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Exterior lightingPart report

2003 Lincoln Town CAR Exterior lighting Problems

Complaints
6about this part
Share
3%of 201 total for the year
Median mileage
98,000miles
Trend
Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.

NHTSA recorded 6 complaints about the exterior lighting of the 2003 Lincoln Town CAR, 3% of the 201 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 98,000 miles.

Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.

Example complaints

Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.

“Began to notice that the headlights would flicker. At first it was almost unnoticable. Got progressively worse until I am reluctant to drive after dark. First told there was a recall then after checking VIN was told did not apply to my vehicle. Then was told that part was recalled for ford crown vic and merc grand marquis. Probably the same part. There seems to be a significant problem and mine should be covered by a recall. Was also told that being built in canada could have been reason for recall refusal. Updated 09/15/15”

NHTSA complaint #10746524, filed 2015-08, 150,000 miles

“I recently purchased the vehicle and noticed on the first night drive that when applying the brakes, the 3rd brake light(the one at the top of the back window glowed brightly over the inside of the window making it impossible to see to the rear. When it rained and the back window was wet. The problem was even worse. Upon feeling around the light I discovered 3/4 inch space between the light and the glass thus letting the light spill out. I called the local Lincoln dealer who after examining it said they were all like that and couldn't help me. …”

NHTSA complaint #10175329, filed 2006-12, 46,000 miles

“When vehicle engine is running and turn signals are actuated, the digital dash, turn signals, and air conditioner cuts off. Additionally, steering effort increases substantially, ABS cycles off and back on when the power is restored. The duration may be momentary (less than 5 seconds) or last for a minute or longer. Frequency is 80+ percent of the time when the turn signals are engaged (left or right). I have had another ford vehicle which gave problems with this multi-function switch also. …”

NHTSA complaint #10122533, filed 2005-05, 153,600 miles

“This is a design feature; under the dashboard where the steering column is located isn't enough clearance when driver attempts to brake, he must slide his foot side ways to not make contact with console. Also, third brake light at night illuminates brightly. The driver describes the problem as blinding .”

NHTSA complaint #10034485, filed 2003-08

“Consumer states the interior mounted rear brake lamp's shield is 3/4 inches from the back windshield. When moving in reverse lamp causing entire windshield to illuminate red. Consumer is unable to see out of back windshield as a result. Ts”

NHTSA complaint #8021586, filed 2002-10

Exterior lighting: other model years

YearComplaintsShare of year
200621%
200533%
200445%
200363%
200121%
200066%
199921%
1998128%
1997175%
1996145%
1995127%
199475%
199332%
199221%
199164%
199021%
198911%
198822%

Other parts of the 2003 Lincoln Town CAR

Suspension
81 complaints
Transmission and drivetrain
27 complaints
Vehicle speed control
18 complaints
Steering
16 complaints
Brakes
15 complaints
Body and structure
12 complaints
Air bags
10 complaints
Electrical system
8 complaints
Engine cooling
8 complaints
Engine
6 complaints
Tires
6 complaints
Wheels
6 complaints

← All problems reported for the 2003 Lincoln Town CAR

About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 31, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.

To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology