Nine problems related to transmission failure have been reported for the 2003 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Ford Explorer based on all problems reported for the 2003 Explorer.
Transmission failure, a common occurrence in these vehicles.
I bought my Ford Explorer XLT back in June of 2015. Since then I replaced my oxygen sensor do to a fault in the system and melting back in Aug. 20015. The SUV wouldn't start because of it and had to be towed. Since I purchased and had replaced the oxygen sensor by a Ford dealer, I noticed the SUV having power failure even from a complete stop and now the over drive off light flashes; this started in the beginning of Nov. 2015 I noticed that there is over 2755 complaints of transmission problems and failures exactly the same as mine, but not one recall. This is a issue with the SUV themselves and not owner error. I have children and don't want to end up stranded in the street or side of the highway due to transmission failure. There has to be something causing the transmission to break down or fail and I refuse to be the the blame nor pay thousands to Ford dealership to fix a flaw in there own SUV. A recall needs to be made for this problem and it is clearly a manufacture flaw.
Transmission failure.
Tl- the contact owns a 2003 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving 60 mph, the transmission failed and the vehicle stopped accelerating. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle to reset the problem but the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed to a transmission center for inspection and they advised that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 126,000. Kmj.
2003 Ford Explorer 5r55-w transmission failure wherein the internal linkages, servo valve and bearings failed at startup, rendering the vehicle unmovable under it's own power and stranding the driver.
I sent a letter of complaint to Ford regarding my situation with my transmission failing on me and the local Ford dealer charging me $4,300 since my car is no longer under warranty. I truly hope that Ford gets their act together and addresses this issues as I'm seeing more and more complaints pop-up everywhere regarding this. Poor excuse!!! dear valued customer, thank you for contacting the Ford motor company customer relationship center inquiring for any recalls on your 2003 Ford Explorer. I sincerely understand the frustration that this transmission concern on your vehicle has brought you. Please be informed that Ford motor company is working with the national highway traffic and safety administration (NHTSA) to proactively identify areas of concern through investigation of consumer and dealership feedback. If a concern is noted, a recall is conducted to remedy a safety or emissions concern in the interest of customer satisfaction and environmental responsibility. Thus, I have reviewed if any available coverages or programs may provide assistance towards your vehicle repair. After extensively reviewing your situation, I regret to inform you that there are no recalls, warranties or other coverages available that may cover the repair on your vehicle. While this is so, I would like to thank you for taking the time to bring your concern into our attention as this is definitely something we can build on. If a program is announced on a specific component and/or for the transmission concern on your vehicle, Ford will notify you by mail. I appreciate the fact that you are a loyal Ford customer and hope that we might have the opportunity in the future to assist you with a more favorable resolution to keep your confidence in our products and services. If you have any other inquiries and/or concerns that need to be addressed, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to assist a valued customer like yourself. Sincerely, customer relationship center.
Transmission failure at 77,000 miles, June 2010. Replaced with Ford part at Ford dealer. Replacement transmission lasted 3 yrs/8 mos, and lasted 45,000 miles (8 months beyond warranty). Ford will not acknowledge the problem, or provide any relief whatsoever in resolving the problem. Transmission failure at any point, at any time, could be very very dangerous.
2003 Ford Explorer transmission failure at 62,000 miles.
Transmission failure took to dealer ,they rebuilt it. Took it back 04/28/05 they rebuilt it again with 27998 miles on it. Took it back 08/23/05 with 31714 miles they rebuild it again. Took it back 02/11/08 before extended warranty ended on 02/19/08 they said couldn't find problem . I think because of the lemon law. Now 12 /17/2013 it needs another transmission.