Vehicles / Ford / F-150 / 2021

2021 Ford F-150

993 federal complaints (1,313 component records) · 29 recall campaigns on file · 1 federal investigation · 633 service bulletins · 27 Canadian recalls
See all 40 model years of the Ford F-150 →
Engine
3.5L 6-cyl
Fuel
Regular
Drive
RWD
EPA economy
18 city / 24 hwy
Federal complaints
993
Recall campaigns
29
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Power train
310
Glass & wipers
134
Electrical system
133
Driver assistance
111
Lighting
109
Engine & cooling
99
Other
93
Fuel system
84
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Power train

310 complaint records1 fire report2 crash reports
"Mostly when pulling out of parking lot but entering traffic at slow speeds complete loss of power for 4 to 5 seconds or longer...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse power train parts in the directory →

Glass & wipers

134 complaint records1 crash report
"I was driving to in the morning and my entire rear window randomly shattered and glass flew everywhere in my truck and on me in the drivers seat...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse glass & wipers parts in the directory →

Electrical system

133 complaint records1 fire report1 crash report
"Gear shift selector gets stuck in park, drive & reverse. Unable to move vehicle & blocking traffic for a period of time...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse electrical system parts in the directory →

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
EA23002
opened Sep 2023
closed Oct 2024EngineLoss of Motive Power - led to recall 24V635
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...

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
26V489000Back Over PreventionFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 F-150 and 2023-2026 F-250 SD vehicles equipped with 8-inch SYNC infotainment screens.Normally free
26V402000Power TrainFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Navigator, Expedition, 2020-2021 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2021 F-150 vehicles.Normally free
26V104000Exterior LightingFord 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...Normally free
25V729000VisibilityFord 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.Normally free
25V455000Fuel System, GasolineFord 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.Normally free
25V348000Exterior LightingFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles equipped with the Onboard Scales feature that were repaired incorrectly under recall 24V443.Normally free
25V315000Back Over PreventionFord 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,...Normally free
25V169000Power TrainFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 22V-188.Normally free
25V132000Electrical SystemFord 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.Normally free
24V852000EquipmentFord 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.Normally free
24V635000Engine And Engine CoolingFord 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.Normally free
24V443000Exterior LightingFord 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.Normally free
23V896000Power TrainFord 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.Normally free
23V509000Parking BrakeFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with a single exhaust system.Normally free
23V163000VisibilityFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles. The windshield wiper arms may break, causing the windshield wipers to fail.Normally free
22V842000VisibilityFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 F-150 vehicles. The front windshield wiper motor may become inoperative, causing the wipers to fail.Normally free
22V623000StructureFord 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.Normally free
22V414000Fuel System, GasolineFord 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.Normally free
22V250000VisibilityFord 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.Normally free
22V193000Electrical SystemFord 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.Normally free
22V188000Power TrainFord 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...Normally free
22V142000VisibilityFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles. The front windshield wiper motor may become inoperative, causing the wipers to fail.Normally free
21V986000StructureFord 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.Normally free
21V805000Air BagsFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Super Duty F-250, F-350, 2021 F-150, Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator vehicles.Normally free
21V653000Seat BeltsFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 Super Cab vehicles. The front seatbelt webbing may be incorrectly routed.Normally free

Transport Canada recalls

Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.

RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2026369
2026-07-28
Visual System7,362Issue: Under certain conditions, a software problem could cause part of the rearview camera image to be blocked. Canadian regulations require the full rearview image to display while the transmission is in reverse gear.
2026342
2026-07-14
Lights And Instruments105Issue: This recall is for certain integrated trailer modules that were installed before delivery or purchased from a dealer as an aftermarket accessory.
2026311
2026-06-24
Powertrain33,012Issue: On certain vehicles, a problem in the transmission could cause the parking pawl to become damaged. As a result, when the transmission is shifted to Park, the vehicle could move if the parking brake is not applied.
2026079
2026-02-20
Lights And Instruments627,267Issue: On certain vehicles, a software problem with the integrated trailer module (ITRM) may cause the trailer lights not to work when towing. This problem could also cause the trailer brakes not to work on certain vehicles.
2025587
2025-10-24
Structure23,437Issue: On certain vehicles, the moonroof wind deflector may not have been attached properly. As a result, the deflector could detach from the vehicle. Note: This recall also affects certain Super Duty incomplete vehicles.
2025366
2025-07-08
Fuel System107,534Issue: On certain vehicles, the low-pressure fuel pump could fail. If this happens, the engine may run rough or may not start and the check engine light may turn on. This could also result in a sudden loss of engine power while driving.
2025260
2025-05-09
Visual System159,135Issue: On certain vehicles, a software problem could cause the rearview camera image not to display or to freeze when the transmission is shifted into reverse.
2025137
2025-03-14
Powertrain14Issue: On certain trucks, the recall repairs completed by a Ford dealer during recall 22S15 (Transport Canada recall no. 2022-144) may not have been done correctly. As a result, a second repair is required.
2025106
2025-03-02
Brakes10,627Issue: On certain vehicles, the recall repairs completed by a Ford dealer during recall 22S17 (Transport Canada recall no. 2022-146) may not have been done correctly. As a result, a second repair is required.
2024492
2024-08-23
Engine11,821Issue: On certain vehicles, the intake valves may not have been manufactured properly. As a result, the valves could break and cause the engine to fail.
2024347
2024-06-14
Lights And Instruments22Issue: On certain vehicles, a previous over-the-air (OTA) software update could cause the backup lamps not to turn on when the vehicle is reversing.
2023705
2023-12-22
Powertrain20,664Issue: On certain trucks, the rear axle hub bolt(s) could break and cause the axle shaft(s) splines to wear. If this happens, there could be a loss of power to the wheels.
2023405
2023-07-25
Brakes171,442Issue: On certain trucks, the rear axle wiring harness could rub against the rear axle housing. Over time, this could cause damage to the wiring harness, and the electric parking brake could apply suddenly while driving.
2023133
2023-03-13
Visual System49,639Issue: On certain trucks, the windshield wiper arms may not have been manufactured correctly. As a result, the wiper arms could slip and they may not wipe the windshield properly.
2022650
2022-11-15
Visual System106,044Issue: On certain trucks, the windshield wiper motor may fail. If this happens, the windshield wipers will not work. Safety Risk: Windshield wipers that do not work could affect a driver's visibility and increase the risk of a crash.
2022461
2022-08-12
Structure11,349Issue: On certain trucks, the insulators under the truck may have been installed in error. As a result, it could loosen and damage the driveshaft. If this happens, the driveshaft could break and cause a loss of power to the wheels.
2022279
2022-05-30
Brakes1,238Issue: This recall is for accessory trailer brake controllers that were dealer-installed or sold as an accessory part at a Ford dealership.
2022197
2022-04-14
Visual System77,815Issue: On certain trucks, the windshield wiper arms may not have been manufactured correctly. As a result, the wiper arms could slip and they may not wipe the windshield properly.
2022146
2022-03-29
Brakes95,896Issue: A software problem in the trailer brake controller could cause the trailer brakes not to apply when you brake. Note: This recall only affects vehicles equipped with the optional trailer brake controller.
2022144
2022-03-28
Powertrain4,225Issue: On certain trucks, the powertrain control module (PCM) may have been programmed incorrectly. As a result, a false diagnostic trouble code (DTC) could cause the transmission to shift into neutral while driving, causing a sudden loss...
2022116
2022-03-14
Visual System34,734Issue: On certain trucks, the windshield wiper motor may fail. If this happens, the windshield wipers will not work. Safety Risk: Windshield wipers that do not work could affect a driver's visibility and increase the risk of a crash.
2021775
2021-12-17
Powertrain40,362Issue: On certain trucks, the insulation under the truck may loosen and damage the driveshaft. If this happens, the driveshaft could break and cause a loss of power to the wheels.
2021638
2021-10-18
Airbag61Issue: On certain vehicles, the side-impact sensors in the front doors may have been damaged during assembly. As a result, the side airbags may not work properly in a side-impact crash.
2021526
2021-08-23
Seats And Restraints3,331Issue: On certain trucks, the driver and/or front passenger seat belts may not be properly routed through the anchor eyelets. As a result, the seat belts may not work as designed in a crash.
2021337
2021-05-31
Steering90Issue: On certain trucks, there may be an internal problem with the steering gear. As a result, the steering could suddenly become stiff or lock up while driving.

