2003 Ford F-350 Problems
- Complaints
- 90filed with NHTSA
- Median mileage
- 42,044miles, 58 complaints with mileage
- Recalls
- 2campaigns on record
- Trend
- FallingComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% lower than in the 3 years before.
Sources: NHTSA records for the 2003 Ford F-350 (complaints, recalls, investigations). Report an error
What owners report
Complaints from owners of this model year cluster around the 6.0L diesel: stalling and loss of power traced to turbocharger, fuel-injection and EGR problems, and engine work such as head gaskets, oil pumps and spark plug blowout at higher mileage. A second, smaller cluster concerns the ignition switch and electrical drains, and a third covers steering and brake faults reported at low mileage. Many items were reported early in the vehicle's life, while several recur well past 100,000 miles.
- Engine cooling
Stalling and loss of power (turbo, injection, EGR)
- 13 complaints (14%)
- median 25,000 mi at 1.4 yrs old (8 state mileage, few)
- filed 2003–2013
Owners describe the truck cutting out or falling flat at speed, sometimes at 60-70 mph, and stalling repeatedly at low mileage. Dealers replaced or reprogrammed the turbocharger, replaced fuel injectors and EGR valves, or blamed an after-market chip and declined warranty coverage; several owners say the problem returned after each repair. Some also report heavy exhaust smoke and no power when backing up an incline. Reported from a few hundred miles up to roughly 65,000 miles, with several trucks stalling within the first 20,000 miles.
What to check: Ask for service records on turbocharger, EGR valve and injector work, and check for stored codes such as P0299 or P2263. A service bulletin covers low power with those codes.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“While driving approximately 70 MPH on highway, the vehicle stalled 4 separate times, which resulted in loss of power steering and brake control. Dealer advised the problem was corrected, but was unable to guarantee the vehicle would not stall again. After the vehicle was picked up it stalled 15 times.”
NHTSA complaint #10017516, filed 2003-04, 700 miles“Consumer stated while driving at 60 MPH, the vehicle started smoking and rattling. After pulling over to the shoulder to investigate the problem, the vehicle failed to restart. After taking the vehicle to the dealer, it was found the fuel injector was faulty and the engine failed. There were no indication light on at all. All accounts took place approx. 11:30 p.m. On an extremely busy freeway. As of 08/20/03, Ford had not complied with either replacing the engine or vehicle. …”
NHTSA complaint #10032438, filed 2003-09, 1,500 miles - Electrical system
Electrical faults: ignition switch, dash fires, battery
- 7 complaints (8%)
- median 41,500 mi at 2.9 yrs old (6 state mileage, few)
- 4 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2003–2019
Complaints describe the engine continuing to run after the key was removed, keys sticking in the ignition, and the truck failing to start. Others report fires in the engine compartment or behind the dashboard, and one owner notes dome and running-board lights staying on until both batteries drain. Dealers variously could not resolve the problem or pointed to an after-market radio as a possible cause. Fires and no-start reports appear from about 1,500 to 15,000 miles; later drain and switch reports came in near 40,000 to 155,000 miles.
Recall 04V3270001 related service bulletin
What to check: Check that the engine shuts off cleanly with the key, test all interior and exterior lights for staying on, and look for signs of prior wiring or dash repairs. A recall addresses a loose engine ground stud on 6.0L diesel trucks.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“My dome and running board lights on my 2003 Ford f350 super duty, 4 door truck, stay on when I am driving and when the vehicle is turned off and locked. Also while driving, the dash vehicle light is red showing that all 4 doors are open. Ican be parked or moving, the lights stay on. Both my batteries drain. So I hav to carry jumper cables.”
NHTSA complaint #11232351, filed 2019-07, 123,000 miles“Dt: when the consumer went to start the vehicle it wouldn't start. The vehicle sat for over 12 hours. It had just come out of the shop and it had a down strap installed. The fire started in the right hand side of the dashboard. All the contents of the truck were destroyed. Both the police and fire dep artment responded to the fire.”
