2003 Ford F-150

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 423 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 11 times.

Not among the Ford F-150 years to avoid. Which Ford F-150 years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
64,000 milesMedian miles at failure

326 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2003 Ford F-150 problems

84 of the 423 complaints (20%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine28
000
Electrical System27
1101
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration26
352
Engine22
040
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine · engine21
000
Air Bags · airbags19
12220
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system16
010
Fuel System, Gasoline · fuel system15
000
Structure › Body · body and frame14
020
Tires13
100

2003 Ford F-150 engine problems

20% of all complaints

84 of the 423 complaints are about the engine. This is what owners describe:

  • leaks oil or fluid10% · 8
  • turns on the check engine light6% · 5
  • knocks, grinds or clunks6% · 5
  • loses power5% · 4
  • vibrates or shakes5% · 4
  • stalls4% · 3

Share of the 84 engine complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
107,000 mi
median of 74 reports
Peak year of filing
2009
11 engine complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
0 · 4 · 0
in these complaints
Recalls on the engine
None
“Requestng FORD be made to issue a recall for exhaust manifold holes and cracking issues. This issue is known and the are multiple forums online where people are talking about having this issue. When the manifold leaks, the risk is there that exhaust fumes can get into the driving compartment and asphyxiate the people in the car. It is an expensive repair for an issue for should have resolved long ago.”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 28, 2019 at 150,000 miles
“Tl* the contact owns a 2003 FORD f-150. The contact stated that exhaust fumes were present inside the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The technician stated that the manifold was leaking. The vehicle was not repaired and the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.”
Owner complaint, filed Sep 24, 2014 at 80,000 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2002: 1 complaints, 0 about the engine'022003: 48 complaints, 4 about the engine2004: 49 complaints, 5 about the engine2005: 36 complaints, 4 about the engine2006: 19 complaints, 6 about the engine'062007: 25 complaints, 4 about the engine2008: 30 complaints, 5 about the engine2009: 21 complaints, 11 about the engine2010: 26 complaints, 9 about the engine'102011: 34 complaints, 9 about the engine2012: 16 complaints, 3 about the engine2013: 12 complaints, 4 about the engine2014: 19 complaints, 5 about the engine'142015: 14 complaints, 6 about the engine2016: 21 complaints, 4 about the engine2017: 8 complaints, 0 about the engine2018: 5 complaints, 0 about the engine'182019: 14 complaints, 1 about the engine2020: 7 complaints, 3 about the engine2021: 2 complaints, 1 about the engine2022: 2 complaints, 0 about the engine'222023: 5 complaints, 0 about the engine2024: 2 complaints, 0 about the engine2025: 3 complaints, 0 about the engine2026: 4 complaints, 0 about the engine'26Recall 03V349000 (steering)Recall 06E052000 (headlights)Recall 06E056000 (fuel system)Recall 07V078000 (throttle and acceleration)Recall 07V336000 (throttle and acceleration)Recall 08E050000 (headlights)Recall 09E012000 (headlights)Recall 09E025000 (headlights)Recall 11V385000 (fuel system)NHTSA investigation EA11006NHTSA investigation PE08063NHTSA investigation DP05005
All complaintsAbout the engineRecall (red: the engine)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2003 F-150 peaked in 2004, with 49 filed that year. No recall on file covers the engine, the subject of 20% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 4 so far.

11 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly › Mounting11V385000
Filed Jul 29, 20111,100,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN 1997 THROUGH 2003 MODEL YEAR FORD F-150, 2004 MODEL YEAR FORD F-150 HERITAGE, 1997 THROUGH 1999 MODEL YEAR F-250 LESS THAN 8,500 LBS. GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING (GVWR), AND 2002 AND 2003 LINCOLN BLACKWOOD VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 20, 1995, THROUGH AUGUST 4, 2004, ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO ROAD DEICING CHEMICALS MAY CAUSE SEVERE CORROSION OF THE FUEL TANK STRAPS WHICH SECURE THE TANK TO THE VEHICLE.

Risk. AS A RESULT OF THE CORROSION, ONE OR BOTH STRAPS MAY FAIL ALLOWING THE FUEL LINES TO SEPARATE FROM THE TANK, OR IN SOME CASES, CAUSING THE TANK TO CONTACT THE GROUND. EITHER SCENARIO MAY RESULT IN A FUEL LEAK PRESENTING A FIRE HAZARD.

Remedy. FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND INSTRUCT THEM TO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO A FORD OR LINCOLN DEALER TO HAVE THE FUEL TANK STRAPS REPLACED WITH STRAPS THAT HAVE INCREASED CORROSION PROTECTION. EARLY IN THIS CAMPAIGN, IF REPLACEMENT STRAPS ARE NOT AVAILABLE, DEALERS MAY INSTALL A CABLE SUPPORT UNDER THE STRAP AS AN INTERIM REPAIR OR A STEEL REINFORCEMENT OVER THE EXISTING STRAP AS A PERMANENT REPAIR. ANY REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 16, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332. FORD'S RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER IS 11S21

Exterior Lighting › Headlights09E025000
Filed May 11, 200942,540 vehiclesDope, Inc.

Defect. DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.

Exterior Lighting09E012000
Filed Apr 7, 200916,270 vehiclesSabersport

Defect. SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights08E050000
Filed Aug 11, 20081,921 vehiclesK2 Motor Corporation

Defect. K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. K2 MOTOR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMEBER 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT K2 MOTOR AT 1-909-839-2992.

Equipment › Electrical07E066000
Filed Aug 28, 2007175 vehiclesCequent Electrical Products

Defect. CERTAIN CEQUENT 90 DEGREE 7-WAY RIGHT ANGLE ADAPTORS SOLD BY DISTRIBUTORS IN TOW PACKAGES FOR AFTERMARKET SALES TO TOW 5TH WHEEL RV TRAVEL TRAILERS. DUE TO INCORRECT WIRING OF THE HARNESS, THE TRAILER LIGHTS MAY NOT OPERATE PROPERLY.

