This article supersedes 25-2302. Reason for update: update the labor time allowance for F-150 vehicles, update the Parts list to replace the part number W716979-S439 with W721084-S439, and add a note for LV fluids XT-10-QLVC and CXT-10-LV6 "Transfer Case Fluid". Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: Harsh engagement Delayed engagement Harsh shift Delayed shift Illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC)s P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0761, P0762, P0766, P0767, P0771, P0772, P2700, P2701, P2702, P2703, P2704, P2705, P2707, P2708, P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735, P073
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2021 Ford F-150 powertrain problems
moderate 266 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
266
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
1crash
1fire
1injury
When does it fail?
Of the 266 powertrain complaints filed for the 2021 Ford F-150, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 50,000-75,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 266 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Powertrain accounts for 29% of all owner complaints filed against this vehicle, across 12 categories tracked.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
This article supersedes TSB 26-2130 to update labor operation to reprogram the PCM and check EVAP system from actual time to fixed time, and add extra time to reprogram coordinated modules (if required). Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P2450 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). This may be due to the software in the PCM.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This bulletin supersedes 26-2046. Reason For Update: update the parts list to change the claim quantity of the C clutch friction plates (HL3Z-7B164-A), C clutch steel plates (HL3Z-7B442-F), D clutch steel plates (HL3Z-7B442-D), add the rear driveshaft flange CV joint-to-pinion flange cup bolts and retaining straps (LK4Z-4B496-B) for Transit, and update the parts description for the transfer case fluids applicable for each vehicle line. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit all of the following conditions: * Harsh engagement * Delayed engagement * Harsh shift * Delayed shift * Illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0751
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 3.5L PowerBoost engine and 2020-2026 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 3.3L hybrid engine may exhibit an illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0A1E stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). The vehicle may be unable to enter electric-only drive modes as expected during normal drive cycles. This may be due to the software within the belt integrated starter generator (BISG). For vehicles with this condition, follow Pinpoint Test I: Battery Isolation/Voltage Stabilization Control Circuit Carry Outance located in the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-06D and repair the vehicle as necessary. No
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 3.5L PowerBoost engine and 2020-2026 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 3.3L hybrid engine may exhibit an illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0A1E stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). The vehicle may be unable to enter electric-only drive modes as expected during normal drive cycles. This may be due to the software within the belt integrated starter generator (BISG). For vehicles with this condition, follow Pinpoint Test G located in the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-06D and repair the vehicle as necessary. Note that the BISG is on backorder status at the time of this publication
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2021 F-150 powertrain cluster shows chronic component failures and manufacturer/dealer response delays that strand owners with undriveable vehicles.
Rear axle bolts on the Max Tow Package (9.75" HD axle) fracture without warning at various mileages, sometimes twice on the same truck. Ford's Customer Satisfaction Program 22B34 covers only limited production dates, excluding many 2021 models with identical axles. NHTSA Recall 23V896/23S65 (issued December 2023) requires rear axle assembly replacement, but parts remain on backorder nationally. Owners report waiting 5+ months with vehicles parked and unsafe to drive; one owner documented being 14,000+ positions in a parts queue as of late 2025.
Transmission shudder and power loss plague the 10R80 (10-speed automatic). Owners report violent gear hunting, hard shifts between low gears, and complete loss of acceleration for 3–5 seconds during highway merges and left turns—creating collision hazards. Root cause is a defective CDF drum with internal bushing displacement; Ford issued Technical Service Bulletins but only redesigned the part for 2022+. Pre-2022 owners face costly transmission replacement or dealer refusal to repair without verified trouble codes.
Electrical system shutdowns cause complete power loss mid-drive, disabling steering lock-up, transmission lockup, and preventing shift-to-Neutral. One owner's truck died in a busy intersection with no restart.
Shifter malfunction leaves vehicles stuck in Neutral despite moving the shift lever; one shifter broke off in a driveway before towing. Dealerships refuse shifter replacement citing no trouble codes.
Coolant loss occurs internally with no external leaks; dealerships avoid thorough diagnostics. Owners also report axle shaft spline stripping, driveshaft fractures, wastegate actuator failure at low mileage, and intermittent powertrain warning lights that clear overnight.
Same Ford F-150 powertrain reports on nearby years: 2018 · 2019 · 2020
Failure modes owners describe
Rear Axle Hub Bolt Fracture/Shear
Rear axle retainer bolts on the 9.75" HD axle (Max Trailer Tow Package) fracture or shear without warning, causing spline looseness, loss of clamp load, and potential axle disengagement. Owners report bolts breaking during routine use; some vehicles affected twice. Ford Customer Satisfaction Program 22B34 covers only limited production dates (May–September 2021 for Kansas City; May–September 2021 for Dearborn), leaving many 2021 models with identical axles unrepaired. NHTSA Recall 23V896/23S65 issued but remedy parts have remained on backorder for extended periods (some cases 5+ months, others 12+ months as of early 2026), leaving vehicles unsafe to drive and owners stranded.
