2021 Ford F-250 Owner Complaints
Complaint Summary
The 2021 Ford F-250 has 170 reported complaints.
- Top issues involve fuel system, diesel and power train.
Reliability Score
Reliability Score
Based on 170 complaints
Most Frequent Issues
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
20 11.8%
POWER TRAIN
18 10.6%
SUSPENSION
17 10%
STEERING
14 8.2%
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
11 6.5%
Quick Insights
The top category is FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL, accounting for 11.8% of all complaints.
Owners have reported issues across 40 distinct vehicle systems.
Note: Complaint data reflects owner reports and may not always indicate a verified defect. Compare with Recalls and TSBs for a complete picture.
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What owners keep reporting on the 2021 Ford F-250
The 2021 Ford F-250 has 170 owner complaints in this dataset. FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL is the most common complaint category, representing about 12% of the reports shown here.
Most common complaint categories
The top complaint groups for the 2021 Ford F-250 are FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL (20), POWER TRAIN (18), SUSPENSION (17).
Are these complaints a serious red flag?
Potentially. 91 complaint reports involve higher-attention systems like brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components, which is enough to justify a focused inspection.
What should buyers inspect on a used 2021 Ford F-250?
Start with the top complaint systems, compare them against the recall report, then inspect service records for evidence that those same areas were already repaired or monitored.
Detailed Complaint Log
Showing 40 of 40 systems
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
20 Reports12% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated and caused the vehicle to go into IDLE Mode before the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was able to be restarted and taken to a dealer. The dealer informed the contact that the diesel fluid injector was leaking, and the exhaust system needed to be replaced. Shortly afterward the failure reoccurred. The contact returned the vehicle to the dealer however, no assistance was provided. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
5/30/2024
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed at night, the headlights failed to illuminate as intended. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the headlights might have been damaged due to heat exposure or chemicals. In addition, upon inspection, the contact noticed an abnormal fuel consumption. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 17,000.
8/26/2024
POWER TRAIN
18 Reports11% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
The 10-Speed Automatic Transmission shifts hard and randomly. Leaving a stop sign, at any rate of speed, causes slippage in the shifting. Sometimes it'll shift too slowly, resulting in a jerky motion of the vehicle. Sometimes when on the highway, usually traveling at 68mph (cruise control), the vehicle will randomly jump gears when it's not necessary. Recently while getting up to speed we heard a large grinding noise shifting into 4th gear. The vehicle, otherwise, runs great. The transmission leaves alot to be desired and I do not have any confidence in the shifting. It's comparable to a teenager just learning how to drive a stick shift. If I wanted that, I would have one. My transmission fluid is where it should be and the vehicle has less than 8,000 miles on it.
10/20/2021
Dear staff; I purchased my 2021 Ford F-250 new July 25th, 2021. I noticed my undercarriage was covered in great portions of rust. The front driveshaft to the outer ends and the rear housing, including the rear driveshaft u-joint has a significant amount of rust. Whatâs surprising is I have only 5400 miles and the truck appears to look 20 years old. I have a neighbor who is a GM of another competitor dealership. He crawled under the truck and said this is a safety issue which needs to be addressed. Two Ford dealership Service managers informed over the phone this is a common issue and not to be concerned. I have owned eight Ford pickups throughout my life and never had this deep concern. Knowing this rust has perforated the tie rods, I donât feel safe driving this $60,000 vehicle. My only recourse since Ford wonât honor its warranty is for me to trade it in on a GMC. I have been loyal to Ford for 36 years to finally get shrugged off.
3/24/2022
SUSPENSION
17 Reports10% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
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 F-250's but it was not a recall
12/2/2021
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated while driving on cruise control at 70 MPH, the vehicle experienced the death wobble, twice. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to drive to his destination. The contact called the local dealer but had not received a response. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 11,350.
