Most Common Ford Problems and Solutions

Although Ford—a leading American brand—is well-known for innovation and reliability, some of its models still face widely reported issues, such as recurring coolant leaks in certain F-150s and fuel pump failures affecting various sedans. So, whether you own a Ford or plan to in the near future, it's essential to be aware of the most common problems and their solutions to ensure a seamless ownership experience. To help you achieve that goal, this comprehensive guide explores 23 common Ford issues and their solutions—some of them DIYs, others demanding professional assistance. Let's get started.

23 most common Ford problems and solutions:

1. EcoBoost Engine Coolant Leaks: Check coolant levels; get gaskets replaced at a Ford dealer.

2. Engine Block Heater Fire Risk: Avoid heater use; get free cord replacement under recall 19S11.

3. Faulty Engine Intake Valves: Inspect and replace engine for free under recall 24S55.

4. Fuel Pump Failure Causing Engine Stalls: Keep tank above quarter full; await recall 25S75 fix.

5. Fuel Injector Defect Causing Engine Fires: Inspect for leaks; get free recall repair.

6. Jerky Powershift Transmission: Check fluid; visit dealer for diagnostics or warranty repair.

7. Flexplate Cracking in Edge SUVs: Diagnose rattles; replace flexplate at a Ford dealer.

8. Unexpected Transmission Downshift: Schedule free transmission repair under 2024 recall.

9. Alternator Failures: Test alternator; replace at dealer, possibly under warranty.

10. Door Ajar Warning That Won’t Quit: Replace faulty sensors at a Ford service center.

11. Infotainment Connectivity Glitches: Update Ford Sync software update download at dealer or online.

12. Seat Belt Pretensioner Sparks: Get free repairs under recall 18S27.

13. Shifter Cable Bushing Slip-Ups: Use parking brake; get free bushing replacement under recall 18S20.

14. Rearview Camera Software Malfunction: Apply free software update under recall 25S72.

15. Seat Belt Restraint Issues: Await Q4 2025 recall repair; contact Ford for updates.

16. Brake Fluid Leaks from Master Cylinder: Visit dealer for free recall 25S55 repair.

17. Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software Error: Engage parking brake; get free PCM update under recall 25C21.

18. Premature Rust and Bodywork Issues: Apply rust-proofing; seek warranty repairs at dealer.

19. Door Trim Detaching While Driving: Get free trim replacement under 2025 recall.

20. Panoramic Sunroof Glass Shattering: Close shade; get free glass replacement under recall 20S71.

21. Dropping Fuel Efficiency: Check fluid and tires; get dealer diagnostic for software updates.

22. Exhaust System Noises: Inspect and replace damaged exhaust parts at dealer.

23. Wheel Bearing Failures: Replace bearings at first noise; inspect during tire rotations.

Engine Problems

1. EcoBoost Engine Coolant Leaks

What Happens: Coolant seeps into the cylinders of EcoBoost engines, causing misfires, rough idling, or even engine fires in rare cases. Owners report overheating, smoke, or a check engine light, making this a top problem Ford EcoBoost engine issue flagged on CarComplaints.

Why It Happens: A design flaw in certain EcoBoost engines allows coolant to leak through faulty gaskets or cylinder heads. Skipped maintenance can worsen the issue.

Impact: Misfires sap performance, and overheating risks catastrophic engine failure, costing thousands. Fire hazards, though rare, are serious.

How to Fix: Check coolant levels monthly and watch for warning lights. Visit a Ford service center in Dubai for diagnostics and gasket or engine replacements, often covered by warranty. Run a Ford recall check at Ford’s recall page.

Affected Models: F-150 (2015–2020), Edge (2015–2019), Escape (2015–2019).

2. Engine Block Heater Fire Risk

What Happens: Faulty engine block heater cords spark fires by touching hot engine parts, affecting over 323,000 vehicles per NHTSA. Owners report smoke or burning smells, a major Ford recall concern in cold climates.

Why It Happens: Poorly designed cords loosen, contacting hot surfaces due to manufacturing oversights.

Impact: Fires can destroy vehicles or cause injury. Repairs are costly without recall coverage.

How to Fix: Avoid using the block heater until fixed. Dealers offer free cord replacements under recall 19S11—verify at NHTSA’s site.

Affected Models: F-150 (2015–2019), Edge (2015–2019), Explorer (2016–2019), Fusion (2017–2019), Lincoln MKC (2015–2019), Lincoln MKZ (2015–2019).

3. Faulty Engine Intake Valves

What Happens: Intake valves in 90,736 EcoBoost engines fracture, causing loud noises, power loss, or complete engine failure, per recall 24S55. This problem, Ford EcoBoost engine issue, has led to 811 warranty claims.

