filter was causing a fault for water in the fuel filter. They replaced the fuel filter and ran diagnostics again and it flagged failure for Low pressure fuel pump. They replaced the low pressure fuel pump and reran diagnostics. When they reran diagnostics it flagged for High pressure fuel pump failure and now they are in the process of tearing it down to the point of failure to find out the cause. My vehicles vin was not included in the original recall and believe that it should have been included.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-350. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road, where it lost motive power. The message "Reduced Engine Power" was displayed, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure occurred while a fifth wheel RV was hitched to the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the high-pressure fuel pump had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that the manufacturer denied covering the repair under NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V957000 (Fuel System, Diesel) due to a contaminated fuel system; however, the dealer confirmed that the fuel system was not contaminated. The dealer submitted information to the manufacturer advising that the fuel system was not contaminated. Additionally, a case was filed; however, the contact was denied coverage. The failure mileage was approximately 195,000.
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-350. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the DEF Pump, DEF Pump Lines needed, and DEF heater element needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 92,567.
Cold side intercooler boost tube cracked due to constant vibration impact from coolant overflow hose routed directly above and on top of it. Part and vehicle is available for inspection. The split in the boost hose caused me to loose power while attempting to merge onto a road, almost being hit by another vehicle. After research there are multiple other instances of complaints of the same thing happening to others and multiple aftermarket manufacturers producing replacement and upgraded parts with references and warnings of the same thing happening for the last 10 years. No warning lamps or symptoms prior to failure. After failure no warning lamps but could hear an audible hiss. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the dealer or police. I was told by their parts people it is a regular failure and the part costs typically around $200 and they only sold it as a full part and not just the rubber replacement hose althought they are separate parts connected with hose clamps.
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
I was driving my truck home when it completely shut off, I lost all power to everything, including the power steering brakes. When I got home, I did some research on the Internet to see possible causes. Apparently there is a service bulletin for the fuse box having water getting into it from the cowl of the hood, which states it can do exactly what happened to my truck? You can also keep your truck running and not shutting off and just to hold host of other safety issues with the service bulletin. . So I brought my truck in to get diagnosed by Ford and they did indeed say it was the fuse box under the hood that got water into it and shorted it out. Ford would not cover this part even though I have a factory extended warranty, annoying this is a common issue for 2020 to 2022 Ford trucks they issued a recall on expeditions in a couple other vehicles, but not Ford trucks specifically the super duties. How is this? OK that they don’t tell a customer who purchased a vehicle that this could potentially happen and then when it happens, they refuse to cover anything even though it’s their fault why it happened.
See attached document for complaint.
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
Ongoing Fuel System Failures Related to Recall 24S78 – Request for Escalated Review To Whom It May Concern, My name is [XXX] , and I am the owner of two 2021 Ford F-350 6.7L Power Stroke Diesel trucks, both of which are affected by Recall 24S78 / NHTSA Campaign 24V957 concerning biodiesel deposit accumulation in the fuel system and a pending PCM software update. Vehicle Information: VIN [XXX] VIN [XXX] Both vehicles have already experienced critical failures that directly align with the described defect in the recall, including: Failure of the CP4 high-pressure fuel pump Repeated clogging of the water/fuel separator filter Loss of power, extended crank times, and intermittent no-start conditions These issues occurred prior to the recall remedy being available and have compromised vehicle performance and safety. I am requesting: A full inspection and evaluation of the fuel systems under the scope of Recall 24S78 once the software becomes available. Coverage or reimbursement for repair or replacement of the CP4 pump and related components if found to be caused by biodiesel-related damage as described in the recall. A formal service record entry acknowledging these failures for future reference and eligibility under the recall. Escalation of this issue to a Ford regional service manager, if needed. Given the significant safety risk and the known failure history of the CP4 fuel system, I ask that Ford address this matter thoroughly and beyond a software update, if necessary. Please confirm receipt of this inquiry and advise me on next steps. I can be reached at: Phone: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Ford knew there was an issue back in 2021 as they so filed with your agency. Yet waited. Then warranty claims continued. Now, four years later they file as a safety issue, BUT have told me twice in phone calls that I can drive the truck, despite it could shut down on it's own while driving. I tow donated RV trailers to the North Carolina disaster, now I cannot as my dealership advised I not go on long trips. Ford refuses a like loaner, or any loaner at all. This is a Ford issue, not mine nor the dealership and Ford needs to either replace all suspected parts, have a resolution now or proved no charge loaners of like kind to all owners. This approach by Ford is totally unacceptable as they in two phone calls to corporate never once said to not drive the truck and the letter I received said they are not advising we park the truck
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 contact owns a 2021 Ford F-350. The contact stated that the back over prevention camera had been inoperable since purchasing the vehicle. The contact had received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V048000 (BACK OVER PREVENTION); however, the VIN tool showed no open recall. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 110,000.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-350. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V686000 (Back Over Prevention) and 24V957000 (Fuel System, Diesel); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled while the accelerator pedal was depressed. Additionally, while in reverse, the image displayed was blurry. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer; however, the vehicle was not repaired because parts were not available. 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 failure mileage was approximately 129,000.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
Turned on wiper and passenger side wiper assembly only moved an inch. Does not clear windshield. Wiper arm assembly failure, striped. Can not safely drive vehicle. Manufacturer Recall Number 22S26. NHTSA Recall Number 22v087I was told by the dealership that parts are still not available.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-350. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V250000 (Visibility) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH while it was sleeting, the windshield wipers were engaged on intermittent speed mode; however, the passenger’s side wiper blade stopped functioning. There were no warning lights illuminated. An unknown local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the parts were on a national back order. The failure mileage was approximately 22,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-350. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH, the tailgate opened inadvertently, and landed on the jack for the trailer that was being hauled. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 42,000.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-350. The contact stated that while the vehicle was hauling a trailer with a tractor, the tailgate unintendedly opened, causing damage to the tailgate. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that since there was no water leaking under the front passenger's side floor mat, the contact needed to pay out-of-pocket for tailgate replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 23,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-350. The contact stated that while driving at speeds above 40 MPH and attempting to depress the brake pedal, the vehicle slid and drifted to the right. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the grease pins needed to be greased. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 44,000.
