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2003 Ford Explorer
Engine Problems
CarComplaints.com Notes: The 2003 Ford Explorer one of our worst vehicles on record. "Avoid like the plague" is putting it lightly.
The 2002-2005 Explorer has a very well-established record of expensive transmission failure at under 100k miles. The Explorer has an enclosed transmission which is typically replaced with a rebuilt transmission at a cost of almost $3,000.
Another common problem for the 2002-2003 Explorer is wheel bearing failure at around 90k miles, with a typical repair bill of $500 to $1000 depending on how many wheel bearings failed.
Adding insult to injury, the 2002-2005 Explorer also has a massive problem with the rear panel cracking. While it's a minor annoyance compared to transmission failure, ironically the crack usually goes right through the Ford logo.
2003 Ford Explorer Engine Problems
Click on a problem below to read more.
- Engine Failure
- Engine Tapping/Knock
- Timing Chain Broke
- Engine Cuts Off While Driving
- Engine Idles Rough
- Engine Surges
- Spark Plugs Eject Out Of Engine
- Surges When Braking
- Whistling Noise In Cold Weather
- Hesitation On Take Off And While Driving
- Engine Runs Like Crap In Heavy Rain
- Head Cover Leak
- Idles Rough When Cold
- Unintended Acceleration
- NHTSA: Engine And Engine Cooling
- NHTSA: Vehicle Speed Control
- NHTSA: Engine And Engine Cooling: Engine
- NHTSA: Engine
- NHTSA: Vehicle Speed Control: Cruise Control
- NHTSA: Vehicle Speed Control: Accelerator Pedal
- NHTSA: Engine And Engine Cooling: Engine: Gasoline: Belts And Associated ...
- NHTSA: Engine And Engine Cooling: Engine: Gasoline
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Compare Ford Explorer Model Years
Curious how the 2003 Explorer compares to other years?
Check out our Ford Explorer overview to see the most problematic years, worst problems and most recently reported complaints with the Explorer.