Is the 2003 Lincoln LS reliable?

Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2003 Lincoln LS is rated "better than typical".

What are the most common problems with the 2003 Lincoln LS?

The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 31% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2003 Lincoln LS have?

1 recall on file for this model year.

2003 Lincoln LS

▲ Better than typical

2003 Lincoln LS
RENDERED 2026-11-01T14:43:44.074Z

This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.

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.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 68
Recalls: 1
Investigations: 0
Top problem: Power train

Complaints per year

2003: 68 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
2000	354
2001	240
2002	121
2003	68
2004	91
2005	90
2006	18

Known problem areas

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Power train

31% · 21 reports

Most commonly citing automatic transmission and differential unit.

Show complaint excerpts

Tl* the contact owns a 2003 Lincoln LS. While driving unknown speeds, the vehicle failed to engage into overdrive and the check transmission indicator illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic.

NHTSA ODI report, 2018-03-08

Car goes into fail safe each and every time it is driven. It did so 19 times today. I connected a code reader which identified the problems as being related to the throttle control and the throttle body. I purchased the car 1 1/2 months ago.

NHTSA ODI report, 2017-11-03

Also filed under Electrical system

Shifts hard, when in 20-30 MPH, in gear 2 and 3. After diagnostic, dealer said it may be transmission, but they have to tear it apart. If bands, torque converter, or solenoid pack they have to tear down and rebuild.

NHTSA ODI report, 2012-03-22

Also filed under Vehicle speed control

Electrical system

18% · 12 reports

Most commonly citing interior/under dash and instrument cluster/panel.

Suspension

12% · 8 reports

Most commonly citing hanger,bracket and front.

Engine and engine cooling

12% · 8 reports

Most commonly citing engine.

Engine

10% · 7 reports

Safety timeline

1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

R

2003-04-14Wheels03V136000 On certain passenger vehicles equipped with 17 inch chrome wheels, the chrome wheels were not heat-treated. These wheels may crack at the lug-nut holes, which could result in the loss of the…

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the wheels to make sure that all the wheels have been heat-treated. Any wheel that has not been heat-treated will be replaced. Owner notification began April 14, 2003.…

Check if this car was fixed →

Buy-smart checklist

2003 Lincoln LS — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Power train: 21 reports on file for this year.
Electrical system: 12 reports on file for this year.
Suspension: 8 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 03V136000 · Wheels

Other years of this model

See all years ranked →

Worst years3 years

FAQ

Is the 2003 Lincoln LS reliable?: Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2003 Lincoln LS is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2003 Lincoln LS?: The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 31% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2003 Lincoln LS have?: 1 recall on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.