Risk. IF THE TRAILER LIGHTS ARE NOT WORKING PROPERLY, A VEHICLE CRASH CAN OCCUR.

Remedy. ALL OF THE DEFECTIVE TOW PACKAGES ARE STILL AT THE DISTRIBUTOR LEVEL AND HAVE NOT BEEN SOLD TO ANY CONSUMERS.

Vehicle Speed Control07V336000
Filed Aug 3, 20073,600,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, PASSENGER VEHICLES, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND MOTOR HOMES CHASSIS, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY, UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.

Risk. THIS COULD RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS. OWNERS OF THE PASSENGER CARS INCLUDED IN THIS CAMPAIGN WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN THEIR VEHICLES TO THEIR DEALERS TO HAVE THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH DISCONNECTED AS AN INTERIM REPAIR. AS SOON AS REPAIR PARTS ARE AVAILABLE (EXPECTED OCTOBER 2007), OWNERS WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN TO THE DEALERS FOR INSTALLATION OF A FUSED WIRING HARNESS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 13, 2007, AND MAILING COMPLETED BY SEPTEMBER 19, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-888-222-2751.

Vehicle Speed Control07V078000
Filed Mar 6, 2007155,584 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. ON CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH SPEED CONTROL, GASOLINE OR NATURAL GAS ENGINES, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY OVERHEAT.

Risk. OVERHEATING COULD RESULT IN SMOKE, BURN, OR AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS INTO THE SPEED CONTROL SYSTEM FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 12, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673. (NOTE: ALSO SEE RECALLS 05V017, 05V388, AND 06V286)

Exterior Lighting › Headlights06E067000
Filed Aug 1, 200619,413 vehiclesMaxzone Auto Parts Corporation

Defect. CERTAIN MAXZONE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES, DEPO BRAND, P/NOS. 331-1129L-ASN AND 331-1129R-ASN, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. MAXZONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR ANY NONCOMPLIANT HEADLIGHTS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAXZONE AT 909-822-3288.

Fuel System, Gasoline06E056000
Filed Jun 13, 200658,640 vehiclesUfi Filters USA

Defect. CERTAIN AFTERMARKET FUEL FILTERS SOLD UNDER THE PUROLATOR BRAND NAME, P/N F65277, SHIPPED FROM JANUARY 16 THROUGH JUNE 2, 2006, FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. DUE TO INCORRECT DESIGN, THE QUICK CONNECTORS MAY NOT FULLY SEAT WITH THE TUBE INTERFACE, EVEN THOUGH THE PERSON MAKING THE CONNECTION MAY BELIEVE THAT THE QUICK CONNECTOR IS FULLY ATTACHED.

Risk. FAILURE OF THIS CONNECTION COULD LEAD TO FUEL SPILLAGE AND, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.

Remedy. UFI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 4, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT UFI FILTERS USA AT 800-230-5876.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights06E052000
Filed Jun 12, 200614,616 vehiclesSabry Lee, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN EAGLE EYES HEADLAMPS, P/NOS. FR208-B101R, FR208-B101L, FR208-B001R, AND FR208-B001L, SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. SABRY LEE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER FULL CREDIT FOR ANY NONCOMPLIANT HEADLAMP. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON JUNE 14, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABRY LEE ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE AT 1-866-467-2279.

Steering › Gear Box › Shaft Pitman03V349000
Filed Sep 22, 2003300 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, THE PITMAN ARM TO STEERING GEAR RETAINING NUT WAS NOT FULLY TIGHTENED TO THE REQUIRED SPECIFICATION.

Risk. IF THE PITMAN ARM TO GEARBOX ATTACHMENT NUT LOOSENS, A NOISE AND A LOOSE FEEL IN THE STEERING COULD OCCUR. IF THE CONDITION PROGRESSED AND SERVICE WAS NOT SOUGHT, THE NUT COULD BACK OFF COMPLETELY AND THE PITMAN ARM COULD SEPARATE FROM THE GEAR CAUSING A LOSS OF STEERING. IF THE WARNING IS NOT HEEDED AND STEERING IS LOST, A CRASH MAY RESULT.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL TIGHTEN THE PITMAN ARM RETAINING NUT TO SPECIFICATIONS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON OCTOBER 1, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.

All 11 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 3 name the 2003 F-150.

Fuel Tank Strap Failure Due to CorrosionEngineering analysis EA11006Closed
Opened May 4, 2011Closed Aug 19, 2011Led to recall 11V385000fuel system

One or both of the steel straps holding up the fuel tank and attaching it to the truck frame can corrode and fail (break or separate).If one strap fails, the tank may tilt and drop and possibly contact the road surface.If both straps break, the entire tank may drop to the road.If either failure occurs while the vehicle is being driven, contact with the road can abrade the tank and create a hole from which gasoline can spill.When the tank drops, it remains attached to the vehicle only by the fuel filler hose and/or supply lines, or in rare instances, by the skid plate, if present.In some cases …

CNG REGULATOR LEAKPreliminary evaluation PE08063Closed
Opened Oct 31, 2008Closed Feb 27, 2009fuel system

The agency has closed this investigation based on its review of complaint reports, discussions with complainants and field and technical data provided by FORD.the subject vehicles are 1/2 ton pickup trucks and are natural gas vehicles (ngv) that are fueled by gasoline or compressed natural gas.the agency has received reports alleging improper operation of the natural gas fuel pressure regulator allowing release of excess amounts of natural gas into the engine compartment.FORD reports that the regulator contains an over pressure relief valve that will vent natural gas should the pressure …

