Owners have filed 296 complaints
about the 2021 Ford Expedition with NHTSA between 2021 and 2026.
The largest single group is the transmission & drivetrain.
Across this model's run it ranks 21 of 30 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 — 37
Against the median year of the Ford Expedition. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 35
6.8% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 74
43% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2021 compares with every other Ford Expedition
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
47.5%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
59.4%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
1120.8%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
611.3%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
1324.5%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
1222.6%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
23.8%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
Frontal crash test
Side barrier crash test
Side pole crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2021 Ford Expedition SUV 4WD
19.3% risk
2021 Ford Expedition SUV 2WD
20.8% risk
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.
Aug 2021peak 22Aug 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2021 Ford Expedition
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.
1
investigation is
still open.
AQ26001Opened 9 Jun 2026Still openNONE
NU Car rental of vehicles with open recalls
NHTSA is opening this Audit Query (AQ) to investigate NU Car Rentals (NU Car) for compliance with the requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.The Safety Act requires that a rental company shall not rent a vehicle subject to a safety recall unless the recall remedy has been performed. 49 U.S.C. § 30120(i). NHTSA is in receipt of information that indicates NU Car rented at least two vehicles to consumers without having performed required recall repairs. The Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQ) related to this investigation can be found on nhtsa.gov by searching for ID num...
Recalls on the 2021 Ford Expedition
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
26V402000
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Navigator, Expedition, 2020-2021 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2021 F-150 vehicles. The transmission park pawl may engage while the vehicle is in motion, resulting in park system damage.
Risk: Park system damage may result in a vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash.
26V368000
STRUCTURE:INTERIOR PANELS:CENTER CONSOLE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2024 Expedition vehicles. The chrome plating on the center console may bubble and peel, resulting in sharp edges.
Risk: Vehicle occupants may contact the center console's sharp edges, increasing the risk of injury.
26V344000
SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The seat belt pretensioner in the driver and/or front passenger seat may inadvertently lock the seat belt, which will not allow the belt to retract or extend.
Risk: Seat belts that do not retract or extend can fail to restrain an occupant as intended, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
26V204000
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:LINKAGES
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, and 2022-2023 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, and F-600 SD vehicles. The windshield wiper arms may break, causing the wipers to fail.
Risk: Windshield wiper failure can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
25V729000
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, 2021-2023 F-150, 2022 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, and F-450 SD vehicles. The moonroof wind deflector clips may be inadequately attached to the moonroof frame, which can result in the wind deflector detaching from the vehicle.
Risk: A detached wind deflector can become a road hazard and increase the risk of a crash.
25V442000
BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.
Risk: A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
25V048000
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Expedition, 2021-2022 Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The rearview camera may display a blank or distorted image.
Risk: Rearview camera failure can reduce the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
24V852000
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk: Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 202631133,012 units in Canada
Powertrain
Issue: On certain vehicles, a problem in the transmission could cause the parking pawl to become damaged. As a result, when the transmission is shifted to Park, the vehicle could move if the parking brake is not applied. Safety Risk: A parked vehicle that rolls away could create the risk of an injury or a crash. Corrective Actions: To reduce the safety risk, Ford recommends that you should always use the parking brake when you park until the recall repairs are completed. Ford will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to update the powertrain control module (PCM) software. The dealer will also inspect and, if necessary, replace any damaged transmission components.
Recall 202627916,208 units in Canada
Other
Issue: On certain vehicles, the chrome plating on the center console could bubble and peel. If this happens, sharp edges can be created. Safety Risk: Exposed sharp edges can increase the risk of injury. Corrective Actions: Ford will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to inspect and, if necessary, replace the center console.
Recall 202625713,760 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
Issue: On certain vehicles, there could be a problem with the driver and/or front passenger seatbelt pretensioner(s). As a result, the airbag warning light could turn on, and the seatbelt pretensioners could deploy without a crash. Note: This recall replaces Transport Canada recall nos. 2024-084 and 2025-164. Vehicles that were repaired under those recalls also require this inspection or repair. Safety Risk: Seat belt pretensioners that don't work properly could create an increased risk of injury. Additionally, seat belt pretensioners that deploy without a crash could startle the driver and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Ford will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to inspect and, if necessary, replace the driver and front passenger seatbelt retractors.
