2021 Ford F-150 parts and specs

What changed for the 2021 Ford F-150

• 2021Generation launch: PowerBoost hybrid + Pro Power Onboard debut, 10R80 across the lineup, final Power Stroke diesel year; busy first-year recall list (steering gear 21V-407, EBB 21V-533, driveshaft 21V-381/21V-986)

Known problems with the 2021 Ford F-150

6 of the 6 issues we track for the 2021–2025 generation are documented against the 2021 model year, and 6 carry a recall or service bulletin.

• 2.7L/3.0L EcoBoost intake valve fracture (recall, engine replacement)

  majorNHTSA 24V-635 (Ford 24S55)

  Intake valves in 2.7L (and 3.0L) EcoBoosts built May–October 2021 were ground from an out-of-spec Silchrome Lite alloy that can turn brittle and snap, dropping the valve into the cylinder and destroying the engine, usually early in life. Recall 24V-635 (Ford 24S55): dealers run an engine-cycle test and replace the engine free if it fails. If you're buying a 2021–2022 2.7L truck, verify this recall is closed.

  Typical cost: Free under recall (engine test / replacement)

• Driveshaft damage from loose underbody insulators (recalls)

  majorNHTSA 21V-986 / 22V-623 (Ford 21S56 / 22S53)

  Underbody heat/noise insulators can loosen and rub the aluminum driveshaft until it scores and can fracture, loss of drive or worse if it hits the ground. Ford recalled 2021–2022 trucks twice (21V-986, expanded by 22V-623); dealers inspect the driveshaft, repair/replace as needed, and secure the insulators free.

  Typical cost: Free under recall

• Rear axle hub bolt failure, Trailer Tow Max Duty (recalls)

  majorNHTSA 23V-896, expanded 25V-512 (Ford 25S82)

  Trucks with the Max Trailer Tow package and the 9.75-in HD 3/4-float axle can fatigue and snap rear-axle hub bolts, stripping the wheel-end splines, loss of drive or a truck that rolls away in Park without the parking brake. Recall 23V-896 was expanded in 2025 (25V-512, ~103,000 trucks); dealers replace both rear axle shaft assemblies with a revised design free.

  Typical cost: Free under recall

• Trailer brake controller software failures (recalls)

  majorNHTSA 22V-193 (Ford 22S17); follow-ups 25S18, 26C10

  Software errors in the integrated trailer brake module could leave an electric-braked trailer with no brakes (22V-193, part of a 4.3M-vehicle campaign), and some trucks repaired incorrectly were re-recalled (25S18). A further 2021–2026 campaign (26C10) covers ITRM communication loss killing trailer brakes and lights. All are free software updates, critical if you tow.

  Typical cost: Free under recall (software update)

• Windshield wiper motor/arm failures (recalls)

  moderateNHTSA 22V-142 / 22V-842 / 22V-250

  2021–2022 trucks had wiper motors that could quit entirely (22V-142, expanded by 22V-842) and 2020–2021 trucks had wiper arms that could loosen (22V-250). Dealers replace the motor or both arms free. If your wipers die in the rain, it's likely covered. Check the VIN before paying for a motor.

  Typical cost: Free under recall

• 10R80 harsh shifting continues; loss of power-brake assist on 2024–25 (recall)

  moderateTSB 22-2428; NHTSA 25V-488 (Ford 25S77)

  Harsh low-speed shifts, clunks, and occasional CDF-drum failures carry into 14th-gen 10R80s (same TSB 22-2428 family; adaptive relearn and reflash first, hardware second). Separately, 2024–2025 trucks built May 2024–June 2025 can lose power brake assist from an electronic brake booster fault, recall 25V-488 (Ford 25S77) fixes it with a free software update, OTA-capable.

  Typical cost: Free (reflash/recall); $2,500–$4,000+ for out-of-warranty CDF drum repair

Full detail, costs and sources on the Ford F-150 problems and years to avoid guide.