SPARK PLUG EJECTION FROM CYLINDER HEADDefect petition DP05005Closed
Opened Sep 22, 2005Closed Jan 4, 2006engine

On september 6, 2005, odi received a petition requesting that the agency investigate allegations of engine spark plug ejection in certain model year 1997 through 2004 FORD vehicles with triton v-8 and v-10 engines.odi received a total of 474 non-duplicative complaints on the subject vehicles where the complainant, or the dealer repairing the vehicle, reported that a spark plug detached from the cylinder and/or ejected from the engine.as of december 8, 2005, odi is not aware of any allegations where the alleged defect resulted in a loss of vehicle control, a crash, an injury, or a fatality in …

Technical service bulletins

94 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2003 F-150. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

engine 26transmission 15fuel system 11steering 10electrical system 7equipment 6body and frame 4suspension 2
03B08Service campaignJul 1, 2003steering

THE PITMAN ARM RETAINING NUB MAY NOT BE TIGHTENED TO SPECIFICATIONS. THIS COULD RESULT IN CUSTOMER COMPLAINTS OF A NOISE OR VIBRATION. FORD IS PROVIDING A NO-CHARGE CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAM , #03B08, TO TIGHTEN THE PITMAN ARM NUT TO THE PROPER TORQUE. *TT

03B04Service campaignMar 1, 2003engine

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAM - COLD START CALIBRATION PRODUCT ENHANCEMENT. *TT

DOR-N3Z7B-03Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsFeb 7, 2020engine

This SKU is an Oil Dipstick. The customer communication requested return of unsold inventory to inspect the dipstick tube. The dipstick tube inner diameter may be small enough that it prevents installation of the OE dipstick.

20228Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsApr 1, 2008engine

1999-2008 7.3L/6.0L/6.4L/4.5L DIESEL F-SUPER DUTY - CLEAN THE CHARGE AIR COOLER (CAC) SYSTEM AFTER CERTAIN TURBO OR ENGINE FAILURES - SERVICE TIP. *NJ

07212Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 1, 2007engine

SOME 1997-2008 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 4.6L 2V, 5.4L 2V, OR 6.8L 2V ENGINE--SPARK PLUG THREAD REPAIR PROCEDURE--NOT COVERED UNDER NEW VEHICLE LIMITED WARRANTY. *NJ THIS INCLUDES F-53 MOTORHOME CHASSIS. UPDATED 2/23/10. *PE

05173Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 14, 2005engine

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ON WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P1131 AND/OR P1151 - 4.2L ENGINE. *TT

041601Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 14, 2005engine

WDS COP KIT DIAGNOSTIC TIP - COIL ON PLUG (COP) IGNITION SYSTEMS - ENGINE MISFIRE OR ROUGH RUNNING. *TT

051713Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 7, 2005engine

COOLANT DEGAS BOTTLE OVERFLOW. *TT

Showing the newest 6 of 26 bulletins about the engine, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2003 Ford F-150 2-DR.———★★★★★—
2003 Ford F-150 Supercab———★★★★★—
2003 Ford F-150 Supercrew 4-DR.———★★★★★—

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Electrical SystemFire
Filed Aug 18, 2026ID

I moved my vehicle from driveway to park on the street so my husband could park in the driveway. I then turned my vehicle off and roughly 2 hours later, a lady came screaming "fire fire fire!" I went to see where she was talking about and my truck was smoking under the hood, I then called the fire department and they came to extinguish the fire. I was unaware of any recalls as I am the 3rd owner of this vehicle.

Tires
Filed Aug 4, 2026277,144 milesOK

The contact owns a 2003 Ford F-150 equipped with Firestone Tires, Tire Line: Firestone, Tire Size: 265/70/R17, DOT Number: (N/A). The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and occupied, there was a burning rubber odor coming from the outside of the vehicle. The contact exited the vehicle to inspect the tires and became aware that the tread of the tires was loose. Neither the dealer nor an independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 277,144.

Structure › Body
Filed Jun 9, 2026TX

UNKNOWN - however there were NO warning lights or any other indication of malfunction or to service the truck. I took the truck to an independent service center & they did a full inspection & I did receive an estimate for repairs.

Unknown or OtherFire
Filed Jan 28, 2026VA

My husband was shoveling snow off of our vehicles and seen smoke coming from under the hood of his truck. When he opened the hood the truck was on fire on the right side. The truck was turned off when this happened. He threw snow on top of it to put the fire out and unplugged the battery to prevent further fire damage.

Air BagsCrash
Filed Sep 12, 2025GA

Well the passenger side in front seat seat belt needs replaced due to getting stuck after front airbags in dash and steering wheel after deployment from barley tapping a vehicle in front of the truck

Electrical System › Ignition › Coil › Spark Plugs
Filed Aug 6, 2025NM

The engine continues to shoot out the spark plugs. This is continued to happen with different cylinders. I’ve had it at the mechanic most of the time I’ve owned it.

Steering
Filed Mar 17, 2025175,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2003 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became inoperable. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel felt very loose and was difficult to turn. The vehicle was restarted. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 175,000.

Latches/Locks/Linkages
Filed Jun 25, 2024FL

The contact owns a 2003 Ford F-150. The contact stated that upon attempting to enter the vehicle, the contact became aware that the driver’s and passenger’s side rear doors failed to open after several attempts. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jan 20, 2024NC

I purchased this F150 in November, 2023. The only code shown was a lean code, P0171. I removed the bed first to begin my inspection. Upon removing the original fuel tank, I discovered a gash in the top of the tank,about 1/8" wide by 3" long. It should have set a code like a missing gas cap would, but there was none. The gash appeared to be several years old due to the rust pitting. I believe the gash was a result of the cross member rubbing against the tank. The previous owner did not mention the defect. Fuel would have spilled out if the tank was completely filled. I did not find any service alerts for this though they may exist. The truck currently has 225k miles.

