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2003 Ford Explorer Sport recalls and problems

There are no safety recalls for the 2003 Ford Explorer Sport, but owners have filed 65 complaints with NHTSA.

Recalls
0
Complaints
65
Crashes / fires
4 / 1
Injuries / deaths
4 / 0

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

2003 Ford Explorer Sport problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Structure28
Visibility10
Visibility/Wiper7
Suspension5
Engine and Engine Cooling4
Vehicle Speed Control4
Power Train4
Unknown or Other4
Electrical System3
Air Bags3
Service Brakes, Hydraulic2
Tires2

Most reported parts

  • Structure › Body — 13
  • Structure › Body › Hatchback/Liftgate › Hinge and Attachments — 8
  • Visibility › Glass, Side/Rear — 3
  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 2
  • Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 2
  • Structure › Body › Hatchback/Liftgate — 2
  • Visibility › Rearview Mirrors/Devices — 1
  • Electrical System › Ignition › Switch — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 84,500 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 complaints

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

Unknown or Other · at 133,000 miles · reported Dec 17, 2019
The transmission is shot I cant put it in gear and me and my husband were almost killed but were able to put it in 2nd gear to roll it to the shop. The 4wheel drive got stuck in 4 wheel low and would not shift at all. When we turned the car on it would rev up to 5 but only go 2 miles an hour.
Air Bags · reported Jul 8, 2019
"takata recall" airbag light keeps blinking with the seat belt noise. Changed the light bulb from the dash board and now the airbag light stays on but will not connect with mileage.
Fuel/Propulsion System · at 167,000 miles · reported Jan 20, 2018
Car has an intermittent problem and will stall and both high and low speeds, or when idling. When this happens and power assist fails, it's almost impossible to steer or to brake posing a serious risk to safety. This first starting happening about once a week last november, and now it's pretty often. Stopped driving the car, except to test drive as we're trying to find the source of the problem. We think it's either the fuel or vacuum system and are continuing to narrow down the problem. I AM not sure if braking will work at all when it fails, as fortunately it hasn't stalled going downhill. I…
Structure · at 130,000 miles · reported Jan 19, 2017
The contact owns a 2003 ford explorer sport. While driving 50 MPH, a loud noise was heard when the sun roof exploded without warning. There were no injuries. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000. The VIN was not available.
Unknown or Other · at 84,500 miles · reported Dec 12, 2016
Rear liftgate window on my 2003 ford explorer sport exploded into a million pieces. The vehicle was parked in my driveway and I went to open the door and it just exploded.

Other Ford Explorer Sport years

200520042003200220012000

Compare all Ford Explorer Sport years · All Ford models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2003 Ford Explorer Sport have any recalls?

No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2003 Ford Explorer Sport 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?

Owners report structure problems most often (28 reports), followed by visibility (10). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 84,500 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.