2003 FORD THUNDERBIRD
0 recalls, 50 complaints - 44 TSBs
No recalls found for this vehicle.
Complaint Statistics
50 total complaints
2 crashes 3 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| ENGINE | 7 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 4 |
| POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 3 |
| VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL | 3 |
| AIR BAGS | 3 |
| FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM | 2 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP | 2 |
| SUSPENSION | 2 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER | 2 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING | 2 |
STEERING
Jun 28, 2026
Incident date: Jun 25, 2026
2018 Ford Escape. I have had the car since 12/2024. Less then 22000 miles in it. In this time I have had 4 alignment done. First one was 2 day after getting car. I pulls to the left. Second was 2 weeks after the first one. Then drove my car with a trailer on it to [XXX]. I made it [XXX] and dropped ... Read more
WHEELS
Jun 28, 2026
Incident date: Jun 25, 2026
2018 Ford Escape. I have had the car since 12/2024. Less then 22000 miles in it. In this time I have had 4 alignment done. First one was 2 day after getting car. I pulls to the left. Second was 2 weeks after the first one. Then drove my car with a trailer on it to [XXX]. I made it [XXX] and dropped ... Read more
SUSPENSION
Aug 10, 2018
Incident date: Jul 29, 2015
BASICALLY, ALL SUSPENSION RUSTED OUT, INCLUDING BOTH FRONT SUSPENSIONS, SPINDLE RODS, SWAY BAR, OUTER TIE RODS, BOTH REAR TIE ROD LINKS, REAR LOWER AND UPPER CONTROL ARMS , FRONT UPPER CONTROL ARMS, REAR SHOCKS. ALL THE WORK WAS PERFORMED BY THE LOCAL FORD DEALER. I WAS TOLD THIS WAS NOT A UNIQUE PR... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Aug 11, 2016
Incident date: Aug 1, 2016
WHEN I OPEN THE VEHICLE DOOR AT NIGHT OTHER VEHICLE DRIVERS CAN NOT SEE MY OPENED VEHICLE DOOR WHEN I ENTER OR EXIT THE VEHICLE EVEN WITH A REFLECTOR OR LIGHT ON THE VEHICLE DOOR BECAUSE IT IS BLOCKED WHEN ENTER OR EXIT THE VEHICLE BY MY BODY. I APPLIED HIGHLY REFLECTIVE TAPE TO THE LOWER FLANGE OF... Read more
AIR BAGS
Jul 21, 2016
Incident date: May 30, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD THUNDERBIRD. WHILE STOPPED IN TRAFFIC, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS REAR ENDED BY ANOTHER VEHICLE. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT REAR ENDED THE PRECEDING VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED NECK AND BACK INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE... Read more
Crash
1 injured
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Feb 23, 2016
Incident date: Sep 1, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS FAILED. WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE HEADLIGHTS AND TAIL LIGHTS FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT A FAILURE CODE COULD NOT BE PRODUCED DUE TO THE FAILURE OCCURRING INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REP... Read more
ENGINE
Oct 30, 2015
Incident date: Oct 1, 2015
I'VE OWNED MY 2003 THUNDERBIRD SINCE IT WAS NEW. IT NOW HAS 65000 MILES AND IS DRIVEN ONLY 2000 MILES A YEAR, OVER THE LAST 5 YEARS. DURING THIS PERIOD, I HAVE HAD ALL 8 COILS REPLACED, ONE AT A TIME. THE FIRST TIME WAS WITHIN THE FIRST 1000 MILES. GENERALLY IT OCCURS WHILE DRIVING IN TRAFFIC, BEING... Read more
ENGINE
Jan 14, 2015
Incident date: Oct 15, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SERVICE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE DRASTICALLY REDUCED SPEED AND HESITATED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO WAS NOT ABL... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jan 14, 2015