1/3/2022
STEERING
14 Reports8% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
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 F-250's but it was not a recall
12/2/2021
When traveling on the highway at speeds above 65 mph, a slight bump in the road would take control over the steering wheel and cause the steering wheel and whole truck to shake uncontrollably. Braking would only prolong the shake. Only by slowing down to 45mph or lower, by taking foot off the gas, would the shaking stop. The process repeats at the next uneven pavement it encounters. I have multiple videos that I can share, but this site will not let me upload. This felt very unsafe and luckily I was the only car on the road at the time or the outcome may have been different.
7/11/2022
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
11 Reports6% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
PURCHASED A NEW TRUCK AND IT HAD A OPEN RECALL. I FOUND OUT WHEN I INSTALLED FIRST PASS. IT POPPED UP IN MESSAGE. WE ALSO HAD DAMAGE ON TRUCK AND THEY REFUSED TO PAY FOR IT. WE HAD TO TURN IN INSURANCE. THEY SOLD 3 OTHER TRUCKS SAME TIME WITH OPEN RECALL.
5/8/2021
Speed Control: During night driving on 11/25/2021 at 65 mpg on I-80, I released my foot from the accelerator to slowdown, BUT the F-250 failed to slow down. Upon applying the brakes, the truck slowed (a message on the dash stated I applied the brakes), BUT, upon releasing the brakes, the truck ACCELERATED. I repeated the braking solution, until I found a safe pullover. I shut the truck off & put the headlights to off from auto. Problem did not repeat, but the Blind Spot, Cross Traffic, & Airbag Faults continued as long as I had the headlights on. On 11/26/2021, I left a message with All American Ford, Paramus, NJ, Service Drive Manager. This was a VERY DANGEROUS DRIVING SITUATION!. NOTE: On 10/26/2021 the 2021 F-250 began displaying errors, as logged on FORD App Display Center; âBlind Spot Detection with Cross Trafficâ (Control mod comm prob), followed by âRestraints Indicator Lamp Warningâ (Fault with Pass Airbag Deactivation Indicator) â This is DANGEROUS, because it INDICATED that the PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG is OFF!! Since 10/26/2021, besides the faults, the AC would just shut off, front driver & passenger side windows would not roll down/up, Automatic high beams Failed, AC temp & radio controls were inoperable. Automatic deployment of running boards Failed. Hand touch locking & unlocking Failed, thus the push button tailgate release FAILED. I took the F-250 to Tomball Ford, TX for repair. They noticed that the right rear upper portion of the taillight was cracked. Stated this was probably the issue, given the Blind Spot Indicator Module was located within the taillight assembly. I paid $1,000+ to replace, then left for NJ & the faults & other issues continued. I deduced through trial & error, that the faults & issues ONLY occurred when the HEADLIGHTS were on!
11/28/2021
STRUCTURE:BODY
9 Reports5% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
AUTOMATIC TAIL GATE OPENING WHILE DRIVING ON CITY STREET.
2/8/2021
The truck tailgate opened by itself 4 times since receiving the vehicle (5 month period). It happened both while stopped and while driving. This put drivers behind me at risk for cargo spilling out, though luckily that did not happen. The last incident scratched and dented the lift gate as it fell upon an attached bicycle rack in its raised storage position. I have not yet reported it to the dealer and plan to do so when I return from a trip. No messages on the dash were noticed. The problem appeared during the first month of use, but I assumed it must have not been fully closed. Since then I have been much more careful of closing and checking the liftgate, and I still find it open or hear a thud as it fully opens while parked or driving.
