What 159 owners told NHTSA about the 2021 Ford F-250 Supercab

This is a follow-up to my original complaint #XXX, filed XXX, regarding the failure of the 10R140 10-speed automatic transmission in my 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty (VIN: [XXX]). The transmission began exhibiting symptoms of gear slipping, jerking, delayed and harsh shifting, and pinging from the torque converter around 100,000 miles. These symptoms progressively worsened until the transmission suffered a catastrophic internal failure. As documented in the attached Sid Dillon Ford repair order, an authorized Ford dealer found metal contamination in the transmission fluid and confirmed that a complete transmission replacement was required. The attached Friesen Ford repair order also shows that harsh engagements were present and that a transmission flush failed to resolve the issue. I have also attached a sworn statement from [XXX], an independent automotive technician who has serviced vehicles for my family for several years. In his sworn statement, he confirms that these 10R140 transmissions have known serious ongoing issues and that many mechanics avoid working on them due to these problems. Ford Motor Company was provided with the above repair records and the sworn statement but has denied any responsibility or reimbursement for the transmission failure. The failure created a serious safety risk due to the sudden loss of propulsion while driving. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11750552

The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V455000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available.The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. Neither the manufacturer nor the dealer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

NHTSA ODI 11748757

I took a functional vehicle to Swant Graber Ford in Barron, WI in on [XXX] for Recall 24S78 and since then I have had numerous vehicle issues involving the PCM that they flashed. I have up to 16 different codes when the check engine light comes on including numerous communication U-codes indicating faulty software download causing no run/no start problems along with severe safety concerns while driving. I returned the vehicle to Swant Graber today July 1, 2026 after 2 weeks being this was their earliest appointment availability. They then deleted the codes and told me to drive it until there is more issues which is a severe safety concern considering the condition of the PCM of this vehicle they returned to now which is unfunctional and not road worthy INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11747789

The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that upon routine State Inspection at the local authorized dealer, the horn and the air bags failed to operate as intended. Upon further inspection, corrosion was found on the body control module from water leaking into the unit. The contact stated that the front passenger’s side windshield was loose, and pressure was applied, possibly causing the water to leak into the unit. The vehicle was not repaired because the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V090000 (Visibility). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

NHTSA ODI 11746498

See attached document for complaint.

NHTSA ODI 11742079

The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-150. The contact stated while driving at 60 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed, however the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights illuminated and the engine seized. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The independent mechanic diagnosed the vehicle with metal shavings on the fuel injectors. The contact was informed that the fuel system and fuel injectors needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed of the recall, NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V957000 (Fuel System, Diesel). The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed high pressure fuel pump. The contact was informed that the high pressure fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed of a gasoline odor in the fuel system. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The manufacturer was informed that the dealer denied the repair. The failure mileage was approximately 124,000.

NHTSA ODI 11739540

The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V957000 (Fuel System, Diesel); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where a fuel injector was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle experienced reduced engine power, decelerated and was towed back to the dealer. The vehicle was diagnosed with a failure of the CP4 high-pressure fuel injection pump. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 115,000.

NHTSA ODI 11733105

Back up camera will show a black screen about 1-2 times a month. Have to turn the truck off and restart to get the camera to work again

NHTSA ODI 11730004

Back window has dropped 1/4 to 1/2 inch to the right. and is not in alignment. Safety concern that window could fall out or pop out during accident. No reason for window to just drop. Believe not installed correctly or sealants have failed cause of defect and window to drop and separate molding down to become detached right side. See pictures attached.

NHTSA ODI 11726718

The secondary fuel filter is leaking and Ford has told me my vehicle was manufactured 1 month too early and doesn’t qualify for a previous recall…They know about the secondary fuel filter housing cracking and being an issue!

NHTSA ODI 11726273

Transmission has shifting issues. Sometimes is don't down shift below 4th gear and when in an intersection truck barley moves then it shifts hard and can move . It also is constantly shifting between gears. It will shift form 10th to 5yh while driving.

