2021 Ford E-350 problems

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The Ford E-Series (also known as the Ford Econoline, Ford Econovan or Ford Club Wagon) is a range of full-size vans manufactured and marketed by the Ford Motor Company. Introduced for 1961 as the replacement of the Ford F-Series panel van, four generations of the model line have been produced. Marketed for both cargo and passenger transport configurations, the E-Series has been designed with multiple design variations for both retail and commercial sale, including vans, and commercial-grade cutaway van chassis and stripped chassis (a chassis without bodywork).

With over 8.2 million units sold since 1961, the Ford E-Series is the third-best selling van line in history (outranked only by the Ford Transit and Volkswagen Transporter). Ford retired the E-Series passenger and cargo vans after 2014, replacing them with the Ford Transit. As of current production, the E-Series remains offered exclusively in cutaway and stripped-chassis configurations. In 2021, the model line entered its 60th year of production (becoming the second current Ford line to do so).

The E-Series (cutaway/stripped chassis) is assembled by Ford at its Ohio Assembly facility (Avon Lake, Ohio), which has produced the model line since 1975. Prior to its closure, Lorain Assembly (Lorain, Ohio) assembled the model line from 1961 to 2005.

2021 Ford E-350

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Common 2021 Ford E-350 problems

The Ford E-350 Super Duty is a popular choice for those who need a reliable and sturdy vehicle for hauling and towing. However, like any other vehicle, it is not without its issues. Here are some of the most common problems with the Ford E-350 Super Duty based on complaints from owners:

  • Loud Popping Noise and Misfire Experienced: Another common problem with the Ford E-350 Super Duty is a loud popping noise and misfiring. This issue can be caused by worn-out spark plugs, faulty ignition coils, or issues with the fuel system. If left unaddressed, this issue can lead to more serious engine problems.
  • Front End May Make Rattle: Some owners have reported a rattling noise coming from the front end of their Ford E-350 Super Duty. This issue can be caused by loose or worn-out suspension components, such as ball joints or tie rods. If left unaddressed, this issue can lead to more serious steering problems.
  • Rear Heater Core Leak: Another common problem with the Ford E-350 Super Duty is a rear heater core leak. This issue can be caused by corrosion or damage to the heater core, which can lead to coolant leaks and reduced heating efficiency. If left unaddressed, this issue can lead to more serious engine problems.
  • Rear AC Blend Door Failure: Some owners have reported issues with the rear AC blend door, which can cause the rear air to come from the floor vents even when set to cooling. This issue can be caused by a faulty blend door actuator or a broken blend door. If left unaddressed, this issue can lead to reduced cooling efficiency and increased passenger discomfort.
  • Leaky Vacuum Reservoir: Another common problem with the Ford E-350 Super Duty is a leaky vacuum reservoir. This issue can be caused by wear and tear on the reservoir or damage to the vacuum lines. If left unaddressed, this issue can lead to reduced AC performance and increased engine noise.
  • Loose/Sloppy Steering at Speed: Some owners have reported issues with loose or sloppy steering at speed. This issue can be caused by worn-out steering components, such as ball joints or tie rods. If left unaddressed, this issue can lead to more serious steering problems and increased risk of accidents.
  • Transmission Issues: Transmission issues are also common with the Ford E-350 Super Duty. Some owners have reported a lack of power after the 1-2 shift, which can be caused by an un-commanded torque converter clutch. Other transmission issues include slipping, hard shifting, and delayed engagement. These issues can be caused by worn-out transmission components or issues with the vehicle's computer system.

In summary, the Ford E-350 Super Duty is a reliable and sturdy vehicle, but like any other vehicle, it is not without its issues. Some of the most common problems with this vehicle include engine issues, heating and cooling problems, vacuum leaks, steering issues, and transmission problems. If you own a Ford E-350 Super Duty, it is important to be aware of these common issues and to address them promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle.

2021 Ford E-350 engine

Is there a recall on the Ford e350 2021?

Ford is recalling approximately 44,219 model-year 2021-2022 E-350 and E-450 vehicles equipped with dual rear wheels. An inadequate connection between the power steering pressure line and the brake Hydroboost unit may result in a sudden loss of power steering fluid.

How reliable are Ford E-350?