Upon starting the vehicle I get precollision not available warning light and hill decent control fault hill assist warning. Service steering and antilock brake brake fault lights. The dealer has looked at it but they said can not duplicate it. The problem is when I am towing my fifth wheel trailer and this happens it shuts down the brake controller for the fifth wheel and it’s VERY hard to stop the truck and trailer
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-350. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V957000 (Fuel System, Diesel); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact stated that while depressing the accelerator pedal after stopping, the vehicle was slow to respond. The contact stated that there was several minutes before the vehicle responded as needed. The contact stated that the failure occurred after coming to a full stop. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that while towing a loaded trailer, the vehicle was losing traction, and the rear end was swaying to the right and to the left. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that during the failure there were several unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that 3 months after purchasing the vehicle, the vehicle experienced brakes failure. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that all four brake pads and calipers needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the contact stated that the failure recurred while depressing the brake pedal, with an abnormal metal-on-metal sound coming from the brakes. The contact stated that the brakes were independently slowing the vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 37,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
On my 21 f350 I had a Gooseneck trailer attached and while it was in the process of getting loaded with no more than 5 thousand pounds. A very loud pop was heard. After a closer inspection I found that both rear leaf spring hanger brackets had split. Causing a safety issue.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
Upon starting the vehicle I get precollision not available warning light and hill decent control fault hill assist warning. Service steering and antilock brake brake fault lights. The dealer has looked at it but they said can not duplicate it. The problem is when I am towing my fifth wheel trailer and this happens it shuts down the brake controller for the fifth wheel and it’s VERY hard to stop the truck and trailer
Death wobble: while driving approximately 60 MPH over a bridge and construction zone over rough pavement the steering oscillated rapidly and I drifted into another lane applied the brakes causing other vehicles to swerve and emergency brake. This occurred [XXX] in Denver Colorado.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-350. The contact stated that while entering the vehicle, he observed a puddle of water in the front middle seat which was folded down to use as a cup holder. The contact stated that it had rained the night before but not enough to form a puddle outside around the vehicle or inside the vehicle. The contact stated that the windows were locked securely. The contact became aware that water was dripping from the sunglasses compartment located on the ceiling above the rear-view mirror. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact called the manufacturer and was advised to take the vehicle to a dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was also directed to call the NHTSA Safety Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 43,808.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-350. The contact stated that while the vehicle was hauling a trailer with a tractor, the tailgate unintendedly opened, causing damage to the tailgate. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that since there was no water leaking under the front passenger's side floor mat, the contact needed to pay out-of-pocket for tailgate replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 23,000.
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
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-350 equipped with AMP Tires, Tire Line: Terrain Pro A/TP, Tire Size: P35/12/R24, DOT Number: 04N9MATTW. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle began to shudder. There was no warning light illuminated. As the vibration continued, the contact began to lose control of the vehicle and the vehicle nearly swayed off the road. The contact was able to pull to shoulder of the highway. Upon inspection of the vehicle, the contact's wife discovered a bulge on the center tread of the front driver's side tire. The contact replaced the tire with a spare tire and drove to the residence. However, the same failure occurred on the front passenger's side tire two weeks later. The contact notified the tire shop who had sold him the tires, and a mechanic was sent to his residence to inspect the tires. The mechanic diagnosed that the failure occurred as both tires' belts popped up. The driver's side tire was replaced but the passenger's tire was not replaced. The tire failure mileage was 9,000. The vehicle failure mileage was 34,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
My setup: truck is level, trailer is 3/8" drop in front, and hitch ball up leaving one hole open from top. After installing product, ensuring proper setup, there is concern for towing safety, as the bottom of the drawbar drop is ~8-1/2" from ground, with reports from others that this setup has on numerous occasions, caused the drop portion of bar to contact pavement under normal towing conditions across the U.S. This has caused concern for possible catastrophic failure of drawbar drop when towing, believing that the welds on drawbar could become weakened and result in a disconnect of tow vehicle and trailer. I contacted the company, asking if they had plans to offer a 0" (would be an actual 3" length drop per their specs on the 6" and 8" drops) drop, or if they could say how much of the excess could be removed/cut from the drop safely. Their response is that there are no current plans to offer other drops and modifying the drawbar would void warranty. Others on various social media have warned of the drop making contact with pavement during the likes of National and State park entries/exits, as well as intersection transitions, etc.. I continued with my order/install, believing they had possibly installed incorrectly, but now see the concern, and do not want to void warranty, and in turn do not want to have a catastrophic failure that could kill someone..
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 .