When: Various mileages (14k–111k); some bolts undetected until scheduled maintenance. Often no warning before discovery.
Symptoms owners cite: Rattling noise from rear wheel area at low speed; Whistling sound from rear axle; Grinding or clicking sounds; Loss of power/motive force while driving (axle disengagement); Vehicle lockup or sudden stop (parking brake error messages observed in some cases); Gear oil leaking from rear wheel area; No warning lights in most cases
Repairs/costs cited: Interim repair: replacement of fractured bolt and hub/axle inspection (does not address root cause of spline backlash). Final remedy: replacement of rear axle half-shaft and hub assembly. Parts shortages have caused extended delays; some dealerships report national backorders with no ETA. Owners cite 3–4 week wait times to months-long delays. One owner reported 5+ month delay with vehicle undriveable.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford CSP 22B34 (limited date range, excludes early 2021 production). NHTSA Recall 23V896/23S65 (issued December 2023; parts unavailable as of early 2026). Ford acknowledges interim repair does not resolve underlying spline movement/backlash. No formal recall expansion to pre-May 2021 models. Extended warranty programs offered to some owners. Loaner vehicles provided inconsistently.
10-Speed Transmission Hard Shifts, Shudder, and Loss of Power
Ford 10R80 transmission exhibits harsh shifting, violent shuddering, hesitation, and unpredictable loss of acceleration during gear transitions (often 1st–3rd and 8th–10th). Root cause identified as defective CDF (Clutch Drum/Cylinder) with internal bushing displacement obstructing fluid flow and causing mechanical slip. Owners report episodes of complete power loss for 3–5 seconds during left-turn merges and highway acceleration, creating collision risk. Known defect documented in multiple Ford Technical Service Bulletins (22-2428, 23-2250, 24-2101); Ford has redesigned CDF for post-2022 vehicles but left pre-2022 owners without remedy.
When: Begins at low mileage (some reports as early as 41k miles) and continues intermittently. Most common during acceleration from stop, unprotected left turns, and merging.
Symptoms owners cite: Shudder, stutter, and violent shaking during gear transitions; Harsh, delayed, or clunky shifts between low gears (1st–4th especially); Hard engagement from Park to Drive/Reverse with loud clunk; Hesitation and jerking when accelerating; Transmission slip (no acceleration for 3–5 seconds) before gear engages; Hunting for correct gear; Intermittent stalling in gear or inability to shift; White smoke from tailpipe in some cases; No warning lamps in early stages; mechanical failure does not trigger sensor until advanced
Repairs/costs cited: Interim repairs: transmission fluid/filter replacement, valve body replacement, adaptive reset, software updates, and CDF drum replacement. Multiple dealers have replaced components without resolving issue. One case required full transmission replacement at 41k miles. Ford dealerships cite reluctance to replace transmission due to liability concerns if manufacturer later deems it unnecessary. Repairs often require return visits; one owner documented transmission pan improperly sealed after 'repair' led to fluid loss.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford TSBs 22-2428, 23-2250, 24-2101 issued; CDF drum redesigned for 2022+ models. No blanket recall for pre-2022 vehicles. Extended warranty programs offered but owner disputes its coverage. Ford corporate refuses to intervene in dealer-level repair decisions for some owners. One dealer offered $4k extended warranty instead of replacement.
Sudden Electrical System Failure and Power Loss
Complete electrical system shutdown causing sudden loss of engine power, steering lock-up, and transmission failure to shift while vehicle is in motion. Vehicle becomes immobile in intersection or on roadway with no restart capability, hazard lights disabled, parking brake engaged automatically, and transmission unable to shift to Neutral due to total power loss. Occurs without prior warning lights or symptoms (one case ran 30–45 minutes symptom-free before shutdown; another occurred at 793 miles).
When: Random, mid-drive shutdown. One case at ~30 mph in intersection; another at various speeds on highway; one at 793 miles on odometer.
