2021 Ford F-150 Problems and Recalls (1,285 Complaints)

The most-reported problem on the 2021 Ford F-150 is Transmission / driveline (28% of 1,285 owner reports). There are 29 safety recalls. Check the VIN and inspect Transmission / driveline — this is the NHTSA file, not a score.

NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation Snapshot 2026-10-15 1,285 complaints · 29 recalls

What problems show up on the 2021 Ford F-150?

365 of 1,285 filings named Transmission / driveline (28% of the file). That is what owners wrote, not a shop diagnosis of the vehicle in the driveway.

Second is Glass / wipers / cameras (133 reports).

There are 29 official safety recalls on this year. They were filed about Glass / wipers / cameras, Transmission / driveline, Seat belts, Airbags, Electrical, Fuel system, Parking brake, Engine, Rear camera / backup safety, and Lights. Check the VIN at nhtsa.gov — a campaign on this page can still be open on a specific truck.

The 2020 has 733 reports on file; this year has 1,285. Older years collect more reports just by being on the road longer. If you need a fairer comparison, use the equal-time view.

What to check before you buy a 2021 Ford F-150

A useful visit to this page takes five minutes. YearTell does not score years and cannot see the vehicle in front of you.

  1. Look up the VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov. This year has 29 campaigns on file below.
  2. Transmission / driveline. Have a shop drive it and check the transmission: hard or delayed shifts, burnt-smelling fluid, and 4WD engagement if equipped.
  3. Glass / wipers / cameras. Check windshield, wipers and any camera or sensor the listing claims is there.
  4. Lights. Walk around the vehicle: headlights, brake lights and turn signals all working.
  5. Skim a few owner reports below for Transmission / driveline. Look for the same symptom repeating.
  6. Take that list to a mechanic. Do not turn the complaint total into a score.

What owners reported

System named most often: Transmission / driveline 365 complaints · 28.4% of the file
Crashes, fires, injuries and deaths in those filings:
  • Crashes 18
  • Fires 7
  • Injuries 13
  • Deaths 1
All Ford F-150 years →
NHTSA Consumer Complaints Snapshot 2026-10-14 Open source record Read our complete data methodology →

Complaint counts reflect self-selected reports and are not normalised for production sales volume. We publish no reliability scores, superlatives, or vehicle rankings.

Which systems owners named

Share of owner complaints filed against each vehicle system. These shares are not adjusted for how many vehicles were sold.

Which systems owners named Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN) appears in 365 of 1,285 owner complaints (28.4%) in this vehicle snapshot. Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN): 365 complaints, 28.4% of reports Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN) 2 crash reports 365 · 28.4% Glass / wipers / cameras (VISIBILITY): 133 complaints, 10.4% of reports Glass / wipers / cameras (VISIBILITY) 1 crash reports 133 · 10.4% Lights (EXTERIOR LIGHTING): 105 complaints, 8.2% of reports Lights (EXTERIOR LIGHTING) 105 · 8.2% Electrical (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM): 96 complaints, 7.5% of reports Electrical (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) 2 crash reports 2 fire reports 96 · 7.5% Fuel system (FUEL SYSTEM): 85 complaints, 6.6% of reports Fuel system (FUEL SYSTEM) 85 · 6.6% Engine (ENGINE): 79 complaints, 6.2% of reports Engine (ENGINE) 1 fire reports 79 · 6.2% Brakes (SERVICE BRAKES): 49 complaints, 3.8% of reports Brakes (SERVICE BRAKES) 2 crash reports 49 · 3.8% Automatic braking / collision warning (FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE): 41 complaints, 3.2% of reports Automatic braking / collision warning (FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE) 3 crash reports 41 · 3.2% Steering (STEERING): 40 complaints, 3.1% of reports Steering (STEERING) 1 crash reports 40 · 3.1% Unclassified NHTSA leftover: 323 complaints, 25.1% of reports Unclassified NHTSA leftover 6 crash reports 3 fire reports 323 · 25.1% 0% 25% 50% 75% 100%

“Unclassified NHTSA leftover” is not a car part. It is a filing bucket and always sits last.