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
SSM 55093
Aug 2026
StructureSome 2021-2026 F-150 vehicles may exhibit a concern of the windshield wipers not parking in the correct position on the windshield and/or over-traveling. This may be due to incorrect alignment of the wiper pivot arm on the wiper linkage assembly.
SSM55059
Aug 2026
Power TrainSome 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 3.5L PowerBoost engine, 2020-2026 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 3.3L hybrid engine, and 2020-2023 Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with a 3.0L EcoBoost hybrid engine may exhibit an illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench)...
25M01
Jul 2026
Unknown Or OtherCustomer Satisfaction Program 25M01 Certain 2021 Model Year F-150 3.0L Diesel Engine and 2020-2022 Model Year Super Duty with 6.7L Diesel Engine Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) Sensor Replacement, If Required After Dealer Evaluation Reference: Emissions Recalls 22E02, 22E04, 23E01, and...
PT-26.11.7 F-150
Jul 2026
SOFTWARE UPDATEElectrical System25S75 Recall remedy -Powertrain Control Module update to introduce logic to prevent low pressure fuel pump binding and maintain fuel flow to the engine.
SSM 55031
Jul 2026
Electrical SystemSome 2021-2026 Ford/Lincoln vehicles may exhibit various symptoms including but not limited to the auto start/stop system not operating as intended with a "Check Charging System" message in the instrument panel cluster (IPC) while the charging system is operating properly with...
PT-26.25.5 F-150
Jul 2026
SOFTWARE UPDATEElectrical System25S75 Recall remedy -Powertrain Control Module update to introduce logic to prevent low pressure fuel pump binding and maintain fuel flow to the engine.
SSM 55028
Jul 2026
Electrical SystemSome 2021-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an "Updating SYNC" message on the vehicle center display screen after an over the air (OTA) update.
TSB 26-2294
Jul 2026
Power TrainThis bulletin supersedes 26-2066. Reason for update: To remove "(2024 only)" from the Issue statement to include 2021-2025 vehicles that may exhibit a clicking sound coming from the gear shift lever.
26E04
Jul 2026
Electrical SystemNEW VEHICLE DELIVERY HOLD - Emissions Recall 26E04 Certain 2021-2025 Model Year F-150, Maverick, Mustang, Ranger, Expedition, Bronco Sport, Explorer, Bronco, Navigator, and Aviator Vehicles Powertrain Control Module Software Update
TSB 26-2304
Jul 2026
Electrical SystemThis bulletin supersedes 25-2383. Reason for update: to add 2023-2026 F-150 2.7L vehicles. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model Statement may exhibit a vibration/shudder felt during light throttle tip in at highway speeds (8,9,10 gear) with no diagnostic trouble codes (DTC)...
TSB 26-2297
Jun 2026
Electrical SystemSome of the vehicles listed in the model statement above equipped with SYNC4 may experience a blank center display screen or black center display after welcome animation. The rear-view camera will still function when shifting the vehicle to reverse under these conditions.
BCMC-26.DG F-150
Jun 2026
SOFTWARE UPDATEElectrical SystemQuality improvements include: -Addresses a false trailer brake fault message when starting the vehicle in cold weather
TSB 26-2287
Jun 2026
Power TrainThis article supersedes 25-2302. Reason for update: update the labor time allowance for F-150 vehicles, update the Parts list to replace the part number W716979-S439 with W721084-S439, and add a note for LV fluids XT-10-QLVC and CXT-10-LV6 "Transfer Case Fluid".
SSM 54940
Jun 2026
Unknown Or OtherSome 2021-2026 F-150 vehicles may exhibit a U2100:00 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for initial configuration incomplete stored in the trailer control module (TRM).
SYNC-26.2.8.3 F-150
Jun 2026
SOFTWARE UPDATEUnknown Or OtherQuality improvements include: -Privacy robustness updates -Resolves various user interface and data display bugs within the Towing menu
TSB 26-2264
Jun 2026
SuspensionSome of the vehicles listed in the Model Statement above may exhibit a clunking noise from the rear suspension while turning at low speeds. This may be due to binding at the leaf spring clinch clips.
ECG-26.2.11.4.1 F-150
May 2026
SOFTWARE UPDATEUnknown Or OtherQuality improvements include: - Enhanced system performance, disk usage limits and memory monitoring
TCU-26.2.11.3 F-150
May 2026