NHTSA complaint #10127193, filed 2005-06, 13,000 miles - Brakes
Brake drag, lock-up or line failure
- 8 complaints (9%)
- median 41,088 mi at 2.4 yrs old (5 state mileage, few)
- 3 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2003–2026
Complaints describe brakes locking up and staying applied until they cool, premature anti-lock activation with poor stopping on snow, a pedal going near the floor from a rusted-through brake line, and one report of a line rubbing on the shock absorber mount. Dealers in some cases found a dragging condition or said the brakes were operating normally; a repair shop replaced a long section of rotted line. Reports range from about 3,800 to 283,000 miles, including several under 10,000 miles.
What to check: Inspect the steel brake lines along the frame for rust and rubbing, and test that the pedal holds firm and the wheels release after braking.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“I thought my foot slipped off the brake and taped the rear end of the car in front of me. Scratched the bumper of the car I tapped. I was on I 95s towards fredericksburg, va when my brake warning light came on. Taped brake and the pedal almost went to the floor, but I did have some braking. Got the truck to the repair shop, diagnosed will hole in brake line caused by rust. Replaced 18 ft of line.”
NHTSA complaint #10562202, filed 2014-01, 283,000 miles“While pulling from a light or stop sign the vehicle brakes would lock up without warning. The dealership had been contacted. During stop and go traffic, when traffic opened up the brakes locked up and would stop for 20 minutes and unlocked when cooled down. After the second time the vehicle was taken to the dealer, they found a dragging problem. Jb”
NHTSA complaint #10042246, filed 2003-11, 8,000 miles - Steering
Steering loss or binding
- 5 complaints (6%)
- median 36,620 mi at 1.5 yrs old (4 state mileage, few)
- 2 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2002–2021
Owners report the steering wheel locking or going loose with no response, in some cases turning one direction only and in others failing while driving at highway speed and leading to a loss of control. Repairs described include replacing the steering gear box; one complaint also links brake pedal kickback to the booster and power steering pump. Mostly reported between roughly 14,000 and 56,000 miles, with some at very low mileage.
What to check: Turn the wheel full lock both ways with the engine running and listen for binding or noise, and ask whether the steering gear box or pump has been replaced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Consumer complained about steering wheel locking up. Vehicle would turn left but will not turn right. Vehicle was towed to the dealer, and dealer replaced the steering gear box. Consumer has yet to test drive the vehicle, however, consumer wanted on record that the steering box defection should be looked into.”
NHTSA complaint #10079592, filed 2004-06, 56,240 miles“The steering column failed while driving and caused loss of control. The steering wheel had gone around in a circle with no response. The consumer then touched the brakes and had gone into a ditch. Scc”
NHTSA complaint #10012188, filed 2003-03, 14,000 miles
Buying note. Service history matters most here: ask specifically about turbocharger, injector, EGR and head gasket work on the diesel, and have the steering, brakes and brake lines checked before purchase. A pre-purchase inspection that reads stored diagnostic codes is worthwhile on these trucks.
Summary written with AI from a sample of 60 NHTSA complaints for this model year (picked at random, with complaints that state a mileage and recent ones taken first), then checked automatically against the source records. Where a problem shows a complaint count, every complaint for this model year was matched with fixed keyword rules (written with AI and tested against the sample), and the mileage, age and repair figures are calculated from those complaints; owners' figures are as stated, not verified. Other counts refer to the sample. The excerpts come from NHTSA's public complaint records and are unverified; capitalisation is normalised, NHTSA staff notes are removed, and shortened text ends with “…”. Something wrong? Request a correction.
NHTSA recorded 90 consumer complaints for the 2003 Ford F-350. 58 of the complaints include a mileage, and 53% of those were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the median is 42,044 miles. Of all complaints, 11 involved a crash, 8 a fire, 7 an injury, according to the filers. NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns and 8 technical service bulletins for this model year.
