Owners have filed 30 complaints
about the 2021 Ford E-350 with NHTSA between 2021 and 2026.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 20 of 26 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 31
Against the median year of the Ford E-350. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 17
3.3% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 100
79% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade:
A
B
C
D
F
ungraded
What breaks on a 2021 Ford E-350
Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.
Brakes
930.0%
1 crashes, 0 fires · median 17,833 mi
Engine & Cooling
930.0%
Steering
723.3%
Median failure at 13,667 miles
Other & Unspecified
26.7%
Stability & Traction Control
13.3%
Median failure at 1,500 miles
Driver Assist & Collision Avoidance
13.3%
Median failure at 1,500 miles
Fuel & Propulsion
13.3%
Median failure at 13,667 miles
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
1,000 – 9,999 miles
321.4%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
857.1%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
321.4%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Jun 2021peak 3Jan 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2021 Ford E-350
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
RQ24003Opened 27 Feb 2024Closed 11 May 2026SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST
Loss of Power Brake/Steering Assist Post Recall 22V089 Inspection.
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query (RQ) 24003 on February 27, 2024, to evaluate the scope and remedy effectiveness of NHTSA recall 24V097. On February 16, 2022, Ford Motor Company (Ford) issued a safety recall, NHTSA recall 22V089, for certain 2021-2022 Ford E-350 and E-450 vehicles equipped with dual rear wheels. According to the filing, specific hydraulic lines could leak resulting in a sudden loss of power steering and power brake assist, increasing the risk of a crash. The remedy involved a dealer inspection of the lines and their replacement as necessary. Only v...
Complaints that involved harm
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Hillsboro, ORCrash
SERVICE BRAKES
On 6/2/23, brakes failed to work when applying heavy pressure, causing a rear end collision.
NHTSA complaint #11596399 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Charlotte, NC
ENGINE
fatal Camshaft and lifter failure requiring an engine replacement
NHTSA complaint #11714692 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fitchburg, MA
ENGINE
Engine failure at 78,172, excess wear to the camshaft lobes and valve tappet surface. We have had 22 failures. There was a recall -24B27 for 2021 and 2022 models year for idle oil pressure. Most vans had 70 to 80k on them by the time we received a letter. Some engine have been changed twice. Ford has a serious problem and is not acknowledging it. Please help! Montachusett Regional Transit Authority , Fitchburg MA 01420
NHTSA complaint #11701901 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bluffton, IN
ENGINE
This is one of 4 of my 2021 ford econoline fleet vehicles purchased in 2021 that have had engine failure. I am one of many contractors in my area and others around the country who have had this issue with the same F59 engine. Ford has failed to issue a recall.
NHTSA complaint #11643142 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bluffton, IN
ENGINE
This is one of 4 of my 2021 ford econoline fleet vehicles purchased in 2021 that have had engine failure. I am one of many contractors in my area and others around the country who have had this issue with the same F59 engine. Ford has failed to issue a recall.
NHTSA complaint #11643144 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bluffton, IN
ENGINE
This is one of 4 of my 2021 ford econoline fleet vehicles purchased in 2021 that have had engine failure. I am one of many contractors in my area and others around the country who have had this issue with the same F59 engine. Ford has failed to issue a recall.
NHTSA complaint #11643148 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Allentown, PA
STEERING
See attached document for complaint.
NHTSA complaint #11623611 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Allentown, PA
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
See attached document for complaint.
NHTSA complaint #11623611 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tillamook, OR
STEERING
After hitting a very rough patch of interstate, our steering became very difficult. The driver thought that maybe we had a low tire, so looked for a place to pull over. We crested a hill, and there was an exit with a truck stop. As we attempted to slow for the exit, the driver discovered we had no brakes or power steering. Driver used the brakes on the trailer we were towing to slow us and bring us to a stop. Checked the brake fluid reservoir. It was empty. Bought more, but as soon as the pedal was pushed, it was gone. We were towed to a repair shop, and they discovered the high pressure line on the Hydroboost brake system had separated. The repair shop was able to find a replacement from Ford Motor Co., and repaired our motorhome. We had this exact component inspected 2 years ago when Ford issued an inspection report. We passed. This incident happened 2500 miles from home. When we arrived home, there was a letter from Ford (24N03) stating they were extending the "warranty" period on the high pressure line.
