2021 Ford Edge Problems and Top Complaints – Is Your Car A Lemon?

Camera, steering, airbag & structure issues are among the top complaints received by the NHTSA from vehicle owners

Updated on Author: Brian Jones

Updated on Author: Brian Jones

The 2021 Ford Edge is known for being a family-friendly SUV that fits a tight budget. The automaker claims it is “impressive at every turn.” However, automotive enthusiasts have been vocal about some shortcomings with the model, from the malfunctioning camera and defective steering to the poorly-built structure and failing airbags.

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NHTSA Complaints for the 2021 Ford Edge

Complaint CategoryNumber of Complaints
Unknown Or Other
6
Visibility:sun/moon Roof Assembly
2
Forward Collision Avoidance: Sensing System: Camera
2
Electrical System
2
Back Over Prevention
1
Back Over Prevention: Rearview System Braking
1
Electrical System:horn
1
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
1
Latches/locks/linkages:hatchback/liftgate:lock
1
Electrical System:adas:hud:camera/sensor
1

Problems with the Camera

Since March 2022, there have been 6 complaints to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) about camera issues. There is even a recall that potentially affects as many as 78,376 2021-2022 Ford Edge vehicles. This states that a software error may cause the rear view camera to display a blank or distorted image when the vehicle is in reverse. Their warning is that this increases the risk of a crash.

There are also three technical service bulletins from Ford to dealerships relating to various issues. The first, in August 2021 announces the availability of software for “contrast improvements to the analog rear view camera.”  The second in February 2022 suggests that poor circuit connections may be causing problems. The most recent, in June 2022 announces that faulty software is preventing the front camera from turning back on. An over the air (OTA) software update is expected to be released in September 2022.

Camera Complaints (NHTSA)

The first complaint was from an owner in New York who stated simply: “The main screen just goes blank or partially corrupted, so I have no access to the rear camera or main controls on the panel.”

Another lengthy complaint describes in detail the problems experienced while trying to get the camera to work. The irony is that these problems only arose after a camera system update was installed. Three more complaints echo this problem.

An owner from Texas states: “On April 26, 2022 the dealer performed the recall (Ford 22S!4) a software fix to correct a rear camera problem, I was NOT experiencing on my 2021 Ford Edge ST. It took the entire day to do the procedure.” After getting the car back there were what seemed to be temporary problems. But the main issue was that the front camera wasn’t operating as designed. “I brought the vehicle back to the dealer on May 3 2022, and as of the date of this communication, May 27, 2022 they have not been able to correct the problem. I will be without use of the vehicle for one month as of May 31, 2022.”

An owner from Ohio states: “After the over-the-air update due to the rear-camera recall, the front-facing camera no longer works after approximately 15 seconds of the car being turned on. Turn on car: front camera is fine. 15 seconds: front camera no longer turns on. It is supposed to be operational under 7 MPH for corners or (for) parking.”

An owner from Idaho states: “Ford recently responded to a recall concerning the back up camera, and updated the software package. Since that time, the forward camera no longer works. The camera is used daily for parking purposes.”

Problems with the Airbags

Airbags are supposed to be a life saver in the event of an accident. So it is a serious safety issue when they don’t deploy on impact in an accident.

The wife of a 2021 Ford Edge owner was driving 35 MPH when a vehicle abruptly stopped in front of her which caused her to rear-end the vehicle. The air bags did not deploy upon impact. Neither of them was injured in the accident, but they filed a police report.

“The contact arrived at the scene, tied a strap to the hood of the vehicle, and drove the vehicle home. The contact stated that the forward collision avoidance feature failed to operate as needed on the vehicle. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to a dealer where it remained in their possession. The manufacturer had been notified and offered no assistance in relation to the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was 400.”

Problems with the Steering

As a smaller SUV, the Edge should be nimble on the road, easy to maneuver, but that’s not the case. Even the biggest critics are downing the Edge’s steering system.

Here is what Car Indigo had to say, “However, we found the steering to be a bit low on feel and feedback.”