6/1/2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
8 Reports5% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
This is what happen Thursday Night to my Truck sitting in my drive way. My entire wiring harness on the drivers side was under water.. I drove it to the dealership and it was still pouring water from the rear plugs. I have rubber floor mats and wouldn't have even noticed the issue if I didn't pull them to clean the truck. There are tons of truck having this issue. to fix it properly the bed has to be taken off the truck. The insurance company's total cars for electrical being covered in water. This is a recall issue Ford Surly needs to address and fix. Go look at this video fast forward to the 4 minute mark. https://youtu.be/9azod47j8KM
1/14/2023
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated there was an abnormal odor cat odor in the vehicle after a car wash or during inclement weather. The driver added an air freshener to the vehicle. The contact stated that the odor was stronger while using the A/C unit in the recycle air position. Additionally, the molding strip had detached from the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who added spray to the air filter and checked for dead animals. The vehicle was taken to an independent body shop, which replaced the weather strip. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 43,000.
9/18/2023
VISIBILITY
7 Reports4% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2021 FORD F-250. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V090000 (VISIBILITY) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BRADLEY FORD OF LAKE HAVASU CITY (1690 INDUSTRIAL BLVD, LAKE HAVASU CITY, AZ 86403, (928) 855-1191) WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
4/30/2021
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V090000 (Visibility) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
1/12/2022
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
7 Reports4% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
A 26000 miles the cp4 fuel pump failed and stranded my family (on the busiest road) in Colorado while pulling a trailer. This is a known problem, with multiple manufactures, for more than a few years. Yet here we are!?
10/30/2023
A hole has developed in the center of the diesel fuel filter located on the top of the engine. It is spraying fuel all over the top of the engine including the turbo and other high temperature areas.
7/16/2024
ENGINE
7 Reports4% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that while at a stop and attempting to accelerate, the RPMs rapidly increased, but the vehicle failed to respond as intended and experienced a loss of motive power. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 70,000.
6/21/2024
(UNKNOWEN) I have a problem with accelerator pedal lag time, when pushing down on the accelerator pedal nothing happens at first then you get acceleration which isn't good it's like the truck falls on its face then jumps forward. This is a real problem when driving in traffic or really any time. I have spoken with Ford about this problem but all I get is that's the way it is, Ford needs to fix this problem it's a safety issues, I have looked on-line and I'm not the only one with this problem. This lag problem happens at any and all speeds.
8/6/2024
BACK OVER PREVENTION
6 Reports4% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that the back-over prevention camera displayed a blue image on the home screen with the message "Rear View Camera Unavailable - Please Contact Dealer" message displayed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the failure was acknowledged. The contact was informed that the failure was a known issue with the model vehicle. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle remained in the dealer's possession unrepaired. The failure mileage was approximately 39,000.
8/9/2023
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that while reversing, the rearview camera was very foggy. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle could not be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V644000 (Back Over Prevention) because the VIN was not included. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 35,000.
9/8/2023
VISIBILITY/WIPER
5 Reports3% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
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 was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed the windshield wipers detached from the vehicle. The approximate failure mileage was 8,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
6/8/2022
Both Woodruff keys have fallen out of the windshield wiper arms where they attach to the wiper linkage. Without the Woodruff keys in place during operation, the windshield wipers easily detach from the wiper linkage. This causes an immediate loss of visibility and dramatically increases the likelihood of an accident or possibly a fatality involving both the driver & any passengers in the vehicle, and also endangers surrounding vehicles as well. Ford has known about the issue since early 2022 and a recall notice was sent out in early 2022 as well. Now that 2023 is upon us, Ford has done nothing to repair the vehicles as part of this recall. How many deaths does it take for the NHSTA to enforce manufacturer recall repairs within acceptable timelines ?