Electrical System
Filed Oct 17, 2023WA

Our truck has been great but we have a major problem. It is leaking water when it rains. Getting front floor carpet wet and now it is getting the fuse box wet and causing electrical systems to not work. Like today the odometer won't light up. Also dripping from top of windshield. We are having the windshield and seal replaced on Thursday but the glass company says they can't guarantee m of seal will stop the Problem. He said the drain system was factory installed backwards and it's not draining properly.

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Sep 14, 2023250,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2003 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and turned off for approximately an hour, they were suddenly informed that their vehicle had caught fire. When the contact arrived at the vehicle the fire department had already arrived and extinguished the fire. There was a police report was filed that stated that the fire was caused by wiring in the engine compartment. There were no injuries or medical assistance. There was damage to a nearby vehicle, fence, tree, and surrounding grounds. The vehicle had been towed and deemed totaled. The contact had later learned of NHTSA Campaign Number: 05V017000 (Vehicle Speed Control) however the vehicle had never been repaired for the recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 250,000.

Power Train
Filed May 24, 2023KS

Ford placed a decal on the rear differential that wraps all the way around the axle. This decal holds water and has caused any area touching the decal to rust excessively. Ford has told me that this will cause they rear differential fail. When this happens it will likely be when I'm driving with my wife and two young kids. The only way to know that this issue exists is to either get under the truck and remove the decal which causes and also covers the damage, or to have the axle give out while driving. This was recently discovered while working on the vehicle. I don't currently have pictures as the vehicle is in for other repairs, but I can get pictures once I get the vehicle back.

Power Train
Filed Apr 28, 2023FL

Transmission

Structure › BodyFire
Filed Mar 6, 2023NC

On the day of Monday February 20 2023 I was in my front driveway preforming some maintenance on my 2003 Ford F-150 Xlt SuperCrew truck a gear shift cable and a heater core replacement. Once I finished the repairs I ran my truck for a few minutes then shut it off and was headed inside when I noticed a flickering light coming from the passenger side of the vehicle I walked to the truck and opened the door and I saw small flames dripping down coming from the ( glove box area ) I then grabbed the water hose and put it out . Once the small fire was out I proceeded to go in the house when I noticed black smoke coming ( from the engine bay from the vents in front of the windshield) the smoke got thicker as I sprayed it with water I then called to my spouse to call the local Fire Department. The vehicle was a total loss nothing was left interior wise no ( steering wheel,no console,no dashboard or anything.

Unknown or OtherFire
Filed Dec 7, 2022FL

On 11/27/2022 at or around 4:30 P.M. my 2003 Ford F-150 burned almost completely, without any mechanical failures or warnings, thirty full minutes after being parked and then after only having been run for three to four miles. The fire department ended up putting it out before it was fully consumed.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Oct 26, 2022VA

The contact owns a 2003 Ford F-150. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V385000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 23, 202136,000 milesCA

FRONT DRIVER SEAT MOVES ON ITS OWN WHILE DRIVING WITH NO WARNING OR TOUCHING CONTROLS AND NO PROBLEM WITH FUSES ETC. WHEN TRYING TO USE CONTROLS THEY DO NOT ALWAYS WORK UNTIL YOUR DRIVING OR IN DRIVE WITH FOOT ON BRAKES.

Engine
Filed Jan 14, 2021110,000 milesOK

TL* THE CONTACT'S BOYFRIEND OWNS A 2003 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE IGNITION COILS AND ALL SPARK PLUGS WOULD BLOW OUT INSIDE OF THE ENGINE WHICH WOULD CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO STALL AS THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WOULD APPEAR ON THE DASHBOARD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE HAS HAD THE IGNITION COILS AND SPARKS PLUGS REPLACED ON FOUR SEPARATE OCCASIONS ALL BY INDEPENDENT MECHANICS HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE CONTACT ALSO CALLED THREE SEPARATE DEALERS BUT WAS UNABLE TO REACH A SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT UNDER RECALL. SHE WAS REFERRED TO NHTSA FOR ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 110,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 16, 2020258,000 milesMA

FUEL TANK SEPARATED FROM VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY, RESULTING IN FUEL SPILL.

Air BagsCrash2 injured
Filed Nov 3, 2020145,800 milesNV

ON NOVEMBER 01,2020 I WAS INVOLVED IN A VEHICLE ROLLOVER IN MY FORD F150 2003 WHICH THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. AIRBAG LIGHT WAS ON AND SEATBELT LOCKED I WAS ENTERTAINING INTERSECTION AND ALMOST THROUGH IT WHEN ANOTHER VEHICLE RAN THE STOP LIGHT CAUSING ME TO ROLLOVER ONE IN HALF TIMES. AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY AND SEAT ALMOST DETACHED FROM CAB.

Power Train
Filed Oct 22, 202086,341 milesAR

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE KEY WAS IN THE IGNITION SWITCH, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO SHIFT GEAR AS DESIGNED. THE CONTACT HAD TO SHIFT THE GEAR FROM PARK TO NEUTRAL AND BACK INTO PARK THEN NEUTRAL AGAIN FOR THE VEHICLE TO RESUME NORMAL OPERATION AND TURN ON. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 86,341.

EngineFire
Filed Jul 30, 2020240,000 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER PARKING THE VEHICLE FROM DRIVING, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SMOKE FROM THE DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHORTLY AFTER THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE UNDER THE HOOD ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME TO PUT OUT THE FIRE AND FILED A POLICE REPORT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND DEEMED TOTALED. THE CONTACT HAD CONTACTED THE DEALERSHIP (SAM PACK'S FIVE STAR FORD ADDRESS: 1635 S INTERSTATE 35E, CARROLLTON, TX 75006 PHONE: (972) 446-5027) WHO INFORMED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL ON THEIR VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 240,000.

