2021 Ford F-150 Reliability Score & Common Problems

Owners of the 2021 Ford F-150 frequently report issues with windshield wipers, including hesitation, complete failure, and slow operation during rainstorms. Complaints often describe wipers becoming inoperable without warning, leading to visibility challenges, especially in adverse weather conditions. These issues typically arise around 39,000 to 85,000 miles. Additionally, some owners mention a persistent film-like substance on the windshield that obstructs visibility, particularly at night. One crash is associated with a windshield seal detachment, highlighting potential safety implications. Buyers should be aware of ongoing recall-related delays in parts availability, which may affect repair timelines.

Owners of the 2021 Ford F-150 frequently report failures of the Quad LED daytime running lights (DRLs), with many experiencing burnout or dimming of the vertical LED strips on both headlight assemblies. Symptoms commonly described include partial or complete failure of the DRLs, with some owners noting that the lights become dim or change color before failing entirely. These issues often arise shortly after the warranty period, typically around 50,000 to 80,000 miles. The failure of these lights poses a visibility risk, as DRLs are intended to enhance vehicle visibility during daytime driving. Owners also highlight the high cost of repairs, as the entire headlight assembly must be replaced to restore functionality, which can be a significant expense for used car buyers.

Owners of the 2021 Ford F-150 commonly report issues with the braking system, particularly involving brake pedal failure where the pedal goes to the floor without engaging the brakes effectively. Symptoms frequently include warning lights for ABS, pre-collision assist, and other brake-related alerts. These issues are reported at various mileages, with some occurring as early as 6,000 miles and others around 50,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of crashes due to brake failure and unexpected activation of the electronic parking brake, leading to loss of control. Buyers should be aware of potential brake booster, brake line, and electronic parking brake issues that may affect the vehicle's safety and functionality.

Owners of the 2021 Ford F-150 frequently report engine failures, often linked to excessive oil consumption and valve issues. Symptoms described include oil leaks, engine misfires, and a lack of response from the gas pedal. Several reports indicate these problems occur as early as 2,966 miles, with others emerging around 47,000 to 134,000 miles. Safety concerns arise from incidents of engines seizing while driving, leading to loss of motive power and near-crash situations, but no crashes are explicitly mentioned. Buyers should be aware of potential engine repairs and extended downtime due to ongoing recall remedies.

Owners report frequent issues with the power steering system in the 2021 Ford F-150, often leading to a complete loss of steering assist. Complaints commonly describe symptoms such as the steering wheel seizing, a "Steering Assist Fault" warning message, and increased difficulty in steering, particularly at lower speeds or when making sharp turns. These issues are noted at various mileages, ranging from as low as 5,300 miles to over 90,000 miles. Safety implications include the potential for loss of control, especially if the steering fails while driving at higher speeds. Buyers should be aware of these recurring steering problems and the potential for significant repair delays due to parts availability.

Owners report frequent issues with the back over prevention system in the 2021 Ford F-150, primarily involving rearview camera malfunctions. Common symptoms include the camera screen freezing, displaying a black or blue screen, or showing a distorted image when the vehicle is in reverse. These problems often occur intermittently and have been noted at various mileages, with some reports around 22,000 to 100,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as two complaints involve crashes, one resulting in a minor injury. Buyers should be aware that these issues may affect the vehicle's safety systems and could require ongoing attention.

Owners of the 2021 Ford F-150 frequently report issues with the low-pressure fuel pump, often linked to an unresolved recall (25S75). Common symptoms include stalling while driving, inability to restart the vehicle, and rough engine performance, sometimes accompanied by a check engine light. These issues are reported at various mileages, with some vehicles experiencing problems as early as 200 miles. Safety implications are significant, as owners describe situations where their vehicles stall in traffic or block lanes, posing potential hazards. Additionally, one complaint describes a separate issue involving a fuel tank bracket failure, leading to fuel leakage and a strong fuel smell. Potential buyers should be aware of these reported issues, particularly the ongoing recall without a current fix.