2003 Ford Focus recalls and problems
The 2003 Ford Focus has 1 safety recall and 977 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Ford dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2003 Ford Focus vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2003 Ford Focus recalls
Recall 05V-030: Latches/Locks/Linkages
Problem: Certain passenger vehicles with four or five doors and originally sold in or currently registered in connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, west virginia, wisconsin, and the district of columbia, a build-up of corrosion at the pawl pivot area of the rear door latch can cause a binding condition of the pawl that may affect proper engagement of the pawl into the catch. The occupant may experience difficulty opening or closing a rear door, and eventually the rear door may not latch properly.
Risk: If not latched properly, the door may open while the vehicle is in motion. If an occupant fell out of the vehicle, personal injuries could occur.
Fix: Dealers will have a lower rocker seal added to the door and have the rear door latches evaluated free of charge. A latch that passes the evaluation will be lubricated to prevent future corrosion. A latch that does not pass the evaluation will be replaced. In addition, a sticker will be affixed to the rear doors advising the owners to use the recommended lubricant. The recall began on march 9, 2005. Owners may contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
2003 Ford Focus problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical System | 536 | |
| Latches/Locks/Linkages | 83 | |
| Steering | 76 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 60 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 57 | |
| Suspension | 50 | |
| Power Train | 50 | |
| Air Bags | 49 | |
| Structure | 41 | |
| Visibility | 26 | |
| Unknown or Other | 25 | |
| Tires | 22 |
Most reported parts
- Electrical System › Ignition — 263
- Electrical System › Ignition › Switch — 98
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 28
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 24
- Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch — 24
- Air Bags › Frontal — 22
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Rotor — 13
- Steering › Column — 13
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 56,000 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 Focus complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Ford Focus years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Ford Focus have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2003 Ford Focus: 05V-030 (latches/locks/linkages). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Ford Focus?
Owners report electrical system problems most often (536 reports), followed by latches/locks/linkages (83). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 56,000 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.