Considering the 2021 Ford Edge didn’t receive any mechanical upgrades from the 2020 models, it’s expected to have the same level of craftsmanship. The 2020 Edge suffered from numerous recalls, such as the inadequate rear lubrication that can lead to the loss of vehicle control and the missing bolts on the start/stop accumulator that are leading to a transmission fluid leak. With defects as glaring as these in previous models, it’s only a matter of time before the 2021 Edge shows its true colors too. It’s truly going to be “impressive at every turn.”

Problems with the Structure

The structure of the 2021 Ford Edge did receive some upgrades that were meant to impress, but that hasn’t happened.

In fact, Car and Driver states, “Cabin fit-and-finish needs polish, nondescript handling, rival SUVs look and feel fresher.”

Again, Ford hasn’t had a strong reputation for building quality vehicles lately. As an example, look at the class action lawsuit from a few years ago that showed some Edge models had a defective door latch assembly that was creating false “door ajar” alarms to go off. Not only did this defect keep the doors from locking, but it also drained the battery in the Ford SUVs. If things continue as they have, Ford is preparing for more lawsuits in the future, as it doesn’t seem that much more effort was put into building the newer Edge lineup. Maybe it should be known as “disappointing at every turn” instead.

A recent complaint to the NHTSA reports an injury caused by the hatchback door striking her on the head. The owner was taking items in and out of the trunk when the hatchback door closed on its own. This happened on four separate occasions when there was only about 500 miles on the clock.

She took the car to the dealer where “unknown software was reprogrammed. However, the failure persisted.”

