Diagsheet

Fourteenth generation

2021 Ford F-150

The most reported problem on the 2021 Ford F-150 is transmission shudder, with 94 complaints, usually around 60,000 miles.

  • 1,015owner complaints
  • 29recalls
  • 13involved a crash
  • 45,000median miles at failure

Newest report Sep 29, 2026 · checked Oct 2, 2026

miles

2021 Ford F-150
Photo: Kevauto, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

What is your F-150 doing?

Each one opens a sheet built from the owner reports of that problem on the 2021 model year.

Is the 2021 Ford F-150 reliable?

The 2021 Ford F-150 has 1,015 owner complaints on file with NHTSA, 3.9 times the median of 259 for 2021 pickups on this site. Of the 13 F-150 model years since 2014, it has the 7th most complaints. Complaint counts rise with sales as well as faults, so read what owners report below before deciding.

At a glance

Next to the 2020 and 2022
At 169 complaints for each year on the road, the 2021 runs above both the 2020 (104) and the 2022 (119).
Top problem
Two problems run close. Transmission shudder has 94 complaints and drivetrain problems has 85, out of 1,015 in all. A quarter of the 27 owners who gave a mileage for transmission shudder saw it by about 41,000 miles, and half by about 60,000.
Crash, fire and injury reports
Only 19 of the 1,015 complaints (2%) report a crash, a fire or an injury, well under the 6% typical of vehicles on this site. Counted separately (one report can carry more than one), 13 reports mention a crash, 4 mention a fire and 8 people were hurt.
Recalls behind the top problems
Each of transmission shudder, drivetrain problems and stalling has a recall on the same system: transmission shudder and drivetrain problems, 21V-381, 21V-986 and 5 others; stalling, 24V-635. A recall on the same system doesn't always cover the failure owners describe, so compare its summary with the complaints.
When owners filed
Complaints are still climbing. 2025 brought 303, the most of any year so far. So far in 2026, 255 more have come in.

When each problem shows up

Each bar covers the middle half of the mileages owners reported for that problem. A quarter saw it earlier, a quarter later. The tick is the median. Most reported: transmission shudders, slips or shifts hard, 94 complaints.

0k25k50k75k100k125k150kyou
Every complaint with a mileage291 of 1,015
291 complaints state a mileage. The most, 39, fall between 0 and 10,000 miles.
Brakes grind, pulse or wear early64 reports1 crashrecall
Windshield cracks or distorts51 reports1 crashrecall
Driveshaft, axle or transfer case problems85 reports1 crash1 firerecall
Engine failure, knocking or rod bearing14 reportsrecall
Transmission drops into neutral or downshifts on its own18 reportsrecall
Fuel pump failure31 reportsrecall
too few reports state a mileage
too few reports state a mileage

middle half of reports, median tick. The heavier grey bars have 75 or more reports.

Behind you

    Around your mileage

      Ahead of you

        How this compares

        2021 Ford F-1501,015
        Median 2021 model here (80 vehicles)190
        Median 2021 pickup here (11)259

        1,015 complaints is 5.3 times the median 2021 model on this site and 3.9 times the median 2021 pickup. Among the 13 F-150 model years here it ranks 7th for complaints. Counts follow sales volume as much as reliability, so a truck that sells 700,000 a year draws more reports than a sedan that sells 200,000.

        Service bulletins for the 2021 Ford F-150

        Ford filed 637 bulletins and other notices with NHTSA that list the 2021 Ford F-150. 112 of them deal with a problem owners have reported on this car. Newest first.

        Federal rules make a manufacturer send NHTSA a copy of any notice about a defect that goes to more than one dealer or owner. Most of these are service bulletins, the repair instructions manufacturers send to dealers. NHTSA generally leaves safety recall bulletins out of this file, and recalls are listed separately.

        Transmission shudders, slips or shifts hard 21 bulletins · 94 complaints

        • Service bulletinTSB 26-2395Aug 26, 2026

          Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions:  Harsh engagement  Delayed engagement  Harsh shift  Delayed shift  Illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes ...

        • Service bulletinTSB 26-2304Jul 1, 2026

          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) present.

        19 more on this problem
        • Service bulletinTSB 26-2226May 8, 2026

          Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit all of the following conditions: * Harsh engagement * Delayed engagement * Harsh shift * Delayed shift * Illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) ...

        • Service bulletinTSB 25-2611Dec 18, 2025

          This bulletin supersedes TSB 25-2474 for 3 Part List corrections. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: * Harsh engagement * Delayed engagement * Harsh shift * Delayed shift * ...

        • Service bulletinTSB 25-2474Oct 30, 2025

          This bulletin supersedes TSB 25-2429 for a labor operation correction. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: * Harsh engagement * Delayed engagement * Harsh shift * Delayed shift * ...

        • Service bulletinTSB 25-2383Aug 20, 2025

          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 (DTCs) present.

        • Service bulletinTSB 25-2300Aug 16, 2025

          Updated Part List with 3 superseded part numbers. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: * Harsh engagement * Delayed engagement * Harsh shift * Delayed shift * Illuminated malfunction ...

        • Service bulletinTSB 24-2252Aug 26, 2024

          Some 2020-2023 Explorer/Aviator and 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 10R80 MHT transmission may exhibit harsh/delayed engagements and/or harsh/delayed shifts, an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0751, ...

        • Service bulletinTSB 24-2254Aug 26, 2024

          Some 2020-2022 Explorer, 2020-2023 Transit, 2021-2022 F-150, 2021-2022 Mustang and 2022 Expedition/Navigator vehicles equipped with a 10R80 transmission (excluding hybrid) may exhibit harsh/delayed engagements and/or harsh/delayed shifts, an illuminated MIL ...

        • Service bulletinTSB 24-2100Mar 29, 2024

          Some 2021-2022 F-150, 2022-2023 Expedition/Navigator/Mustang and 2020-2023 Transit/Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with a 10R80/10R80MHT transmission may exhibit a harsh/delayed engagement and/or harsh/delayed shift, an illuminated malfunction indicator ...

        • Service bulletinTSB 24-2059Mar 13, 2024

          The 2023 F-150 10R80 and 10R80 MHT vehicles will be the subject of a separate article. Some 2021-2022 F-150, 2022-2023 Expedition/Navigator/Mustang and 2020-2023 Transit/Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with a 10R80/10R80MHT transmission may exhibit a ...

        • Service bulletinTSB 23-2351Nov 15, 2023

          Some 2021-2023 F-150, 2022-2023 Expedition/Navigator, 2022-2023 Mustang, 2020-2023 Transit, 2020-2023 Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with a 10R80/10R80MHT transmission may exhibit a harsh/delayed engagement and/or harsh/delayed shift, an illuminated ...

        Plus 9 older ones not listed here.

        Driveshaft, axle or transfer case problems 4 bulletins · 85 complaints

        • Service bulletinTSB 25-2612Dec 19, 2025

          Some vehicles in the Model section above may exhibit an intermittent grinding/hum/rumble noise from the front wheel area while in 2WD that goes away when the vehicle is put into 4WD.

        • Service bulletinTSB 25-2513Nov 10, 2025

          Some 2021-2025 F-150 non-Raptor vehicles equipped with an ESOF transfer case (minor feature code FMLAS) may exhibit an intermittent grinding/hum/rumble noise from the front wheel area while in 2WD that goes away when the vehicle is put into 4WD.

        2 more on this problem
        • Service bulletinTSB 24-2189Jun 26, 2024

          Some 2021-2024 F-150 non-Raptor vehicles equipped with 4WD and ESOF transfer case (minor feature code FMLAS) may exhibit an intermittent grinding/hum/rumble noise from the front wheel area while in 2WD that goes away when the vehicle is put into 4WD.

        • Service bulletinSSM 50799May 23, 2022

          Some 2021-2022 F-150 vehicles equipped with the rear 3/4 floating axle and with less than 5,000 miles (8,000 km) built on or before 10-Feb-2022 may exhibit various warning messages displayed/illuminated warning indicators in the instrument panel cluster (IPC) ...

        Engine stalls or loses power while driving 5 bulletins · 80 complaints

        • Service bulletinOTAPU1009SSNS-FMar 14, 2024

          Quality Improvements include: -Eliminates potential Emergency Parking Brake activation when wire harness experience a short.

        • Service bulletinOTAPU1009-SS-NSFeb 6, 2024

          Software Update PU1009-SS-NS for 2021-2023 MY F-150 vehicles is now available. Quality Improvements include: - Robustness action in operation of vehicle to detect low-state-of-charge battery and prevent engine stall, as well as provide improved warning to ...

        3 more on this problem
        • Service bulletinOTA 23PU1009SSNSJan 24, 2024

          Software Update PU1009-SS-NS for 2023 MY F-150 vehicles is now available. Quality Improvements include: -Eliminate incorrect Fuel System Lean PCM Fault DTC/MIL setting.

        • Service bulletinTSB 21-2272Aug 17, 2021

          Some 2021 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 2.7L EcoBoost engine and built on or before 14-Jun-2021 may experience lack/loss of power with an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0299 in the powertrain control module ...

        • Service bulletinSSM 49960Jul 14, 2021

          Some 2021 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 2.7L EcoBoost engine may experience a lack/loss of power with an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0299 in the powertrain control module (PCM).

        Infotainment, screen or backup camera fails 72 bulletins · 72 complaints

        • Service bulletinTSB 26-2391Sep 3, 2026

          This bulletin updates 26-2206. 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 least one of the following ...

        • Service bulletinSSM 55028Jul 21, 2026

          Some 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.

        70 more on this problem
        • Service bulletinSSM 54720Apr 2, 2026

          Various 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).

        • Service bulletinSSM 54705Mar 31, 2026

          Some 2021-2025 F-150 vehicles may exhibit an "Active Air Dam System Fault See Manual" warning message displayed in the instrument panel cluster (IPC) and/or an AAD hanging/not retracting. This may be due to a broken AAD actuator to air dam bolt or bolts.

        • Service bulletinTSB 25-2512Oct 24, 2025

          Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit all of the following conditions: * Inoperative BlueCruise and lane centering * DTC U2018:51 stored in the camera module - rear (CMR) * DTC U0565:86 stored in the image processing module A ...

        • Service bulletinSSM 54313Oct 21, 2025

          Some 2020-2025 various 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).

        • Service bulletinTSB 25-2355Aug 29, 2025

          Some of the vehicles listed in the Model Statement above, may exhibit a "Pro Power Onboard Unavailable" message in the vehicle center display screen with diagnostic trouble Code (DTC) B15DA:09 in the Body Control Module (BCM).

        • Service bulletinSSM 54137Aug 14, 2025

          Various 2021-2025 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with the rear camera on demand feature may exhibit "Please Check Surroundings For Safety" or "Full View Not Available" messages when the rear camera button is pressed and the vehicle is not in reverse.

        • Service bulletinTSB 25-2142May 1, 2025

          5L PowerBoost engine, may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: * "12V Battery State of Charge Low" message displayed in the instrument panel cluster (IPC) * "Charging System Service Soon" message displayed in the IPC * "Remote Features Disabled ...

        • Service bulletinTSB 25-2069Mar 6, 2025

          Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit may exhibit the trailer brake gain amount not displaying in the IPC when depressing the trailer brake control switch, but the trailer brakes still perform correctly and are adjusted when ...

        • Service bulletinTSB 25-2048Feb 25, 2025

          Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: * General system performance/stability/intermittent system reboot * Intermittent wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto function * Phone related ...

        • Service bulletinTSB 24-2442Dec 23, 2024

          Some 2021-2024 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 3.5L PowerBoost engine may exhibit a "12V Battery State of Charge Low" or "Charging System Service Soon" Message displayed in the IPC and/or "Remote Features Disabled To Preserve Battery" in FordPass.

        Plus 60 older ones not listed here.

        Headlights too dim or fail 1 bulletin · 67 complaints

        • Service bulletinSSM 49650Mar 8, 2021

          Some 2021 F-150 vehicles equipped with automatic high beam control may experience the fog lamps flashing when the automatic high beam control feature is turned on, the fog lights are turned on and the vehicle is driven in dark conditions.

        Brakes grind, pulse or wear early 4 bulletins · 64 complaints

        • Service bulletinSSM 51261Dec 16, 2022

          Some Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit noise when the brakes are applied. When diagnosing and repairing brake noise conditions, use the Workshop Manual (WSM) and the appropriate pinpoint test in section 206-00.

        • Service bulletinSSM 50064Aug 25, 2021

          Some 2013-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit noise when the brakes are applied. When diagnosing and repairing brake noise conditions, use the Workshop Manual (WSM) and the appropriate pinpoint test in section 206-00.

        2 more on this problem
        • Service bulletinSSM 49767Apr 30, 2021

          Some 2021 F-150 vehicles may exhibit a Reverse Brake Assist Unavailable message after module programming has been completed. This may be due to a network interruption from programming or configuring modules, which can cause steering center find to be reset.

        • Service bulletinSSM 49487Jan 22, 2021

          Some 2021 F-150 vehicles may experience difficulty in deactivating the Brake Service Mode when following the procedure in Workshop Manual (WSM) Section 206-00.

        Windshield cracks or distorts 4 bulletins · 51 complaints

        • Service bulletinSSM 55093Aug 14, 2026

          Some 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.

        • Service bulletinTSB 22-2349Sep 13, 2022

          Some 2021-2022 F-150 and F-Super Duty vehicles equipped with a B and O audio system may exhibit the rear window glass sliding panel rattling when in the open position and music is playing.

        2 more on this problem
        • Service bulletinTSB 22-2095Mar 16, 2022

          Some 2021-2022 F-150 vehicles equipped with a B and O‚® audio system may exhibit the rear window glass sliding panel rattling when in the open position and music is playing.

        • Service bulletinTSB 21-2292Sep 6, 2021

          Some 2015-2021 F-150, 2017-2021 F-Super Duty and 2018-2021 Expedition/Navigator vehicles equipped with a vista roof opening panel may exhibit a binding/sticking, glass stuck open or closed, noisy operation including chatter, rattling, or grinding.

        Fuel pump failure 1 bulletin · 31 complaints

        • Service bulletinSSM 49618Feb 23, 2021

          Some 2018-2021 F-150, Expedition, Navigator, Transit, Aviator and Explorer vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with DTC P025A And/Or DTC U0109 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM).

        Complaints filed by year

        Complaints by the year NHTSA received them: 2021: 46, 2022: 103, 2023: 178, 2024: 130, 2025: 303, 2026: 25546'21103'22178'23130'24303'25255'26

        303 complaints came in 2025, 2.3 times the year before. Owners file in waves when a problem gets press or an investigation, so a spike measures attention as much as failures.

        NHTSA investigations

        EA23-002opened Sep 29, 2023
        Engine · model years 2021 to 2022

        Loss of motive power. Closed oct 31, 2024, led to recall 24V-635.

        NHTSA summary
        On July 22, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) granted a Defect Petition (DP22001) and opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE22007) to investigate allegations of loss of motive power in model year (MY) 2021 Ford Bronco vehicles equipped with 2.7L EcoBoost engines. Complainants were reporting sudden engine failure while driving resulting in a loss of motive power, often without the ability to restart. During PE22007, the cause of engine failure and loss of motive power in the subject vehicles was determined to be intake valve fracture, and the full scope of vehicles affected by the subject defect was identified as all MY 2021-2022 Ford and Lincoln models equipped with either the 2.7L or 3.0L EcoBoost engines, referred to as the “Nano” engine family. If an intake valve fractures in the subject engines, it may drop into the cylinder and contact the piston, often resulting in catastrophic engine damage. On September 29, 2023, PE22007 was upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA23002) to further investigate the subject defect across the full scope of affected vehicles. During EA23002, ODI visited Ford facilities to review technical information related to intake valve fracture in “Nano” engines, coordinated with NHTSA’s Vehicle Research and Testing Center (VRTC), and analyzed updated field data relating the subject defect. Forensic analysis of fractured intake valves demonstrated that the defective components exhibited “grinding burn” or out of specificatio

