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2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac recalls and problems

There are no safety recalls for the 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, but owners have filed 78 complaints with NHTSA.

Recalls
0
Complaints
78
Crashes / fires
5 / 6
Injuries / deaths
5 / 1

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

2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Electrical System11
Structure10
Engine and Engine Cooling9
Fuel System, Gasoline8
Power Train8
Suspension7
Vehicle Speed Control5
Steering4
Service Brakes, Hydraulic4
Tires4
Air Bags4
Fuel/Propulsion System3

Most reported parts

  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 5
  • Structure › Body — 4
  • Structure › Frame and Members — 3
  • Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 3
  • Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly › Filler Pipe and Cap — 2
  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip — 2
  • Tires › Sidewall — 2
  • Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 59,000 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 Explorer Sport Trac complaints

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

Service Brakes · reported Sep 14, 2021
drivers side rear brake line developed a hole caused by the emergency brake cable rubbing against it causing all the brake fluid to leak & the brakes failed. Fortunately my husband was driving on our rural road & not out on the main highway. We have not been able to get it repaired yet.
Air Bags · reported Jun 15, 2021
The driver was driving down the expressway and her back tire blew out causing her vehicle to spiral out of control and the vehicle then flipped and started rolling downhill, the vehicle airbags did not deploy in the vehicle at all. The driver and her mother are in critical condition. Yes, the safety of others safety was put at risk. I did contact Ford Manufacturer on her behind of the airbags and they said there is nothing they can do for her with the vehicle being totaled out. But my main problem is why these airbags did not deploy. The vehicle is going to be inspected by her insurance…
Fuel/Propulsion System · reported Aug 1, 2019
Takata recall .. The smell of fuel inside the cab and outside is really bad. It's making me sick and giving me headaches. The truck doesn't run right and the mileage is awful.
Suspension · at 176,000 miles · reported Jan 23, 2018
We had purchased this vehicle bout a year ago and when we got it we went to get tires and front end alignment and they ended up replacing upper nd lower ball joints, control arm and sway bar on passenger side.this was 6/20/2017. It wasn't making any noise until 1/3/2018. I was going down city street and something popped and then it started roaring. If you put in 4WD it roars loader and jerks. 1/23/18 replaced drivers side wheel hub and bearings. It still roars while accelerating speed but not as bad in 2wd but put in 4WD its real loud and jerks you . I have done research online for this year…
Structure · reported Oct 16, 2017
The cab to frame mounting bolt bushings, and steering stabilizer bushings are have and are crumbling. All need to be replaced. I feel ford is aware of this problem and should have to fix it. I just inherited this truck and just found out about this. Thank you.

Other Ford Explorer Sport Trac years

20102009200820072006200520042003200220012000

Compare all Ford Explorer Sport Trac years · All Ford models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac have any recalls?

No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac?

Owners report electrical system problems most often (11 reports), followed by structure (10). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 59,000 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.