Recall 202616131,510 units in Canada
Visual System
Issue: On certain trucks, the windshield wiper arms may not have been manufactured correctly. As a result, the wiper arm(s) could break or become detached and may not wipe the windshield properly. Safety Risk: Windshield wipers that do not work properly could affect a driver's visibility. Windshield wiper(s) that detach from the vehicle could create a road hazard for others. Both issues could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Ford will notify owners by mail. The corrective actions for this recall are under development.
Recall 202558723,437 units in Canada
Structure
Issue: On certain vehicles, the moonroof wind deflector may not have been attached properly. As a result, the deflector could detach from the vehicle. Note: This recall also affects certain Super Duty incomplete vehicles. Safety Risk: A moonroof wind deflector that detaches from the vehicle could create a hazard for others and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Ford will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to inspect and, if necessary, repair the moonroof wind deflector.
Recall 202536016,575 units in Canada
Visual System
Issue: On certain vehicles, a software problem could cause the rearview camera image not to display when the transmission is shifted into reverse. Canadian regulations require the rearview image to display when the vehicle is reversing. Safety Risk: A rearview camera image that doesn't display could reduce a driver's ability to see behind the vehicle while backing up. This could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Ford will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to update the SYNC software.
Recall 20250438,552 units in Canada
Visual System
Issue: On certain vehicles, the rearview camera image may not display correctly or at all. Note: This recall also affects certain Super Duty incomplete vehicles. Safety Risk: A rearview camera image that doesn't display correctly could reduce a driver's ability to see behind the vehicle while backing up. This could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Ford will notify owners by mail. The corrective actions for this recall are under development.
Recall 202334132,328 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
Issue: On certain vehicles, the owner's manual doesn't include instructions for how to remove or adjust the head restraint for the centre seating positions. Canadian regulations require this information be included in the owner's manual. Safety Risk: Missing instructions for how to remove or adjust head restraints could increase the risk of injury in a crash. Corrective Actions: Ford will notify owners by mail and provide you with an owner's manual insert with instructions for how to remove and adjust the centre seat head restraints.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 73,000 milesCarlsbad, NM1 injured
STRUCTURE
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while reaching into the center console of the vehicle, a sharp edge on the trim caused an injury to the thumb. The contact stated that the issue reoccurred, and the sharp edge caused a cut on the thumb. No medical attention was needed; however, bandages were used on the cuts. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the issue. The contact associated the issue with NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V368000 (Structure). The approximate failure mileage was 73,000.
NHTSA complaint #11745768 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wylie, TXFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I took my vehicle to the dealership to have all recall work done on Feb. 11th 2026. I was told i am up to date on all my recall work at that time. When I received my vehicle back It would intermittently just shut down for no apparent reason while sitting at stop lights, or just stopped in that fashion. I called and the dealership they said unless they could recreate the issue somewhat easily there was noting they could really do. So while parked in driveway the vehicle again had no power, I used my emergency key to get into vehicle and opened the hood to which I found the battery terminal connections were never tighten. I could take them off by hand. This told me the mechanic at the dealership didn't complete job and tighten my battery connections, Fast forward to April 18th, it was raining, I parked vehicle, still running, went into post office ( I was only gone for 30 seconds)and I came out to white smoke billowing out from under the hood. I opened hood the large flames shooting up. I quickly grabbed a fire extinguisher I had in the car and put 90% of the fire out, it was still burning at the fuse junction box, moments later a police officer showed up with fire extinguisher and was able to put it out. The car would not stop running, so once the fire dept. arrived they had to cut the battery terminals to shut the vehicle down. This was also the first time I drove vehicle in the rain since my recall work was done. The fire dept. and I realized the fuse box cover was not in place. So now this same mechanic that did't tighten battery terminals was also neglectful in not replacing the fuse box cover. I believe this neglect partially if not wholly caused this fire. It is highly probable that water got into the fuse box and shortened everything out which caused the fire. I have a document from the dealership that states they did the recall work for 22S36 - Underhood fires. But this website says this work was not performed. No inspection from anyone has been done