12/20/2022
SERVICE BRAKES
4 Reports2% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
I PURCHASED THIS TRUCK AND AS I LEFT THE DEALERSHIP, THE PIN HOLDING THE BRAKE PEDAL TO THE LINKAGE FELL OUT BECAUSE A CIRCLIP WAS NOT INSTALLED TO HOLD IT IN. I WAS COASTING INTO A BUSY HIGHWAY SO I WAS ABLE TO THINK QUICKLY AND USE THE EMERGENCY BRAKE, HAD I NOT DONE THAT I COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED BY HIGHWAY TRAFFIC. AT THAT TIME A SERVICE TECH WAS CALLED OUTAND TOOK THE TRUCK INTO SERVICE. I RESCINDED MY PURCHASE AGREEMENT DUE TO THIS AS I DID NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING THIS VEHICLE. IT MAKES ME WONDER IF MORE ARE OUT THERE LIKE THAT. VIN NUMBER IS [XXX] REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *CC
1/8/2021
When towing a trailer, the Trailer brakes stop working. the brakes, using the pedal and lights all work perfectly on truck and trailer. But if you squeeze the brake control paddles, you immediately get a trailer disconnected message and although all lights still work, the brake controller does NOT. Then sometimes, just driving and perhaps stopping at a gas station, the trailer brakes also stop working and you don't realize until going down a hill. This has happened multiple times. I start out just fine and then ?
10/17/2022
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
4 Reports2% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
Headlights are blinding on F-250s seems all late model Ford F-250, all models seems they always are on bright when at intersectionn across from one it's blinding to see anything else even when driving and the F-250 are coming at you blinding
4/24/2023
Head light housing retains moisture on the inside of the lens both headlights on truck. May be causing shortage of the wires
7/8/2023
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INTEGRATED TRAILER BRAKE CONTROL
3 Reports2% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
When towing a trailer, the Trailer brakes stop working. the brakes, using the pedal and lights all work perfectly on truck and trailer. But if you squeeze the brake control paddles, you immediately get a trailer disconnected message and although all lights still work, the brake controller does NOT. Then sometimes, just driving and perhaps stopping at a gas station, the trailer brakes also stop working and you don't realize until going down a hill. This has happened multiple times. I start out just fine and then ?
10/17/2022
During towing of 10,000lb trailer, the trailer brakes cut out during heavy braking and the dash displayed "wiring fault". Also, sometimes during normal braking, the trailer brakes will cut in and out, if you watch the gain meter during these episodes, the gain meter will also cut in and out. My and my families safety was definitely put at risk and now we were fully dependent on only the truck brakes to stop our vehicle and trailer. The dealer checked the vehicle on 5/9/23 and say there is nothing wrong with the truck. There is an active safety recall (22S17) covering trailer brake controllers for Super Duty vehicles, however, it seems to be limited to model year 2022, even though my vehicle was built at the same plant during the same time period covering this recall. I intend to have the dealer perform the required repair at my expense, and hopefully this recall will be expanded to cover my model year. This is a very dangerous situation.
5/9/2023
VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR
2 Reports1% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
Rear window across back of cab shattered for no apparent reason while traveling down the road. Contacted dealership and ford warranty and they said this was not a warranty issue. The truck only has 13,000 miles. I feel this is a defective product .
1/30/2023
While driving, rear window spontaneously exploded. Entire glass broke out of frame. Not while hitting bump or any other unusual concussions made to vehicle. No rear defroster on. Car has under 5,000 miles. We had for over 2 years, only used rarely.
6/17/2023
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
2 Reports1% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
The front camera has a foggy spot that triggers the front pre-collision assist and related safety devices to not function properly. It is available for inspection. t has not yet been inspected by dealer. The warning lamps and related messages do warn of problem. Fords has recalled rear cameras for fogginess, but obviously the front camera preventing collisions is a much greater safety issue.
2/27/2023
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 body shop will handle this. As my concern is how hard do you have to hit something to get the airbags to deploy. Iâm concerned for my safety while driving this truck again if it can be repaired. Iâm taking it to the repair shop today. I wanted to report this as Ford will be ZERO help moving forward.
7/8/2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
2 Reports1% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, an abnormal odor was detected. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the battery had exploded and was leaking battery fluid. The contact was informed that the battery needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the battery had previously been replaced in 2021 for the recurring failure. The vehicle was then taken to AutoZone, where the battery was replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 52,000.