NHTSA ODI 11725744

The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at the local dealer, it was determined that the heat shield was rubbing on the drive shaft. There was damage to the drive shaft. The dealer informed the contact about NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V778000 (Fuel System, Diesel). No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The manufacturer suggested that the receipts be kept as records for possible recalls. The failure mileage was approximately 37,000.

NHTSA ODI 11725793

The contact called on behalf of the owner of a 2021 Ford F-250. The owner received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V957000 (Fuel System, Diesel); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to Grumpy's Diesel Service. The mechanic sent a fuel sample to a testing company, and it was confirmed that there was no water contamination. The mechanic diagnosed that the high-pressure fuel pump had exploded. The mechanic replaced the high-pressure fuel pump and fuel rails, and a decontamination kit was installed. The vehicle was repaired at the contact's expense. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The local dealer and the manufacturer were not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.

NHTSA ODI 11724876

2021 f250 with the 7.3v8. 120000 miles and lifter has failed. We believe that we caught it early enough to where we have no more issues other than this. After reading up I have noticed where there has been several other customers with same issue on this engine. I run several f350 pickups with our business and have been very pleased and bought this pickup to run around in and keep from driving the work trucks. I would like to think that this should not be an issue with this amount of miles. I hope ford steps up and fixes this issue

NHTSA ODI 11722234

This vehicle is subject to two open safety recalls for which no repair remedy is currently available from the manufacturer: 1. Recall 24V957 (24S78) Dec 20, 2024 involves the high-pressure fuel pump and powertrain control system. The recall states the fuel pump may fail and cause extended cranking/no start or loss of motive power while driving. Loss of motive power while in traffic or while towing increases the risk of a crash. The manufacturer has stated that parts and/or software are not available to repair this defect. The vehicle is regularly used for towing a recreational trailer, which increases the safety risk if loss of power occurs during operation, especially at highway speeds or while merging. 2. Recall 25V686 (25SA8) Oct 10, 2025 involves the 360-degree/rear-view camera system. The recall states that the rear camera image may become dark in certain reversing situations when front and side cameras are exposed to significantly more light than the rear camera. Reduced visibility while reversing increases crash risk, particularly when maneuvering a large pickup truck. The manufacturer has acknowledged both recalls but has not provided a repair remedy within a reasonable timeframe. The powertrain-related recall has remained unresolved for an extended period. The vehicle has not been repaired because the manufacturer states parts/software are unavailable. At this time, the defect conditions have not resulted in a confirmed failure event, but the vehicle continues to be operated with open safety recalls that cannot be remedied. The safety risk remains present due to lack of available repair. Due to the prolonged unavailability of a repair remedy for a recall involving potential loss of motive power, I am unable to safely use the vehicle for its intended purpose of towing, as doing so would increase the risk of a crash if the defect occurs.

NHTSA ODI 11720881

I was driving on I-77 WV Turnpike when suddenly my moon roof shattered. No other vehicles were around and no overpasses in sight. When I pulled over, the glass was raised as if the blowout came from inside the vehicle. It sounded like a gunshot went off inside my truck. Vehicle has been repaired. Replacement glass was $1,800.00

NHTSA ODI 11719078

The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V455000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The manufacturer was not contacted. The contact had not experienced a failure.

NHTSA ODI 11719177

Front camera malfunctions and goes black and stops working. Ford refuses to acknowledge this issues and prevents forward collision alert system from working. The refuse to fix the issue or look into a recall.

NHTSA ODI 11718198

The vehicle experienced a sudden loss of motive power and became inoperable due to failure of the high-pressure fuel system. This VIN is subject to an active safety recall (NHTSA 24V957 / Ford 24S78) addressing high-pressure fuel pump failure that can result in loss of motive power while driving. Prior to failure, the vehicle exhibited reduced engine performance and drivability issues consistent with fuel system malfunction. No Water-In-Fuel warning or alert was displayed prior to the failure. The vehicle was inspected by an authorized Ford dealership. Ford and the dealership asserted “fuel contamination” as the cause and refused to repair the vehicle under the recall or warranty unless the customer paid for diagnostic teardown. The recall repair was not performed. The vehicle remains unrepaired and was removed from the dealership. The loss of motive power created a safety risk to the occupants and other motorists. We are concerned that a recalled safety defect affecting the fuel system is not being remedied and is being mischaracterized to avoid recall repair.