EngineFire
Filed Jun 4, 2020203,000 milesLA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT HAD BEEN ILLUMINATED SINCE THE DAY OF PURCHASE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN THE CAR PORT THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME AND PUT OUT THE FIRE. A FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT WAS MADE. THE VEHICLE WAS DEEMED TOTALED AS WELL AS DAMAGED THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE CONTACT CONTACTED A CERTIFIED MECHANIC WHO INFORMED THEM OF A RECALL FOR THE YEAR/MAKE/MODEL, NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 06E056000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE CONTACT STATED THE VIN HAD NOT SHOWN TO BE INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 203,000. *BF *DL

EngineFire
Filed Mar 16, 2020196,000 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 05V017000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL) AND A REPAIR APPOINTMENT WAS SCHEDULED WITH THE LOCAL DEALER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE WAS NOT INFORMED BY THE DEALER THAT THE DEFECTIVE PART COULD HAVE BEEN DISCONNECTED FROM THE VEHICLE TO AVOID A FIRE WHICH WAS STATED IN THE RECALL REMEDY. THE CONTACT STATED AFTER HIS GIRLFRIEND PARKED THE VEHICLE, ABOUT FOUR AND A HALF HOURS LATER THE VEHICLE UNEXPECTEDLY WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES FROM THE ENGINE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED AND EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. A FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT TWO OTHER VEHICLES WERE DAMAGED BY THE FIRE. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE INCIDENT AND CANCELED A SCHEDULED APPOINTMENT HOWEVER THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE INCIDENT. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT DEEMED THE VEHICLE A TOTAL LOSS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 196,000.

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Feb 11, 2020116,807 milesMO

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 FORD F150. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH THE VEHICLE SLID ON BLACK ICE CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO COLLIDE WITH THE GUARD RAIL SEVERAL TIMES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NO WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED PRIOR TO THE COLLISION. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY IN THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE SUFFERED WHIPLASH AND BRUISED MUSCLES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT STATED HE WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE TO HIS PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT HOWEVER, THE HE DRIVE SLOWLY AS THE VEHICLE WAS SHAKING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED 2 DAYS LATER BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY AND DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE CONTACT WAS UNAWARE OF THE AIR BAGS FAILURE WAS DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 116,807.

Service Brakes
Filed Nov 26, 201916,800 milesUT

NOTHING HAS REALLY HAPPENED BUT BOTH ANTI LOCK BRAKE WIRES KEEP RUBBING ON THE RIMS AND WHERING THROUGH I HAVE REPLACED BOTH SIDES TWICE

Tires
Filed Nov 2, 2019TX

ONE GENERAL GRABBER STX, FROM WALMART, ON FRONT OF F150 BASE MODEL TRUCK SHREDDED ON HIGHWAY. FOLLOWING DAY THE OTHER FRONT TIRE OF SAME YEAR AND MODEL OF TIRE SHREDDED. THEY SHREDDED AT 49,189 MIES, 3YRS OF USE, STILL UNDER TIRE MANUFACTURERS WARRANTY. DOT: A30KHM580816 AND A30KHM581316. I SUSPECT THE MODEL OF TIRE CAN'T HANDLE THE LOAD OF THE FRONT OF THE TRUCK. WHEREAS THE EXACT SAME MODELS OF TIRES AND SAME DOT NUMBERS ON THE REAR ARE STILL RUNNING ON THE TRUCK WITH 2900 MILES MORE. THE SET OF THESE FOUR TIRES WERE ALL INSTALLED ON THE SAME DATE.

Tires
Filed Nov 2, 2019TX

ONE GENERAL GRABBER STX, FROM WALMART, ON FRONT OF F150 BASE MODEL TRUCK SHREDDED ON HIGHWAY. FOLLOWING DAY THE OTHER FRONT TIRE OF SAME YEAR AND MODEL OF TIRE SHREDDED. THEY SHREDDED AT 49,189 MIES, 3YRS OF USE, STILL UNDER TIRE MANUFACTURERS WARRANTY. DOT: A30KHM580816 AND A30KHM581316. I SUSPECT THE MODEL OF TIRE CAN'T HANDLE THE LOAD OF THE FRONT OF THE TRUCK. WHEREAS THE EXACT SAME MODELS OF TIRES AND SAME DOT NUMBERS ON THE REAR ARE STILL RUNNING ON THE TRUCK WITH 2900 MILES MORE. THE SET OF THESE FOUR TIRES WERE ALL INSTALLED ON THE SAME DATE.

Service Brakes
Filed Oct 24, 2019170,000 milesAZ

BRAKE PEDAL BECAME SPONGY AT FIRST BUT THEN WENT CLEAR TO THE FLOOR WHEN ATTEMPTING TO STOP. THE VEHICLE STOPS BUT WITH VERY LONG REACTION TIME. THE MASTER CYLINDER WAS REPLACED WITH A NEW UNIT...BUT THE PROBLEM PERSISTED. ABS UNIT WAS THEN REPLACED WITH SALVAGE UNIT...PROBLEM STILL PERSISTS.

Unknown or OtherFire
Filed Oct 22, 2019PR

LA GUAGUA ESTANDO ESTACIONADA EN LA MARQUESINA APAGADA. SE ENCENDI POR EL LADO DEL CHOFER EN MOTOR CERCA DE LOS FRENOS.

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 18, 2019203,450 milesNJ

GAS TANK STRAP BROKE WAS THIS A RECALL ON THIS VEHICLE?