10/18/2023
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the TPMS warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over and noticed a bolt in the front passenger's side tire. Roadside Assistance arrived on the scene and detected an abnormal odor coming from the vehicle. Upon inspection under the hood, Roadside Assistance discovered that the battery was swollen and informed the contact that the battery could catch on fire. The front passenger's side tire and battery were replaced by Roadside Assistance. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
9/18/2024
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
2 Reports1% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated there was an abnormal odor of the exhaust fumes inside the vehicle. The contact also stated the diesel cleaning system activated independently causing a strong odor. In addition, the RPM was fluctuating. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed but the result was unknown. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 41,000. The VIN was not available.
5/3/2024
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal valve noise detected. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with delaminated lifter cam and rockers and push rods. There were metal shavings found in the engine oil. The dealer informed the contact that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case and confirmed there was no repair coverage for the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 107,244.
7/31/2025
LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION
2 Reports1% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
My F250 was in service for fuel system replacement and to fix both side mirrors which wouldnât go down after going up. Shortly afterwards I noticed the rapid turn signal you get when tail lights are out. This happened while using a trailer. The trucks rear lights werenât working at all but trailer lights were. Also was getting the blinds spot and cross traffic alert faults on instrument panel. Dropped off for service. They found a loose trailer plug and reset some things and got it all working again. Soon after the blinkers would flash fast again meaning lights were out, but would quickly stop and back to normal. Later they stayed blinking fast and tail lights out again after stopping starting several times. I tried plugging in my trailer wire harness and it tail lights started working again on truck?? 2 days later Im using trailer again, truck tail lights quit working and getting blind spot and cross traffic fault alerts again!! Still not working after 3 days. had my trailer lights tested where i bought it, they used a battery powered tester found no fault and trailer lights all worked correctly no shorts in system. During times when faults occurred both my enclosed trailer and my rv back up lights would stay on constantly even when not in reverse! Trailers turn signal, brake and tail lights worked but not truck tail lights. No back up no brakes or signal. Just the license plate lights. WHY IS IT EVEN LEGAL TO BUILD A VEHICLE WHERE YOU LOSE USE OF TAIL LIGHTS IF YOUR OPTIONAL FEATURES LIKE BLIND SPOT AND CROSS TRAFFIC MALFUNCTION and CAN RENDER SAFETY LIGHTS USELESS??!! Dropping off at Ford dealer asap to hopefully fix problem. Iâve heard of other trucks having similar problems
5/6/2024
Both the driver and passenger mirrors will not fully adjust. The mirrors need a different adjustment for standard driving and when towing a travel trailer. Neither mirror will properly adjust for towing and non towing applications. The lack of proper mirror adjustment causes a safety issue as the driver cannot see things in their full scope due to the mirror misalignment. I have almost had two accidents due to the mirrors not being able to be properly adjusted. Ford is aware of this issue on 2017 to 2023 F150, F250 and F350 trucks with the tow mirrors. Ford has issued a Special Service Message#51829. Ford has a cleaning procedure they wish to be done as part of the diagnostics but Ford and the Ford Dealer will not release this information. Ford is attempting to block warranty claims related to this issue. I believe they are doing this so they will not have to issue yet another recall! I spoke with a Ford Dealer this morning and they stated that they had no knowledge of the SSM51829 or the mirror cleaning procedure. Even though the truck is under the Ford warranty, they would require a $250.00 dollar fee just to inspect the problem.
12/17/2025
SUSPENSION:FRONT
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
The truck has has a vibration from the rear of the vehicle coming from either the drive shaft or within the rear end assembly. The vibration begins at 67 mph and goes away at 70 mph, comes back at 72 mph and goes away at 75 mph and then comes back at 77 mph. I have not driven the truck beyond the third vibration speed. My concern is that something mechanical has a problem and there is no way to determine when and to what degree it will fail. Extensive testing has been done by the Ford Dealership with the assistance of Ford technical and they as yet cannot determine the cause. Furthermore, Ford and the Dealer do not wish to try any further to find the cause. The Dealers solution was to tell Ford to buy the truck back. Fords solution was to offer and extended warranty. I travel across wide expanses of desert in Arizona and California. If the truck fails while crossing the desert, I would be in a serious health jeopardy.
