2003 Ford Explorer body & structure problems
Owners reported body & structure problems in 366 complaints for the 2003 Ford Explorer, 27% of the complaints on file. It is the most reported problem area for this model year.
At a glance
- Complaints
- 366 27% of this year's complaints
- Typical mileage
- 70,000 miles 287 complaints with mileage
- Crashes and fires
- 3 and 0
- Injuries and deaths
- 11 and 0
Source: NHTSA owner complaints
When body & structure problems show up
View the numbers
| Mileage | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 0k to 20k miles | 21 |
| 20k to 40k miles | 33 |
| 40k to 60k miles | 54 |
| 60k to 80k miles | 53 |
| 80k to 100k miles | 56 |
| 100k to 120k miles | 28 |
| 120k to 140k miles | 25 |
| 140k to 160k miles | 5 |
| 160k to 180k miles | 8 |
| 180k to 200k miles | 2 |
| 200k+ miles | 2 |
What the data shows
Of the 287 body & structure complaints that report mileage, the median is about 70,000 miles, and 38% were reported before 60,000 miles.
These complaints mention 3 crashes, 11 injuries.
What owners wrote
The liftgate glass shattered when consumer's son was closing the liftgate. The glass landed in consumer's son hair and face. Technical service bulletin #10004078 was issued on this problem. Manufacturer was contacted. This is a my2002 vehicle and not my2003 per consumer_081704.pco pe04045.pco
Tl* the contact owns a 2003 ford explorer. The contact stated that there was a crack on the rear liftgate, extending up to the window. The contact expressed concern over the possibility of the window separating from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where the contact was informed that the failure was cosmetic and they would be unable to assist with repairs. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but offered no assistance.
Other problems reported for the 2003 Ford Explorer
- Drivetrain & axles 197 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