NHTSA complaint #11609275 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tillamook, OR
SERVICE BRAKES
After hitting a very rough patch of interstate, our steering became very difficult. The driver thought that maybe we had a low tire, so looked for a place to pull over. We crested a hill, and there was an exit with a truck stop. As we attempted to slow for the exit, the driver discovered we had no brakes or power steering. Driver used the brakes on the trailer we were towing to slow us and bring us to a stop. Checked the brake fluid reservoir. It was empty. Bought more, but as soon as the pedal was pushed, it was gone. We were towed to a repair shop, and they discovered the high pressure line on the Hydroboost brake system had separated. The repair shop was able to find a replacement from Ford Motor Co., and repaired our motorhome. We had this exact component inspected 2 years ago when Ford issued an inspection report. We passed. This incident happened 2500 miles from home. When we arrived home, there was a letter from Ford (24N03) stating they were extending the "warranty" period on the high pressure line.
NHTSA complaint #11609275 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Monroe, NY
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Safety recall
NHTSA complaint #11605939 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hillsboro, ORCrash
SERVICE BRAKES
On 6/2/23, brakes failed to work when applying heavy pressure, causing a rear end collision.
NHTSA complaint #11596399 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlotte, NC
ENGINE
See attached document for complaint,
NHTSA complaint #11582566 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlotte, NC
ENGINE
See attached document for complaint,
NHTSA complaint #11582598 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlotte, NC
ENGINE
See attached document for complaint,
NHTSA complaint #11582604 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 40,000 milesDaytona Beach, FL
STEERING
The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The stated while driving into the driveway, the vehicle made an abnormal popping sound. The vehicle lost power steering functionality, and the brake pedal became spongy. Additionally, the contact stated that there was a trail of fluid in the driveway. The contact stated that upon opening the hood, he noticed that the brake line had fractured, and brake fluid was leaking inside the engine compartment. There was no further information provided. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to a dealer; however, the dealer could not accommodate the vehicle. The dealer was contacted and diagnosed the vehicle at the contact's residence. The dealer determined that unknown hoses needed to be replaced and the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V089000 (Steering, Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The dealer and the manufacturer informed the contact that the vehicle could not be covered under the recall as the recall was previously marked as complete. The contact stated that the dealer had not completed the recall repair on the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
NHTSA complaint #11530672 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 40,000 milesDaytona Beach, FL
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST
The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The stated while driving into the driveway, the vehicle made an abnormal popping sound. The vehicle lost power steering functionality, and the brake pedal became spongy. Additionally, the contact stated that there was a trail of fluid in the driveway. The contact stated that upon opening the hood, he noticed that the brake line had fractured, and brake fluid was leaking inside the engine compartment. There was no further information provided. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to a dealer; however, the dealer could not accommodate the vehicle. The dealer was contacted and diagnosed the vehicle at the contact's residence. The dealer determined that unknown hoses needed to be replaced and the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V089000 (Steering, Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The dealer and the manufacturer informed the contact that the vehicle could not be covered under the recall as the recall was previously marked as complete. The contact stated that the dealer had not completed the recall repair on the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
NHTSA complaint #11530672 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 40,000 milesDaytona Beach, FL
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The stated while driving into the driveway, the vehicle made an abnormal popping sound. The vehicle lost power steering functionality, and the brake pedal became spongy. Additionally, the contact stated that there was a trail of fluid in the driveway. The contact stated that upon opening the hood, he noticed that the brake line had fractured, and brake fluid was leaking inside the engine compartment. There was no further information provided. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to a dealer; however, the dealer could not accommodate the vehicle. The dealer was contacted and diagnosed the vehicle at the contact's residence. The dealer determined that unknown hoses needed to be replaced and the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V089000 (Steering, Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The dealer and the manufacturer informed the contact that the vehicle could not be covered under the recall as the recall was previously marked as complete. The contact stated that the dealer had not completed the recall repair on the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
NHTSA complaint #11530672 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 13,667 milesTampa, FL
STEERING
The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the power steering and brakes became inoperable. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer where it was diagnosed with loosened brake line fittings and an unknown fluid leak. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V013000 (Fuel System, Diesel). The manufacturer was contacted but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 13,667.