9/17/2021
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact received a recall notice for NHTSA Campaign Number 21V090000 (Visibility). The contact had taken the vehicle to the dealer twice and he was informed each time that the remedy might cause the windshield to break during the repair. The contact was also informed that he would be responsible for the cost of a new windshield if the windshield was cracked during the repair. The contact declined the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
10/8/2021
TIRES:TREAD/BELT
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F250 equipped with Continental Tires, Tire Line: Contitrac, Tire Size: LT275/65/R18, DOT Number: A3B9H00R. The contact stated while doing a daily check on the tires, he noticed that the top of all four tires were worn, and the thread were separating. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the contact was informed that all four tires needed to be replaced. The tires were replaced. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 28,000.
12/14/2022
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
The front camera has a foggy spot that triggers the front pre-collision assist and related safety devices to not function properly. It is available for inspection. t has not yet been inspected by dealer. The warning lamps and related messages do warn of problem. Fords has recalled rear cameras for fogginess, but obviously the front camera preventing collisions is a much greater safety issue.
2/27/2023
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
The front camera has a foggy spot that triggers the front pre-collision assist and related safety devices to not function properly. It is available for inspection. t has not yet been inspected by dealer. The warning lamps and related messages do warn of problem. Fords has recalled rear cameras for fogginess, but obviously the front camera preventing collisions is a much greater safety issue.
2/27/2023
VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
2021 FORD F-250. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO DEFECTIVE MIRRORS.
4/6/2023
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle accelerated independently. Additionally, the contact stated that her husband had to keep his foot on the brake to keep the vehicle from independently accelerating. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to file a complaint. The failure mileage was unknown. The contact stated the vehicle was fine and to delete the complaint. The contact stated that the vehicle is fine, and this complaint is no longer needed.
7/17/2023
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake became inoperable. The contact stated there was brake fluid was gushing out from the driver's side front of the vehicle. The contact was able to stop the vehicle by safely getting to the shoulder of the roadway. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 42,100.
8/8/2023
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:HORN
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH and attempting to alert another driver, the contact became aware that the horn was not functioning properly. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the horn. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 63,000.
12/19/2023
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER CLOCKSPRING/SPIRAL CASSETTE
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that upon a cold engine start up, an abnormal clicking sound was coming from the steering wheel while making left turns. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken twice to a local dealer and the clockspring was replaced under warranty. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number. The vehicle had been repaired. The failure mileage was 10,332.
1/5/2024
BACK OVER PREVENTION: REARVIEW SYSTEM BRAKING
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
My F250 was in service for fuel system replacement and to fix both side mirrors which wouldnât go down after going up. Shortly afterwards I noticed the rapid turn signal you get when tail lights are out. This happened while using a trailer. The trucks rear lights werenât working at all but trailer lights were. Also was getting the blinds spot and cross traffic alert faults on instrument panel. Dropped off for service. They found a loose trailer plug and reset some things and got it all working again. Soon after the blinkers would flash fast again meaning lights were out, but would quickly stop and back to normal. Later they stayed blinking fast and tail lights out again after stopping starting several times. I tried plugging in my trailer wire harness and it tail lights started working again on truck?? 2 days later Im using trailer again, truck tail lights quit working and getting blind spot and cross traffic fault alerts again!! Still not working after 3 days. had my trailer lights tested where i bought it, they used a battery powered tester found no fault and trailer lights all worked correctly no shorts in system. During times when faults occurred both my enclosed trailer and my rv back up lights would stay on constantly even when not in reverse! Trailers turn signal, brake and tail lights worked but not truck tail lights. No back up no brakes or signal. Just the license plate lights. WHY IS IT EVEN LEGAL TO BUILD A VEHICLE WHERE YOU LOSE USE OF TAIL LIGHTS IF YOUR OPTIONAL FEATURES LIKE BLIND SPOT AND CROSS TRAFFIC MALFUNCTION and CAN RENDER SAFETY LIGHTS USELESS??!! Dropping off at Ford dealer asap to hopefully fix problem. Iâve heard of other trucks having similar problems
5/6/2024
WHEELS
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
On multiple occasions now I have experienced the death wobble after hitting a bump in the road. Today the vehicle shook so violently that it crossed into the lane next to me on a curve. I do not feel safe in the vehicle now and pray that someone addresses this problem asap before an innocent person is killed. This has not been inspected by any dealerships or insurance reps. No warning lamps or other anomalies observed. The vehicle currently has 53k miles on it.
