Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2021 Ford F-150
The 2021 Ford F-150 has a notable number of recalls and complaints, particularly focused on the power train and electrical system. While some issues appear frequently, the reliability of this model can vary. Given diverse recall subjects, it's essential to inspect thoroughly.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2021 Ford F-150 has 29 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,042 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 6 NHTSA-tested trims.
Newest 20 recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #26V489000 Obstructed Rearview Camera Image/FMVSS 111 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #26V402000 Vehicle Rollaway Risk NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #26V104000 Trailer Lighting and Brakes May Not Function/FMVSS 108 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V729000 Moonroof Wind Deflector May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V455000 Low Pressure Fuel Pump May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V348000 Reverse Lights May Not Function NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V315000 Rearview Camera Image May Not Display NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V169000 Transmission May Shift into Neutral While Driving NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V132000 Trailer Brakes May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V852000 Missing Dashboard Air Bag Warning Label/FMVSS 208 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V635000 Engine Intake Valves May Break NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V443000 OTA BCM Software Update May Disable Reverse Lights NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V896000 Rear Axle Hub Bolt May Break NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V509000 Unexpected Activation of Electric Parking Brake NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V163000 Windshield Wipers May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V842000 Windshield Wiper Motor May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V623000 Damaged Driveshaft May Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V414000 Unsecured Fuel Tank Attachment Strap NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V250000 Windshield Wipers May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V193000 Trailer Brakes May Fail NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 322 complaints
- Electrical System 131 complaints
- Exterior Lighting 116 complaints
- Unknown or Other 96 complaints
- Engine 85 complaints
- Visibility 78 complaints
Of the 1,042 complaints on file, 13 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 1,042 complaints, owners report 8 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Possible intake valve breaks
How to check: Inspect engine functionality for any unusual noise or performance drop.
Transmission may shift unexpectedly
How to check: Assess for smooth, consistent gear changes during the drive.
ITBC may lose communication
How to check: Check integrated trailer brake control functionality if applicable.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or rough idling.
Red flag: Persistent knocking or rough idle sounds
- 02
Initial acceleration
What to check: Notice any hesitation or jerky transmission shifts.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerking when moving
- 03
City driving
What to check: Ensure smooth braking and consistent ride quality.
Red flag: Inconsistent braking force or noise
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth throttle response and gear changes.
Red flag: Rough or delayed acceleration
- 05
Reverse gear
What to check: Observe rearview camera image clarity.
Red flag: No or unclear camera display
- 06
Hard braking
What to check: Feel for any vibrations or soft pedal feel.
Red flag: Vibrations or unusual brake response
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- How have recall issues been addressed?
- Is there a record of transmission repairs?
- Have there been any electrical repairs?
- What is the history of engine maintenance?
- Were all software updates completed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Complete repair history
- Recall repair records
- Accident history report
- Title and registration documents
- Recent service records
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2021 Ford F-150 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2021 Ford F-150? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.