2003 Ford Econoline recalls and problems

The 2003 Ford Econoline has 2 safety recalls and 22 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Ford dealer.

Recalls
2
Complaints
22
Crashes / fires
0 / 3
Injuries / deaths
2 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2003 Ford Econoline vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2003 Ford Econoline recalls

Recall 08V-051: Vehicle Speed Control

Reported Feb 4, 2008 · 225,000 vehicles affected · FORD MOTOR COMPANY

Problem: Ford is recalling 225,000 my 1992-2003 econoline, my 1993-1995 taurus sho, my 1992-1998 crown victoria, my 1993 bronco, f-series, my 1995-1997 f-series super duty stripped chassis, my 1992-1998 mercury grand marquis, and my 1992-1995 lincoln town car vehicles. The affected vehicles were previously repaired using a wiring harness that is not compatible with the vehicle circuit polarity.

Risk: As a result, the fuse is located in the output circuit rather than in the intended input power feed circuit, and may not offer the intended protection in the event of an electrical short to ground.

Fix: Dealers will install a new wiring harness, or replace the mating electrical component. The recall began on february 18, 2008. Owners may contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.

Recall 03V-282: Fuel System, Gasoline

Reported Aug 5, 2003 · 64 vehicles affected · FORD MOTOR COMPANY

Problem: On certain cutaway chassis cab with the school bus option, two brackets and two outrigger members are missing in the area of the fuel tank.

Risk: The brackets and outrigger members are intended to enhance crash performance.

Fix: Ford will send technicians to the owner's location to inspect and add the brackets and outriggers as required. Owner notification began on september 3, 2003. Owners should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.

2003 Ford Econoline problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Vehicle Speed Control5
Engine and Engine Cooling4
Structure3
Electrical System3
Tires3
Service Brakes, Hydraulic2
Equipment1
Wheels1
Suspension1
Power Train1
Fuel System, Gasoline1
Service Brakes, Electric1

Most reported parts

  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 2
  • Structure › Body › Door › Hinge and Attachments — 1
  • Structure › Frame and Members — 1
  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip — 1
  • Vehicle Speed Control › Cruise Control — 1
  • Wheels › Rim — 1
  • Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 1
  • Electrical System › Wiring — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 62,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2003 Ford Econoline complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Fuel/Propulsion System · at 105,000 miles · reported Oct 10, 2016
Fuel tank delamination. This will be the second time I have to replace the fuel tank, sending unit and fuel pump on my e350 diesel van. Ford has had known issues for several years regarding this problem and refuses to accept any responsibility. The inside coating of the tank peels away and clogs up the fuel system, then they turn around and sell you the same tank so it happens again. Very dangerous vehicle suddenly loses power and will even stall.
Tires · at 62,000 miles · reported Jul 23, 2012
The contact owns a 2003 ford econoline equipped with radar radial rlt-9 tires, size p245/75/r16. The contact stated that while driving 10 MPH, the rear driver's tire blew out. The condition of the road were dry and the approximate temperature was 90 degrees fahrenheit. The failure recurred and the rear passenger tire blew out. The condition of the road was again dry and the approximate temperature was 80 degrees fahrenheit. The tires were not taken to dealer and the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The VIN was unavailable. The failure and current mileages on the vehicle was…
Tires · at 110,000 miles · reported Sep 15, 2009
The contact owns a 2003 ford econoline e-150. The contact stated that three cooper american prospector 225/70r15 tires on the vehicle have failed. The vehicle began vibrating and the dealer confirmed that the rear driver side tire needed to be replaced. Two weeks later, the rear passenger side tire blew out and was replaced. One week after the rear tire blew out the front passenger side blew out and was also replaced. The dealer stated that all of those tires must have been defective; however, the contact was not reimbursed for the repairs. The manufacturer stated that there was no warranty or…
Service Brakes, Electric · at 100,969 miles · reported Jul 18, 2009
2003 ford aerostar lx van ABS light and brake light on dashboard will come on and stay on one day, and maybe not the next day. Going on for months. Can't predict when this will occur. The ford dealer offer to take care of the problem for less than a $1000 dollars!?!?!? Very generous of them!
Vehicle Speed Control · reported Feb 5, 2008
The contact owns a 2003 ford econoloine. The contact received a safety recall notice in september of 2007 for the vehicle speed control. The cruise control was disconnected in october. Each month since october, the dealer has informed the contact that the parts would be available the following month. There had been no failure to date. The purchase date and recall number were unknown. The current mileage was 60,000. Updated 03-18-08 the consumer stated the recall number is 05s28. Updated 03/18/08

Other Ford Econoline years

Compare all Ford Econoline years · All Ford models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2003 Ford Econoline have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2003 Ford Econoline: 08V-051 (vehicle speed control), 03V-282 (fuel system, gasoline). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Ford Econoline?

Owners report vehicle speed control problems most often (5 reports), followed by engine and engine cooling (4). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 62,000 miles.

Are Ford recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Ford dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.