NHTSA complaint #11472024 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 13,667 milesTampa, FL
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the power steering and brakes became inoperable. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer where it was diagnosed with loosened brake line fittings and an unknown fluid leak. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V013000 (Fuel System, Diesel). The manufacturer was contacted but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 13,667.
NHTSA complaint #11472024 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 13,667 milesTampa, FL
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the power steering and brakes became inoperable. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer where it was diagnosed with loosened brake line fittings and an unknown fluid leak. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V013000 (Fuel System, Diesel). The manufacturer was contacted but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 13,667.
NHTSA complaint #11472024 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 10,800 milesMonroe, OH
STEERING
The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The contact stated that the vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V089000 (Steering, Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and the vehicle was inspected. During the inspection, there were no leaks found. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH after the inspection, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact coasted the vehicle off the highway. The contact stated that while driving afterward and attempting to depress the brake pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as designed. The contact pulled over and had the vehicle towed to the dealer where the recall repair was completed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 10,800.
NHTSA complaint #11471820 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 10,800 milesMonroe, OH
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST
The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The contact stated that the vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V089000 (Steering, Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and the vehicle was inspected. During the inspection, there were no leaks found. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH after the inspection, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact coasted the vehicle off the highway. The contact stated that while driving afterward and attempting to depress the brake pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as designed. The contact pulled over and had the vehicle towed to the dealer where the recall repair was completed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 10,800.
NHTSA complaint #11471820 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 10,800 milesMonroe, OH
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The contact stated that the vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V089000 (Steering, Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and the vehicle was inspected. During the inspection, there were no leaks found. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH after the inspection, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact coasted the vehicle off the highway. The contact stated that while driving afterward and attempting to depress the brake pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as designed. The contact pulled over and had the vehicle towed to the dealer where the recall repair was completed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 10,800.
NHTSA complaint #11471820 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 22,000 milesLas Vegas, NV
STEERING
The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The contact's wife was driving into a parking lot at approximately 5 MPH when the power steering and the brakes failed. The contact's wife was able to safely stop the vehicle. The contact stated that his wife had not observed any warning lights being illuminated. The contact's wife examined the vehicle and noticed that there was red fluid puddling on the ground and a hissing sound coming from the driver’s side under the engine. The vehicle had not been towed to a dealer and had not been diagnosed or repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V089000 (Steering, Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 22,000. Consumer purchased the unit in Las Vegas on March 13th with 21,477 miles on the odometer and it failed on April 1st, with 22,018 miles on the odometer.
NHTSA complaint #11459276 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 22,000 milesLas Vegas, NV
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The contact's wife was driving into a parking lot at approximately 5 MPH when the power steering and the brakes failed. The contact's wife was able to safely stop the vehicle. The contact stated that his wife had not observed any warning lights being illuminated. The contact's wife examined the vehicle and noticed that there was red fluid puddling on the ground and a hissing sound coming from the driver’s side under the engine. The vehicle had not been towed to a dealer and had not been diagnosed or repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V089000 (Steering, Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 22,000. Consumer purchased the unit in Las Vegas on March 13th with 21,477 miles on the odometer and it failed on April 1st, with 22,018 miles on the odometer.
NHTSA complaint #11459276 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.