NHTSA ODI 11717653

I have been experiencing a brake problem with the trailer brake system in my 2021 Ford F250 Crew Cab. When my travel trailer is connected to the truck the trailer brakes do not always apply and sometimes the brakes apply, then release and then apply again. On my most recent trip, I traveled half way through an intersection before stopping because the trailer brakes did not apply. The trailer brakes were replaced two years ago and were just inspected on January 27th of this year. They were rated in excellent condition. I took the trip soon after the trailer brakes were inspected and I still am experiencing trailer brake controller issues. I tested the condition at low speed just using the brake controller and the brakes applied then released and then applied again. I spoke with Ford today and they stated that the current recall campaign 25V132000 does not apply to my truck. I requested that they consider expanding the recall as my truck is exhibiting the exact conditions described in the recall. I am attempting to get the truck into the local Ford Dealer, but they are backed up four weeks until they can inspect the truck. This is a very dangerous situation and needs to be addressed.

NHTSA ODI 11717074

The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V455000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

NHTSA ODI 11713594

The contact called to file a complaint on a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact was a Crash Investigator. The contact stated that the vehicle owner was involved in a crash. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed in the opposite lane, the vehicle was involved in a head-on collision. No other information was available. The contact stated that while inspecting the Air Bag Control Module, it was downloaded; however, there was no reported crash data information of the crash or that the air bags were deployed. The contact stated that there was a pattern with the faulty part being distributed from a manufacturing plant for the manufacturer located in Kentucky. The contact stated that other similar vehicles had experienced similar failures. The contact was concerned that if vehicle owners were involved in a crash, none of the air bags modules would collect or store the data, making it difficult to investigate the crash. The contact stated that the failure was due to Air Bag Control Module, Event Data Recorder, and the Restraint Control Module not being able to download the needed information. The vehicle was towed and taken to the insurance company's lot. The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The failure mileage was not available.

NHTSA ODI 11712679

The contact called to report a failure on a 2021 Ford F-250. The contact, who is a Crash Investigator, stated that the owner of the vehicle was involved in a crash. While the owner was driving at an undisclosed speed in the opposite lane, the driver ended up in a head-on collision. No other information was available. While inspecting the Air Bag Control Module after downloading the information, there was no crash or air bags deployment information retrieved. The contact stated that there was a pattern of the faulty part being distributed from a manufacturing plant for the manufacturer located in Kentucky, because this was not the first issue with a Ford F-250 vehicle experiencing the exact failure. The contact was concerned that if vehicle owners were involved in a crash, the air bags modules would not collect or store data, making it difficult to investigate the crash. The failure was due to the Air Bag Control Module, Event Data Recorder, and Restraint Control Module, which were unable to download the needed information. The vehicle was towed and taken to the insurance company's lot. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was not available.

NHTSA ODI 11712685

The drivers side door latch does not allow the driver to exist the vehicle as the door lock on the drivers door has only worked intermittently. When the lock doesn’t unlock on the drivers door, I have to use the passenger or rear doors to enter and/or exit the vehicle. The drivers door won’t even allow me to manually unlock the door using the latch—when I grip the latch tight enough to grab the door lock pin it cannot even be pulled up manually, it’s as if it is being pulled back down with heavy force. This is a significant hazard in the event of an emergency as I cannot exit the vehicle. The truck only has -7,000 miles on it and is in like new condition. This began back in August of 2024, but then stopped for a while and returned intermittently, but now seems to be a regular occurrence. This need to be addressed by Ford ASAP.

NHTSA ODI 11712112

RE: NHTSA # 24V957 Ford still has not resolved this issue. Two dealerships I called have given conflicting information.

NHTSA ODI 11710696