2021 Ford Police Interceptor Utility

The 2021 Ford Police Interceptor Utility is a popular choice for law enforcement, known for its durability, spaciousness, and performance. It offers a blend of practicality and capability, making it well-suited for police work. Engine options include a 3.3L naturally aspirated V6 (285 hp, 260 lb-ft torque), a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft torque), and a 3.3L Hybrid V6 (318 hp combined). All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the vehicle’s robust construction, comfortable ride, and ample cargo space. Common complaints revolve around fuel economy (especially with the EcoBoost engine), some electrical issues related to police-specific equipment, and the stiff ride from the heavy-duty suspension.

Engine

3.0L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light. Potential causes include oil starvation, bearing wear, or wastegate malfunction.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger. Address any underlying oiling issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Intrusion
  • Description/Symptoms: White smoke from the exhaust, coolant loss, potential overheating, rough running engine. Caused by a crack in the engine block.
  • Solution: Full engine replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $12,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.3L Naturally Aspirated V6

No Issues Found

3.3L Hybrid V6

No Issues Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic (10R80)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, clunking noises, especially during low-speed driving. Can be caused by valve body issues, worn clutches, or CDF drum failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of valve body, transmission rebuild, or transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $6,000+ depending on the repair needed
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. Can manifest in front or rear, depending on the specific bushing.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings (control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, etc.)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per bushing, depending on location and labor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive bouncing, poor handling, leaking fluid from the shock absorber. Heavy-duty suspension can contribute to increased wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ for both shocks, depending on brand and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the vehicle. Issues can stem from the police-specific equipment (lights, sirens, radios) drawing excessive power, or a faulty battery.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic drains, replacement of faulty equipment, or replacement of the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical malfunctions, such as lights not working, sensors malfunctioning, or communication errors. Common in areas where the harness is routed through the body, or near police-specific equipment installations.
  • Solution: Inspection and repair of damaged or corroded wiring, replacement of affected harness sections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+, depending on the severity and location of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Liftgate Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear liftgate failing to stay open or closing too quickly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for both struts, depending on brand and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the center console, particularly around the shifter or cup holders. This can be exacerbated by the installation of police equipment.
  • Solution: Replacement of the center console (may be costly), or repair of the cracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on repair option.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Ford Police Interceptor Utility, while a generally reliable vehicle, can experience issues. The most severe and costly problems appear to be with the 3.0L EcoBoost engine (turbo failure, coolant intrusion) and the 10-speed transmission. Electrical issues, often related to added police equipment, can also be a source of frustration. Suspension wear is accelerated due to the heavy-duty nature and usage. Overall, prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s service history and pay attention to any unusual noises or behaviors during a test drive.