NHTSA complaint #11732203 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wylie, TXFire
ENGINE
I took my vehicle to the dealership to have all recall work done on Feb. 11th 2026. I was told i am up to date on all my recall work at that time. When I received my vehicle back It would intermittently just shut down for no apparent reason while sitting at stop lights, or just stopped in that fashion. I called and the dealership they said unless they could recreate the issue somewhat easily there was noting they could really do. So while parked in driveway the vehicle again had no power, I used my emergency key to get into vehicle and opened the hood to which I found the battery terminal connections were never tighten. I could take them off by hand. This told me the mechanic at the dealership didn't complete job and tighten my battery connections, Fast forward to April 18th, it was raining, I parked vehicle, still running, went into post office ( I was only gone for 30 seconds)and I came out to white smoke billowing out from under the hood. I opened hood the large flames shooting up. I quickly grabbed a fire extinguisher I had in the car and put 90% of the fire out, it was still burning at the fuse junction box, moments later a police officer showed up with fire extinguisher and was able to put it out. The car would not stop running, so once the fire dept. arrived they had to cut the battery terminals to shut the vehicle down. This was also the first time I drove vehicle in the rain since my recall work was done. The fire dept. and I realized the fuse box cover was not in place. So now this same mechanic that did't tighten battery terminals was also neglectful in not replacing the fuse box cover. I believe this neglect partially if not wholly caused this fire. It is highly probable that water got into the fuse box and shortened everything out which caused the fire. I have a document from the dealership that states they did the recall work for 22S36 - Underhood fires. But this website says this work was not performed. No inspection from anyone has been done
NHTSA complaint #11732203 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fayetteville, GACrash
POWER TRAIN
While towing a rented trailer from Tractor Supply, the trailer detached because it was not properly secured by store staff. The trailer struck the rear bumper of my 2021 Ford Expedition, causing visible body damage and raising concerns about hidden damage to the drivetrain and transmission due to the sudden force of the impact. After the incident, the vehicle was taken to a Ford dealership for inspection. Documentation exists showing that additional drivetrain and transmission evaluation is needed to determine the full extent of damage. The rear-view camera is also under active NHTSA recall (25V048), and its poor image quality complicates safe reversing after the incident. The safety risk is significant: the trailer detachment created a roadway hazard and impact, while the rear camera defect reduces visibility and increases crash risk when backing. The vehicle has been inspected by a Ford dealership and is being reviewed under an insurance claim with Tractor Supply’s insurer. Full documentation of the service visit and inspection is available upon request.
NHTSA complaint #11688549 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fayetteville, GACrash
STRUCTURE:BODY
While towing a rented trailer from Tractor Supply, the trailer detached because it was not properly secured by store staff. The trailer struck the rear bumper of my 2021 Ford Expedition, causing visible body damage and raising concerns about hidden damage to the drivetrain and transmission due to the sudden force of the impact. After the incident, the vehicle was taken to a Ford dealership for inspection. Documentation exists showing that additional drivetrain and transmission evaluation is needed to determine the full extent of damage. The rear-view camera is also under active NHTSA recall (25V048), and its poor image quality complicates safe reversing after the incident. The safety risk is significant: the trailer detachment created a roadway hazard and impact, while the rear camera defect reduces visibility and increases crash risk when backing. The vehicle has been inspected by a Ford dealership and is being reviewed under an insurance claim with Tractor Supply’s insurer. Full documentation of the service visit and inspection is available upon request.
NHTSA complaint #11688549 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fayetteville, GACrash
VISIBILITY/WIPER
While towing a rented trailer from Tractor Supply, the trailer detached because it was not properly secured by store staff. The trailer struck the rear bumper of my 2021 Ford Expedition, causing visible body damage and raising concerns about hidden damage to the drivetrain and transmission due to the sudden force of the impact. After the incident, the vehicle was taken to a Ford dealership for inspection. Documentation exists showing that additional drivetrain and transmission evaluation is needed to determine the full extent of damage. The rear-view camera is also under active NHTSA recall (25V048), and its poor image quality complicates safe reversing after the incident. The safety risk is significant: the trailer detachment created a roadway hazard and impact, while the rear camera defect reduces visibility and increases crash risk when backing. The vehicle has been inspected by a Ford dealership and is being reviewed under an insurance claim with Tractor Supply’s insurer. Full documentation of the service visit and inspection is available upon request.
