2003 Ford Explorer - Electric Vehicle Guide
The 2003 Ford Explorer belongs to a Ford Explorer lineup that Know Your Ride tracks across 23 model years, from 1991 to 2026. It is an all-electric vehicle, so it skips the oil changes, spark plugs and exhaust-system service of a combustion Explorer entirely. It is configured as rear-wheel drive with an automatic 5-spd. The 2003 sits mid-run, with both earlier (1991) and later (2026) Explorer model years also documented.
The high-voltage battery is covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles, separate from the bumper-to-bumper warranty. Routine upkeep centers on tire rotation, DOT 3 brake fluid, Motorcraft Gold battery/cabin coolant, cabin air filters and brake service rather than engine oil. Know Your Ride lists 13 scheduled maintenance items for this vehicle, the earliest interval falling at 7,500 miles. Documented torque values include lug nut 100 ft-lb.
NHTSA complaints for this vehicle cluster around structure (332), power train (281), engine and engine cooling (63). A representative report reads: "The contact rented a 2003 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed with the seat warmer activated, after arriving at a Rest..." There are 7 safety recalls on record; one covers: CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCK, VAN, AND MINI VAN CONVERSIONS EQUIPPED WITH SOUTHERN COMFORT BUILT RUNNING BOARDS THAT CONTAIN CERTAIN COURTESY LIGHTS....
Estimated annual charging cost runs near $2,750.
Quick Specs
| Battery warranty | 8 yr / 100,000 mi |
| Est. annual charging | $2,750 |
| Tire size | 245/60R18 |
| Coolant | Motorcraft Gold |
| Open recalls on record | 7 |
| Technical service bulletins | 120 |
Common Trouble Codes
- P0300 - Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
- P0420 - Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
- P0171 - System too Lean (Bank 1)
- P0128 - Insufficient Coolant Temperature for Stable Operation
- P0442 - Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (small leak)
- P0455 - Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (gross leak)
- P0700 - Transmission Control System Malfunction
- P0301 - Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected
- U0100 - Lost Communication With ECM/PCM A
Related Vehicles
Part of the free Know Your Ride vehicle maintenance reference. Figures are sourced from EPA, NHTSA and manufacturer data and are for general reference - always confirm with your owner's manual.