Incident date: Oct 15, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SERVICE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE DRASTICALLY REDUCED SPEED AND HESITATED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO WAS NOT ABL... Read more
ENGINE
Oct 29, 2014
Incident date: Jun 11, 2013
CAR SPUTTERED AND MISFIRED CAUSING PARTIAL POWER LOSS AND SPEED LOSS. PROBLEM IS IGNITION COILS. HAVE NOW HAD TO REPLACE A TOTAL OF THREE DURING TWO SIMILAR EVENTS. TWO DEALERS FAILED TO INFORM ME OF EXTENDED WARRANTY ON THIS KNOWN PROBLEM. *TR
STRUCTURE:BODY
Oct 2, 2014
Incident date: Oct 2, 2014
ONE OF THE 4 BOLTS THAT HOLD THE REAR SUSPENSION TO THE VEHICLE FELL OUT OF THE CAR. THE BOLT FAILED DUE TO CORROSION AND POSSIBLY OVER TORQUING AT THE FACTORY. SEVERE CORROSION INSIDE THE POCKET THAT HOUSES THIS BOLT. FORD DEALER SAYS IT IS NOT COVERED AND IS AT LEAST 10 HOURS LABOR AND IS CO... Read more
SUSPENSION
Oct 2, 2014
Incident date: Oct 2, 2014
ONE OF THE 4 BOLTS THAT HOLD THE REAR SUSPENSION TO THE VEHICLE FELL OUT OF THE CAR. THE BOLT FAILED DUE TO CORROSION AND POSSIBLY OVER TORQUING AT THE FACTORY. SEVERE CORROSION INSIDE THE POCKET THAT HOUSES THIS BOLT. FORD DEALER SAYS IT IS NOT COVERED AND IS AT LEAST 10 HOURS LABOR AND IS CO... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Sep 27, 2014
Incident date: Sep 27, 2014
VEHICLE EXPERIENCES UNINTENDED ENGINE ACCELERATION WHEN STOPPING FOR A RED LIGHT OR PLACING THE CAR IN PARK. MOTOR HIT OVER 3500 RPM WHILE PARKING BEFORE I COULD SHUT DOWN THE IGNITION. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Sep 27, 2014
Incident date: Sep 27, 2014
VEHICLE EXPERIENCES UNINTENDED ENGINE ACCELERATION WHEN STOPPING FOR A RED LIGHT OR PLACING THE CAR IN PARK. MOTOR HIT OVER 3500 RPM WHILE PARKING BEFORE I COULD SHUT DOWN THE IGNITION. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Jun 15, 2014
Incident date: Jul 10, 2012
I WAS ACCELERATING TO MERGE ONTO THE HIGHWAY AT FULL THROTTLE AND THE ENGINE SHUT ITSELF OFF. I PULLED OVER TO THE SHOULDER AND TURNED THE IGNITION OFF AND RESTARTED IT AND CONTINUED TO MY DESTINATION. THIS HAS OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS, AND IT IS ONLY GETTING WORSE AND MORE FRE... Read more
ENGINE
Jun 15, 2014
Incident date: Jul 10, 2012
I WAS ACCELERATING TO MERGE ONTO THE HIGHWAY AT FULL THROTTLE AND THE ENGINE SHUT ITSELF OFF. I PULLED OVER TO THE SHOULDER AND TURNED THE IGNITION OFF AND RESTARTED IT AND CONTINUED TO MY DESTINATION. THIS HAS OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS, AND IT IS ONLY GETTING WORSE AND MORE FRE... Read more
POWER TRAIN
Mar 28, 2014
Incident date: Mar 28, 2014
WHILE MAKING A U-TURN IN A CULD-E-SAC AT 5 MPH, THE WRENCH LIGHT CAME ON. I CAN ONLY REACH A SPEED OF 40 MPH NOW. I AM AFRAID TO TURN THE CAR OFF UNTIL I GET HOME. *TR
ENGINE
Mar 28, 2014
Incident date: Mar 28, 2014
WHILE MAKING A U-TURN IN A CULD-E-SAC AT 5 MPH, THE WRENCH LIGHT CAME ON. I CAN ONLY REACH A SPEED OF 40 MPH NOW. I AM AFRAID TO TURN THE CAR OFF UNTIL I GET HOME. *TR
ENGINE
Sep 11, 2013
Incident date: Jun 12, 2012
THE FIRST INCIDENT HAPPENED ON 6/12/12 WHEN THE ENGINE STARTED SPUTTERING AND MISSING AND THEN WENT INTO A "LIMP MODE" AND WOULD ONLY ACCELERATE NO MORE THAN 15 MPH. AFTER TAKING IT TO THE SHOP THEY DETERMINED THAT THE IGNITION COIL ON CYLINDER #8 WAS BAD AND REPLACED IT FOR $270. THE SECOND INCIDEN... Read more
ENGINE
Jul 25, 2012
Incident date: Jul 1, 2010
