2021 Ford Expedition Safety Report
2021 Ford Expedition: Excellent Crash Ratings, but Significant Powertrain and Engine Fire Concerns with 8 Recalls
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Ford Expedition
Reliability Score
The 2021 Ford Expedition receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2021 Ford Expedition
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Ford Expedition:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission Failure/Loss Of Power Numerous complaints (57 under POWER TRAIN) describe jerky shifting, hard downshifts, slipping out of gear, and complete loss of motive power, sometimes at highway speeds, leading to dangerous situations. Several complaints mention full transmission replacement. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Engine Compartment Fire Risk A recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V621000) addresses an engine compartment fire risk while driving or parked, even with the ignition off. This aligns with 3 reported fires in the complaint data. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Rearview Camera Failure Two recalls (NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 22V193000, 22V150000) address rearview camera issues, where the camera may display a blank image or continue to display after the vehicle is in drive, increasing crash risk. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Windshield Wiper Arm Failure A recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V250000) indicates that windshield wiper arms may break, leading to inoperative wipers and reduced visibility, increasing crash risk. One complaint describes a jerking wiper arm. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Engine Overheating/Stalling Complaints under ENGINE (21 total) describe the engine overheating, displaying 'Drive Mode Inoperable' messages, stalling out, and failing to start, sometimes due to fuel pump issues. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Ford Expedition:
The most frequently reported issue, with 57 complaints, involves the transmission, including harsh shifts, slipping, loss of power, and complete failure, often requiring replacement.
With 21 complaints, issues include overheating, stalling, loss of power, and fuel pump failures. This component is also linked to a significant engine fire recall.
Complaints and recalls relate to moonroof wind deflector issues, panoramic sunroof shattering, and windshield wiper arm failures, impacting driver visibility.
Two recalls specifically address rearview camera malfunctions, where the camera may display a blank image, reducing the driver's view behind the vehicle.
4 complaints specifically mention fuel pump failures, leading to loss of motive power and vehicles being stranded.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Ford Expedition
Is the 2021 Ford Expedition safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Ford Expedition received excellent crash test ratings, achieving a 5-star overall safety rating. However, it has 181 complaints, including 3 fires and 4 injuries, and 8 recalls. Significant concerns exist regarding powertrain reliability, engine issues, and an engine fire recall, which could impact overall safety despite strong crash performance.
What are common problems with the 2021 Ford Expedition?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Ford Expedition are related to the POWER TRAIN (57 complaints), primarily transmission failures, jerky shifting, and loss of power. ENGINE problems (21 complaints) like overheating, stalling, and fuel pump failures are also common. There are also multiple recalls concerning rearview camera malfunctions and windshield wiper arm failures.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Ford Expedition?
Yes, the 2021 Ford Expedition has 8 recalls. Key recalls include an engine compartment fire risk, two separate recalls for rearview camera failures, windshield wiper arm issues, moonroof wind deflector clips, and airbag sensor module defects. Other recalls address incorrect owner's manual information regarding head restraints and airbag labels.
What is the biggest safety concern for the 2021 Ford Expedition?
The biggest safety concern for the 2021 Ford Expedition is the engine compartment fire recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V621000), which is supported by 3 reported fires in the complaint data. Additionally, widespread powertrain issues, including transmission failures leading to loss of motive power, pose a significant safety risk, especially at highway speeds.
How does the 2021 Ford Expedition perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Ford Expedition performs very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 5 stars for both frontal and side crash tests, and a 4-star rating for rollover resistance, indicating strong occupant protection in a collision.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2021 Ford Expedition offers excellent crash protection, potential buyers should be aware of the numerous powertrain and engine complaints, including a significant engine fire recall. Thoroughly investigate service history, especially for transmission and engine work, and ensure all 8 recalls have been addressed before purchase.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Ford Expedition
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Ford Expedition. The data includes 181 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 8 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, 3 fire incidents, 4 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Ford Expedition an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.