Two problems related to brake hoses, lines/piping, and fittings have been reported for the 2003 Ford F-150. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Ford F-150 based on all problems reported for the 2003 F-150.
Without warning, the brake pedal went to the floor while towing a 6000lb trailer. Stopped for dinner - all felt normal. Upon finishing dinner and returning to my truck, I put my foot on the brake and shifted from park to drive when suddenly the brake pedal went to the floor. I tried several more times and each time the brake pedal went to the floor. Inspection of the vehicle showed that the brake line leading to the rear brakes had rotted through from the outside. This vehicle is meticulously maintained and has never been used near salt water, or to launch boats. My mechanic has advised me that rotting brake lines is a common problem. With that knowledge, I am dismayed and disappointed to find out that Ford does not offer any type of replacement lines.
The brake line from cab area to rear wheel on my 2003 Ford f150 corroded and emptied the master cyclinder of brake fluid. It is significant to note that no other brakelines or connections showed simiilar corrosion- more like you would expect on a 7 year old vehicle. It is my opinion that the corrosion is a materials problem and may be a reoccurring problem in other vehicle of this type. I also noted excessive scaling of the front wheel hubs and stearing arms of the same vehicle. This I believe is the result of inferior parts- I have never seen this level of deterioation of vehicle components like this. Whether this is a safety problem or not I don't know. Please accept this information as a couple of data points on this vehicle. I just felt it was necessary to advise NHTSA of the situation.