6/6/2024
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
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 the failure. The failure mileage was 8,500.
9/3/2024
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at the independent mechanic for routine maintenance, the mechanic informed the contact that a small amount of fluid had leaked from the front differential. Additionally, the contact stated while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal metallic and whining sound coming from the front driver's side of the vehicle. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 60,000.
10/4/2024
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the tailgate independently opened, and items in the bed of the vehicle were lost due to the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer several times; however, the failure was not duplicated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. In addition, the contact was informed that Customer Satisfaction Program: 21M05; repair was performed in June 2022, and the technician disconnected the tailgate indicator light. The contact stated that the failure had occurred several times since Customer Satisfaction Program: 21M05; repair was performed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 23,735.
4/9/2025
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that while using the key fob to unlock the doors, the alarm activated. The contact stated that the front driver's side failed to lock as intended. No warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. However, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to costs. The contact related the failure to TBS: 21-2207. The contact stated that the failure had occurred several times. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.
4/11/2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and idling, the vehicle shut off and failed to restart. There were no warning lights illuminated before the failure. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights illuminated after the failure. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the fuse box needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the vehicle was not communicating with the fuse box. Additionally, there was moisture in the fuse box. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline; however, no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 73,000.
4/14/2025
BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
The back up camera and detection system glitches out when the weather is hot outside. When the cameras goes from working to not working or giving glitching screen effects it really affects the safety of being able to see whatâs behind you while backing up. Iâve had no system alerts on this issue it just has a mind of its own. There is a recall out for this issue but I was told it was a vin specific issue and thatâs not the case. There is a clearly a problem with the software thatâs affecting my same year model.
6/2/2025
AIR BAGS
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
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 body shop will handle this. As my concern is how hard do you have to hit something to get the airbags to deploy. Iâm concerned for my safety while driving this truck again if it can be repaired. Iâm taking it to the repair shop today. I wanted to report this as Ford will be ZERO help moving forward.
7/8/2025
LANE DEPARTURE: WARNING
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
This car has had a recall for almost year. Iâm am terrified to drive my truck especially with my kids in it. Sometimes if I press the gas trying to cross traffic, it takes a while to go. Also sometimes it wonât crank up and start. It takes awhile few tried. My back up camera doesnât work the way it should
8/24/2025
Data and Methodology
Scores are derived from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints, normalized by vehicle segment averages.
What are the most common owner complaints for the 2021 Ford F-250?
Are complaints about the 2021 Ford F-250 a serious warning sign?
How should buyers use complaint data for the 2021 Ford F-250?
Are complaints about the 2021 Ford F-250 severe?
Complaint list entries are sourced from owner-submitted NHTSA ODI records.
Ford F-250: How should complaint data influence buying decisions?
Carfocal links complaint data directly to recall and maintenance routes for the same model year.
- Complaint entries
- 170
- Top-topic view
- 5 grouped topics shown
- Primary source
- NHTSA ODI owner complaint records
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