NHTSA complaint #11688549 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Winter Park, FL
POWER TRAIN
For the past three years I have complained about the transmission dropping out of gear. It happens most often if I'm towing a trailer. I seems to occur in spurts, happening a couple of times in a few days then not for some time. Very dangerous if you pull around to pass and suddenly you lose power. Originally the dealership said they could find nothing wrong. I have read recently that Ford is having trouble with their transmissions. At my latest service appointment, I restated my problem and was told I need a new transmission.
NHTSA complaint #11756944 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dubach, LA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
While stopped at a traffic light, my 2021 Ford Expedition began running rough. When the light changed and I accelerated through the intersection, the vehicle experienced a severe loss of engine power and barely made it through the intersection. After I pulled off the roadway and released the accelerator, the engine stalled. I was able to restart the engine once while applying approximately one-quarter throttle. It continued running rough and stalled again when I released the accelerator. The vehicle was taken to Robinson Brothers Ford/Lincoln in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The Ford dealer documented the rough running, low power and stalling and diagnosed the "fuel pump inop." The dealer removed the fuel tank and replaced the fuel pump/sender assembly. The replacement part listed on the dealer invoice is Ford part JL1Z-9H307-G. Vehicle mileage was approximately 79,390. Several months before the complete failure, during very cold weather, I also experienced one brief incident of unusually low engine power shortly after starting the vehicle. I do not know whether that earlier incident was related. I am concerned that this failure may be related to the low-pressure fuel pump failure condition addressed by Ford Safety Recall 25S75 / NHTSA Recall 25V-455, which includes certain 2022 Ford Expeditions. My 2021 Expedition is not currently included in that recall. The loss of power occurred while I was crossing an intersection and created a serious safety risk. I am submitting this complaint so NHTSA can evaluate this fuel pump failure along with failures involving other vehicles excluded from Recall 25V-455.
NHTSA complaint #11755789 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
East Flat Rock, NC
POWER TRAIN
Vehicles automatic transmission repeatedly looses its gear, often while accelerating. The transmission tries to shift down, but somehow ends up loosing engagement and will not re-engage. This lead to critical/dangerous situations on Highways due to the sudden loss of power.
NHTSA complaint #11755022 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Carrollton, KY
POWER TRAIN
OEM transmission had to be replaced 3 years after new purchase. Replacement transmission installed at Ford dealership has failed after less then 2 years. About to have third transmission installed.
NHTSA complaint #11754495 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Moorhead, MN
ENGINE
The engine stalled out while trying to pass someone. The car wouldn't go faster when hitting the gas and felt like I couldnt safely slow down to get back over. It felt like something slipped and lost traction, but roads were dry and not rocky or sandy. tapping breaks and letting off gas did nothing. it has happened before but usually in winter, and gettin up to speed. its like the gear shift got stuck.
NHTSA complaint #11753596 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Moorhead, MN
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The engine stalled out while trying to pass someone. The car wouldn't go faster when hitting the gas and felt like I couldnt safely slow down to get back over. It felt like something slipped and lost traction, but roads were dry and not rocky or sandy. tapping breaks and letting off gas did nothing. it has happened before but usually in winter, and gettin up to speed. its like the gear shift got stuck.
NHTSA complaint #11753596 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Meridian, MS
POWER TRAIN
On my expedition I started having issues with my transmission staying in gear while driving. I will be going up a hill and all of a sudden boom it starts down shifting or not accelerating at all. I had a few times when me and my wife will be driving, and we would be going through a intersection or a area where you don't want to slow down and then the transmission would forget which gear it would be in and lose all power. Keep in mind my expedition only has 83K miles and serviced regularly. $8,900 later it needs a new transmission. This is a huge safety problem that's being ignored.
