2021 Ford F-250 problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
Worth extra scrutiny
The 2021 Ford F-250 sits mid-pack among F-250 years: 205 NHTSA complaints against a model median of roughly 145, with no recalls and no defect investigations.
No single system dominates the record — complaints spread across fuel system (38), transmission (22), and driver assistance (20), which usually points to general build quality rather than one defect.
205
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
0
Investigations
5
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
How does 2021 compare to other F-250 years?
What are the most common 2021 Ford F-250 problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel System | 38 | 19% | ▼ down |
| Transmission | 22 | 11% | ▼ down |
| Driver Assistance | 20 | 10% | ▲ up |
| Suspension | 18 | 9% | ▼ down |
| Visibility & Wipers | 17 | 8% | — flat |
| Electrical System | 17 | 8% | ▼ down |
| Other | 14 | 7% | ▼ down |
| Steering | 14 | 7% | ▼ down |
| Engine | 13 | 6% | ▼ down |
| Body & Structure | 10 | 5% | — flat |
| Brakes | 7 | 3% | ▲ up |
| Lighting | 5 | 2% | — flat |
| Airbags | 4 | 2% | — flat |
| Tires & Wheels | 2 | 1% | ▼ down |
| Latches & Locks | 2 | 1% | — flat |
| Speed Control | 2 | 1% | ▼ down |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated while driving approximately 15 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump and module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of…”
“Known mechanical design issue with the 10R140 transmission CDF drum where a bushing moves blocking / partially blocking fluid transfer ports. This causes transmission fluid overheating, clutch slippage, hard shifting, etc. This mechanical design issue poses a danger to the driver, passengers and…”
“I hit an elk at 65 mph while pulling a flatbed trailer loaded with 4000 lbs of hay. The crash warning light did not come on nor did the air bags deploy. The whole front end of the truck is badly damaged. I contacted my local Ford dealer with this information and was told by the service agent that…”
“The steering wheel started shaking violently, fighting with me for control. Observers said my tires looked as though they where coming off. While this was occurring the vehicle drifted toward the center lane as if the alignment was out. Dealership stated it was called Death wobble a known issue on…”
“The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V250000 (Visibility) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer…”
2021 Ford F-250 — common questions
Is the 2021 Ford F-250 reliable?
It is close to typical for the F-250: 205 NHTSA complaints, 0 recalls, and no investigations on file.
What are the most common 2021 F-250 problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are fuel system (38 complaints), transmission (22 complaints), driver assistance (20 complaints).
Does the 2021 Ford F-250 have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2021 Ford F-250.
Which Ford F-250 years should you avoid?
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the F-250 years to avoid are 2019, 2017, 1999, 2018, 2016, 2015, 2012, 2000, 2011, 2020, 1997, 2006, 2001, 2008, 1995, 2014. The cleanest record among F-250 years belongs to 1982.
Related
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.