Why It Happens: Substandard valve material used before October 2021 fails under stress.

Impact: Engine failure strands drivers and requires pricey replacements, often thousands without recall coverage.

How to Fix: Dealers inspect and replace engines for free under recall 24S55. Check eligibility at Ford’s recall page.

Affected Models: F-150 (2021–2022), Bronco (2021–2022), Explorer (2021–2022), Edge (2021–2022), Lincoln Aviator (2021–2022), Lincoln Nautilus (2021–2022).

4. Fuel Pump Failure Causing Engine Stalls

What Happens: The low-pressure fuel pump fails, causing engine stalls in warm weather or low fuel, affecting 850,318 vehicles per recall 25S75. Owners report misfiring or check engine lights, a critical Ford problem.

Why It Happens: Defective pump components wear out, disrupting fuel delivery.

Impact: Stalls increase crash risk, leaving drivers stranded in Dubai’s heat.

How to Fix: Keep the tank above a quarter full until the recall fix is available. Contact Ford at 800-08443673 or check NHTSA’s site.

Affected Models: Bronco (2021–2023), Explorer (2021–2023), F-250 SD/F-350 SD/F-450 SD/F-550 SD (2021–2023), F-150 (2021–2022), Mustang (2021–2022), Lincoln Navigator (2021–2022), Expedition (2022), Lincoln Aviator (2021–2023).

5. Fuel Injector Defect Causing Engine Fires

What Happens: Fuel injectors in 694,000 SUVs leak, causing engine fires or melted components, per a 2025 recall. Owners report burning smells or performance dips, a serious problem with Ford cars.

Why It Happens: Defective injector seals fail, allowing fuel to leak onto hot engine parts.

Impact: Fire risks threaten vehicle loss or injury, and leaks reduce engine efficiency.

How to Fix: Inspect for unusual smells or performance issues and contact a Ford dealer in Dubai for a free recall fix. Check Ford’s recall page.

Affected Models: Bronco Sport (2021–2024), Escape (2021–2024).

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Transmission Problems

6. Jerky Powershift Transmission

What Happens: Gear shifts jolt or shudder, making driving feel bumpy. Owners report clunking noises during acceleration, especially in traffic, and complete transmission failure in severe cases, a top common Ford Focus transmission problem on CarComplaints.com.

Why It Happens: The Powershift dual-clutch system has design flaws, causing erratic shifts. Worn clutches or software glitches worsen the issue.

Impact: Jerky shifts reduce comfort and safety, especially when merging. Ongoing strain risks costly transmission repairs.

How to Fix: Check transmission fluid every 30,000 miles. Visit a Ford dealer for diagnostics; extended warranties may apply in some regions. Run a Ford recall check at Ford’s recall page.

Affected Models: Focus (2015–2018), Fiesta (2015–2019), EcoSport (2018–2022).

7. Flexplate Cracking in Edge SUVs

What Happens: The flexplate in EcoBoost-equipped Edge SUVs cracks, causing rattling noises and risking engine damage, a noted Ford complaint on several online platforms.

Why It Happens: Stress from engine torque or material defects causes flexplate failure, disrupting power transfer.

Impact: Rattles signal potential engine failure, leading to expensive repairs if ignored.

How to Fix: Diagnose rattling noises immediately at a Ford service center. Flexplate replacements may be covered under warranty.

Affected Models: Edge (2015–2018, EcoBoost engines).

8. Unexpected Transmission Downshift

What Happens: Transmissions in 550,000 F-150s unexpectedly downshift to first gear, causing loss of control or rear-wheel lockup, per a 2024 recall, a significant Ford problem 2024 issue.

Why It Happens: A software or mechanical fault in the transmission control system triggers unintended shifts.

Impact: Sudden downshifts at speed risk crashes, especially on Dubai’s busy highways.

How to Fix: Schedule free transmission repairs at a Ford dealer under the 2024 recall. Verify at NHTSA’s site.

Affected Models: F-150 (2014, recalled post-2015).

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Electrical Problems

9. Alternator Failures

What Happens: Alternators fail prematurely, causing battery drain or electrical shutdowns, a key Ford alternator problems and solutions issue. Owners report dimming lights, dead batteries, or Ford Pass app connectivity issues.

Why It Happens: Faulty bearings or wiring reduce charging efficiency, often due to manufacturing defects.

Impact: A dead battery strands drivers, and electrical failures disable critical features, risking safety.

How to Fix: Test the alternator if lights dim. Replacements cost AED 1,800–AED 4,000 but may be warranty-covered. Visit a Ford dealer in Dubai for diagnostics.