SOFTWARE UPDATEElectrical SystemQuality improvements include: - Telematics Control Unit update to enhance connected features
TSB 26-2238
May 2026
Power TrainThis article supersedes TSB 26-2130 to update labor operation to reprogram the PCM and check EVAP system from actual time to fixed time, and add extra time to reprogram coordinated modules (if required).
SSM 54820
May 2026
SteeringSome 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles may exhibit diagnostic trouble code (DTC) U023A:08 in the steering column control module (SCCM) after reprogramming the SCCM with no customer symptoms present.
TSB 26-2226
May 2026
Power TrainThis bulletin supersedes 26-2046. Reason For Update: update the parts list to change the claim quantity of the C clutch friction plates (HL3Z-7B164-A), C clutch steel plates (HL3Z-7B442-F), D clutch steel plates (HL3Z-7B442-D), add the rear driveshaft flange CV joint-to-pinion...
SSM 54795
May 2026
EngineSome 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 3.5L PowerBoost engine and 2020-2026 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 3.3L hybrid engine may exhibit an illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0A1E stored in the powertrain control...
TSB 26-2206
May 2026
Electrical SystemThis article updates TSB 23-2146. Reason for update: clarify prior approval requirements Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) C1001:31, U3000:89, and/or U3000:49 stored in the image processing module A (IPMA) and at...
ITRM-26.B04 F-150
Apr 2026
SOFTWARE UPDATEExterior Lighting26C10 Recall remedy -Addresses instances where the trailer lights and trailer brakes may not function
SSM 54783
Apr 2026
Power TrainSome 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 3.5L PowerBoost engine and 2020-2026 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 3.3L hybrid engine may exhibit an illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0A1E stored in the powertrain control...
23E01 S1
Apr 2026
Power TrainEmission Recall 23E01 - Supplement #1 2021 Model Year F-150, 2022 Model Year Super Duty and 2023 Model Year F-650 / F-750 Truck Vehicles Equipped with Diesel Engines Powertrain Control Module Reprogramming
SSM 54764
Apr 2026
Vehicle Speed ControlSome 2021 F-150 vehicles may exhibit an erroneous diagnostic trouble code (DTC) U2404:92 stored in the gateway module (GWM) after an over the air (OTA) update was performed or the GWM software was updated using the Ford Diagnosis And Repair System (FDRS).
SSM 54719
Apr 2026
Power TrainFor 20212026 vehicles equipped with the 10R80 transmission, a new Transmission Clutch Circuit Leak Test has been introduced in the Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS). This test utilizes the pressure and vacuum transducer (PVT) when available.
SSM 54720
Apr 2026
Lane DepartureVarious 2020-2026 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with blind spot information system (BLIS) may experience an inoperative blind spot monitoring with a "Blind Spot System Fault" message displayed in the instrument panel cluster (IPC).
SSM 54714
Apr 2026
Power TrainSome 2021-2026 F-150 PowerBoost vehicles may exhibit an illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P2884, P2885 and/or P2886 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM).

Showing 30 of 633 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Drive it from a dead stop, twice, on a hill if you can.Shudder, hesitation, or a lurch under light throttle is how this vehicle's largest complaint cluster shows itself. Then ask for the transmission service history in writing; repeat repairs are a pattern, not a fluke.
  2. Run the wipers and washers, and test every window.Slow or stuck regulators, streaking wipers, and windshield cracks are this vehicle's visibility complaints.
  3. Sit in it with the engine off and test everything that has a switch.Windows, locks, lights, the cluster, the radio. Electrical faults are this vehicle's story and the hardest to see on a drive: an intermittent no-start waits for the second week of ownership. Ask for the battery's age and whether any control module has been replaced.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 29 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Do not drive it home until the do-not-drive recall is confirmed repaired.At least one campaign on this vehicle carries a federal do-not-drive advisory. Confirm the repair with the dealer, by VIN, before taking delivery.
  6. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Ford F-150 →