Symptoms owners cite: Engine suddenly quits while driving; Steering column locks up; Transmission remains in Drive; unable to shift to Neutral; Parking brake engages (or error message displays); All dashboard lights and hazard lights inoperative; Power steering loss; Multiple warning messages appear after loss of power (engine coolant overheat, stability control disabled, forward collision warning disabled, parking brake error); Ticking/clicking noise heard while rolling
Codes mentioned: Blind spot monitoring errors (inferred from one narrative)
Repairs/costs cited: Vehicles towed to dealership for diagnostic. One case involved technician unable to duplicate issue; diagnostics inconclusive (no trouble codes recorded). Repairs not yet completed in reported cases or undisclosed.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No response documented in narratives. Vehicles in service at dealerships with diagnostics pending or inconclusive.
Rear Axle Shaft Stripped Splines / Driveshaft Fracture
Rear axle shaft splines become stripped or damaged, and driveshaft fractures during normal driving. In one case, driveshaft detached completely, causing grinding sounds, clicking/rattling, and loss of motive power. Another case reports axle spline damage coincident with axle bolt shear. Driveshaft fire observed in one instance (shaft scorching noted).
When: Various mileages. One case at 60k+ miles; another at 111k miles with prior recall work (21V986000) performed ~6 months earlier.
Symptoms owners cite: Loud grinding or rattling noise underneath vehicle; Clicking or rattling sounds; Loss of motive power/ability to move; Driveshaft detachment or fracture; Fire/smoke underneath vehicle (shaft scorching observed in one case); Multiple warning lights (underbody panel malfunction, powertrain malfunction, engine malfunction)
Repairs/costs cited: Driveshaft replacement required. In one case, dealer indicated repair not covered under warranty or recall. One vehicle declared 'beyond repair' by dealer; another towed and repair pending.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Campaign 21V986000 performed on at least one vehicle ~6 months prior to failure. No recall coverage indicated for driveshaft fracture. Warranty denial in some cases.
Transmission Shift Lever/Shifter Malfunction
Electronic or mechanical shifter fails to engage intended gear despite physical detent movement. Shift lever indicates Neutral even after two physical detents (should be in Reverse), or shifter breaks off entirely. No trouble codes generated. One owner observed shifter literally breaking off in driveway before towing became necessary.
When: Intermittent; documented at various times and mileages.
Symptoms owners cite: Shift lever stuck in Neutral despite physical detent positioning for Drive or Reverse; Vehicle remains in Neutral after two physical detents (should engage Reverse); Shifter requires excessive forward force to engage intended gear; Shifter breaks off (mechanical failure); No warning lamps or trouble codes
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership updated shift software in one case but issue persisted. Shifter replacement refused by one dealership due to absence of trouble code. Repair eventually performed after shifter physically broke off.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Software updates attempted; no replacement offered without trouble code evidence. No TSB or recall mentioned.
Engine Coolant Loss (Internal Leak, No External Leaks Found)
Chronic loss of engine coolant with no visible external leaks, accompanied by persistent burning coolant odor. Dealerships perform only surface-level pressure and dye tests despite clear consumption evidence. Owner reports this is a known precursor to sudden engine stall and potential engine fire on this platform.
When: Ongoing over 9 months; two separate dealerships unable to resolve.
Symptoms owners cite: Chronic coolant loss without external leak evidence; Persistent burning coolant odor; No Check Engine Light (CEL) warning despite internal mechanical failure
Repairs/costs cited: Dealerships have refused thorough diagnostics beyond pressure and dye testing. No internal leak path identified. Root cause unresolved.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No formal investigation or TSB mentioned. Dealerships performing minimal diagnostics.
Front Differential Pinion Seal Leak
Leak from front differential pinion seal, reported as a common issue across owner forums. Loss of differential fluid creates risk of premature wear and differential component failure.
When: Mileage/timing not specified in narrative.
Symptoms owners cite: Visible leak from front differential pinion seal area
Repairs/costs cited: Narrative requests recall or service bulletin; repair not yet performed.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall or service bulletin issued to date. Owner requesting investigation and corrective action.
Catalytic Converter Premature Failure
Two catalytic converter failures on a 5-year-old truck (January 2024 and March 2026), both attributed by dealership to 'defective parts.' Owner notes this is the first hybrid F-150 owned and first time converters have failed on any Ford truck; suspects hybrid powertrain design defect.
When: End of January 2024 (first failure); end of March 2026 (second failure).
Symptoms owners cite: Catalytic converter failure (mode of failure not detailed)
Repairs/costs cited: Replaced at dealership under powertrain warranty. Second replacement covered under 2-year warranty on catalytic converter parts.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Only explanation provided: 'parts were defective.' No investigation into design or hybrid powertrain-specific issues.