View component data as a table
System / Component Complaints Share of Reports Safety Reports (Crashes / Fires)
Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN) 365 28.4% 2 crashes · 0 fires
Glass / wipers / cameras (VISIBILITY) 133 10.4% 1 crashes · 0 fires
Lights (EXTERIOR LIGHTING) 105 8.2% 0 crashes · 0 fires
Electrical (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) 96 7.5% 2 crashes · 2 fires
Fuel system (FUEL SYSTEM) 85 6.6% 0 crashes · 0 fires
Engine (ENGINE) 79 6.2% 0 crashes · 1 fires
Brakes (SERVICE BRAKES) 49 3.8% 2 crashes · 0 fires
Automatic braking / collision warning (FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE) 41 3.2% 3 crashes · 0 fires
Steering (STEERING) 40 3.1% 1 crashes · 0 fires
Unclassified NHTSA leftover 323 25.1% 6 crashes · 3 fires
NHTSA Consumer Complaints, NHTSA Safety Recalls, and NHTSA Defect Investigations Snapshot 2026-10-15 Open source record

Complaint counts reflect self-selected reports and are not normalised for production sales volume. We publish no reliability scores, superlatives, or vehicle rankings.

When reports and recalls showed up

When owners filed reports, and when recall campaigns showed up.

When reports and recalls showed up Owner reports in this snapshot begin in Jan 2021; the first recall shown was reported in Feb 2021. 2021-Q1: 6 owner reports 6 2021-Q2: 12 owner reports 12 2021-Q3: 24 owner reports 24 2021-Q4: 23 owner reports 23 2022-Q1: 26 owner reports 26 2022-Q2: 36 owner reports 36 2022-Q3: 60 owner reports 60 2022-Q4: 54 owner reports 54 2023-Q1: 65 owner reports 65 2023-Q2: 64 owner reports 64 2023-Q3: 73 owner reports 73 2023-Q4: 42 owner reports 42 2024-Q1: 33 owner reports 33 2024-Q2: 47 owner reports 47 2024-Q3: 40 owner reports 40 2024-Q4: 53 owner reports 53 2025-Q1: 69 owner reports 69 2025-Q2: 82 owner reports 82 2025-Q3: 106 owner reports 106 2025-Q4: 68 owner reports 68 2026-Q1: 102 owner reports 102 2026-Q2: 74 owner reports 74 2026-Q3: 116 owner reports 116 2026-Q4: 10 owner reports 10 Owner reports Jan 2021 Oct 2026 Recall campaign 21V090000 ◆ Recall campaign 21V090000 Recall campaign 21V381000 ◆ Recall campaign 21V381000 Recall campaign 21V407000 ◆ Recall campaign 21V407000 Recall campaign 21V533000 ◆ Recall campaign 21V533000 Recall campaign 21V653000 ◆ Recall campaign 21V653000 Recall campaign 21V805000 ◆ Recall campaign 21V805000 Recall campaign 21V986000 ◆ Recall campaign 21V986000 Recall campaign 22V142000 ◆ Recall campaign 22V142000 Recall campaign 22V188000 ◆ Recall campaign 22V188000 Recall campaign 22V193000 ◆ Recall campaign 22V193000 Recall campaign 22V250000 ◆ Recall campaign 22V250000 Recall campaign 22V414000 ◆ Recall campaign 22V414000 Recall campaign 22V623000 ◆ Recall campaign 22V623000 Recall campaign 22V842000 ◆ Recall campaign 22V842000 Recall campaign 23V163000 ◆ Recall campaign 23V163000 Recall campaign 23V509000 ◆ Recall campaign 23V509000 Recall campaign 23V896000 ◆ Recall campaign 23V896000 Recall campaign 24V443000 ◆ Recall campaign 24V443000 Recall campaign 24V635000 ◆ Recall campaign 24V635000 Recall campaign 24V852000 ◆ Recall campaign 24V852000 Recall campaign 25V132000 ◆ Recall campaign 25V132000 Recall campaign 25V169000 ◆ Recall campaign 25V169000 Recall campaign 25V315000 ◆ Recall campaign 25V315000 Recall campaign 25V348000 ◆ Recall campaign 25V348000 Recall campaign 25V455000 ◆ Recall campaign 25V455000 Recall campaign 25V729000 ◆ Recall campaign 25V729000 Recall campaign 26V104000 ◆ Recall campaign 26V104000 Recall campaign 26V402000 ◆ Recall campaign 26V402000 Recall campaign 26V489000 ◆ Recall campaign 26V489000 Investigation EA23002 ● Investigation EA23002
  • Campaign 21V986000 was reported 175 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 22V142000 was reported 271 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 22V188000 was reported 274 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 22V193000 was reported 402 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 22V250000 was reported 305 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 22V623000 was reported 414 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 22V842000 was reported 520 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 23V163000 was reported 635 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 23V896000 was reported 911 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 24V443000 was reported 1,214 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 24V635000 was reported 1,221 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 24V852000 was reported 1,382 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 25V132000 was reported 1,473 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 25V169000 was reported 1,359 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 25V315000 was reported 1,564 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 25V348000 was reported 1,258 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 25V455000 was reported 884 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 25V729000 was reported 1,594 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 26V104000 was reported 1,830 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 26V402000 was reported 1,826 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 26V489000 was reported 2,009 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
View timeline records as a table
Date Record type Count Record identifier
2021-Q1 Owner reports 6
2021-Q2 Owner reports 12
2021-Q3 Owner reports 24
2021-Q4 Owner reports 23
2022-Q1 Owner reports 26
2022-Q2 Owner reports 36
2022-Q3 Owner reports 60
2022-Q4 Owner reports 54
2023-Q1 Owner reports 65
2023-Q2 Owner reports 64
2023-Q3 Owner reports 73
2023-Q4 Owner reports 42
2024-Q1 Owner reports 33
2024-Q2 Owner reports 47
2024-Q3 Owner reports 40
2024-Q4 Owner reports 53
2025-Q1 Owner reports 69
2025-Q2 Owner reports 82
2025-Q3 Owner reports 106
2025-Q4 Owner reports 68
2026-Q1 Owner reports 102
2026-Q2 Owner reports 74
2026-Q3 Owner reports 116
2026-Q4 Owner reports 10
Recall campaign 1 21V090000
Recall campaign 1 21V381000
Recall campaign 1 21V407000
Recall campaign 1 21V533000
Recall campaign 1 21V653000
Recall campaign 1 21V805000
Recall campaign 1 21V986000
Recall campaign 1 22V142000
Recall campaign 1 22V188000
Recall campaign 1 22V193000
Recall campaign 1 22V250000
Recall campaign 1 22V414000
Recall campaign 1 22V623000
Recall campaign 1 22V842000
Recall campaign 1 23V163000
Recall campaign 1 23V509000
Recall campaign 1 23V896000
Recall campaign 1 24V443000
Recall campaign 1 24V635000
Recall campaign 1 24V852000
Recall campaign 1 25V132000
Recall campaign 1 25V169000
Recall campaign 1 25V315000
Recall campaign 1 25V348000
Recall campaign 1 25V455000
Recall campaign 1 25V729000
Recall campaign 1 26V104000
Recall campaign 1 26V402000
Recall campaign 1 26V489000
Defect investigation 1 EA23002
NHTSA Safety Recalls Snapshot 2026-10-15 Open source record