Not compared (before 2008). Model years 2008–2023 of the same vehicle that have at least 25 complaints are compared, and a model needs at least 3 of them.
Which parts are reported most
Complaints can name more than one part, so the counts add up to more than the total. Select a part to see its complaints, recalls and bulletins.
- Engine cooling19 21%
- Vehicle speed control13 14%
- Electrical system11 12%
- Fuel system10 11%
- Brakes8 8.9%
- Engine7 7.8%
- Tires7 7.8%
- Steering6 6.7%
- Air bags4 4.4%
- Other or unknown4 4.4%
Also reported: Transmission and drivetrain (4), Seat belts (2), Body and structure (2), Suspension (2), Exterior lighting (1), Latches, locks and linkages (1), Seats (1), Wheels (1).
Example complaints
Engine cooling: “Cracked y pipe is leaking diesel exhaust fumes into cab of truck. This occurred previously when the truck was under warranty back in 2004 but now it is not under warranty nor is there a recall. I have brought this up to several dealers in the area but unless it is under warranty they won't cover the repair. However, I feel it is a major safety hazard which I feel should be addressed immediately, as diesel fumes are linked to cancer or could leak to an accident if someone is overcome by the fumes, which could lead to a death. …”
NHTSA complaint #10567257, filed 2014-02, 15,000 milesVehicle speed control: “While driving 20 MPH vehicle was engaged in full throttle. This resulted in unexpected acceleration, andthen a collision with a parked vehicle. No report of air bags deploying.”
NHTSA complaint #10044248, filed 2003-10, 9,000 milesElectrical system: “The wires for the camshaft position sensor are failing just like they have in others models of the f series and cause the truck to suddenly die while driving. There was already a recall in place but it doesn't cover this vin and so I would like to request the recall be extended to this trucks vin”
NHTSA complaint #11433730, filed 2021-09Fuel system: “Just driving on highway 41 and it just stopped. Engine went dead. Pulled over to side of road and tried starting again and it wouldnt start. Had to get it towed. Its been in shop for 20 days. Needs a new fuel tank because the inner lining is peeling and particles are going through engine! Need help I purchased this truck in 2015 and its been in shop 7 different times.”
NHTSA complaint #11279677, filed 2019-11, 160,000 milesMileage when problems were reported
53% of the 58 complaints with a mileage were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the middle half falls between 14,000 and 110,000 miles.
Complaints by year filed
Trend: falling. Complaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% lower than in the 3 years before.
Recalls and investigations
- 11V352000Jul 13, 2011Exterior lighting › Tail lightsCovers: Ford F-350 2002–2007, Ranger 2004–2011, F-250 2002–2007 +5 more
Ford is recalling certain model year 2011 ranger trucks built from january 25, 2011, through april 25, 2011 at the twin cities assembly plant, and service parts distributed to dealers for certain 2004 through 2011 model year ranger trucks, 2002 through 2005…
- 04V327000Jul 7, 2004Electrical system › 12v/24v/48v batteryCovers: Ford F-350 2003, F-250 2003, Excursion 2003 +2 more
On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles equipped with 6.0l diesel engines, the engine ground stud that attaches the negative battery terminal eyelet to the engine block may be loose.
Recall details for the 2003 Ford F-350 → · Check a VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls
Technical service bulletins
TSBs are manufacturer notes to dealers about known repair procedures. They are not recalls and do not by themselves mean a vehicle has a fault. 8 on record; the latest 8 are shown.
- 10012965Feb 1, 2005Body and structure. Service tips before arc welding on the frame or body of a unit.
- 10012958Feb 1, 2005Engine cooling. Lack of power, surge, and/or diagnostic trouble codes p2263 or p0299.
- 10013316Jan 1, 2005Transmission and drivetrain. A cold weather reverse engagement stall.
