The 2021 Ford Ranger has 6 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 119 complaints with NHTSA, including 6 crashes, 3 fires, 9 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Power Train (60 reports).
2021 Ford Ranger recalls
Engine Block Heater May Crack and Cause Fire Risk
The engine block heater can crack and develop a coolant leak.
Rearview Camera May Show Blank or Stuck Image
A software error can cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or to keep showing the camera image after the vehicle has left reverse.
Incorrect Tire Load Label Can Lead to Overloading and Crash Risk
The Tire and Loading Information label on certain Ford Bronco, Super Duty F-250, and Ranger vehicles lists an incorrect load carrying capacity.
Radar May Misjudge Distance, Delaying Automatic Braking
A cruise control radar module may have been misaligned during production.
Front Passenger Seat Belt May Be Misrouted in Crash
A front passenger outboard seat belt in these Ford Ranger Super Cab trucks may not have been assembled correctly, so the belt can be routed the wrong way.
Child Seats May Not Install Securely, Raising Crash Injury Risk
Certain rear seats in these vehicles have fixed head restraints that can get in the way of some child seats, and the child seat may not attach properly to the lower-rear anchors.
Most common 2021 Ford Ranger problems
Problem areas named in the 119 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Power Train | 60 |
| Service Brakes | 14 |
| Engine | 13 |
| Unknown Or Other | 13 |
| Structure | 8 |
| Electrical System | 8 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 8 |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 8 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 7 |
| Back Over Prevention | 5 |
What owners report
The chrome coating on both interior door handles is peeling. The chrome coating creates very sharp edges and has already cut a passenger who was getting out of the car. I checked the internet and found that the same thing has been happening to Ford Expeditions of these same years. They have been recalled for the chrome peeling and possibly cutting passengers.
I am reporting a potential drivetrain safety defect involving the rear driveshaft bearing on my 2021 Ford Ranger FX4 Lariat. On September 3, 2025, I brought my truck to Larry H. Miller Ford Lakewood after experiencing an intermittent abnormal whistling/mechanical noise while driving. The vehicle had 38,275 miles and was still under warranty. Ford retained it until September 6 but could not reproduce or diagnose the noise. This is documented on service invoice #415969. The noise continued and progressively worsened, eventually accompanied by increased vibration. In early July 2026, an independent repair shop identified a rear driveshaft problem and recommended replacement. I returned to For
I was parking the truck and I put it in reverse and no reverse whatsoever. I put it and drive them back and reverse nothing. I put it in park turned it off restarted it and reverse worked took it to the dealer and they said the transmission has to be replaced due to faulty parts from Ford on the original transmission although it might be covered under the 200,000 mile powertrain warranty it is still a big inconvenience and this is not the first time I was having problems with the transmission if I have to pay for it it could be up to $8500
The 2021 Ford Ranger Lariat , mileage 42,362 would not go into reverse, the wrench was lit up on dash. Shut Truck off it cleared the code, immediately took it to Ford dealer. Was sent home because the tech said the light was off so he couldnât diagnose. After reading about the issue we made the appt for a diagnostic scan. The codes were P2704, P0772 . The truck has been with dealership since 09/14/2026. Itâs the 10R80 transmission with a service bulletin out on the CDF drum.mechanical defect that Ford knowingly sold to unsuspecting consumers. I was able to get a goodwill assist from Ford to help with repair , told they would cover 40% but are now only wanting to pay 16% . The time warra
Vehicle is just out of warranty and has less than 45,000 miles yet I'm being told I need a full transmission replacement. I know of 4 other rangers that as soon as they hit 40,000 or there about, began having jerky transmission issues. I reached out to ford for a goodwill request and am being told that I have to pay to have the transmission disassembled just to see IF they will pay for anything to be fixed. Is this not planned obsolesence?
2021 Ford Ranger questions
Does the 2021 Ford Ranger have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 6 safety recalls for the 2021 Ford Ranger: Engine Block Heater May Crack and Cause Fire Risk; Rearview Camera May Show Blank or Stuck Image; Incorrect Tire Load Label Can Lead to Overloading and Crash Risk; Radar May Misjudge Distance, Delaying Automatic Braking; Front Passenger Seat Belt May Be Misrouted in Crash. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Ford Ranger?
Based on 119 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Power Train (60), Service Brakes (14), Engine (13).
How do I check if a recall on my 2021 Ford Ranger has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.