        Recalls that include the 2021 Ford F-150

        Whether your car is included depends on its VIN. Check yours at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

        26V-489Jul 28, 2026
        Back Over Prevention:Display Function

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 F-150 and 2023-2026 F-250 SD vehicles equipped with 8-inch SYNC infotainment screens. A software error may cause the rearview camera image to be obstructed by the infotainment home screen menu when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: An obstructed rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: The accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. 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.
        26V-402Jun 24, 2026
        Power Train:Automatic Transmission

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Navigator, Expedition, 2020-2021 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2021 F-150 vehicles. The transmission park pawl may engage while the vehicle is in motion, resulting in park system damage.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Park system damage may result in a vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, and inspect and replace any damaged transmission components as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 10, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in April 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S48. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on June 26, 2026.
        26V-104Feb 20, 2026
        Electrical System: Integrated Trailer Brake Control

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2026 F-150, 2022-2026 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, Maverick, 2024-2026 Ranger, 2023-2026 F-600 SD, 2022-2027 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, and 2026 E-Transit vehicles. When towing a trailer, the integrated trailer module (ITRM) may lose communication with the vehicle, possibly causing a loss of brake and turn signal lights, or a loss of brake function. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Trailer lights or brakes that do not function can reduce the driver’s ability to control the trailer and decrease the trailers visibility to other road users, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: The integrated trailer module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 25, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C10. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning March 17, 2026.
        25V-729Oct 24, 2025
        Visibility:Sun/Moon Roof Assembly

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, 2021-2023 F-150, 2022 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, and F-450 SD vehicles. The moonroof wind deflector clips may be inadequately attached to the moonroof frame, which can result in the wind deflector detaching from the vehicle.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: A detached wind deflector can become a road hazard and increase the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair the moonroof wind deflector as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 10, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SB7. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning October 30, 2025.
        25V-455Jul 7, 2025
        Fuel System, Gasoline:Delivery:Fuel Pump

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco, Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, 2021-2022 Lincoln Navigator, Mustang, F-150, and 2022 Expedition vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump may fail, which can result in an engine stall while driving.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will replace the low pressure fuel pump on super duty vehicles and update the powertrain control module (PCM) software on all other affected vehicles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 27, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S75.
        25V-348May 23, 2025
        Exterior Lighting:Back Up Lights

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles equipped with the Onboard Scales feature that were repaired incorrectly under recall 24V443. An over-the-air software update to the body control module (BCM) may have disabled both reverse lights.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Inoperative reverse lights may fail to alert others that the vehicle is reversing, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will update the body control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 27, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S57.
        25V-315May 9, 2025
        Back Over Prevention:Software

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco, F-150, 2021-2024 Edge, 2022-2025 Escape, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600, 2022-2024 Expedition, 2022-2025 Transit, 2021-2023 Mach-E, 2024 Ranger, Mustang, 2021-2023 Lincoln Nautilus, 2022-2024 Navigator, and 2023-2024 Corsair vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera image to delay, freeze, or not display when the vehicle is in reverse.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: A frozen or missing rearview camera image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: The accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air update, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on June 26, 2025. Additional letters will be mailed once the final remedy is available on each phase. Owner notification letters were sent on October 8, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S49.
        25V-169Mar 14, 2025
        Power Train:Automatic Transmission:Control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm)

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 22V-188. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for low transmission fluid pressure may falsely activate and cause the transmission to unexpectedly shift into neutral.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: An unexpected shift into neutral will cause a loss of drive power and increase the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S24.
        25V-132Feb 28, 2025
        Electrical System: Integrated Trailer Brake Control

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 F-150, 2022 Maverick, Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 22V-193. Due to a software error, a towed trailer equipped with an electric or electric-over hydraulic brake system may not brake.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Loss of trailer brake functionality can extend the distance required to stop, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will update the integrated trailer brake control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 11, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S18.
        24V-852Nov 8, 2024
        Equipment:Other:Labels

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
        Remedy: Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.
        24V-635Aug 23, 2024
        Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Hard Parts Internal/Mechanical