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE SPUTTERED AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THREE OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER AND INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP AFTER EACH FAILURE TO HAVE THE COILS AND SPARK PLUGS REPLACED. THE REPAIRS ... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Oct 16, 2011
Incident date: Oct 11, 2011
DRIVING ON A 1,850 MILE TRIP. CAR ENGINE REPEATEDLY SHUT OFF ON LIGHT ACCELERATION FROM COMPLETE STOP. MOTOR LIGHT AND WRENCH LIGHT ILLUMINATED. PUT CAN IN NEUTRAL AND RE-STARTED. WRENCH LIGHT DE-ILLUMINATED, MOTOR LIGHT STAYED ON. ACCELERATION COULD BARELY BE ATTAINED TO KEEP ENGINE RUNNING UP TO 4... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Oct 16, 2011
Incident date: Oct 11, 2011
DRIVING ON A 1,850 MILE TRIP. CAR ENGINE REPEATEDLY SHUT OFF ON LIGHT ACCELERATION FROM COMPLETE STOP. MOTOR LIGHT AND WRENCH LIGHT ILLUMINATED. PUT CAN IN NEUTRAL AND RE-STARTED. WRENCH LIGHT DE-ILLUMINATED, MOTOR LIGHT STAYED ON. ACCELERATION COULD BARELY BE ATTAINED TO KEEP ENGINE RUNNING UP TO 4... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Apr 12, 2010
Incident date: Mar 15, 2010
THE CAR DE-POWERS AND WILL NOT GO ABOVE 20-25 MPH. THE ANTI LOCK BRAKE LIGHTS COME ON. THEY WILL STAY ON FOR AWHILE AND GO OFF AND ON BY THEMSELVES. THIS HAPPENS IN TRAFFIC AND IS VERY DANGEROUS. MY DAUGHTER NEARLY GOT PLOWED OVER TRYING TO GET OFF THE ROAD. SHE CALLED MY SCARED TO DEATH. THIS... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Mar 14, 2010
Incident date: Feb 9, 2010
2003 THUNDERBIRD GOES INTO "LIMP MODE" AND THE CAR SUDDENLY WILL NOT GO ABOVE 25MPH.... I AM TOLD IT IS A SAFETY FEATURE... BUT THIS IS NOT SAFE IF YOU ARE DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE! I AM TOLD THIS TIME IT IS A THROTTLE BODY... WHICH I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR OVER 30 DAYS. FORD DOES NOT HAVE PARTS FOR... Read more
STEERING:RACK AND PINION
Jan 25, 2007
Incident date: Dec 18, 2006
TL* - THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD NOISE WHEN STEERING OR TURNING THE VEHICLE TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT. THE CONTACT HAD THE RACK AND PINION REPLACED ,AND HAS THE REPAIR ORDER. THE CONTACT PURCHASED THE VEHICLE IN OCTOBER 2006, AND THE FAILURE BEGAN IN DECEMBER... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
Nov 13, 2006
Incident date: Nov 13, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THERE WAS A NOISE AS THOUGH THE WHEEL WAS GOING TO COME OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO DETERMINED THE DRIVER SIDE REAR CALIPER, BRAKE SHOE AND ROTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. UPDATED 12/12/2006 - *NM
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DRUM:SHOES/LININGS
Nov 13, 2006
Incident date: Nov 13, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THERE WAS A NOISE AS THOUGH THE WHEEL WAS GOING TO COME OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO DETERMINED THE DRIVER SIDE REAR CALIPER, BRAKE SHOE AND ROTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. UPDATED 12/12/2006 - *NM
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
Nov 13, 2006
Incident date: Nov 13, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THERE WAS A NOISE AS THOUGH THE WHEEL WAS GOING TO COME OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO DETERMINED THE DRIVER SIDE REAR CALIPER, BRAKE SHOE AND ROTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. UPDATED 12/12/2006 - *NM
AIR BAGS
Sep 27, 2006
Incident date: Sep 22, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE THE CONTACT'S SPOUSE WAS DRIVING 70 MPH ON A DRY, SMOOTH INTERSTATE, THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT A COLLISION OR IMPACT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALERSHIP WHO DETERMINED THERE WAS NO APPARENT REASON FOR THE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT. ANOTHER DEALERSHIP IN ... Read more
EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
Aug 1, 2006
Incident date: Jul 3, 2006
2003 FORD THUNDERBIRD HAD SPARK PLUGS REPLACED FOUR TIMES. VEHICLE SLOWED DOWN TO 5 MPH WITHOUT WARNING AND WOULD NOT PICK UP SPEED, AND NUMEROUS ENGINE PROBLEMS. *KB WATER LEAKED INSIDE THE VEHICLE, THE DEALER FOUND CRACKS AND A TEAR AROUND THE WEATHER STRIP AND SEAL. THE A/C CONTROL HEAD ASSEMBLY... Read more
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT
Aug 1, 2006
Incident date: Jul 3, 2006
2003 FORD THUNDERBIRD HAD SPARK PLUGS REPLACED FOUR TIMES. VEHICLE SLOWED DOWN TO 5 MPH WITHOUT WARNING AND WOULD NOT PICK UP SPEED, AND NUMEROUS ENGINE PROBLEMS. *KB WATER LEAKED INSIDE THE VEHICLE, THE DEALER FOUND CRACKS AND A TEAR AROUND THE WEATHER STRIP AND SEAL. THE A/C CONTROL HEAD ASSEMBLY... Read more
STRUCTURE
Aug 1, 2006
Incident date: Jul 3, 2006
2003 FORD THUNDERBIRD HAD SPARK PLUGS REPLACED FOUR TIMES. VEHICLE SLOWED DOWN TO 5 MPH WITHOUT WARNING AND WOULD NOT PICK UP SPEED, AND NUMEROUS ENGINE PROBLEMS. *KB WATER LEAKED INSIDE THE VEHICLE, THE DEALER FOUND CRACKS AND A TEAR AROUND THE WEATHER STRIP AND SEAL. THE A/C CONTROL HEAD ASSEMBLY... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Aug 1, 2006
Incident date: Jul 3, 2006
2003 FORD THUNDERBIRD HAD SPARK PLUGS REPLACED FOUR TIMES. VEHICLE SLOWED DOWN TO 5 MPH WITHOUT WARNING AND WOULD NOT PICK UP SPEED, AND NUMEROUS ENGINE PROBLEMS. *KB WATER LEAKED INSIDE THE VEHICLE, THE DEALER FOUND CRACKS AND A TEAR AROUND THE WEATHER STRIP AND SEAL. THE A/C CONTROL HEAD ASSEMBLY... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Aug 1, 2006
Incident date: Jul 3, 2006
2003 FORD THUNDERBIRD HAD SPARK PLUGS REPLACED FOUR TIMES. VEHICLE SLOWED DOWN TO 5 MPH WITHOUT WARNING AND WOULD NOT PICK UP SPEED, AND NUMEROUS ENGINE PROBLEMS. *KB WATER LEAKED INSIDE THE VEHICLE, THE DEALER FOUND CRACKS AND A TEAR AROUND THE WEATHER STRIP AND SEAL. THE A/C CONTROL HEAD ASSEMBLY... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Dec 2, 2005
Incident date: May 2, 2003
A COUPLE OF MONTHS AFTER THE CAR WAS PURCHASED THE BATTERY LIGHT COMES ON AND WHEN IT DOES NO OTHER ELECTRICAL PARTS WILL OPERATE. FOR INSTANCE IF YOU HAVE A WINDOW DOWN YOU CAN'T ROLL IT UP OR THE HEATER WON'T WORK. THIS HAS BEEN AN ONGOING PROBLEM SINCE THE CAR WAS PURCHASED. WE'VE HAD THE CAR ... Read more
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
Oct 14, 2005
Incident date: Oct 14, 2005
THE VEHICLES REAREND (DIFFERENTIAL) DEVELOPS A HOWLING NOISE, NOTICABLE AT 40+ MPH. THIS SAME PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED TWICE BEFORE. THE DEALERSHIP HAS REPLACED THE REAREND ON TWO PREVIOUS OCCASSIONS. THE NOISE IS STARTING TO OCCUR AGAIN, IF REPLACED THIS WOULD BE THE FOURTH REAREND.
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Jul 26, 2005
Incident date: Oct 1, 2003
DT: WHILE DRIVING AT 55-60 MPH THE ENGINE STARTED TO BOG DOWN AND SLOWLY DIED. HAD BEEN TO DEALER NUMEROUS TIMES CONCERNING THIS PROBLEM AND A TRANSMISSION. VEHICLE HAD BEEN CHECKED DIAGNOSTICIANS, AND WAS UNABLE TO FIND ANYTHING WRONG. DEALER HAD NEVER INDICATED WHAT WAS WRONG. NO REPAIRS... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Jul 26, 2005
Incident date: Oct 1, 2003
DT: WHILE DRIVING AT 55-60 MPH THE ENGINE STARTED TO BOG DOWN AND SLOWLY DIED. HAD BEEN TO DEALER NUMEROUS TIMES CONCERNING THIS PROBLEM AND A TRANSMISSION. VEHICLE HAD BEEN CHECKED DIAGNOSTICIANS, AND WAS UNABLE TO FIND ANYTHING WRONG. DEALER HAD NEVER INDICATED WHAT WAS WRONG. NO REPAIRS... Read more
WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS
Jan 5, 2005
Incident date: Jan 1, 2004
COMPLAINT RECEIVED VIA E-MAIL. FRONT RIGHT BRAKE CALIPER CAME OFF AND LOCKED UP WHEEL AND SLID MY CAR SIDEWAYS WHEN BRAKES WERE APPLIED. 2003, FORD, THUNDERBIRD ON THE DAY OF DELIVERY WITH 300 MILES ON THE CAR CALIPER BOLT FELL OUT, AND WHEN BRAKES APPLIED THE CALIPER TURNED UP INTO THE WHEEL, AND ... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
Jan 5, 2005
Incident date: Jan 1, 2004
COMPLAINT RECEIVED VIA E-MAIL. FRONT RIGHT BRAKE CALIPER CAME OFF AND LOCKED UP WHEEL AND SLID MY CAR SIDEWAYS WHEN BRAKES WERE APPLIED. 2003, FORD, THUNDERBIRD ON THE DAY OF DELIVERY WITH 300 MILES ON THE CAR CALIPER BOLT FELL OUT, AND WHEN BRAKES APPLIED THE CALIPER TURNED UP INTO THE WHEEL, AND ... Read more
AIR BAGS
Aug 19, 2004
Incident date: Jul 23, 2004
ANOTHER VEHICLE TURNED LEFT RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME, I WAS GOING APROX 50 MPH, I T-BONED THE OTHER CARS PASSENGER SIDE, MY FRONT END HIT HER AND NEITHER DRIVER OR PASS AIR BAG DEPLOYED. POLICE TOLD ME WHEN BOTH PARTIES SPEEDS FACTORED IN, IT WAS LIKE ME HITTING A BRICK WALL AT 100 MPH & THAT AIR BAGS ... Read more
Crash
2 injured
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
Apr 1, 2004
Incident date: Mar 30, 2004
PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED IN A PARKING LOT NEAR BELLEVIEW & QUEBEC DRIVING AT 5MPH. CAR TAKEN TO COURTESY FORD IN LITTLETON CO. MAR 31/04. SERVICE ADVISER, TIM, STATED WARRANTY WON'T FIX BECAUSE THEY FOUND YELLOW PAINT ADHERING TO THE DRIVER SIDE CROSS MEMBER. THIS SCRAPE OCCURRED AT THE DEAL... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Feb 23, 2004
Incident date: Feb 19, 2004
WHILE DRIVING AT 25 MPH DRIVER APPLIED THE BRAKES AND VEHICLE ACCELERATED. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Feb 23, 2004
Incident date: Feb 19, 2004
WHILE DRIVING AT 25 MPH DRIVER APPLIED THE BRAKES AND VEHICLE ACCELERATED. *AK
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Dec 8, 2003
Incident date: Dec 5, 2003
TRANSMISSION FAILED AT 400 MILES. WHEN BACKING OUT VEHICLE ACCELERATED, FORCING THE DRIVER TO APPLY PRESSURE TO THE BRAKES.*AK *MR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
Dec 2, 2003
Incident date: Nov 20, 2003
WHEN BRAKING THE BRAKE PEDAL GOES DOWN PAST THE GAS PEDAL, FOOT TO HIT THEM AT THE SAME TIME. IT IS A VERY UNSAFE CONDITION BECAUSE YOU ARE BRAKING AND ACCELLERATING AT THE SAME TIME. ALSO THE BRAKE PEDAL IS TOO CLOSE TO THE GAS PEDAL. I THINK THE BRAKE PEDAL SHOULD NEVER DEPRESS BELOW THE GAS PED... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Sep 16, 2003
Incident date: Aug 25, 2003
MY TRANSMISSION WAS HAVING ISSUES WITH SHIFTING. LIGHTS FLASHED ON DASHBOARD. *JB
SEAT BELTS
Mar 28, 2003
THE SEAT BELT LOCKED UP WHEN A TURN WAS MADE, ALSO THE ABS DID NOT WORK. *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
Mar 28, 2003
THE ABS DID NOT WORK PROPERLY, WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED, THE VEHICLE HOPPED OVER THE ROAD. *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
Mar 28, 2003
THE SEAT BELT LOCKED UP WHEN A TURN WAS MADE, ALSO THE ABS DID NOT WORK. *JB
EPA Fuel Economy, 2003 FORD THUNDERBIRD
| Trim / Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG | Fuel Type | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.9L 8-cyl, Automatic 5-spd (Rear-Wheel Drive) | 16.0 | 22.0 | 18.0 | Premium | $4,200 |
| 3.9L 8-cyl, Automatic 5-spd (Rear-Wheel Drive) | 16.0 | 23.0 | 18.0 | Premium | $4,200 |
CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Two Seaters)
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.
