2021 Ford E-350 Safety Report

The 2021 Ford E-350 presents a mixed safety picture, primarily due to a significant number of recalls addressing critical components and a notable pattern of engine-related complaints. With 20 total complaints, 9 (45%) are related to the ENGINE, indicating a potential widespread issue. Several complaints describe catastrophic engine failures, some at relatively low mileage (e.g., 78,172 miles) and even multiple failures within a fleet, with users explicitly stating Ford has not issued a recall for these specific engine failures despite a known recall (20V795) for an incomplete software update related to engine cover overheating. This suggests a deeper, unaddressed engine reliability concern beyond the existing recall. Beyond the engine, steering and service brakes are also areas of concern, accounting for 4 complaints each (20% each). These align with two significant recalls (22V089000 and 22V089000, both for STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS) that warn of a sudden loss of power steering and power brake assist, increasing crash risk. One complaint explicitly details a brake failure leading to a rear-end collision, and others describe simultaneous loss of power steering and brakes. Another recall (21V870000) addresses potential damage to ABS wiring, which could reduce ABS effectiveness. The vehicle has no NHTSA crash test ratings available (all N/A), making it impossible to assess its performance in simulated crash scenarios. However, the 1 reported crash and 0 injuries/fires/deaths from the complaints are positive, though the low complaint count overall limits the statistical significance. In summary, while the E-350 has a low overall complaint count, the concentration of complaints in critical areas like the engine, steering, and brakes, coupled with 6 recalls addressing serious safety defects (e.g., loss of power steering/brakes, engine overheating, potential driveshaft separation), suggests significant safety vulnerabilities. The lack of crash test data means its passive safety performance is unknown, placing greater emphasis on the active safety and reliability of its core components.

Our recommendation: Given the high incidence of severe engine failures and multiple critical safety recalls for steering and brakes, exercise extreme caution. Thoroughly investigate service history, ensure all 6 recalls have been completed, and consider an extended warranty for powertrain components.