NHTSA complaint #11753340 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Meridian, MS
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
On my expedition I started having issues with my transmission staying in gear while driving. I will be going up a hill and all of a sudden boom it starts down shifting or not accelerating at all. I had a few times when me and my wife will be driving, and we would be going through a intersection or a area where you don't want to slow down and then the transmission would forget which gear it would be in and lose all power. Keep in mind my expedition only has 83K miles and serviced regularly. $8,900 later it needs a new transmission. This is a huge safety problem that's being ignored.
NHTSA complaint #11753340 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
New England, ND
POWER TRAIN
On several occasions the vehicle will act like it misses a gear when put under load. Example is when you go to pass a vehicle and accelerate the vehicle will just rev up and not speed up. You then have to let the vehicle slow down and sort of get itself back into the right gear and you can go. Another example is taking off from a stop it will also do the same thing causing you to be pulling out into traffic and loosing power. Both of these scenarios are life threating as in both scenarios you could be faced with either on coming traffic or traffic coming at a high rate of speed behind you.
NHTSA complaint #11753011 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120,000 milesRichland, WA
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the message "Transmission Shifter Failure" was displayed on the instrument panel, and the vehicle independently accelerated. A dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that a recall for the failure would be available in April 2027. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
NHTSA complaint #11753034 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Frisco, TX
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The dashboard/instrument panel on my 2021 Ford Expedition is bubbling, warping, and peeling away directly above and around the front passenger airbag location. The dashboard has visibly separated from the underlying structure and continues to worsen. The defective component is available for inspection upon request. I am submitting this complaint because I believe this condition presents a potential safety hazard. The dashboard material is located directly over the passenger-side Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbag. I am concerned that the warped and delaminated dashboard could interfere with proper airbag deployment during a crash or cause pieces of the dashboard to break apart and become projectiles when the airbag deploys, increasing the risk of injury to the front passenger. There have been no airbag warning lights or messages displayed, and I have not been involved in a crash. The defect developed gradually, beginning with bubbling of the dashboard surface and progressing to peeling and separation. The condition continues to worsen over time. The issue has not yet been confirmed by a Ford dealer or independent repair facility, and the vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. My concern is that a dashboard should not deteriorate in the area surrounding a critical safety system on a relatively new vehicle, and I believe this issue should be investigated to determine whether it could affect passenger airbag performance or occupant safety.
NHTSA complaint #11752873 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Carlsbad, NM
POWER TRAIN
I am filing this complaint because I truly believe this transmission issue is a safety problem. I was driving my 2021 Ford Expedition and was merging onto a busy highway when I pressed the gas to get up to traffic speed. Instead of accelerating, the engine revved but the transmission would not shift. It felt like the vehicle was stuck between gears or in neutral. My SUV would not accelerate when I needed it to, and I remember thinking, “This is how someone gets hit.” As a mom, it was terrifying. I depend on my vehicle to safely get my family where we need to go. When you press the gas while merging into fast-moving traffic, you expect your vehicle to respond. Mine didn’t. I was left trying to merge while traffic was approaching and my SUV would barely move. Before this happened, I had noticed increasingly harsh shifting and delayed gear changes. The vehicle had been properly maintained, and the transmission had recently been serviced. After the incident, an authorized Ford dealership diagnosed the transmission with a failed CDF drum in the 10-speed transmission. The transmission had to be completely rebuilt. After researching this problem, I found many other Ford owners reporting the exact same failure and the same scary symptoms. This doesn’t seem like normal wear and tear. Losing the ability to accelerate without warning is a serious safety concern, especially when merging onto a highway or crossing an intersection. I hope NHTSA investigates this issue before someone isn’t as lucky as I was. I was fortunate to avoid an accident, but I can’t help thinking another family may not be.
