2003 Ford F-250 problems
Owners have filed 151 complaints about the 2003 Ford F-250 with NHTSA. Engine and engine cooling accounts for 15.9% of them — narrowly the most common, ahead of tires at 13.2%.
Complaints151
Crashes7
Fires10
Injuries5
Deaths1
What owners report breaking
Engine and engine cooling 15.9% · 24
Tires 13.2% · 20
Power train 8.6% · 13
Electrical system 8.6% · 13
Engine 8.6% · 13
Steering 7.3% · 11
Vehicle speed control 5.3% · 8
Service brakes 5.3% · 8
Severity
Of those complaints, 7 describe a crash, 10 describe a fire, 5 report an injury and 1 report a death.
Reading the numbers
Across the 21 model years of the Ford F-250 in this data, 2003 sits 18th by complaint volume. 1999 draws the most.
Filings have fallen off, 8 in the last three years against 11 in the three before. That is normal as a generation leaves the road.
The median odometer reading at the time of complaint was 90,000 miles.
In owners' own words
While driving at various speeds, the consumer smelled strong exhaust fumes. The dealer inspected the vehicle and could not duplicate or correct the problem, however they suggested turning the air conditioner on max to neutralize the exhaust fumes. *Ak the consumer stated the fumes were noticeable even when the heat was on. The consumer was told this was a common problem. Engine and engine cooling · reported at 10,000 miles
Vibration when under acceleration from stop, Ford has replaced catayltic converter 3 times. Problem still exists. Savere air leak drivers window, I was told it was an enginering defect and nothing could be done.Rough idle and skipping , I was told "I was buying cheep gas" chenged brand still same problem. Engine and engine cooling · reported at 48 miles
When in a slow acceleration the motor rpm will race and you have to quickly apply the brake in order to avoid a mishap. The next thing that is a safety hazard is the cab fills with diesels fumes. Making everyone nauseas. Acceleration from stop vehicle billows white smoke and is sluggish. Engine and engine cooling · reported at 35,000 miles
Verbatim from NHTSA filings. Complaints are unverified owner reports.
Safety recalls
Checking NHTSA for open recalls…