2003 Ford E Series
Only 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 0 |
| 1987 | 1 |
| 1989 | 1 |
| 1990 | 1 |
| 1992 | 0 |
| 1993 | 3 |
| 1994 | 2 |
| 1995 | 1 |
| 1997 | 6 |
| 1998 | 7 |
| 1999 | 2 |
| 2000 | 6 |
| 2001 | 6 |
| 2002 | 6 |
| 2003 | 4 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 4 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 4 total reports mentions: visibility.
Show complaint excerpts
WHILE DRIVING IN INCLEMENT WEATHER WINDSHIELD WIPER CAME ON AND OFF INTERMITTENTLY. CONSUMER DROVE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 20041022
1 of 4 total reports mentions: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
GRINDING NOISE FROM THE REAR END WHILE BACKING OR MAKING LOW SPEED TURNS. PER 3 DIFFERENT MECHANICS, THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE FORD EXPLORER DUE TO THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL.
NHTSA ODI report, 20070116
1 of 4 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling.
Show complaint excerpts
WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE IT STARTED TO MAKE A LOUD RATTLING SOUND AND STARTED TO LOOSE POWER, EVENTUALLY THE VEHICLE JUST SHUT DOWN AND WOULDN'T START AGAIN.
NHTSA ODI report, 20070626
SAFETY TIMELINE
CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCK, VAN, AND MINI VAN CONVERSIONS EQUIPPED WITH SOUTHERN COMFORT BUILT RUNNING BOARDS THAT CONTAIN CERTAIN COURTESY LIGHTS MANUFACTURED BY AMERICAN TECHNOLOGY COMPONENTS, INC. THESE
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WIRING HARNESS ON THESE RUNNING BOARDS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 7, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO
Campaign 03V094000 — check if this car was fixed
SPARK PLUG EJECTION FROM CYLINDER HEAD
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2003 Ford E Series — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for visibility issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 03V094000 (structure) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2003 Ford E Series reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2003 Ford E Series?
The most-reported component is visibility:windshield wiper/washer:motor, accounting for 25% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2003 Ford E Series have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.