Four problems related to wiring have been reported for the 2003 Ford F-250. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Truck began blowing fuse #45, resulting in a loss of instruments and no throttle activation available. Seems to occur most often when turning left, and/or when shifting from park or reverse into drive, or drive into reverse or park. Has resulted in a loss of power in all of the above situations, with the engine only idling. If this occurs while heading uphill, vehicle will not move. Internet search reveals this seems to be a fairly common problem, and is due to insulation being rubbed off part of the wiring harness that runs through the steering column. Same research indicates Ford changed the routing of the wiring harness in late 2003. I believe this situation should be repaired free of charge by Ford.
The contact owns a 2003 Ford F-250. While driving approximately 70 mph, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to the dealer for diagnostics where the technician stated that the wiring harness had become exposed, causing a short and blowing the engine fuse. The technician advised that the wires would have to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The VIN was not available. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.
The contact owns a 2003 Ford f250 super duty. While driving 15 mph, the check engine light illuminated in the vehicle. Shortly after, he noticed that the vehicle barely accelerated while pulling out of a parking space. The vehicle would also stall at low speeds. Once he restarted the engine, the vehicle would operate normally. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer and they stated that they would diagnose the failure. The dealer stated that the vehicle needed a new injection control pressure sensor module (icp) installed in the vehicle. Through research, he found NHTSA campaign id number 05v270000, NHTSA action number ea05003 (electrical system:wiring). In 2004, a 2004 engine was placed in the vehicle. He believes that the vehicle was experiencing the same defect because it had a 2004 engine. The manufacturer stated that his VIN was not included in the recall. The VIN was unknown. The current and failure mileages were 61,000. Updated 08/31/09 updated 09/03/09.
Consumer entered the vehicle but it would not start, called aaa, they arrived, opened the hood, and saw vehicle was smoking. The vehicle burned up. Manufacturer was being notified.