2021 Ford F-150 Problems: Recalls, Complaints & Service Bulletins

The 2021 Ford F-150 has been the subject of a significant number of safety recalls, indicating various potential issues that owners should be aware of. These recalls address critical components ranging from the powertrain and braking system to visibility and occupant safety. Understanding these potential 2021 Ford F-150 problems is crucial for both current owners and prospective buyers. This comprehensive reliability profile details all reported recalls, complaints, and investigations for this model year.

At a glance

The 2021 Ford F-150 has a notable record of 19 safety recalls issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These recalls primarily involve components related to visibility, powertrain, and braking systems. There are currently no owner complaints or federal investigations reported for the 2021 Ford F-150, making the recalls the primary source of information regarding potential vehicle issues.

Recalls

The 2021 Ford F-150 has been involved in numerous recalls, many of which address serious safety concerns. These recalls highlight several key areas of potential 2021 Ford F-150 problems.

Visibility Issues

Several recalls have targeted components affecting driver visibility. Ford issued a recall, NHTSA ID 23V163000, for certain 2021 F-150 vehicles where windshield wiper arms could break, leading to wiper failure and reduced visibility. Another recall, NHTSA ID 22V250000, also addressed breaking windshield wiper arms in 2020-2021 F-150 models. Separately, two recalls, NHTSA ID 22V842000 and 22V142000, concerned front windshield wiper motors that could become inoperative, causing wiper failure.

Reverse lights have also been a recurring issue. An over-the-air software update inadvertently disabled both reverse lights in certain vehicles, leading to recalls NHTSA ID 25V348000 and 24V443000. Additionally, a recall, NHTSA ID 21V090000, was issued for certain 2021 F-150 vehicles due to improperly bonded windshields that could detach in a crash.

Powertrain and Driveline Issues

Several recalls address critical powertrain and driveline components. A significant concern involves the transmission unexpectedly shifting into neutral, leading to a loss of drive power. This was addressed by recalls NHTSA ID 25V169000 and 22V188000, both related to Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software issues.

Driveshaft integrity has also been a problem. Recall NHTSA ID 22V623000 concerned underbody insulators damaging the aluminum driveshaft, while recall NHTSA ID 21V381000 addressed improperly assembled two-piece driveshafts that could separate. Furthermore, certain 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with the Trailer Tow Max Duty package were recalled under NHTSA ID 23V896000 due to a rear axle hub bolt that could fatigue and break, risking vehicle rollaway or loss of drive power.

Braking and Steering Issues

Steering and braking systems have also prompted recalls. A critical