Engine
Filed Aug 28, 2019150,000 milesIN

REQUESTNG FORD BE MADE TO ISSUE A RECALL FOR EXHAUST MANIFOLD HOLES AND CRACKING ISSUES. THIS ISSUE IS KNOWN AND THE ARE MULTIPLE FORUMS ONLINE WHERE PEOPLE ARE TALKING ABOUT HAVING THIS ISSUE. WHEN THE MANIFOLD LEAKS, THE RISK IS THERE THAT EXHAUST FUMES CAN GET INTO THE DRIVING COMPARTMENT AND ASPHYXIATE THE PEOPLE IN THE CAR. IT IS AN EXPENSIVE REPAIR FOR AN ISSUE FOR SHOULD HAVE RESOLVED LONG AGO.

Unknown or OtherCrash1 injured
Filed Jul 30, 201990,000 milesCA

DRIVING A 2003 FORD F-150, LARIAT, SUPER CREW, GOING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH AND ACCELERATING, ON THE ON-RAMP ENTRANCE TO CA STATE ROUTE 108, FROM STANDARD ROAD IN SONORA, CA, ON JULY-3-2019, THE WHEELS LOCKED AND THEIR WAS A LOSS OF STEERING. THE TIME WAS APPROXIMATELY 11 AM, ROAD WAS DRY, FAIR SKIES, NO DEBRIS OR OBSTACLES ON ROADWAY. THE ROAD WAS IN GOOD CONDITION. ONE WEEK EARLIER REPLACED ALL TIRES AT BIG O TIRES, SONORA, CA; THE WHEEL ALIGNMENT WAS CORRECTED AT THAT TIME. THE ON-RAMP WAS CURVING NORMALLY TO THE RIGHT, PROVIDING ACCESS TO THE WESTWARD BOUND TRAFFIC LANE. WHEN THE WHEELS LOCKED THE VEHICLE SPUN TO RIGHT, BUT TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL TO LEFT, INTO THE SPIN HAD NO EFFECT ON THE SPIN-OUT. THE PICK-UP TURNED 180 DEGREES, AND THEN ROLLED DOWN THE EMBANKMENT ON THE INSIDE OF THE ON-RAMP CURVE, THE NORTH-SIDE OF THE ON-RAMP. I WAS INJURED, EMS REQUIRED I BE FLOWN BY HELICOPTER TO THE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL IN MODESTO, CA. THE CA HIGHWAY PATROL INVESTIGATED THE ACCIDENT, AND PERSUMABLE TOOK A WITNESS STATEMENT FROM THE TRUCK DRIVER WHO WAS FOLLOWING ME AS WE ENTERED THE ON-RAMP. THE WITNESS, WHO HAD IMMEDIATELY RAN DOWN THE EMBANKMENT TO RENDER ASSISTANCE, SAID HE HAD NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE IT BEFORE, THE WHEEL JUST COME OFF. BEING INCAPACITATED FROM THE ROLLOVER WRECK, I DID NOT GET THE NAME OF THE WITNESS, BUT THE INVESTIGATING OFFICE MUST HAVE. THE ACCIDENT REPORT IS NOT AVAILABLE AS OF THIS REPORT WRITING.

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Jul 26, 2019200,020 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT'S SISTER SMELLED SMOKE COMING THEIR BEDROOM WINDOW. THE CONTACT WENT OUTSIDE AND NOTICED THAT THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE FIRE STARTED FROM THE DRIVER SIDE. THE CONTACT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE WITH THEIR WATER HOSE. NO POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES REPORTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TOTALED HOWEVER THE FRONT HOOD AND PASSENGER SIDE WAS MELTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND ADVISED TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO HENSON FORD (581 1-45, MADISONVILLE, TX 77864). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200,020.

Service Brakes
Filed May 15, 2019178,157 milesLA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD F-150. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND IT TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED EVERY DAY FOR APPROXIMATELY A WEEK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 178,157.

Tires
Filed Apr 4, 201992,206 milesNM

I HAD A CATOSTROPHIC SIDEWALL FAILURE OF A GOODYEAR WRANGLER DURATRAC TIRE (MDW8 B11V 4110) THAT HAD ONLY 2140 MILES ON IT. THE TIRE FAILED AT 35 MPH BUT HAD TO BE DRIVEN ABOUT 100 FEET TO REMOVE IT SAFELY FROM THE ROADWAY. I HAVE A PICTURE OF THE RESULT IF NEEDED. HAD THIS HAPPENED ON THE INTERSTATE THE RESULT WOULD HAVE BEEN SIGNIFICANT.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 23, 201995,000 milesCA

AFTER A RAINSTORM AND WHILE DRIVING, MY WINDSHIELD WIPERS STOPPED WORKING, MY RADIO/CD PLAYER STARTED TURNING OFF AND ON, MY PANEL LIGHT DIMMED, AND I HEARD A CLICKING NOISE UNDER MY DRIVER SIDE DASH BOARD. THERE WAS ALSO A CLICKING NOISE COMING FROM THE ENGINE. WHILE STATIONARY AND KEY OUT OF THE IGNITION, I NOTICED WATER ON THE DRIVER SIDE FLOOR, AND WHEN I LOOKED UNDER I COULD SEE DROPS OF WATER SLIDING OFF I BELIEVE MY EMERGENCY BAKE AND BRAKE PEDAL, AND AN ONGOING CLICKING SOUND UNDER THE STEERING WHEEL. I LEFT MY TRUCK IN DRIVEWAY OVERNIGHT, AND THE NEXT MORNING MY BATTERY WAS DEAD. I HAD AAA TOW COME AND REPLACE BATTERY THAT AFTERNOON. THE NEXT MORNING THE BATTERY WAS DEAD AGAIN. AAA CAME AND CHECKED THE STARTER AND ALTERNATOR, ALL WERE FINE. AS THEY RECHARGED BATTERY THERE WAS A WEIRD NOISE HEARD IN THE ENGINE AREA. I DROVE IT TO A MECHANIC WITH FORD TRUCK EXPERIENCE. HE STATED THE GEM AND FUSE BOX WERE WET AND ATTRIBUTED IT TO WATER LEAKAGE COMING FROM THE WINDSHIELD WEATHER STRIPPING TRIM WHICH WAS COMMON IN FORDS VEHICLES. HE RECOMMENDED REPLACING GEM, FUSE BOX, AND WINDSHIELD TRIM. THIS WATER/ELECTRICAL PROBLEM HAPPENS EVERY YEAR AFTER A RAINSTORM. I NEVER THOUGHT A VEHICLE IN GOOD CONDITION COULD HAVE OUTSIDE WATER LEAKS GETTING INSIDE AND ONTO THE FUSE BOX AND GEM MODULE. THE MECHANIC TOLD ME IT CAN BECOME VERY DANGEROUS FOR THE GEM AND FUSE BOX TO FAIL BECAUSE IT CONTROLS EVERYTHING IN THE TRUCK. THE GEM AND FUSE BOX SHOULD BE PROTECTED FROM OUTSIDE ELEMENTS. W