Technical Service Bulletins, 2003 FORD THUNDERBIRD
44 manufacturer communications from 42 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 13 |
| 061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE | 5 |
| 111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY | 2 |
| 010000 STEERING | 2 |
| 138120 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT | 2 |
| 103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM) | 2 |
| 357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER | 2 |
| 103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 2 |
TSB-12-8-1
Aug 1, 2012
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
FORD/LINCOLN/MERCURY: MAY HAVE SLUDGE BUILDUP IN THROTTLE BODY LEADING TO LESS AIRFLOW OR ENGINE IDLING RPM FLUCTUATION AND HARD STARTS OR BATTERY DISCONNECT OR DEAD BATTERY AFTER KEEP ALIVE MEMORY (KAM) CLEAR. MODELS 2003-05 THUNDERBIRD
TSB-12-8-1
Aug 1, 2012
111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
FORD/LINCOLN/MERCURY: MAY HAVE SLUDGE BUILDUP IN THROTTLE BODY LEADING TO LESS AIRFLOW OR ENGINE IDLING RPM FLUCTUATION AND HARD STARTS OR BATTERY DISCONNECT OR DEAD BATTERY AFTER KEEP ALIVE MEMORY (KAM) CLEAR. MODELS 2003-05 THUNDERBIRD
CSP 07M07
May 20, 2008
116000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
FORD/LINCOLN MERCURY: CERTAIN 2003-2005 MODEL YEAR LINCOLN LS AND FORD THUNDERBIRD VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.9L ENGINE WITH EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERAGE ON IGNITION COIL ASSEMBLIES AND ON 2003 MY VEHICLES ONLY , ENGINE VALVE COVER GASKETS.
CSP 07M07
May 20, 2008
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
FORD/LINCOLN MERCURY: CERTAIN 2003-2005 MODEL YEAR LINCOLN LS AND FORD THUNDERBIRD VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.9L ENGINE WITH EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERAGE ON IGNITION COIL ASSEMBLIES AND ON 2003 MY VEHICLES ONLY , ENGINE VALVE COVER GASKETS.
0707
Jul 3, 2007
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
CERTAIN 2003 MODEL YEAR LINCOLN LS AND FORD THUNDERBIRD VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.9L ENGINE - EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERAGE ON IGNITION COIL ASSEMBLIES AND ENGINE VALVE COVER GASKETS. ALSO HAVE AN OWNER'S LETTER. *NJ
0708
Apr 19, 2007
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SOLENOID EMISSIONS WARRANTY EXTENSION. SAMPLE CONSUMER LETTER ATTACHED. *KB
0295
Nov 14, 2005
111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
EXCESSIVE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM CURRENT DRAW WHICH COULD RESULT IN A DISCHARGED BATTERY AND A NO CRANK CONDITION. *TT SERVICE TIPS. *TT
02162
Jun 7, 2005
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY
WATER/MOISTURE IN COP WELLS - DTC P0301-P0308 - 3.9L ENGINE - VEHICLES BUILT THROUGH 5/1/2004. *TT
04219
Jun 7, 2005
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) AND ELECTRONIC THROTTLE CONTROL (ETC) LAMPS ON WITH BOTH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P2106 AND P2135. *TT
18615
May 1, 2005
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
UNUSUAL ENGINE NOISE OR ENGINE KNOCK CONCERNS DUE TO REGULAR FUEL. *TT
18515
Mar 1, 2005
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY
MOISTURE IN STORAGE COMPARTMENT. *EH
042107
Dec 13, 2004
103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
GENERAL (PCM) POWER TRAIN CONTROL MODULE PROGRAMMING PROCEDURES. *TT
18320
Dec 1, 2004
010000 STEERING
VIBRATION FELT FOR A FEW MILES OF DRIVING AFTER PARKING. *EH
042213
Nov 15, 2004
036400 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:ABS WARNING LIGHT
DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) C1145 AND/OR C1155 STORED IN ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) MODULE. *TT
17258
Oct 1, 2004
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
SQUEAKING NOISE WHEN SWITCHING CLIMATE CONTROL BETWEEN PANEL, FLOOR AND PANEL/FLOOR MODES. *TT
04174
Sep 6, 2004
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATED - SYSTEM LEAN DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTC'S) - SERVICE TIPS. VARIOUS MODELS INCLUDING 2004 F-SERIES. *TT
031404
Aug 23, 2004
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
ENGINE MISFIRE OR RUNNING - COIL ON PLUG (COP) IGNITION SYSTEMS - WDS COP KIT DIAGNOSTIC TIPS. TO INCLUDE VARIOUS 2005 MODELS. * AR THIS ARTICLE 04161 SUPERSEDES TSB 03-14-04.