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Complaint Data

CategoryBack Over Prevention
DateFeb 22, 2023
StateWA
Description
The contact owns a 2021 ford edge. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 22v151000 (back over prevention) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the rear-view camera displayed a distorted image. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the dealer was unable to perform the recall repair due to the module configuration data being missing from the ford server. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the nhtsa hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 15,130. Parts distribution disconnect.
CategoryElectrical System
DateFeb 08, 2023
StateIN
Description
The contact owns a 2021 ford edge. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds the crash sensor illuminated. The contact stated that the crash sensor light was flashing on and off. The cruise control was inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the crash sensor needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that the crash sensor bracket was fractured. The warranty was declined due to the damage. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case, but no additional assistance was provided. The approximate failure mileage was 26,000.
CategoryLane Departure: Assist
DateJan 31, 2023
StateOH
Description
1) the lane keeping assistance feature was engaged. 2) I observed an upcoming snow drift across the road. 3) I stepped on the brakes to slow down. 4) I observed there was no oncoming traffic (two lane road). 5) I moved over towards the center of the road to better navigate the snow drift. 6. The lane keeping assistance feature adjusted my steering to move me back into my lane (closer to the ditch). 7. The vehicle entered the snow drift with my wheels turned to the right. 8. The snow drift impaired the lane keeping assistance feature. 9. I lost control of the vehicle. 10. I hit a utility pole. Does the user manual instruct the operator to disengage the lane keeping assistance feature during snow and icy conditions?
CategoryVisibility:sun/moon Roof Assembly
DateNov 28, 2022
StateOR
Description
The vehicles sun roof exploded/imploded while driving, the car is now at the dealership for repair. Insurance company has a claim and is involved. I tried to upload pictures but was not able to do so.
CategoryEngine And Engine Cooling:engine:gasoline:belts And Associated Pulleys
DateSep 27, 2022
StateFL
Description
The contact owns a 2021 ford edge. The contact stated while his son was driving 60 mph, the vehicle was stalled. The contact stated several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not drivable. The contact arrived at the location and became aware that the serpentine belt was fractured. The contact towed the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the serpentine belt to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 8,000.
CategoryEquipment:appliance:tv/radio/speakers, Unknown Or Other
DateSep 11, 2022
StateNY
Description
Hi when engaged in apple play or ford car play and an incoming call comes in the volume is like 20 and it scares the crap out of us. It's not the phone, as it happens with any phone we plug into the usb or use wirelessly vis bluetooth. Dealer says fiord is aware but seems to me they are taking too long to fix. I can't help thinking people are going to get into accidents from becoming scared. You can manually turn the volume down while it's ringing but at that time it is too late. It havens every time we get a call since we have owned the car.
CategoryElectrical System, Forward Collision Avoidance: Adaptive Cruise Control, Vehicle Speed Control
DateSep 07, 2022
StateOH
Description
In feb 2022 my dash produced a pre-collision assist not avaible and also a adaptive cruise not available sensor blocked see manual. When I tried to tap the button for cruise control it would show set speed , but wouldn't let me . I called ricart ford in ohio and took it to them . They said it was the cruise control manual bracket had been damaged by outside force( a rock) and ford wouldn't fix it. Mind you I have never hit anything with this vehicle. Ricart refused todo anything so I contacted ford and they said take it to a different dealership . Took it to donley inohio they said a bird. Now the screen gltiches, the front camera doesn't work , the hatch will open and shut multiple times and when shutting the moon roof it will stop and go back . Then it made a sound and sounded like the gearbox, also car alarm went off , while running in park , nothing touching keys. Also the all wheel drive light will come on and say dissabled.
CategoryForward Collision Avoidance: Warnings
DateSep 07, 2022
StateFL
Description
Ford did an over the air update claiming to fix a rear distortion camera… I took to dealership (sarasota ford to fix) that over the air update cause my front forward camera to no longer work.. My vehicle is now over a year old and I have been making payments… I have 4 case numbers, spoke with plently of mother ford people plus its lived at the dealership … they have no fix… and they make sure they release my car at the 5 day mark, so I cannot get a buy back…. I was denied a buyback bc my vehicle wasnt there “long enough” really? There is many many folks with same issue…. This is a danger issue when u cannot see what is infront of this camera bc it stopped working… I purchased a 56k plus car and no one will help me… perhaps a class action suit to buy back or fix this issue?
CategoryUnknown Or Other
DateAug 10, 2022
StateWA
Description
There was an update to address a recall issue for the rear camera in may 2022, and ever since it was done the front camera has been malfunctioning. This affects parking situations and I am uncertain if it is causing any issues with other safety features. Ford gave me several options to try and “restart” the system but none have worked. It has been months and they have not provided an update to fix this camera and no one at a dealership knows anything about it or how to fix.
CategoryBack Over Prevention: Warnings
DateAug 02, 2022
StateAZ
Description
After over the air update to fix rear camera issues the front camera does not operate. The camera is used when operating at slow speeds. When the button is pushed the camera does not come on.
CategoryEngine, Service Brakes, Unknown Or Other
DateJul 29, 2022
StateNC
Description
Vehicle was traveling on a rural road when driver attempted to brake. Driver witnessed flames from under their vehicle when applying brakes. Driver had to stop the vehicle by laying it in a ditch and escaping the engulfed car. Post accident it was noted and shown a significant amount of brake fluid on the ground from the incident. Bystanders say that the vehicle was blowing flames out from under neath while attempting to stop.
CategoryBack Over Prevention: Rearview System Braking
DateJul 21, 2022
StateCA
Description