Air Bags1 injured
Filed Mar 17, 2019253,000 milesMO

MY SON WAS DRIVING DOWN THE MAIN STREET IN OUR TOWN GOING THE SPEED LIMIT, CROSSED OVER THE RAILROAD CROSSING AND BOTH AIRBAGS DEPLOYED EVEN THOUGH THERE HAD BEEN NO COLLISION OR IMPACT OTHER THAN THE SMALL BUMP OF THE RAILROAD CROSSING. THANKFULLY, IT DID NOT CAUSE HIM TO LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE IMPACT OF THE AIRBAG DID SLIGHTLY INJURE HIS WRIST, HE DID NOT SEEK MEDICAL TREATMENT. THE HORN BLEW CONTINUOUSLY UNTIL HE UNHOOKED IT. HOWEVER THE TRUCK WAS FULLY DRIVABLE IMMEDIATELY, SO HE CALLED US ASKING WHAT TO DO AND WE HAD HIM DRIVE IT HOME. THERE WAS NO WRECK OR ANY KIND OF IMPACT THAT SHOULD HAVE MADE THE AIRBAGS DEPLOY. THE TRUCK IS IN THE SAME WORKING ORDER THAT IT WAS PREVIOUSLY EXCEPT FOR BOTH FRONT AIRBAGS ARE DEPLOYED. THE AIRBAGS HAVE NEVER BEEN TAMPERED WITH THAT WE ARE AWARE OF. WE ARE NOT THE ORIGINAL OWNERS OF THE TRUCK, HOWEVER. THIS INCIDENT WAS REPORTED TO OUR INSURANCE COMPANY.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Feb 18, 2019314,000 milesNJ

GAS PEDAL IS STICKING. TRUCK SPEEDS UP, ONLY WAY TO STOP IS SHIFT TO NEUTRAL.HAPPENED ON HIGHWAY AND I SHIFTED TO NEUTRAL AND HIT PEDAL SEVERAL TIMES TO GET BACK TO IDLE

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 6, 2018IA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V385000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE DEALER (LYNCH FORD CHEVROLET INC, 410 US-30, MT VERNON, IA 52314, 319-895-8500) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT PARTS FOR THE RECALL REMEDY WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

Fuel/Propulsion SystemFire
Filed Aug 1, 2018180,000 milesAL

I DROVE THE TRUCK ABOUT 90 MILES SUNDAY JULY 29. PARKED THE TRUCK IN FRONT OF MY HOME WENT INSIDE AND ABOUT 10 MINUTES LATER HEARD AN EXPLOSION. WENT OUT FRONT AND FOUND MY TRUCK ENGINE COMPARTMENT FULLY ENGULFED IN FLAMES. FIRE WAS SO HOT IT MELTED ENGINEER PARTS AND THE HOOD. I HAD CHECKED THE OIL, COOLANT AND TRANS PRIOR TO MAKING THE TRIP. THERE WERE NO LEAKS OF ANY TYPE. HAVE NEVER HAD ANY ISSUES WITH FULE OR OIL LEAKS.

Structure › Body › Door
Filed Jul 11, 201846,000 milesNC

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD F-150. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY, THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR WOULD NOT OPEN WHEN PROMPTED. CLONINGER FORD (511 JAKE ALEXANDER BLVD S, SALISBURY, NORTH CAROLINA 28147) WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL ON THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 46,000. *TT *TR

Power Train › Clutch Assembly
Filed Apr 20, 201831,950 milesOH

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD F-150. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE DECELERATED AND THE ENGINE REVVED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MATHEWS FORD NEWARK (500 HEBRON RD, NEWARK, OH 43056, (740) 522-2181) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE CLUTCH ASSEMBLY UNIT FAILED AND NEEDED REPLACEMENT. THE CLUTCH ASSEMBLY WAS REPLACED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED FIVE TIMES. AFTER EACH FAILURE, THE CLUTCH ASSEMBLY UNIT WAS REPLACED BY THE SAME DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 31,950. *JS *JS

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Apr 13, 2018NJ

GAS TANK IS LEAKING. JUST READ THERE WAS A RECALL ON IT

Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Nov 13, 2017247,000 milesMO

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD F-150. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL SOUND FROM THE ENGINE AND THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE LIFTERS FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MECHANIC EVEN SIGNED OFF FOR THE VEHICLE TO PASS STATE INSPECTION. AFTER RETRIEVING THE VEHICLE, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AGAIN AND THE ABNORMAL SOUND RETURNED. THE LOCAL DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 247,000.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Sep 6, 2017218,050 milesMA

