One problem related to tailgate has been reported for the 2003 Ford Explorer Sport. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Ford Explorer Sport based on all problems reported for the 2003 Explorer Sport.
2/14/2007 I noticed there is a fracture/crack between the tailgate door opener and the window. The fracture/crack becomes more/less wider depending on how hot or cold it is outside. I went to the dealer and they stated it would cause me between $400-$800 to get it fix and the whole area will need to be replaced. They stated that it should not cause much problem unless someone hits the back of my car or I close the tailgate not soft enough, which could damage the window. Since then, I have noticed that all explorers that I see have the same fracture/crack on the tailgate door on the same area location. I also have seen many many many complaints about this online. This has to be a defect that is causing the fracture on the tailgate door below the window. This could cause injury if the window breaks or there is issue with the door opener hinge.