Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E
The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E has had numerous recalls and complaints, primarily concerning its electrical system and forward collision avoidance. While these issues are significant, there is limited data on wider mechanical failures. Prospective buyers should remain cautious and conduct thorough checks when purchasing this model.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E has 13 NHTSA recall campaigns and 352 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #26V417000 Rear Differential Pinion Shaft May Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V513000 Loss of Power Brake Assist NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V404000 Back Seat Occupants May Become Trapped NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V315000 Rearview Camera Image May Not Display NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V130000 High Voltage Battery Contactor May Overheat NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V777000 Loss of Power Brake Assist NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V687000 High Voltage Battery Contactor May Overheat NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V412000 High Voltage Battery Contactor May Overheat NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V333000 Software Error May Cause Unintended Acceleration NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V979000 Improperly Attached Rear Seat Belts/FMVSS 208, 210 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V712000 Inadequate Panoramic Roof Glass Panel Bonding NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V711000 Inadequate Front Windshield Bonding/FMVSS 212 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V140000 Loose Subframe Bolts NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 156 complaints
- Forward Collision Avoidance 106 complaints
- Power Train 53 complaints
- Unknown or Other 50 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 49 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 37 complaints
Of the 352 complaints on file, 15 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 352 complaints, owners report 9 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Battery contactors overheating
How to check: Ensure previous recalls for the battery system were performed
Rear seat belt buckle attachments
How to check: Inspect rear seat belts for proper attachment to floor
Panoramic roof detachment risk
How to check: Check for recall service completion on roof bonding
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual electrical sounds or errors
Red flag: Strange noises or error messages
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Monitor dashboard for warning lights
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test acceleration and brake responsiveness
Red flag: Acceleration lags or brake issues
- 04
Low-speed maneuvering
What to check: Check steering handling and smoothness
Red flag: Hard to steer or tight turns
- 05
Highway speed
What to check: Observe for unusual vibration or shuddering
Red flag: Vibrations or uneven handling
- 06
Parking maneuvers
What to check: Ensure backup camera functions correctly
Red flag: Camera delay or no display
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have all recall repairs been completed?
- Are there any unresolved electrical issues?
- Has the panoramic roof recall been addressed?
- Were any repairs made to the seat belts?
- Has the vehicle ever been in an accident?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Full maintenance records
- Proof of recall repairs
- Warranty information
- Accident history report
- Title and registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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