NHTSA complaint #11752114 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Carlsbad, NM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I am filing this complaint because I truly believe this transmission issue is a safety problem. I was driving my 2021 Ford Expedition and was merging onto a busy highway when I pressed the gas to get up to traffic speed. Instead of accelerating, the engine revved but the transmission would not shift. It felt like the vehicle was stuck between gears or in neutral. My SUV would not accelerate when I needed it to, and I remember thinking, “This is how someone gets hit.” As a mom, it was terrifying. I depend on my vehicle to safely get my family where we need to go. When you press the gas while merging into fast-moving traffic, you expect your vehicle to respond. Mine didn’t. I was left trying to merge while traffic was approaching and my SUV would barely move. Before this happened, I had noticed increasingly harsh shifting and delayed gear changes. The vehicle had been properly maintained, and the transmission had recently been serviced. After the incident, an authorized Ford dealership diagnosed the transmission with a failed CDF drum in the 10-speed transmission. The transmission had to be completely rebuilt. After researching this problem, I found many other Ford owners reporting the exact same failure and the same scary symptoms. This doesn’t seem like normal wear and tear. Losing the ability to accelerate without warning is a serious safety concern, especially when merging onto a highway or crossing an intersection. I hope NHTSA investigates this issue before someone isn’t as lucky as I was. I was fortunate to avoid an accident, but I can’t help thinking another family may not be.
NHTSA complaint #11752114 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Panama City, FL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1) 2021 EXPEDITION TOWING A TRAILER, 30 MPH ON UPHILL ON RAMP HATHAWAY BRIDGE PANAMA CITY, FL. I FLOOR THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL TO DOWNSHIFT TO TRY TO ACCELERATE. I HEAR A LOUD CLUNK FROM THE TRANSMISSION. THE CAR GOES INTO NEUTRAL-NOTHING, NO ACCELERATION. I QUICKLY LET OFF THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND QUICKLY REAPPLY FORCE TO THE PEDAL IN A SMOOTH MANNER AND TRANSMISSION RE-ENGAGES AND I PULL AWAY. NO ACCIDENT THIS TIME. OCCURRED APRIL 2026. 2) WHEN STOPPED CAR WILL SOMETIMES LURCH FORWARD 2-3 FEET WHEN 1ST SHIFTING TRANSMISSION FROM PARK INTO DRIVE EVEN THOUGH FOOT IS ON BRAKE FIRMLY. OCCURS INTERMITTENTLY.
NHTSA complaint #11752216 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 60,000 milesNaples, FL
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Expedition. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the gear shifter unexpectedly shifted to park(P). No warning light was illuminated. The failure was a recurring failure. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V402000 (Power Train). The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and the issue was escalated. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
NHTSA complaint #11751578 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
St. Cloud, FL
POWER TRAIN
The transmission shifts erratic and will sometimes just kick out of gear. The car was taken to ford for repair and they flashed the transmission but, it did not repair it.
NHTSA complaint #11751393 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Easton, MO
POWER TRAIN
The vehicle first experienced severe, violent jerking and slipping when shifting between the 4th & 5th gears. The vehicle was held by a Ford dealership for 21 days for this issue, but the repair failed. Two months after being out of the shop the transmission has rapidly degraded and is now actively experiencing the same severe, violent jerking and failing to engage in every single gear except 10th. The vehicle completely loses acceleration power while driving, creating an immediate crash hazard. Dealerships in my area are refusing to accept the vehicle for 2 to 3 weeks due to scheduling backlogs, leaving me with an active, dangerous powertrain failure under warranty.
