Recall 03V-281: 1998–2001 Ford Explorer, 2001–2002 Ford Explorer Sport and 2 more
FORD MOTOR COMPANY recall for seats, reported to NHTSA on Aug 5, 2003, covering about 1,552,880 vehicles.
The problem
On certain sport utility vehicles equipped with high back seats, the upper bolt on the driver's side high back seat, that attaches the seat recliner mechanism to the seat back frame, could fracture. If the bolt fractures and does not jam in the seat back frame, the seat back may recline until it makes contact with an object behind the seat, such as the second row seat cushion.
The risk
The driver could potentially lose contact with the steering wheel or foot pedals during such an event, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will replace the driver seat upper bolt with a metal spacer and bolt. In addition, seats with tubular back frames will have the fully threaded lower recliner bolt replaced with a partially threaded bolt. Owner notification began on august 29, 2003. Owners should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
Notes
Ford recall no. 03s04.customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Recall details
| Manufacturer | FORD MOTOR COMPANY |
|---|---|
| Component | Seats › Front Assembly › Recliner |
| Recall started by | NHTSA (Office of Defects Investigation) |
| NHTSA campaign number | 03V281000 |
Vehicles in this recall
| Vehicle | Model years | |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Explorer | 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 | All years |
| Ford Explorer Sport | 2001, 2002 | All years |
| Ford Explorer Sport Trac | 2001, 2002 | All years |
| Mercury Mountaineer | 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 | All years |
Not every vehicle of these model years is included. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls ↗ or ask a dealer.
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 03V-281?
On certain sport utility vehicles equipped with high back seats, the upper bolt on the driver's side high back seat, that attaches the seat recliner mechanism to the seat back frame, could fracture. If the bolt fractures and does not jam in the seat back frame, the seat back may recline until it makes contact with an object behind the seat, such as the second row seat cushion.
How is recall 03V-281 fixed?
Dealers will replace the driver seat upper bolt with a metal spacer and bolt. In addition, seats with tubular back frames will have the fully threaded lower recliner bolt replaced with a partially threaded bolt. Owner notification began on august 29, 2003. Owners should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. Check whether your vehicle is included with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.