SEPTEMBER 05, 2017 3:49PM WHEN APPROCHING THE CAPE COD MA BRIDGE, MY 20 YEAR OLD DAUGHTERS FORD F-150 SUDDENELY ACCERELATED WHEN THE CRUSE CONTROL WAS OFF. SHE REACHED SPEEDS EXCEDING 80MPH AND THE BRAKES WHERE USELESS. SHE HAD TO SHIFT OUT OF DRIVE AND SHUT THE ENGINE OFF WHILLE WEAVING IN AND OUT OF TRAFFIC TO REGAIN CONTROL. HAD SHE BEEN IN ANY HEAVER TRAFFIC OR ON THE BRIDGE SHE AND MAYBE OTHERS WOULD HAVE BEEN VERY SEVERLY INJURED!!! THIS SEEMS TO BE A WELL KNOWN ISSUE YET FORD AND MY LOCAL FORD DEALER KNOW NOTHING ABOUT IT (STRANGE) THE RECALL FOR THIS ISSUE JUST IS NOT FOR HER F-150. WHEN I SPOKE TO BOTH FORD AND MY LOCAL DEALER. THIS IS A LIFE AND DEATH ISSUE. (CRICKETTS FROM FORD)

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Aug 30, 2017LA

CPSC:I HAVE A 2003 FORD 6 CYLINDER TRUCK AND IT HAS NEARLY GOTTEN US KILLED A NUMBER OF TIMES!I'VE CHECKED TO SEE IF THERE IS A RECALL AND CAN'T FIND ONE AND I CALLED THE FORD DEALERSHIP IN COVINGTON LOUISIANA AND WAS TOLD THAT THERE IS NOTHING THEY COULD DO. I SENT EMAILS TO THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY AND NEVER GET A RESPONSE. *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WOULD ACCELERATE RAPIDLY AND UNINTENTIONALLY. IN ORDER TO SLOW THE VEHICLE DOWN THE DRIVER HAD TO SHIFT TO NEUTRAL, WHICH WAS BECOMING DIFFICULT. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED AND DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE. UPDATED 08/31/2017*JS

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 16, 201790,000 milesOH

IN MARCH OF 2014, MY FUEL TANK STRAPS BROKE DUE TO EXCESSIVE CORROSION AND MY FUEL TANK FELL TO THE ROAD WHILE I WAS DRIVING. I PAID TO HAVE IT REPAIRED THAT SAME MONTH BUT I RECENTLY LEARNED THAT THIS PROBLEM WAS IN A FORD RECALL, CAMPAIGN NUMBER 11S21. I TOOK THE BILL TO A LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP, PER THE FORD RECALL INSTRUCTIONS, BUT THEY DENIED MY CLAIM BECAUSE I NO LONGER OWN THE VEHICLE; IT WAS TOTALED IN 2015

Air Bags
Filed Jun 15, 20171,110,009 milesNM

HORN CRUISE CONTROL NOT WORKING STARTED WHEN DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD IN TOWN

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 29, 201794,000 milesSC

BOTH REAR DOOR LATCHES HAVE FAILED TO OPERATE. CANNOT OPEN EITHER REAR DOOR. THIS HAPPENED IN THE PARKING LOT WHERE I LIVE. I AM HANDY CAPED AND CANNOT GET ACCESS TO MY ROLATER WHICH IN THE BACK SEAT AREA. I NEED THIS EQUIPMENT TO HELP ME WALK. HAS THERE BEEN OTHER REPORTS OF THIS MALFUNCTION? IS THIS A RECALL ITEM? WILL FORD MFG REPAIR THIS DEFECT?

Complaints 1-50 of 423, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2013
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20270300Routine
202612800Routine
20251091440Routine
20241951140Routine
20234181340Above average
20226042370Above average
20211,0422940Do not drive
20207421140Above average
20191,345970Above average
20182,32719333Fatalities reported
20171,46518210High concern
20162,09314250High concern
20151,74614133Fatalities reported
20141,5398161Do not drive
20132,9943354Fatalities reported
20121,7844142Fatalities reported
20112,1946190Above average
20108431350High concern
2009324280Above average
20083691122Fatalities reported
20074887131Fatalities reported
200658514181Fatalities reported
20051,11214292Fatalities reported
20042,02916406Fatalities reported
2003 — this page42311371Fatalities reported
200282110950High concern
20011,236192487Fatalities reported
20001,075173431Fatalities reported
19991,044186911Fatalities reported
19981,38118911Fatalities reported
19972,7582626214Fatalities reported
19963247752Fatalities reported
199562671142Fatalities reported
1994676131010High concern
199358613211Fatalities reported
19924709395Fatalities reported
19913046410High concern
19902755320High concern

Compare every F-150 year →

2003 Ford F-150: questions buyers ask

Is the 2003 Ford F-150 a good car?

It is not among the F-150 years to avoid. Owners filed 423 complaints, against about 843 for a typical F-150 year. The most common complaint is about the engine (20%).

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Ford F-150?

The engine: 84 of the 423 complaints (20%) are about it. Owners most often say it leaks oil or fluid (10%), turns on the check engine light (6%) and knocks, grinds or clunks (6%). The typical report comes at 107,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2003 Ford F-150 have?

11 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jul 29, 2011. The largest, 07V336000, covered 3,600,000 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2003 Ford F-150 problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 64,000 miles. For the engine the midpoint is 107,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2003 Ford F-150?

Yes, 3 times. The latest, EA11006 ("Fuel Tank Strap Failure Due to Corrosion"), was opened May 4, 2011 and closed Aug 19, 2011.

Are there service bulletins for the 2003 Ford F-150?

The manufacturer filed 94 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (26), the transmission (15) and the fuel system (11). They include a service campaign, 03B08, filed Jul 1, 2003. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

1 death reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Jul 29, 2011. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.