2003 Ford Explorer drivetrain & axles problems
197 complaints about drivetrain & axles have been filed for the 2003 Ford Explorer, which is 14% of all its NHTSA complaints. It is the 2nd most reported problem area for this model year.
At a glance
- Complaints
- 197 14% of this year's complaints
- Typical mileage
- 80,000 miles 168 complaints with mileage
- Crashes and fires
- 4 and 0
- Injuries and deaths
- 3 and 0
Source: NHTSA owner complaints
When drivetrain & axles problems show up
View the numbers
| Mileage | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 0k to 20k miles | 23 |
| 20k to 40k miles | 17 |
| 40k to 60k miles | 20 |
| 60k to 80k miles | 22 |
| 80k to 100k miles | 25 |
| 100k to 120k miles | 15 |
| 120k to 140k miles | 18 |
| 140k to 160k miles | 14 |
| 160k to 180k miles | 6 |
| 180k to 200k miles | 3 |
| 200k+ miles | 5 |
What the data shows
Of the 168 drivetrain & axles complaints that report mileage, the median is about 80,000 miles, and 36% were reported before 60,000 miles.
These complaints mention 4 crashes, 3 injuries.
What owners wrote
I attempted to put the vehicle in reverse and when I shifted to reverse the vehicle slammed into reverse so hard that it hit the vehicle that was parked behind me.
Vehicle was serviced in july, 2008 and mechanic at country ford noted noise from rear of vehicle. While driving on vacation in oct. 2008, I noticed noise in rear which was noticeable at 35-40 MPH and getting progressively worse. Brought vehicle to country ford and they found the rear carrier bearings worn and had to replace the rear differential. Cost was $1132. Vehicle not under warranty (52,000 miles). Vehicle has been maintained as per ford guidelines at country ford service, levittown, ny.
Other problems reported for the 2003 Ford Explorer
- Body & structure 366 complaints
- Transmission 161 complaints
- Engine 86 complaints
- Suspension 69 complaints
- Wipers, windshield & visibility 62 complaints
- Wheels 59 complaints
- Electrical system 54 complaints
- Air bags 50 complaints