2003 Ford F-550 SD recalls and problems
The 2003 Ford F-550 SD has 5 safety recalls and 33 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Ford dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2003 Ford F-550 SD vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2003 Ford F-550 SD recalls
Recall 11V-352: Exterior Lighting
Problem: Ford is recalling certain model year 2011 ranger trucks built from january 25, 2011, through april 25, 2011 at the twin cities assembly plant, and service parts distributed to dealers for certain 2004 through 2011 model year ranger trucks, 2002 through 2005 model year excursion vehicles, and 2002 through 2007 model year f-250, f-350, f-450, and f-550 trucks for failing to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." the multi-function switch was shipped with a subcomponent (Slider) that may experience deformation. A multi-function switch with a deformed slider may malfunction causing the turn signal, tail lights, hazard warning signal flashers and/or brake lights not to activate.
Risk: Non-functioning lights could increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the switches free of charge. The safety recall began on august 15, 2011. Owners may contact ford motor company customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332.
Recall 09V-399: Vehicle Speed Control
Problem: Ford is recalling model years 1995-2003 windstar, 2000-2003 excursion diesel, 1993-1997 and 1999-2003 f-250 sd through f-550 sd diesel, 1992-2003 e-150 through e-550, 1995-2002 explorer, 1997 and 2002 mercury mountaineer, 1995-1997 and 2001-2003 ranger, and 1994 f53 vehicles equipped with the texas instruments speed control deactivation switch (Scds). The scds may leak internally and then overheat, smoke, or burn.
Risk: A vehicle fire could occur with or without the engine running.
Fix: Ford will notify owners that dealers will install a fused wiring harness in line with the scds. On 1999-2003 windstar vehicles with a leaking scds, dealers will also inspect the ABS control module connector and repair as necessary. Repairs will be completed free of charge. The safety recall began on october 27, 2009. Owners may contact ford at 1-888-222-2751.
Recall 07V-553: Engine and Engine Cooling
Problem: On certain heavy duty trucks equipped with 7.3l diesel engines, the camshaft position sensor located on the engine of the vehicle may function intermittently, possibly resulting in an engine stall.
Risk: In the event of an engine stall, a crash could result without warning.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the sensor and replace it with an improved camshaft position sensor free of charge. The recall began on december 29, 2007. Owners may contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Recall 07V-078: Vehicle Speed Control
Problem: On certain trucks equipped with speed control, gasoline or natural gas engines, the speed control deactivation switch may overheat.
Risk: Overheating could result in smoke, burn, or an underhood fire.
Fix: Dealers will install a fused wiring harness into the speed control system free of charge. The recall began on march 12, 2007. Owners may contact ford at 1-800-392-3673. (Note: also see recalls 05v017, 05v388, and 06v286)
Recall 04V-327: Electrical System
Problem: On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles equipped with 6.0l diesel engines, the engine ground stud that attaches the negative battery terminal eyelet to the engine block may be loose.
Risk: If the ground wire is loose, electrical current may flow to the radio suppression strap causing it to heat and potentially melt or ignite adjacent components which could result in a fire.
Fix: Dealers will replace the engine ground stud and the radio suppression strap and adjacent components will be inspected for damage and replaced, if necessary. The recall began on july 23, 2004. Owners should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
2003 Ford F-550 SD problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel System, Diesel | 15 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 6 | |
| Suspension | 2 | |
| Power Train | 2 | |
| Wheels | 2 | |
| Equipment | 2 | |
| Engine | 2 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 2 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 | |
| Seat Belts | 1 | |
| Air Bags | 1 | |
| Fuel System, Gasoline | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Fuel System, Diesel › Storage › Tank Assembly — 3
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 2
- Vehicle Speed Control › Cruise Control — 1
- Seat Belts › Front — 1
- Power Train › Axle Assembly — 1
- Suspension › Rear › Springs › Leaf Spring Assembly › Hanger/Bracket — 1
- Fuel System, Gasoline › Fuel Injection System › Injectors — 1
- Wheels › Lugs/Nuts/Bolts/Studs — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 60,000 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 F-550 SD complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Ford F-550 SD years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Ford F-550 SD have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 5 recalls for the 2003 Ford F-550 SD: 11V-352 (exterior lighting), 09V-399 (vehicle speed control), 07V-553 (engine and engine cooling), 07V-078 (vehicle speed control), 04V-327 (electrical system). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Ford F-550 SD?
Owners report fuel system, diesel problems most often (15 reports), followed by engine and engine cooling (6). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 60,000 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.