NHTSA complaint #11750935 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Three Rivers, MI
POWER TRAIN
I have a 2021 Ford Expedition Max that we purchased new. From the time we first purchased it, it has had an intermittent issue. During these times if I accelerate hard or try to give gas to go up a hill, it will occasionally act like it is losing power- like it drops into neutral and stops accelerating. If I do not let off of the gas immediately, it is followed by a loud metallic rattling/ grinding noise. If I release the accelerator, it recovers quickly and seems to “reset” and I’m able drive like normal. On a few occasions a brief warning has popped onto my dash but it goes away so quickly that I never know exactly what it said. It MAY have said something related to parking but I can’t recall what I’ve seen before it goes away. I’ve learned to adjust my driving, making as few hard accelerations as possible to avoid this. Sometimes they can’t be avoided. It becones scary when I’m trying to merge or have to make a quick turn to get into a break in traffic because when it happens at those times I’m not able to accelerate to avoid the oncoming traffic. It doesn’t do it every time but seems to do it more the more I’ve driven like longer trips and I believe it’s gotten more frequent over time despite my adjustments in driving. Last year a Ford dealership looked at it and we thought the recall they fixed might fix it but it did not. Now they’ve reproduced the issue and diagnosed DTC P07E6 referencing TSB 23-2249 and saying the transmission needs replaced. I am aware of NHTSA Recall 26V402 (Ford 26S48) involving similar vehicles with transmission/park system concerns. Although my VIN is not currently included, the similarities prompted me to submit this complaint in case my vehicle represents the same or a related safety issue. I don’t have the official diagnostic report yet as the dealership still has my vehicle but I’ll include a photo of my conversation with the dealership,
NHTSA complaint #11750488 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Three Rivers, MI
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I have a 2021 Ford Expedition Max that we purchased new. From the time we first purchased it, it has had an intermittent issue. During these times if I accelerate hard or try to give gas to go up a hill, it will occasionally act like it is losing power- like it drops into neutral and stops accelerating. If I do not let off of the gas immediately, it is followed by a loud metallic rattling/ grinding noise. If I release the accelerator, it recovers quickly and seems to “reset” and I’m able drive like normal. On a few occasions a brief warning has popped onto my dash but it goes away so quickly that I never know exactly what it said. It MAY have said something related to parking but I can’t recall what I’ve seen before it goes away. I’ve learned to adjust my driving, making as few hard accelerations as possible to avoid this. Sometimes they can’t be avoided. It becones scary when I’m trying to merge or have to make a quick turn to get into a break in traffic because when it happens at those times I’m not able to accelerate to avoid the oncoming traffic. It doesn’t do it every time but seems to do it more the more I’ve driven like longer trips and I believe it’s gotten more frequent over time despite my adjustments in driving. Last year a Ford dealership looked at it and we thought the recall they fixed might fix it but it did not. Now they’ve reproduced the issue and diagnosed DTC P07E6 referencing TSB 23-2249 and saying the transmission needs replaced. I am aware of NHTSA Recall 26V402 (Ford 26S48) involving similar vehicles with transmission/park system concerns. Although my VIN is not currently included, the similarities prompted me to submit this complaint in case my vehicle represents the same or a related safety issue. I don’t have the official diagnostic report yet as the dealership still has my vehicle but I’ll include a photo of my conversation with the dealership,
NHTSA complaint #11750488 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lake Wales, FL
STRUCTURE:BODY
Part of the luggage rack broke off of the vehicle while driving down the road. The vehicle had not been previously damaged. The broken piece could not be recovered.
NHTSA complaint #11749973 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Spring Branch, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
I am filing this complaint because my vehicle is exhibiting the exact failure mode detailed in Ford Recall 26S48 (NHTSA Campaign 26V402000), but my VIN is currently excluded from the recall population." A loud, heavy metal-on-metal "CLUNK" or "THUNK" right under the center console or floorboards the exact second I change gears. It feels like the transmission is violently dropping or snapping into gear. I even feel a physical jar or shudder through the shift dial and I brake pedal.