Ratings & reliability

RepairPal gave the Ford E-350 an overall reliability rating of 2 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks Ford E-350 21st out of 24 among Commercial Vans.

How many miles per gallon does a 2021 Ford e350 get?

Based on data from 2 vehicles, 75 fuel-ups and 18,969 miles of driving, the 2021 Ford E-350 Super Duty gets a combined Avg MPG of 8.22 with a 0.26 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 9 outliers (10.71%) removed.

What was the last year the Ford e350 was made?

2014

The purchase price of a used 2014 E-350 super duty can vary anywhere between $7848 and $22,944, and the EPA fuel rating comes in at a combined 13 miles per gallon. This is the last year for the E-350 super duty, as it was discontinued in 2014.

Is there a recall on the Ford e350 2021?

Ford is recalling approximately 44,219 model-year 2021-2022 E-350 and E-450 vehicles equipped with dual rear wheels. An inadequate connection between the power steering pressure line and the brake Hydroboost unit may result in a sudden loss of power steering fluid.

How reliable are Ford E-350?

Ratings & reliability

RepairPal gave the Ford E-350 an overall reliability rating of 2 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks Ford E-350 21st out of 24 among Commercial Vans.

What is the fuel economy of a 2021 Ford e350?

Based on data from 2 vehicles, 75 fuel-ups and 18,969 miles of driving, the 2021 Ford E-350 Super Duty gets a combined Avg MPG of 8.22 with a 0.26 MPG margin of error.

What size engine is in the 2021 Ford e350?

7.3L V8

Features & Specifications

ENGINE:7.3L V8 Gas Engine
WHEELBASE:158"
A/C:Cab AC
CRUISE CONTROL:Cruise Control
STEREO:AM/FM Radio W/Bluetooth

2021 Ford E-350 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford E-350 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Steering problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Engine problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Unknown or other problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Ford E-350 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2021 Ford E-350 complaints

The NHTSA has received 14 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Ford E-350.

2024-08-18

STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-17
  • VIN: 1FDWE3FN3ND
  • Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: After hitting a very rough patch of interstate, our steering became very difficult. The driver thought that maybe we had a low tire, so looked for a place to pull over. We crested a hill, and there was an exit with a truck stop. As we attempted to slow for the exit, the driver discovered we had no brakes or power steering. Driver used the brakes on the trailer we were towing to slow us and bring us to a stop. Checked the brake fluid reservoir. It was empty. Bought more, but as soon as the pedal was pushed, it was gone. We were towed to a repair shop, and they discovered the high pressure line on the Hydroboost brake system had separated. The repair shop was able to find a replacement from Ford Motor Co., and repaired our motorhome. We had this exact component inspected 2 years ago when Ford issued an inspection report. We passed. This incident happened 2500 miles from home. When we arrived home, there was a letter from Ford (24N03) stating they were extending the "warranty" period on the high pressure line.
2024-08-01

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
  • VIN: 1FDWE3FN9MD
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Safety recall
2024-06-25

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-06-02
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1FDWE3FN8MD
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: On 6/2/23, brakes failed to work when applying heavy pressure, causing a rear end collision.
2024-04-12

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-23
  • VIN: 1FDWE3FN1MD
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: See attached document for complaint,
2024-04-12

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-23
  • VIN: 1FDWE3FN5MD
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: See attached document for complaint,
2024-04-12

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-23
  • VIN: 1FDWE3FN8MD
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: See attached document for complaint,
2023-07-06

STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-05
  • VIN: 1FDWE3FN2MD
  • Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The stated while driving into the driveway, the vehicle made an abnormal popping sound. The vehicle lost power steering functionality, and the brake pedal became spongy. Additionally, the contact stated that there was a trail of fluid in the driveway. The contact stated that upon opening the hood, he noticed that the brake line had fractured, and brake fluid was leaking inside the engine compartment. There was no further information provided. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to a dealer; however, the dealer could not accommodate the vehicle. The dealer was contacted and diagnosed the vehicle at the contact's residence. The dealer determined that unknown hoses needed to be replaced and the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V089000 (Steering, Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The dealer and the manufacturer informed the contact that the vehicle could not be covered under the recall as the recall was previously marked as complete. The contact stated that the dealer had not completed the recall repair on the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
2022-07-01

STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-06-20
  • VIN: 1FDWE3FN5MD
  • Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the power steering and brakes became inoperable. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer where it was diagnosed with loosened brake line fittings and an unknown fluid leak. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V013000 (Fuel System, Diesel). The manufacturer was contacted but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 13,667.
2022-06-30

STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-05-27
  • VIN: 1FDWE3FN7MD
  • Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The contact stated that the vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V089000 (Steering, Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and the vehicle was inspected. During the inspection, there were no leaks found. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH after the inspection, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact coasted the vehicle off the highway. The contact stated that while driving afterward and attempting to depress the brake pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as designed. The contact pulled over and had the vehicle towed to the dealer where the recall repair was completed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 10,800.
2022-04-01

STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-04-01
  • VIN: 1FDWE3FN3MD
  • Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The contact's wife was driving into a parking lot at approximately 5 MPH when the power steering and the brakes failed. The contact's wife was able to safely stop the vehicle. The contact stated that his wife had not observed any warning lights being illuminated. The contact's wife examined the vehicle and noticed that there was red fluid puddling on the ground and a hissing sound coming from the driver’s side under the engine. The vehicle had not been towed to a dealer and had not been diagnosed or repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V089000 (Steering, Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 22,000. Consumer purchased the unit in Las Vegas on March 13th with 21,477 miles on the odometer and it failed on April 1st, with 22,018 miles on the odometer.
2021-08-04

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-04-29
  • VIN: 1FDWE3FN7MD
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The vehicle was very difficult to keep on the road. It wanted to go all over the road. It was a struggle to keep it in the lane. We took the RV back to the dealer we bought it from & they told us they didn't work on that & to find a Ford dealer that would work on it. After many phone calls I found a Ford dealer that would work on it. They told us nothing was wrong with the steering. It was engineered badly. They said the back end was too heavy & was making the front end light & "squirrely" & difficult to steer. They said it needed heavier suspension on the back end. They suggested heavier springs or installing suspension air bags. The other problem was the dash board lights started flashing off & on. Most of the time the dashboard lights were off. We could only see the speedometer, gas gauge & other gauges when the lights flashed on. But we didn't know if they were accurate when they were on. At one point we smelled wires burning & then the cruise control went out. The electrical problems started 07/19/2021.
2021-07-13

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-07-03
  • VIN: 1FDWE3FN4MD
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The contact stated while driving 60 mph, the contact started to smell a burning odor coming from the RV. The contact attempted to pull over the RV to the side of the roadway however, the RV became difficult to steer. The contact pulled over the RV and checked underneath the RV and the front hood and noticed that power steering fluid had leaked all over the engine. The contact continued driving to his destination and then had the RV towed to an RV lot. The RV was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximate 5,000.
2021-06-21

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-08-01
  • VIN: 1fc3e3kn0md
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2021 FORD E-350. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V795000 (ENGINE) however, the dealer informed the contact that only one part of the remedy, mentioned on the manufacturer's website, was available and not the other. The contact received the reprogramming (UPDATE THE POWERTRAIN CALIBRATION) mentioned on the Ford website but not the other portion of the repair mentioned on the website (INSTALL ENGINE COVER INSULATION PATCHES IN THE RIGHT HAND AND LEFT HAND INNER LOWER CORNERS OF THE ENGINE COVE). The contact stated that the failure reoccurred and that when they looked up the recall on the NHTSA website stated that there was no recall repair available at all. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had stated that after they received the repairs regarding this matter their vehicle's engine cover still gets extremely hot. The failure mileage was unknown. Vin tool confirms parts not yet available.
2021-06-10

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-06-08
  • VIN: 1FDWE3FN9MD
  • Components: TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-350. The contact stated while driving at various speeds in windy conditions, the “Service Advance-trac” warning message was displayed on the instrument panel. Soon after the initial message was displayed, the Traction Control, Pre-Collision Assist, Cruise Control, and the Hill Start Assist messages also all appeared on the instrument panel. The contact called and made an appointment with the local dealer however, the vehicle was not yet diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 1,500.