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.
        24V-443Jun 14, 2024
        Electrical System:Body Control Module:Software

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles equipped with the Onboard Scales feature. An over-the-air software update to the body control module (BCM) may have disabled both reverse lights.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Disabled reverse lights cannot alert others that the vehicle is reversing, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will update the body control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are were mailed June 26, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S38.
        23V-896Dec 22, 2023
        Power Train:Axle Hubs

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with the Trailer Tow Max Duty package and a 9.75-inch heavy duty axle with a 3/4 float axle design. The rear axle hub bolt may fatigue and break, which can result in damage to the axle hub splines.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Damaged axle hub splines can result in a vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is in park without the parking brake applied or cause a loss of drive power. Both of these conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will replace the left and right rear axle shaft assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 9, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S65.
        23V-509Jul 21, 2023
        Parking Brake:Electrical

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with a single exhaust system. Contact with the rear axle housing may damage the wiring harness, causing the electric parking brake to activate unexpectedly.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Unexpected activation of the electric parking brake while driving increases the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will install a protective tie strap, tape wrap, and replace the harness as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 12, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S35.
        23V-163Mar 10, 2023
        Visibility:Windshield Wiper/Washer:Linkages

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles. The windshield wiper arms may break, causing the windshield wipers to fail.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Inoperative windshield wipers can reduce visibility in certain conditions, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the wiper arms, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 13, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S10. This recall expands previous recall number 22V-250.
        22V-842Nov 15, 2022
        Visibility:Windshield Wiper/Washer:Motor

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 F-150 vehicles. The front windshield wiper motor may become inoperative, causing the wipers to fail.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Inoperative windshield wipers can reduce visibility in certain conditions, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will replace the front windshield wiper motor, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 30, 2023. Remedy parts are expected in the 3rd Quarter of 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S71. This recall expands previous recall number 22V-142.
        22V-623Aug 12, 2022
        Power Train:Driveline:Driveshaft

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 F-150 vehicles. Underbody heat and noise insulators may loosen and contact the aluminum driveshaft, which could damage the driveshaft and cause it to fracture.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: A fractured driveshaft can cause a loss of drive power, or a loss of vehicle control if the driveshaft contacts the ground. Additionally, unintended movement could occur while parked if the parking brake is not engaged. Any of these scenarios increases the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair the driveshaft, as necessary, and properly attach the underbody insulators, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 1, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S53.
        22V-414Jun 10, 2022
        Fuel System, Gasoline:Storage

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling one 2021 F-150 vehicle. A single vehicle may have been assembled without a fuel tank front attachment resulting in an unsecured fuel tank attachment strap.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: An improperly attached fuel tank increases the risk of a fuel leak and potential for fire.
        Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair (if necessary) the fuel tank strap bracket, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 1, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S42.
        22V-250Apr 14, 2022
        Visibility:Windshield Wiper/Washer:Linkages

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 F-150, Expedition, 2020-2022 Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, and 2020-2021 Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The windshield wiper arms may break, causing the windshield wipers to fail.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Inoperative windshield wipers can reduce visibility in certain driving conditions, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will replace both front windshield wiper arms, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risk, were mailed on May 24, 2022. Remedy parts are expected to be available 3rd Quarter 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 21, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S26.
        22V-193Mar 25, 2022
        Electrical System: Integrated Trailer Brake Control

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 F-150, 2022 Maverick, Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 vehicles. Due to a software error, a towed trailer equipped with an electric or electric-over hydraulic brake system may not brake.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Loss of trailer brake functionality could result in extended stopping distance, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will update the integrated trailer brake control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S17.
        22V-188Mar 25, 2022
        Power Train:Automatic Transmission:Control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm)

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for low transmission fluid pressure may falsely activate and cause the transmission to unexpectedly shift into neutral.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: An unexpected shift into neutral will cause a loss of drive power and increase the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 12, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S15.
        22V-142Mar 11, 2022
        Visibility:Windshield Wiper/Washer:Motor