Affected Models: F-150 (2015–2018), Ranger (2019–2023).

10. Door Ajar Warning That Won’t Quit

What Happens: The door ajar warning light stays on despite closed doors, a common Ford issue across models. Owners report battery drain and distracting alerts.

Why It Happens: Faulty door sensors or wiring send false signals, often due to wear or defects.

Impact: Constant warnings annoy drivers and may drain the battery, leaving you stranded.

How to Fix: Replace faulty sensors at a Ford service center. Check for warranty coverage or technical service bulletins.

Affected Models: Focus (2015–2018), F-150 (2015–2020).

11. Infotainment Connectivity Glitches

What Happens: Bluetooth and touchscreen issues plague the infotainment system, especially with Ford Sync update failures. Owners report dropped connections or frozen screens, disrupting Ford Pass Connect features.

Why It Happens: Outdated Ford Sync software update download or hardware incompatibility causes glitches.

Impact: Loss of navigation, calls, or music frustrates drivers. Hardware repairs can be costly.

How to Fix: Download the latest Ford Sync software update from Ford’s site or visit a dealer for free updates. Reset the system if frozen.

Affected Models: Explorer (2020–2022), Mustang (2019–2023).

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Safety System Problems

12. Seat Belt Pretensioner Sparks

What Happens: Defective seat belt pretensioners in 2 million F-150s spark during crashes, risking fires, with 17 U.S. incidents reported by NHTSA, a major Ford car issue.

Why It Happens: Faulty pretensioner components generate excessive sparks due to manufacturing defects.

Impact: Fire hazards increase injury risk in crashes, and smoke can panic drivers.

How to Fix: Ford offers free repairs under recall 18S27. Verify at NHTSA’s site.

Affected Models: F-150 Regular Cab/SuperCrew Cab (2015–2018).

13. Shifter Cable Bushing Slip-Ups

What Happens: The shifter cable bushing in 2015 Escapes degrades, causing rollaways after shifting to park, a common problem with Ford Escape per recall 18S20.

Why It Happens: Low-quality bushings wear out or detach, misaligning the gear selector.

Impact: Rollaways risk crashes or injuries, especially on slopes.

How to Fix: Use the parking brake every time. Dealers replace bushings for free under recall 18S20.

Affected Models: Escape (2015, 2.0L engines).

14. Rearview Camera Software Malfunction

What Happens: The rearview camera blanks, freezes, or lingers after shifting, affecting over 200,000 vehicles per recall 25S72. This disrupts visibility and Ford Pass features, a noted Ford service issue.

Why It Happens: A software glitch, often tied to Ford Pass Connect, disrupts camera functionality.

Impact: Reduced visibility risks crashes when backing up, and distractions increase danger.

How to Fix: Ford offers free over-the-air or dealer updates for recall 25S72. Check eligibility at Ford’s recall page.

Affected Models: Navigator (2020–2021), Escape (2020–2022), F-250 SD (2020–2022), Corsair (2020–2022), Aviator (2020–2023), Transit (2020–2023), Explorer (2020–2024), Bronco Sport (2021–2024), Maverick (2022–2024).

15. Seat Belt Restraint Issues

What Happens: Seat belts in 240,510 SUVs fail to restrain properly during crashes, per a 2025 recall. Owners report loose or ineffective belts, a serious Ford complaint.

Why It Happens: Faulty belt components, likely from manufacturing errors, reduce effectiveness.

Impact: Ineffective seat belts heighten crash injury risks, compromising safety.

How to Fix: Await recall letters in Q4 2025 for free repairs. Contact Ford at 800-08443673 or check Ford’s recall page.

Affected Models: Explorer (2020–2024), Bronco Sport (2020–2024), Lincoln Aviator (2020–2024).

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Brake Problems

16. Brake Fluid Leaks from Master Cylinder

What Happens: Brake fluid leaks into the booster, reducing braking power and extending stopping distances, per recall 25S55 for 123,000 vehicles. A red brake warning light may appear, a common problem Ford Explorer.

Why It Happens: Faulty master cylinder seals fail, allowing fluid to escape.

Impact: Weaker brakes increase crash risk, especially in emergencies.

How to Fix: Visit a Ford dealer for free repairs under recall 25S55 if the brake light appears. Check NHTSA’s site.

Affected Models: F-150 (2017–2018), Expedition (2017–2018), Lincoln Navigator (2017–2018), E-Transit Chassis Cab (2024–2025), Ranger (2024–2025), Lincoln Nautilus (2024–2025), Transit (2022–2023).