Safety Recalls (29)

Official campaigns. Each one says what could go wrong and what the dealer was told to fix.

In short, these campaigns were filed about Glass / wipers / cameras, Transmission / driveline, Seat belts, Airbags, Electrical, Fuel system, Parking brake, Engine, Rear camera / backup safety, and Lights.

  1. Recall campaign 21V090000

    Glass / wipers / cameras

    Report date
    Component:
    Glass / wipers / cameras (VISIBILITY)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  2. Recall campaign 21V381000

    Transmission / driveline

    Report date
    Component:
    Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  3. Recall campaign 21V407000

    Safety recall 21V407000

    Report date
    Component:
    Not available in the source record
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  4. Recall campaign 21V533000

    Safety recall 21V533000

    Report date
    Component:
    Not available in the source record
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  5. Recall campaign 21V653000

    Seat belts

    Report date
    Component:
    Seat belts (SEAT BELTS)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  6. Recall campaign 21V805000

    Airbags

    Report date
    Component:
    Airbags (AIR BAGS)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  7. Recall campaign 21V986000

    Transmission / driveline

    Report date
    Component:
    Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  8. Recall campaign 22V142000

    Glass / wipers / cameras

    Report date
    Component:
    Glass / wipers / cameras (VISIBILITY)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  9. Recall campaign 22V188000

