Dealer visit checklist
2021 Ford F-150 checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2021 Ford F-150 problems to check
- 10-speed automatic transmission can exhibit harsh or hesitant shifts, especially when cold — a known issue across the 2021 model year that Ford has addressed with multiple software updates
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (the most popular engine) has documented cases of carbon buildup on intake valves over time, which may require walnut blasting around 60,000-80,000 miles
- SYNC 4 infotainment system occasionally freezes or loses Bluetooth connectivity, typically resolved via software update but frustrating for owners
- PowerBoost hybrid owners report occasional 12-volt battery drain when the truck sits unused for extended periods, requiring replacement sooner than expected
- Tailgate latching mechanism and the optional multi-function tailgate have reported fitment and latch failure issues, with several TSBs issued by Ford
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 F-150 vehicles.
- VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD:CRITICAL FASTENERS: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 and 2020-2021 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty vehicles.
- AIR BAGS:SENSOR:SIDE IMPACT: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Super Duty F-250, F-350, 2021 F-150, Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator vehicles.
- SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles.
- SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WEBBING: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 Super Cab vehicles.
- POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles.
- STEERING:GEAR BOX (OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION): Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles.
- VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $33,000 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away