- 10014083Dec 13, 2004Vehicle speed control. Memontary return to idle during aggressive acceleration - diagnostic trouble code (dtc) p0123.
- 10013413Nov 29, 2004Suspension. Vehicle lean sag when observed from rear of vehicle.
- 10011164Aug 23, 2004Transmission and drivetrain. Rear axle popping/chatter noise - dana 80 model dual rear wheel (drw).
- 10011181Aug 1, 2004Engine cooling. Low power and/or diagnostic trouble code p0299 or p2263 - turbocharger diagnostic service tip.
- 10011174Aug 1, 2004Electrical system. Dtc u1262 (scp communication bus fault) stored in the instrument cluster (ic).
Other model years of the Ford F-350
| Year | Complaints | Median mi | Recalls | Crash ★ | MPG | Score (50 = typical) | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 91 | 73,000 | 0 | — | — | 9 · Fewer | Stable |
| 2013 | 76 | 79,000 | 1 | — | — | 0 · Fewer | Falling |
| 2012 | 149 | 90,000 | 4 | — | — | 71 · More | Stable |
| 2011 | 136 | 60,000 | 4 | — | — | 92 · More | Falling |
| 2009 | 28 | 104,000 | 2 | — | — | 0 · Fewer | Stable |
| 2008 | 131 | 67,532 | 9 | — | — | 90 · More | Falling |
| 2007 | 36 | 54,000 | 3 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2006 | 145 | 60,000 | 3 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 2005 | 114 | 81,000 | 3 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2004 | 159 | 50,047 | 2 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2003 | 90 | 42,044 | 2 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2002 | 116 | 65,000 | 2 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Rising |
| 2001 | 160 | 72,000 | 5 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2000 | 304 | 81,000 | 4 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 1999 | 413 | 106,925 | 12 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 1998 | 12 | 75,158 | 1 | — | — | — | Not enough data |
| 1997 | 155 | 110,000 | 3 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1996 | 130 | 103,000 | 3 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1995 | 134 | 130,000 | 2 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1994 | 95 | 145,900 | 5 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Rising |
| 1993 | 101 | 111,330 | 6 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1992 | 52 | 87,500 | 4 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1991 | 31 | 89,450 | 5 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1990 | 39 | 44,470 | 6 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1989 | 42 | 116,250 | 5 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1988 | 29 | 150,000 | 4 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1987 | 8 | — | 2 | — | — | — | Not enough data |
| 1986 | 14 | 106,000 | 2 | — | — | — | Not enough data |
All Ford F-350 model years · Best and worst years by complaints
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common problems with the 2003 Ford F-350?
Complaints from owners of this model year cluster around the 6.0L diesel: stalling and loss of power traced to turbocharger, fuel-injection and EGR problems, and engine work such as head gaskets, oil pumps and spark plug blowout at higher mileage. The issues reported most often: Stalling and loss of power (turbo, injection, EGR); Electrical faults: ignition switch, dash fires, battery; Brake drag, lock-up or line failure.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2003 Ford F-350 have?
NHTSA recorded 90 consumer complaints for the 2003 Ford F-350 as of Oct 28, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
What part of the 2003 Ford F-350 is reported most often?
Engine cooling is named most often, in 19 complaints (21% of the total), followed by vehicle speed control with 13.
Has the 2003 Ford F-350 been recalled?
NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns for this model year. To check a specific vehicle, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
At what mileage are problems with the 2003 Ford F-350 reported?
Among the 58 complaints that include a mileage, the median is 42,044 miles and the middle half falls between 14,000 and 110,000 miles; 53% were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles.
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 28, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
Complaint counts come from NHTSA’s public complaint database; we count each complaint once. The source records for this vehicle are on nhtsa.gov. Scores and trends are our own summaries of that data, described in the methodology. This page is not legal, safety or repair advice: for a specific vehicle, check its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask a qualified mechanic. See an error? Tell us.