    Transmission / driveline

    Report date
    Component:
    Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  10. Recall campaign 22V193000

    Electrical

    Report date
    Component:
    Electrical (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  11. Recall campaign 22V250000

    Glass / wipers / cameras

    Report date
    Component:
    Glass / wipers / cameras (VISIBILITY)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  12. Recall campaign 22V414000

    Fuel system

    Report date
    Component:
    Fuel system (FUEL SYSTEM)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  13. Recall campaign 22V623000

    Transmission / driveline

    Report date
    Component:
    Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  14. Recall campaign 22V842000

    Glass / wipers / cameras

    Report date
    Component:
    Glass / wipers / cameras (VISIBILITY)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  15. Recall campaign 23V163000

    Glass / wipers / cameras

    Report date
    Component:
    Glass / wipers / cameras (VISIBILITY)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  16. Recall campaign 23V509000

    Parking brake

    Report date
    Component:
    Parking brake (PARKING BRAKE)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  17. Recall campaign 23V896000

    Transmission / driveline

    Report date
    Component:
    Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  18. Recall campaign 24V443000

    Electrical

    Report date
    Component:
    Electrical (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  19. Recall campaign 24V635000

    Engine

    Report date
    Component:
    Engine (ENGINE)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  20. Recall campaign 24V852000

    Safety recall 24V852000

    Report date
    Component:
    Unclassified NHTSA leftover
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  21. Recall campaign 25V132000

    Electrical

    Report date
    Component:
    Electrical (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  22. Recall campaign 25V169000

    Transmission / driveline

    Report date
    Component:
    Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  23. Recall campaign 25V315000

    Rear camera / backup safety

    Report date
    Component:
    Rear camera / backup safety (BACK OVER PREVENTION)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  24. Recall campaign 25V348000

    Lights

    Report date
    Component:
    Lights (EXTERIOR LIGHTING)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  25. Recall campaign 25V455000

    Fuel system

    Report date
    Component:
    Fuel system (FUEL SYSTEM)
    Consequence:
    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.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  26. Recall campaign 25V729000

    Glass / wipers / cameras

    Report date
    Component:
    Glass / wipers / cameras (VISIBILITY)
    Consequence:
    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 NHTSA.gov beginning October 30, 2025.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  27. Recall campaign 26V104000

    Electrical

    Report date
    Component:
    Electrical (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM)
    Consequence:
    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 NHTSA.gov beginning March 17, 2026.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  28. Recall campaign 26V402000

    Transmission / driveline

    Report date
    Component:
    Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
    Consequence:
    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 NHTSA.gov on June 26, 2026.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  29. Recall campaign 26V489000

    Rear camera / backup safety

    Report date
    Component:
    Rear camera / backup safety (BACK OVER PREVENTION)
    Consequence:
    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. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 7, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in September 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 NHTSA.gov on July 31, 2026.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →
NHTSA Consumer Complaints Snapshot 2026-10-14 Open source record

Complaint counts reflect self-selected reports and are not normalised for production sales volume. We publish no reliability scores, superlatives, or vehicle rankings.

What owners actually wrote

Short excerpts from the public NHTSA file. Look for the same symptom repeating.

Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation · snapshot 2026-10-14
Safety incident filters
Showing 6 of 1,285 complaints · page 1 of 52
2026-10-08Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
NHTSA ODI 11769960
CrashFireInjuryDeath
I have experienced ongoing issues with transmission. Two separate dealerships have done partial "rebuild" to no avail. The vehicle has lost power several times which include 09/24/26 at approximately 3:30 pm. while pulling onto a busy highway in heavy traffic. As soon as I got home, I parked the truck in the carport where it remains as of this writing. There have never been any warning lights, symbols, etc. on dash when these and other multiple problems with this vehicle happened. Multiple technicians have duplicated all of the issues that I have reported to the dealerships. I have been in touch with Ford Motor Company several times and have an open case with nothing from their representatives except to say how sorry they are. Second dealership has stated both verbally today, 10/08/2026, and in writing on 10/05/2026 that he personally oversaw a complete teardown of this transmission on 08/03/2026 when C-clutch was replaced see service order#191875 although parts list doesn't support his statement. Please refer to service order #192388 which is a documented failure of the E-clutch in my vehicle. The service manager at J. O. Williams states that this document is "speculation" on the part of the technician. I am in possession of his email stating such. I am at this time requesting any investigator be assigned to my case/claim # 11767700, which I was given by Tyronda (last name unknown) Respectfully yours John Adair
2026-10-08Electrical (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM)
NHTSA ODI 11769880
CrashFireInjuryDeath
While driving truck, it had an electrical fritz that caused the car to become undrivable, with systems not responding. when stopped to power cycle, the car would accessory on but not attempt to start. the horn would go off randomly. was able to manually put the truck into neutral and push into a safe spot, at what point a battery clear was attempted with no results, and required towing to dealership where water had intruded into the BCM
2026-10-06Fuel system (FUEL SYSTEM)Unclassified NHTSA leftover
NHTSA ODI 11769381
CrashFireInjuryDeath
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while reversing, the rear-view camera was inoperable. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V455000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) and 26V489000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The failure mileage was approximately 61,000.
2026-10-06Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
NHTSA ODI 11769350
CrashFireInjuryDeath
Front Differential had a major failure and had to be replaced. Vehicle only has 31000 miles on it. Warranty did not cover anything. Report said fluid was burnt.
2026-10-05Fuel system (FUEL SYSTEM)
NHTSA ODI 11769118
CrashFireInjuryDeath
While traveling home on a 2 lane highway 55 on a busy Sunday, the truck started misfiring and jerking, shaking then stalled. Engine light was flashing and we were able to pull off to side as it stalled. After a short time we proceeded on the highway, as we were in a precarious position, about 3 miles and it began misfiring and stalled again. This could have been a tragic situation had there not been a pullout with our travel trailer. We had to have our truck towed to the ford dealer and our RV towed home. While seeking similar cases online we believe it to be a fuel pump driver module and contamination. Our truck VIN is not currently on the national recall list and feel it should be.
2026-10-05Fuel system (FUEL SYSTEM)Unclassified NHTSA leftover
NHTSA ODI 11769057
CrashFireInjuryDeath
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 30 MPH, the vehicle was shaking and the vehicle shut off. The vehicle was restarted. The dealer was contacted and made aware of the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with fuel pump failure. The contact was informed that the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that the parts were unavailable to repair the vehicle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V455000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part was unavailable for the recall repair. The manufacturer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

Ford F-150 Years With the Most NHTSA Complaints

Frequently asked questions

What are the most common problems on the 2021 Ford F-150?

Owners named Transmission / driveline most often — 365 of 1,285 reports (28%). That is the NHTSA file, not a diagnosis of every vehicle.

Are there recalls for the 2021 Ford F-150?

NHTSA lists 29 safety recall campaigns. They were filed about Glass / wipers / cameras, Transmission / driveline, Seat belts, Airbags, Electrical, Fuel system, Parking brake, Engine, Rear camera / backup safety, and Lights. Check the VIN at nhtsa.gov; a campaign on this page can still be open on a specific vehicle.

What should I inspect before buying a 2021 Ford F-150?

Look up the VIN for open recalls. Have a shop drive it and check the transmission: hard or delayed shifts, burnt-smelling fluid, and 4WD engagement if equipped. Then skim owner filings for the same symptom and take that list to a mechanic.

Does a high complaint count mean I should skip this year?

No. Counts are reports people chose to file and they are not adjusted for sales volume. YearTell does not publish scores or a list of years to skip. Inspect the vehicle.

EPA Fuel Economy Database Snapshot 2026-10-04 Open source record

Estimated Ownership Cost

EPA fuel economy ratings and annual operating cost estimates

Data: US EPA Fuel Economy Guide · snapshot 2026-10-04
Supported range: 1,000–60,000 miles per year
Supported range: $1.50–$10.00 per gallon
55% city45% highway
Estimate unavailable

EPA fuel-economy data is unavailable for this vehicle.

No estimate is shown when required EPA values are unavailable.

 Open Ownership Cost Calculator →

Adjacent Model Years

Immediate preceding and succeeding model year records

NHTSA Consumer Complaints Snapshot 2026-10-14 Open source record

Complaint counts reflect self-selected reports and are not normalised for production sales volume. We publish no reliability scores, superlatives, or vehicle rankings.

Methodology & Data Integrity

Source: NHTSA ODI / recalls, snapshot 2026-10-14. YearTell is not a government agency.

Read our complete data methodology → Sources