2021 Ford E-350 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2021 Ford E-350.

2024-02-09
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 E-350 and E-450 vehicles equipped with dual rear wheels. An inadequate connection between the power steering pressure line and the brake hydroboost unit may result in a sudden loss of power steering fluid.
  • Consequence: A sudden loss of power steering fluid can result in a loss of power steering and power brake assist, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the power steering pressure line and the hydroboost jumper line, free of charge. Vehicles in this recall were previously recalled under 22V-089 and owners will need to have the new remedy completed even if their vehicle was remedied under the prior recall. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 21, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S07.
2022-02-16
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 E-350 and E-450 vehicles equipped with dual rear wheels. An inadequate connection between the power steering pressure line and the brake Hydroboost unit may result in a sudden loss of power steering fluid.
  • Consequence: A sudden loss of power steering fluid can result in a loss of power steering and power brake assist, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect the connection between the power steering lines and the Hydroboost unit, and replace the power steering lines, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 18, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S08.
2020-12-17
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 E-350 and E-450 vehicles. The underside of the engine cover may have mispositioned insulation, allowing the cover to get excessively hot.
  • Consequence: Direct and continuous contact with certain areas of engine cover surface in the passenger compartment may increase the risk of injury or burns to the skin of the driver or front seat passenger.
  • Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine cover for gaps between the rubber seal and the insulation. If gaps are present, the dealer will install engine cover insulation patches in the right hand and left hand inner lower corners of the engine cover. The dealer will also update the powertrain calibration for heat management under elevated idle conditions should a vehicle be equipped with SEIC or BCP, free of charge. The recall began February 15, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S73.
2020-03-23
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 E-350 and E-450 vehicles. A wire harness in the rear of the vehicle may contact the vehicle frame, resulting in damage to the circuits that support the fuel pump and the anti-lock braking system (ABS).
  • Consequence: Damage to the fuel pump circuit in the wiring harness could result in an unexpected engine stall. Damage to the ABS wiring can lead to reduction of ABS functionality and a loss of roll stability control (RSC) functionality. These scenarios increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the wire harness for damage. If no damage is found, dealers will apply anti-abrasion tape over the area and ensure clearance to surrounding components. If damage is found, dealers will splice in new wire and apply anti-abrasion tape over the area and ensure clearance to surrounding components. All services will be performed free of charge. The recall began May 18, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S13.
2020-02-21
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 F-550 and 2021 E-350 and E-450 vehicles. The rear axle differential fluid may be below the minimum level, possibly resulting in a failure of the rear axle assembly and driveshaft separation.
  • Consequence: If the driveshaft separates, there may be a loss of drive, increasing the risk of crash. Additionally, if the parking brake is not applied, unintended vehicle movement can occur and increase the risk of injury or crash.
  • Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear axle differential fluid level and adjust it, or replace the rear axle as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 19, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S09.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2021 Ford E-350 problems:

2012 5.4L E-350 reliability problems - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
2012 5.4L E-350 reliability problems - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
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Mar 6, 2021 ... E-Class (W212) - Best w212 e350's?? Common problems? - ... Left Coast Geek , 03-06-2021 02:48 PM ... 2016 E350 4Matic wagon, 2019 Ford Expedition ...

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Thoughts On Ford's 7.3 liter "Godzilla"? : r/GoRVing
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Apr 28, 2023 ... Beyond that, it's probably better to go diesel. There aren't any major, widespread problems with the engine or the truck that it comes in. This ...

Ford E-350 Super Duty Problems and Complaints - 36 Issues
Ford E-350 Super Duty Problems and Complaints - 36 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/ford/e-350-super-duty

Problem with your Ford E-350 Super Duty? Our list of 36 known ... Find the most common issues based on car owner complaints ... 2021 Ford E-350 Super Duty problems.

Why aren't Ford Transit Motorhomes more Popular? - iRV2 Forums
Why aren't Ford Transit Motorhomes more Popular? - iRV2 Forums
https://www.irv2.com/forums/f87/why-arent-ford-transit-motorhomes-more-popular-522172.html

Jan 21, 2021 ... ... E350 are much more common. Are there limitations of the. ... Comparing a new Transit to a new 2021 E350 ... Another reason vs the Ford E-series is ...

Other years of Ford E-350

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E-350 2022
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ford e-350 2024 photo
E-350 2024
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ford e-350 1983 photo
E-350 1983
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E-350 1984
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E-350 1985
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ford e-350 1986 photo
E-350 1986
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2021 Ford E-350 photo