Transmission Delayed Engagement and Violent Lurch into Reverse
Transmission does not initially engage when shifted to Reverse, especially when engine is cold. When engagement finally occurs, vehicle lurches violently rearward. Occurs after 'bench' rebuild with CDF drum and valve body replacement plus software updates. Dealership claims behavior is 'normal' and refuses further repair despite video evidence and technician acknowledgment of delayed engagement.
When: Most pronounced after cold soak; persists after rebuild.
Symptoms owners cite: Delayed engagement in Reverse (especially cold starts); Violent lurch/jerk rearward when engagement finally occurs; RPM rises before slamming into Reverse; Owner demonstrates violent behavior on video and in person to technician; technician confirms but dealership refuses repair
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission bench-rebuilt with CDF drum, valve body replacement, software updates, adaptive reset, and drive cycle relearn. Issue persists despite repair. Dealership refuses further work, claiming behavior is normal.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford customer service referred owner to another dealership; no intervention from corporate. Dealership refuses to acknowledge defect.
Hesitation and Acceleration Dropout (Hybrid Mode Transition)
PowerBoost hybrid F-150 experiences loss of acceleration response and hesitation when switching between electric and hybrid modes, particularly during gear shifts. Engine revs high without corresponding acceleration; uncommanded acceleration occurs briefly after hesitation resolves. No warning lights or messages.
When: Intermittent; most common during low-speed acceleration and lane changes in stop-and-go traffic.
Symptoms owners cite: Loss of accelerator response for several seconds; Hesitation when transitioning from electric to hybrid mode; High engine RPM with no acceleration even with foot off accelerator pedal; Uncommanded acceleration after hesitation resolves; No warning lights or diagnostic messages
Repairs/costs cited: Not yet diagnosed or repaired.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: None documented.
3–4 Shift Flare and Hard Engagement (Transmission)
Pronounced 3–4 gear shift flare where engine RPM rises abnormally high before transmission engages next gear, creating delay in acceleration and reduced driver control. Severe hard engagement from Park to Drive/Reverse produces loud clunk and jarring motion, suggesting internal wear.
When: Intermittent; particularly during merging and acceleration from lower speeds.
Symptoms owners cite: 3–4 shift flare (RPM rise before engagement); Delay in acceleration during shift; Hard, loud clunk when shifting Park to Drive/Reverse; Jarring motion on engagement; Intermittent stuck-in-gear behavior; Sudden harsh downshifts without input; Delayed engagement when selecting Drive/Reverse
Repairs/costs cited: Not yet repaired; formal investigation requested.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: None documented beyond owner's request for investigation.
Adaptive Cruise Control Lane-Keep Assist Malfunction
Adaptive cruise control drifts vehicle toward lane edges (right or middle) as if searching for pavement striping, then corrects back to center. System struggles to keep vehicle centered and makes small steering wheel corrections even when vehicle is supposed to be centered.
When: Every time adaptive cruise is activated on multi-lane highway with broken striped lane markings.
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle drifts toward right or middle lane while on adaptive cruise; System searches for lane markings; Difficulty maintaining center-lane position; Frequent small steering corrections
Repairs/costs cited: Service appointment scheduled but unable to contact assigned service advisor.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: None documented; service not yet performed.
Transmission 'Service Powertrain' Warning Light Intermittent Illumination
Service Powertrain warning light and 'Powertrain Malfunction' FordPass app notification appear intermittently (2+ times per month), often accompanied by temporary loss of Sport mode function (wrench icon). Light disappears overnight or after dealer visit unable to reproduce issue. Owner suspects connection to rear axle recall 23V896.
When: Intermittent; approximately 2+ times per month. Light often clears by next morning.
Symptoms owners cite: Service Powertrain warning light illumination; FordPass app notification: 'Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power'; Sport mode unavailable (wrench icon displayed); Light clears without intervention or persists for short duration; Dealership unable to reproduce or identify cause
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership diagnostic attempts have been unsuccessful; unable to reproduce issue. Owner paying $400+ per diagnostic visit with no resolution.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No formal investigation. Owner suspects connection to rear axle recall issue.
Engine Stall and Loss of Power (Low Mileage)
Engine stalls during downshift while driving at low speed (~30 mph). Parking brake error message, multiple subsequent warning lights (engine coolant overheat, stability control disabled, forward collision disabled). Tachometer frozen at ~2000 RPM. Vehicle at 793 miles when incident occurred.
When: At 793 miles on odometer; downshift event while driving at ~30 mph.
Symptoms owners cite: Engine stall during downshift; Parking brake error message; Ticking/clicking noise while rolling; Tachometer frozen at ~2000 RPM; Multiple warning lights post-stall (coolant overheat, stability control disabled, forward collision disabled)
Repairs/costs cited: Service appointment scheduled for July 8 but dealership unable to guarantee vehicle will be seen; lights cleared after restart so diagnosis uncertain.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: None documented.
Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power at Low Mileage
Check engine and 'Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power' FordPass notification appear while driving at highway speed (~70 mph). Engine unresponsive to accelerator pedal input (feels like engine stopped). Vehicle at 9,500 miles. Owner suspects connection to 2.7L EcoBoost engine failures reported in Bronco.
When: At 9,500 miles; while driving at ~70 mph.
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illumination; FordPass 'Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power' notification; Engine unresponsive to accelerator pedal input; Loss of power feel
Repairs/costs cited: Scheduled for diagnosis at dealership; owner suspects engine failure (possible 2.7L EcoBoost defect).
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Diagnosis pending.
Wastegate Actuator Failure
Wastegate actuator requires replacement. Check engine and powertrain malfunction warning lights illuminate. One case reports loss of motive power while parked; another while driving.
When: One case at 3,032 miles (very low mileage).
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light; Powertrain malfunction warning light; Scraping sounds from underneath vehicle; Loss of motive power (in one case, while parked)
Repairs/costs cited: Wastegate actuator replacement required.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified in at least one case. Buy-back request declined.
Automatic Parking Brake Engagement / Malfunction
Automatic parking brake engages unexpectedly or malfunctions, causing vehicle to lock up and stop suddenly on roadway. One narrative describes sudden stop on 2-lane highway at low speed with brake-like lockup; another describes inability to disengage brake due to electrical failure.
When: Random on-road events (one case Labor Day at ~25 mph on highway; another during downshift at ~30 mph).
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden engagement of parking brake mid-drive; Vehicle locks up and becomes immobile; Parking brake error messages; Inability to disengage parking brake without power
Repairs/costs cited: One dealer refused warranty claim, citing 'wires not chafed'; another case repair still pending.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: One dealer denied warranty coverage.
Transmission Fluid Leak After Repair
Transmission pan warps or is improperly installed after valve body replacement, causing transmission fluid to leak onto ground immediately after 'repair' completion. Owner required to drive 20 miles to dealership after picking up truck.
When: After third/fourth dealership visit for valve body replacement and repair work.
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission fluid pooling under vehicle after dealer 'repair'; Fluid leaking from transmission pan area
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership initially blamed pan warp but owner suspects improper installation and seal placement. Pan reinstalled or replaced; issue resolved temporarily before other transmission issues recurred.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: None documented; dealership blamed defect on part, not technician error.
Synthesized from 266 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 6 most recent
Loss of engine power when transmission shifts from 3rd gear to 2nd gear. Truck will unexpectedly loose ability to accelerate, typically until shift to 1st or 3rd gear occurs. Return of power can cause vehicle to accelerate rapidly and unexpectedly. Malfunctions typically happens in parking lots and while yielding to make a turn, but also happens in stop and go traffic. Concerned of loss of…
Dealer has now had my car for almost 60 days with no resolution Manufacturer Recall Number23S65 NHTSA Recall Number23V896 My asset is basically frozen at this point with zero ETA and any care from FORD. I am willing to trade it in at this point but can’t even do that.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, the contact heard an abnormally loud booming sound. The contact pulled over to the right side of the road, exited the vehicle. Upon inspecting underneath the vehicle, the contact noticed that the driveshaft was fractured and damaged. The contact stated that the failure had occurred on several different occasions.…
The transmission was slipping in 2nd and 10th gear. This was confirmed by the dealer. A full transmission had to be replaced at 66,000 miles. The vehicle had an excellent maintenance record and well kept. Ford did pay half of the cost but I still ended up spending $6k out of pocket and my vehicle was in the shop for 27 days.
Rear axle failed while driving. Had vehicle towed to Malloy Ford in Winchester, VA. They replaced the failed components, at no cost. When I asked about reimbursement for towing, they were not able to assist me in filing my claim for towing reimbursement. I contacted FORD Customer Service, who said they only way they may help me is if I return the vehicle to Ford Service (must be in their…
Description of Incident: The vehicle exhibits a severe and unpredictable transmission "shudder," "stutter," and hesitation during gear synchronization, specifically during 1st–3rd and 8th–10th gear transitions. This manifest as a violent "shaking" sensation and a loss of momentary acceleration while merging into high-speed traffic. This issue was first reported to an authorized Ford dealership…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2021 Ford F-150?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2021 Ford F-150?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 266 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 55 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 28,000 and 82,500 miles, with the median around 58,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 28,000; a quarter make it past 82,500. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2021/Ford/F-150.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.