I received a recall letter from ford motor company dated april 2022 for recall notice 22s14 / nhtsa recall 22v151. The risk is "a rear-view camera that intermittently displays a blank or distorted image can reduce the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash." this recall is not in the ford or nhtsa database for my vehicle yet I have experienced this problem. The remedy is a software update which the dealer has not been able to install. A new aipm module has been on backorder since november 19, 2021 when the previous owner experienced the same problem.
CategoryForward Collision Avoidance: Sensing System: Camera, Visibility/wiper
DateJul 10, 2022
StateID
Description
Ford recently responded to a recall concerning the back up camera, and updated the software package. Since that time, the forward camera no longer works. The camera is used daily for parking purposes.
CategoryElectrical System:adas:hud:camera/sensor
DateJun 23, 2022
StateOH
Description
After the over-the-air update due to the rear-camera recall, the front-facing camera no longer works after approximately 15 seconds of the car being turned on. Turn on car: front camera is fine. 15 seconds: front camera no longer turns on it is supposed to be operational under 7mph for corners or parking.
CategoryLatches/locks/linkages:hatchback/liftgate:lock
DateJun 14, 2022
StateNC
Description
The contact owns a 2021 ford edge. The contact stated upon opening the hatchback and taking items in and out of the trunk of the vehicle, the hatchback would close independently. The contact stated that the hatchback door had struck her on the head on four separate occasions. The contact stated that the impact was more severe on one occasion, but she did not seek medical assistance. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where an unknown software was reprogrammed; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to nhtsa. The failure mileage was approximately 500.
CategoryForward Collision Avoidance: Sensing System: Camera
DateMay 27, 2022
StateTX
Description
On april 26, 2022 the dealer performed the recall (ford 22s! 4) a software fix to correct a rear camera problem, I was not experiencing on my 2021 ford edge st. It took the entire day to do the procedure, and after getting the car back, I experienced what seemed to be some temporary problems, but the main problem being the front camera not operating as designed. I brought the vehicle back to the dealer on may 3 2022, and as of the date of this communication, may 27, 2022 they have not been able to correct the problem I will be without use of the vehicle for one month as of may 31, 2022. Consumer stated her 2021 ford edge st front camera, not working after the recall for the rear camera was done.
CategoryUnknown Or Other
DateMay 25, 2022
StateCA
Description
2021 ford edge st 4500 miles after the 5/13 back-up camera system update, which I my car did not have a problem with. Expected functionality - under 6 mph, when pressing the "front camera button" it is supposed to show the camera. Actual functionality after 5/13 system update - scenario 1 - camera works from cold start, putting car in drive, and pressing the camera. After moving above 6mph, and then going back under 6mph, the front button camera no longer works and/or works intermittently and unexpectedly stops working. Scenario 2 - after going above 6mph, then only way to get the camera to work is to put the car in reverse, wait for the rear camera to show, then put back into drive and hit "front camera button". This will result in the camera showing for 1-3 seconds before intermittently/randomly stopping which can result in me crashing into something. *when pressing the camera a second time "180 degree split view "no longer works. Scenario 3 - after going above 6mph, then only way to get the camera to work is to put the car in reverse, wait for the rear camera to show, select zoom "+" button, then put back into drive and hit "front camera button". This will result in the camera showing for 1-3 seconds before intermittently/randomly stopping which can result in me crashing into something. *when pressing the camera a second time "180 degree split view "no longer works. Https://youtu. Be/gyrpgplvsfc ford sync case number - camera - [xxx] crm:0745245 ford dealership - customer [xxx]4; workorder [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).
CategoryUnknown Or Other
DateApr 19, 2022
StateOH
Description
I do not believe that the horn is sufficiently loud enough to perform it's intended purpose. Especially with the ambient noise of traveling at highway speeds.
CategoryVisibility:sun/moon Roof Assembly
DateMar 25, 2022
StateIL
Description
The contact owns a 2021 ford edge. The contact stated while driving at 5 mph and approaching a traffic light, she heard a loud popping sound. The contact looked up and noticed that the sunroof glass had shattered and the shattered pieces were beginning to fall inside the vehicle. The contact closed the shade guard and veered to the side of the road. Upon inspecting the vehicle, the contact could not determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who informed the contact that they would need to investigate the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 800.
CategoryBack Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
DateMar 18, 2022
StateNY
Description
Hi the main screen just goes blank or partially corrupted, so I have no access to the rear camera or main controls on the panel
CategoryUnknown Or Other
DateNov 19, 2021
StateMI
Description
The contact owns a 2021 ford edge. The contact stated while his wife was driving the vehicle at 35 mph, a vehicle abruptly stopped in front of her which caused her to rear-end the vehicle. The air bags did not deploy upon impact. The contact nor the other driver were injured in the accident. A police report was filed. The contact arrived at the scene, tied a strap to the hood of the vehicle, and drove the vehicle home. The contact stated that the forward collision avoidance feature failed to operate as needed on the vehicle. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to a dealer where it remained in their possession. The manufacturer had been notified and offered no assistance in relation to the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was 400.
CategoryElectrical System:horn
DateJul 04, 2021
StateNY
Description
Horn is hard to hear.
CategoryAir Bags
DateJun 04, 2021
StateOH
Description
I started my edge and the airbag light was on,a/c did not work and the seat moved back by itself. Windows would not roll down

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Brian Jones

About the Author:

Brian Jones spent more than 20 years working as an ASE Certified Master Tech and Parts Specialist at multiple dealerships. Brian has become an authority in the industry, traveling across the country to consult for car dealerships and contributing his expertise as a writer for several major automotive publications. In his spare time, Brian enjoys working on pickup trucks, muscle cars, Jeeps and anything related to motorsports.

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