041514
Aug 9, 2004
138120 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT
REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER GRID/INTEGRAL ANTENNA DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR - TERMINAL TAB REPAIR. *TT
031501
Jul 12, 2004
138120 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT
INOPERATIVE ELECTRIC REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER (HEATED BACKLITE) GRID LINES, INTEGRAL ANTENNA CONCERNS. *TT
17942
Jul 1, 2004
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
KEY-IN-IGNITION WARNING CHIME SOUND WHENEVER THE DRIVER'S DOOR IS OPEN (EVEN WITH NO KEY IN THE IGNITION), THE EASY EXIT FEATURE INOPERATIVE WHEN THE KEY IS REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION, OR THE STEERING COLUMN (AND SEAT IF APPLICABLE) MOVING B
17946
Jul 1, 2004
036400 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:ABS WARNING LIGHT
ABS WARNING INDICATOR ON WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE C1145 AND/OR C1155. *TT
04101
May 31, 2004
010000 STEERING
STEERING GEAR SQUEAK WHEN TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL, ESPECIALLY DURING LOW SPEED PARKING MANEUVERS. *TT
17740
Apr 1, 2004
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
ELECTTRONIC THROTTLE CONTROL WARNING MESSAGE OR LAMP ON - MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ON WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P2106 - POSSIBLE DRIVEABILITY SYMPTOMS. *TT
17756
Apr 1, 2004
013000 STEERING:GEAR BOX (OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION)
STEERING GEAR NOISE. *TT
17666
Mar 1, 2004
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) U0300 (INTERNAL CONTROL MODULE SOFTWARE INCOMPATIBILITY) STORED IN THE PCM WITH NO OTHER DTC'S PRESENT. *TT
17512
Jan 1, 2004
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
AN INTERMITTENT MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ON WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P0462 (FUEL LEVEL SENSOR A CIRCUIT LOW) OR P2067 (FUEL LEVEL SENSOR B CIRCUIT LOW) CAUSED BY AN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED REMOTE START SYSTEM. *TT
17479
Jan 1, 2004
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ON WITH IGNITION COIL RELATED DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (P035X). *TT
17338
Nov 1, 2003
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P2106 STORED IN THE PCM (POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE). *TT
17382
Nov 1, 2003
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P0300-P0308 OR P0350-P0358. *TT
03181
Sep 15, 2003
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY (RKE) - SERVICE TIPS. *TT
03158
Aug 4, 2003
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
VEHICLES BUILT BETWEEN 11/18/2002 AND 05/17/2003 WITH THE 5R55S TRANSMISSION MAY EXHIBIT HARSH SHIFTS. *TT
03159
Aug 4, 2003
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
A NO-START CONDITION DUE TO A DISCHARGED BATTERY. *TT
03148
Jul 21, 2003
103600 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:COOLING UNIT AND LINES
NEW TRANSMISSION COOLER FLUSHER - SERVICE TIPS. 2003 ESCORT AND SUPER DUTY F SERIES INCLUDED. *TT
03144
Jul 21, 2003
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
ENGINE MISFIRE OR ROUGH RUNNING CONDITION WITH COIL ON PLUG (COP) IGNITION SYSTEMS MAY BE MORE ACCURATELY DIAGNOSED USING THE OPTIONAL WORLDWIDE DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM (WDS) COIL ON PLUG (COP) KIT. 2003 SUPER DUTY F SERIES INCLUDED. *TT
16940
Jul 1, 2003
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM (PATS) PARAMETER RESET REQUIRED AFTER MODULE PROGRAMMING. *TT
16893
Jun 1, 2003
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
ILLUMINATED TCIL E OR AN ERROR MESSAGE WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P1744 ONLY. *TT
16892
Jun 1, 2003
030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
SQUEAL NOISE FROM THE REAR BRAKES ON VEHICLES PRODUCED BEFORE 5/15/2003. *TT
0398
May 12, 2003
090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATION WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0442, P0455, P0456, P0457, P1442 OR CHECK FUEL CAP LAMP ILLUMINATED WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0457. *TT
16868
May 1, 2003
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE B2519 ( HGH MOUNT STOPLAMP CIRCUIT FAILURE). *TT
16788
Apr 1, 2003
103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
VEHICLES WITH THE CONTROLLER AREA NETWORK (CAN) MAY EXHIBIT A POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) NON-COMMUNICATION EVENT, WHICH COULD LEAD TO AN UNNECESSARY PCM REPLACEMENT USING NORMAL DIAGNOSTICS. VARIOUS MODELS INCLUDING THE 2003 SUPER DUT
16694
Mar 1, 2003
221600 SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST
POWER SEAT FUNCTION - CONTACT REQUEST / DETROIT REGION. *TT *JB
02208
Oct 14, 2002
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
CLIMATE CONTROL A/C SERVICE TECH TIPS. *EH
02176
Sep 2, 2002
125100 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
LAMP-BRAKE-INVADVERTENT DISABLING OF BRAKE SHIFT INTERLOCK. *MJ
7867
Jan 1, 2000
105000 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE
DRIVELINE VIBRATION (A HIGH FREQUENCY BUZZ) THAT IS FELT THROUGH THE SEAT AND FLOORPAN AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. *TT
NHTSA Safety Investigations, FORD THUNDERBIRD
Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.
EA99005
Opened: Jan 20, 1999 , Closed: Dec 14, 1999
HEADLIGHT SWITCH
SUBJECT VEHICLES HAVE A HEADLIGHT SWITCH WITH AN INTERNAL, BIMETAL CIRCUIT BREAKER THAT CAN OPEN DUE TO OVERHEATING DURING HEADLING OPERATION.