Steering and Suspension Problems

17. Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software Error

What Happens: A PCM software glitch in 24,655 Explorers causes power loss or rollaway risk if the parking brake isn’t used, per recall 25C21. Drivers report sudden stalls or gear issues, a problem Ford Explorer concern.

Why It Happens: Faulty PCM software resets unexpectedly, disrupting engine and transmission functions.

Impact: Power loss or rollaways risk crashes or property damage.

How to Fix: Always engage the parking brake. Dealers offer free PCM updates under recall 25C21—check NHTSA’s site.

Affected Models: Explorer (2025).

Exterior and Body Problems

18. Premature Rust and Bodywork Issues

What Happens: Rust appears prematurely on body panels, especially in salty or humid regions like Dubai, a noted Ford service issue. Owners report corrosion on hoods or tailgates.

Why It Happens: Changes in bodywork materials or insufficient rust-proofing lead to corrosion.

Impact: Rust weakens structure and lowers resale value. Repairs involve costly panel replacements.

How to Fix: Inspect for rust regularly and apply rust-proofing treatments. Ford dealers in Dubai may offer warranty repairs for severe cases.

Affected Models: F-150 (2015–2020), Explorer (2016–2020).

19. Door Trim Detaching While Driving

What Happens: Driver and passenger door pillar trims detach on 492,145 Explorers, flying off and creating road hazards, per a 2025 recall. Owners report loose or missing trim.

Why It Happens: Weak adhesive or clips fail under wind or vibration.

Impact: Flying trim risks accidents for other drivers, and loose parts distract you.

How to Fix: Dealers offer free inspections and replacements. Check NHTSA’s site.

Affected Models: Explorer (2016–2017).

20. Panoramic Sunroof Glass Shattering

What Happens: Panoramic sunroofs shatter spontaneously with a loud bang, per recall 20S71 for 197,468 vehicles. Glass fragments may fall on occupants or roads, a common problem Ford Explorer.

Why It Happens: Manufacturing defects or stress in the glass cause shattering, worsened by temperature changes.

Impact: The noise distracts drivers, risking crashes, and glass fragments pose injury risks.

How to Fix: Keep the sunroof shade closed and check for recall 20S71 at Ford’s recall page. Dealers offer free glass replacements.

Affected Models: Edge (2015–2020), Explorer (2015–2022), F-150 (2017–2020), Mustang (2017–2022), Escape (2020–2022), Bronco Sport (2021–2022).

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Interior and Comfort Problems

21. Dropping Fuel Efficiency

What Happens: Fuel economy drops significantly, like from 34 to 29.4 MPG in the Focus, a common Ford Focus problem reported on JustAnswer.

Why It Happens: Transmission issues or engine inefficiencies, like clogged fuel injectors, reduce MPG. Software glitches also contribute.

Impact: Lower efficiency increases fuel costs, hitting your wallet in Dubai’s high-traffic commutes.

How to Fix: Check tire pressure and transmission fluid regularly. A Ford dealer diagnostic can pinpoint issues, and software updates may help.

Affected Models: Focus (2015).

Exhaust System Problems

22. Exhaust System Noises

What Happens: Rattling or loud noises come from the exhaust system, often due to holes in the muffler or pipes, a common Ford issue reported by owners.

Why It Happens: Wear and tear or manufacturing defects weaken exhaust components, causing leaks.

Impact: Noisy exhausts reduce comfort and may fail emissions tests in Dubai.

How to Fix: Have a Ford mechanic inspect and replace damaged parts. Check for warranty coverage on newer models.

Affected Models: Explorer (2016–2020).

Other Problems

23. Wheel Bearing Failures

What Happens: Wheel bearings fail, causing grinding or humming noises, a common problem Ford Explorer. Repairs average AED 3000, per Haynes Manuals.

Why It Happens: Poor-quality bearings or heavy use lead to premature wear, especially in SUVs.

Impact: Faulty bearings make driving noisy and unsafe, risking wheel detachment.

How to Fix: Replace bearings at the first sign of noise. Regular inspections during tire rotations can catch issues early.

Affected Models: Explorer (2016–2020).

Final Thoughts

The afore-mentioned most common Ford problems and solutions are crucial to your hassle- & stress-free vehicle ownership, especially in Dubai—where the sweltering heat amplifies Ford issues. Understanding the issues with Ford cars and their fixes will enhance your DIYs and get proper services at Ford Service Centres, as you already know what to look for when testing the vehicle fixes. Know your Ford inside out and stay ahead of the potential issues that can hinder your ownership experiences. Fix them before it's too late and save yourself time, money, and energy. Stay vigilant, updated, and informed by subscribing to our newsletter. Also, don’t forget to share your Ford ownership experiences in the comments below.