2021 Ford F-350 problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
One of the years to avoid
With 119 complaints filed to NHTSA — about 1.9 times the median F-350 year — the 2021 model ranks #23 of 53 F-350 years for complaint volume. It lands on the years-to-avoid list.
Fuel System leads the complaint categories with 35 reports (29% of the total).
119
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
0
Investigations
2
Crash-involved
5
Fires reported
5
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
How does 2021 compare to other F-350 years?
What are the most common 2021 Ford F-350 problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel System | 35 | 29% | — flat |
| Engine | 13 | 11% | — flat |
| Electrical System | 12 | 10% | ▲ up |
| Other | 11 | 9% | ▼ down |
| Transmission | 9 | 8% | ▼ down |
| Driver Assistance | 8 | 7% | — flat |
| Visibility & Wipers | 7 | 6% | — flat |
| Suspension | 5 | 4% | ▼ down |
| Brakes | 4 | 3% | ▼ down |
| Steering | 4 | 3% | ▼ down |
| Speed Control | 3 | 3% | ▲ up |
| Latches & Locks | 3 | 3% | — flat |
| Body & Structure | 2 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Seats | 2 | 2% | ▲ up |
| Tires & Wheels | 1 | 1% | ▼ down |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“This vehicle has horrible throttle response. When I take off normally then let off the gas then try and accelerate, there is a 2-3 second lag in acceleration. Itâs dangerous because Iâve had times where I canât get out of the way of oncoming traffic. Not all of these trucks have this and I…”
“The cable connecting the engine block heater caught on fire near the plug. My right hand, thumb and index finger were burned while disconnecting the cable. I was able to stop fire from consuming the vehicle. How ever cable is burned near the 3 pronged connector. ”
“The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-350. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the trailer disconnected warning light illuminated. The contact disconnected the trailer and drove the vehicle to the dealer. The dealer could not duplicate the failure with the trailer being disconnected. A diagnostic…”
“Driving down the highway at a speed of 70,truck began to vibrate uncontrollably changed lanes. Continue to vibrate uncontrollably in the front of the truck. Pulled safely to side of road. Expected to see flat tires. No flat tires. Turn truck off. Turn truck back on no issues again. I believe this…”
“The rear axle repair was not completed and yet they reported that the dealer fixed it. Not true. The truck was taken in for repairs but the dealer was not able to fix it and told me that. They said I will have to get it fixed on my own. The rear axle is a known flaw and was required to repair or…”
2021 Ford F-350 — common questions
Is the 2021 Ford F-350 reliable?
NHTSA data argues against it: 119 complaints put the 2021 model at #23 of 53 F-350 years. It is one of the F-350 years to avoid.
What are the most common 2021 F-350 problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are fuel system (35 complaints), engine (13 complaints), electrical system (12 complaints).
Does the 2021 Ford F-350 have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2021 Ford F-350.
Which Ford F-350 years should you avoid?
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the F-350 years to avoid are 2017, 2019, 1999, 2000, 2018, 2016, 2015, 2012, 2020, 2004, 2006, 2011, 1995, 1997, 2001, 2008, 2005, 1996, 2014, 2002, 1993, 1994, 2021, 2013, 2003. The cleanest record among F-350 years belongs to 2010.
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.