RQ98015
Opened: Sep 29, 1998 , Closed: Jan 22, 1999
HEADLIGHT CIRCUIT BREAKER
HEADLIGHT SWITCH WITH AN ITERNAL, BIMETAL CIRCUIT BREALER THAT MAY OPEN DUE TO OVERHEATING DURING HEADLIGHT OPERATION
RQ97011
Opened: Sep 25, 1997 , Closed: Nov 16, 1998
FUEL LINE JUMPER
TO DETERMINE THE SCOPE OF THE ALLEGED FUEL LINE FAILURES OUTSIDE OF THE RECALL GEOGRAPHIC REGION AND IF THE RECALL SHOULD BE EXPANDED NATIONALLY
EA95030
Opened: Oct 31, 1995 , Closed: Sep 30, 1997
REAR FUEL LINE INTERFERENCE
THE REAR FUEL TUBE BUNDLE MAY ABRADE AND FAIL IN THE VICINITY OF THE FUEL TANK.
EA95021
Opened: Jul 31, 1995 , Closed: Sep 30, 1997
FAULTY SEAT BELT BUCKLES
There is no summary currently available
PE95019
Opened: Mar 27, 1995 , Closed: Jul 31, 1995
FAULTY SEATBELT BUCKLES
There is no summary currently available
EA93033
Opened: Dec 30, 1993 , Closed: Dec 30, 1994
THRTTL VLV LINKAGE BUSHING
There is no summary currently available
PE93075
Opened: Aug 30, 1993 , Closed: Dec 30, 1993
THRTTL VLV LINKAGE BUSHING
There is no summary currently available
EA90034
Opened: Jun 26, 1990 , Closed: Feb 25, 1992
HOOD LATCHES FAIL
There is no summary currently available
EA90009
Opened: Feb 8, 1990 , Closed: Feb 28, 1991
THROTTLE STICKING
There is no summary currently available
PE90001
Opened: Oct 4, 1989 , Closed: Feb 2, 1990
THROTTLE STICKING
===
PE88097
Opened: Aug 31, 1988 , Closed: Dec 2, 1988
FLOORMAT/ACCEL PEDAL INTRF
===
EA86005
Opened: Nov 25, 1985 , Closed: Jul 23, 1987
POWER BRAKE BOOSTER
SUMMARY OF INFORMATION FROM MANUFACTURER:FORD INITIATED SERVICE ACTIONSTO CHECK FOR ENGINE IDLE SPEED, TO DECREASE BOOSTER RUNOUT, AND TO FURTHERREDUCE THE INITIAL BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL.ANALYSIS:THE MAJORITY OF THE REPORTS ARE DATED IN THE 1979-1981 ERA.MOST ACCIDENTS OCCURRED IN THE FIRST TWO YEARS OF... Read more
FORD THUNDERBIRD - All Years Overview
Complete safety history for the FORD THUNDERBIRD across all model years (1967, 2005).
82
Total Recalls
3,088
Total Complaints
13
Investigations
175
Reported Crashes
173
Reported Fires
14
Reported Deaths
FORD THUNDERBIRD - Year by Year
Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.
| Year | Recalls | Complaints | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 | 1 | 35 | View |
| 2004 | 1 | 40 | View |
| 2003 (current) | 0 | 50 | |
| 2002 | 2 | 116 | View |
| 1999 | 0 | 2 | View |
| 1998 | 0 | 4 | View |
| 1997 | 2 | 228 | View |
| 1996 | 4 | 295 | View |
| 1995 | 1 | 353 | View |
| 1994 | 1 | 426 | View |
| 1993 | 4 | 559 | View |
| 1992 | 4 | 234 | View |
| 1991 | 4 | 130 | View |
| 1990 | 4 | 179 | View |
| 1989 | 5 | 147 | View |
| 1988 | 2 | 116 | View |
| 1987 | 1 | 73 | View |
| 1986 | 1 | 32 | View |
| 1985 | 1 | 16 | View |
| 1984 | 1 | 33 | View |
| 1983 | 4 | 4 | View |
| 1982 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1981 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1980 | 3 | 3 | View |
| 1979 | 4 | 1 | View |
| 1978 | 4 | 1 | View |
| 1977 | 5 | 1 | View |
| 1976 | 2 | 0 | View |
| 1975 | 5 | 0 | View |
| 1974 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1973 | 4 | 0 | View |
| 1972 | 3 | 0 | View |
| 1971 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1970 | 1 | 1 | View |
| 1967 | 4 | 0 | View |
| 1965 | 0 | 1 | View |
| 1960 | 0 | 1 | View |