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles. The front windshield wiper motor may become inoperative, causing the wipers to fail.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Inoperative windshield wipers can reduce visibility in certain conditions, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will replace the front windshield wiper motor, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 22, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S12.
        21V-986Dec 16, 2021
        Power Train:Driveline:Driveshaft

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 F-150 vehicles. Underbody heat and noise insulators may loosen and contact the aluminum driveshaft, which could damage the driveshaft and cause it to fracture.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: A fractured driveshaft can cause a loss of drive power, or a loss of vehicle control if the driveshaft contacts the ground. Additionally, unintended movement could occur while parked if the parking brake is not engaged. Any of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair the driveshaft as necessary, and properly attach the underbody insulators, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 4, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S56.
        21V-805Oct 15, 2021
        Air Bags:Sensor:Side Impact

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Super Duty F-250, F-350, 2021 F-150, Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The front-door side impact pressure sensor modules may have been damaged during supplier assembly, which can cause the side impact air bags to not deploy properly in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 214, "Side Impact Protection."

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: An air bag that does not deploy properly during a crash increases the risk of injury.
        Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver and passenger front door side impact sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 3, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C26.
        21V-653Aug 23, 2021
        Seat Belts:Front:Webbing

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 Super Cab vehicles. The front seatbelt webbing may be incorrectly routed.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: A misrouted seatbelt may not adequately restrain an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
        Remedy: Owners are advised to perform a preliminary self-inspection of the front seatbelts. If the passenger-side seatbelt fails inspection, owners should not use the passenger seat until the repair is performed. If the driver-side seatbelt fails inspection, owners should not drive their vehicle until the repair is performed. Dealers will inspect the front seatbelts and, if the webbing is misrouted, will replace the seatbelt retractor and pretensioner, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 14, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C20.
        21V-533Jul 15, 2021
        Service Brakes, Hydraulic

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles. The electronic brake booster may leak brake fluid into the electronic control unit, which could result in reduced braking performance.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Reduced braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will replace the electronic brake booster assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 28, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S33.
        21V-407May 29, 2021
        Do not drive Steering:Gear Box (Other Than Rack And Pinion)

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles. The steering gear may have internal damage, which could result in difficulty steering, or the inability to rotate the steering wheel while driving.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Loss of steering control can increase the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Owners are advised to not drive their vehicles until the repair is complete. Vehicles will be towed in for service, and dealers will remove and replace the steering gear, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 4, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S28.
        21V-381May 24, 2021
        Power Train:Driveline:Driveshaft

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles. The two-piece driveshafts may have been improperly assembled, which could result in driveshaft separation.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Driveshaft separation may result in a sudden loss of drive power, or unintended vehicle movement if the vehicle is in park without the parking brake applied, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will inspect the driveshaft, and replace it if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 15, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S25.
        21V-090Feb 18, 2021
        Visibility:Windshield:Critical Fasteners

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 and 2020-2021 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 212, "Windshield Mounting."

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: In the event of a crash, if the windshield separates from the vehicle, it can increase the risk of injury.
        Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove and reinstall the windshield, free of charge. The recall began April 16, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C06.

        All 29 recalls on the 2021 Ford F-150, with the owner complaints on each recalled system

        Guide One recall here carries a do-not-drive warning. What that means

        Questions

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

        Transmission shudder, with 94 of the 1,015 complaints. Owners who gave a mileage for it put the median at about 60,000 miles.

        At what mileage do 2021 Ford F-150 problems start?

        Of the 291 complaints that give a mileage, a quarter came by about 22,000 miles and half by about 45,000.

        Is the 2021 Ford F-150 better or worse than the 2020 and 2022?

        Counted per year on the road, the 2021 has more complaints than both the 2020 and the 2022: 169 a year against 104 and 119.

        How many 2021 Ford F-150 complaints involve a crash, fire or injury?

        19 of them (2%). The typical vehicle on this site is at 6%.

        Is there a recall for transmission shudder on the 2021 Ford F-150?

        Yes, NHTSA lists 7 recalls on the same system: 21V-381, 21V-986, 22V-188, 22V-623, 23V-896, 25V-169 and 26V-402. Its summary says which failure it covers, and that isn't always the one owners describe.

        Other model years