NHTSA complaint #11749102 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bethel Springs, TN
ENGINE
When my transmission is shifting, it almost stalls about 3-4 times everytime you start off. It is a hard shift that makes it fee like the car suddenly stops then goes back. I have had it happen 3 times that I thought my car died after stopping, making weird noises, then took off like normal. I am waiting for my car to just die as I am driving. The Ford dealership said I need a new transmission. The recall is out there for other vehicles like mine, yet mine is not listed. When you read what Ford says will happen- EXACTLY what my car does!!!!! My 2021 Ford Expedition Max has 70,000 miles on it now, but when it started had about 67,000
NHTSA complaint #11748552 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Delaware, OH
POWER TRAIN
COMPONENT: 2021 Ford Expedition Max 10R80 transmission. The CDF clutch cylinder (7H351) sleeve exhibits axial movement, breaking the clutch apply-pressure seal so commanded torque is not transmitted to the wheels. Engine revs while the vehicle fails to accelerate or move forward. Vehicle is available for NHTSA inspection and testing. INCIDENTS (7/5/2026, same drive cycle): (1) Highway, after braking from a 60 mph cruise to a 15-20 mph roll over a few hundred feet, the transmission failed to engage any gear on re-acceleration. (2) City, at 35 mph while accelerating to merge lanes, the transmission again failed to engage a gear. Engine 205-220F, Trans 200-210F, Indicated Gears 4th/5th, Odometer 120,217. Second owner; purchased at 115,067 mi. SAFETY: Sudden, unannounced loss of forward propulsion with no dash warning directly endangers my wife, my children, and other motorists during ordinary driving. Merging: stuck at 40-50 mph in 65-80 mph traffic invites a high-differential rear-end impact. Intersections/left turns: a mid-turn stall exposes the passenger side (where my family sits) to a T-bone at posted speed. Evasive maneuvers: failed acceleration converts a near-miss into an unavoidable collision. Grades: the ~7,000-lb SUV can roll backward or stall in-lane on short-sight-line hills. Towing (rated capacity, used regularly) magnifies every risk to trailer and following traffic. Shoulder stranding invites secondary collisions, a known highway-fatality cause. The defect is unpredictable. I cannot pre-empt merges, intersections, hills, or tows. DEALER/INDEPENDENT CONFIRMATION: None. I have not brought the vehicle in for service, to avoid compromising any NHTSA inspection or testing. MFR/POLICE/INSURANCE INSPECTION: None; no crash has occurred to this date. PRIOR WARNINGS: None. No lamps, messages, or symptoms preceded these failures, which first occurred 7/5/2026. Ford has documented awareness of the 10R80 CDF clutch cylinder defect and has not issued a recall.
NHTSA complaint #11748398 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Delaware, OH
POWER TRAIN
COMPONENT: 2021 Ford Expedition Max 10R80 transmission. The CDF clutch cylinder (7H351) sleeve exhibits axial movement, breaking the clutch apply-pressure seal so commanded torque is not transmitted to the wheels. Engine revs while the vehicle fails to accelerate or move forward. Vehicle is available for NHTSA inspection and testing. INCIDENTS (7/5/2026, same drive cycle): (1) Highway — after braking from a 60 mph cruise to a 15-20 mph roll, the transmission failed to engage any gear on re-acceleration. (2) City — at 35 mph while accelerating to merge lanes, the transmission again failed to engage a gear. Engine 205-220F, Trans 200-210F, Indicated Gears 4th/5th, Odometer 120,217. Second owner; purchased at 115,067 mi. SAFETY: Sudden, unannounced loss of forward propulsion with no dash warning directly endangers my wife, my children, and other motorists during ordinary driving. Merging: stuck at 40-50 mph in 65-80 mph traffic invites a high-differential rear-end impact. Intersections/left turns: a mid-turn stall exposes the passenger side (where my family sits) to a T-bone at posted speed. Evasive maneuvers: failed acceleration converts a near-miss into an unavoidable collision. Grades: the ~7,000-lb SUV can roll backward or stall in-lane on short-sight-line hills. Towing (rated capacity) magnifies every risk to trailer and following traffic. Shoulder stranding invites secondary collisions, a known highway-fatality cause. The defect is unpredictable — I cannot pre-empt merges, intersections, hills, or tows. DEALER/INDEPENDENT CONFIRMATION: None. I have not brought the vehicle in for service, to avoid compromising any NHTSA inspection or testing. MFR/POLICE/INSURANCE INSPECTION: None; no crash has occurred to this date. PRIOR WARNINGS: None. No lamps, messages, or symptoms preceded these failures, which first occurred 7/5/2026. Ford has documented awareness of the 10R80 CDF clutch cylinder design defect and has not issued a recall (TSB 23-2250).
NHTSA complaint #11748400 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Copenhagen, NY
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Turn.wipers on were slow to move, then just quit, now they don't move at all,all with no warning
NHTSA complaint #11748309 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
