Four problems related to differential unit 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.
Differential rear end factory defect.
I have a 2003 Ford f150 my 4wheeldrive stopped working , but the dash indicator said it was ingaged. This makes for a very unsafe operating condition. Because you do not drive the vehicle the same if the 4x4 is working. I brought it to the local Ford dealer and they repaired it . This apparently was a common problem. The part# f75z*3n139 which cost$133. 98 and the labor was $302. 00. This part is very cheaply made and will probably break again. The tech told me there is no way to prevent this from happening again. This part is a safety hazard. I hope that you investigate this matter. I have looked on Ford links and websites and have seen numerous comments of this problem. Please if you can help me, it would be appriciated. I kept the old parts, the material they use on the fork won`t hold up to the conditions in the front differential.
As noted by another complaint: howling noise in rear differential. Rear differential replaced once. Noise continues. I called Ford motor company and they told me there was a design flaw that only affects certain vehicles but they are working on the problem. I asked. . . When could I expect it to be solved. The answer was. . . It might never be solved. They replaced some gears in the differential, but the problem has started again. They refuse to put in a new differential saying that it would be "cost prohibitive".
Howling noise in rear differential. Rear differential replaced twice. Noise continues. Ford now refuses to repair rear differential because of complete overhaul twice. Ford now says noise is "characteristic" of this vehicle. This is not true as I have driven other identical vehicles without the noise. Noise goes away after repairs are made for about 6000 miles.