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2003 Ford E-350 Club Wagon

2003 Ford E-350 Club Wagon

The 2003 Ford E-350 Club Wagon is a full-size van that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. It was a popular choice for families and businesses alike due to its spacious interior and versatility. However, like any vehicle, it had its share of problems.

The most popular engine option was the 5.4L V8, which produced 255 horsepower and 355 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options included the 4.6L V8, 6.8L V10, and 7.3L V8. Transmission options included a 4-speed automatic, a 5-speed automatic, and a 6-speed manual.

Owners of the 2003 E-350 Club Wagon have reported a number of issues with their vehicles. These issues range from minor annoyances to major mechanical problems.

Engine

5.4L V8

  • Spark plug failure: The spark plugs can fail prematurely, causing misfires and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the spark plugs. Cost to fix: $200 - $400+
  • Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing a vacuum leak. Symptoms include a rough idle, loss of power, and poor fuel economy. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Timing chain failure: The timing chain can fail, causing catastrophic engine damage. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, a loss of power, and eventually a no-start condition. The solution is to replace the timing chain. Cost to fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Oil pump failure: The oil pump can fail, causing a loss of oil pressure. Symptoms include a knocking noise from the engine, a loss of power, and eventually a no-start condition. The solution is to replace the oil pump. Cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls:
    • 03V305000: Powertrain control module software update
    • 03V465000: Door ajar warning chime may not sound

6.8L V10

  • No issues found

7.3L V8

  • Diesel fuel injector failure: The diesel fuel injectors can fail, causing a loss of power, black smoke from the exhaust, and a rough idle. The solution is to replace the fuel injectors. Cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Turbocharger failure: The turbocharger can fail, causing a loss of power and black smoke from the exhaust. The solution is to replace the turbocharger. Cost to fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls:
    • 03V468000: Fuel line routing

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

  • Transmission slipping: The transmission may slip, causing a loss of power and poor acceleration. The solution is to rebuild or replace the transmission. Cost to fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Torque converter failure: The torque converter can fail, causing a loss of power and a shuddering sensation. The solution is to replace the torque converter. Cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls:
    • 03V308000: Transmission control module software update

5-Speed Automatic

  • No issues found

6-Speed Manual

  • Clutch failure: The clutch can fail, causing a loss of power and difficulty shifting gears. The solution is to replace the clutch. Cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Transmission noise: The transmission may make a grinding noise when shifting gears. The solution is to rebuild or replace the transmission. Cost to fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Suspension

  • Front suspension wear: The front suspension components can wear out prematurely, causing a rough ride and poor handling. Symptoms include clunking noises, excessive tire wear, and a loose steering feel. The solution is to replace the worn suspension components. Cost to fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Rear suspension wear: The rear suspension components can wear out prematurely, causing a rough ride and poor handling. Symptoms include clunking noises, excessive tire wear, and a loose steering feel. The solution is to replace the worn suspension components. Cost to fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls:
    • 03V466000: Front suspension ball joint defect

Electrical

  • Battery drain: The battery may drain prematurely, causing the vehicle to be difficult to start or not start at all. The solution is to diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain. Cost to fix: $100 - $500+
  • Starter failure: The starter can fail, causing the vehicle to not start. The solution is to replace the starter. Cost to fix: $200 - $500+
  • Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to not charge. Symptoms include a dim dashboard, flickering headlights, and a dead battery. The solution is to replace the alternator. Cost to fix: $300 - $700+

Exterior

  • Rust: The body of the vehicle can rust prematurely, especially in areas that are exposed to salt or moisture. The solution is to prevent or repair rust as needed. Cost to fix: $500 - $5,000+
  • Door lock failure: The door locks can fail, making it difficult to open or close the doors. The solution is to replace the door lock actuators. Cost to fix: $200 - $500+
  • Window regulator failure: The window regulators can fail, causing the windows to become inoperable. The solution is to replace the window regulators. Cost to fix: $200 - $500+

Interior

  • HVAC system failure: The HVAC system can fail, causing the vehicle to not heat or cool properly. Symptoms include a lack of airflow, cold air blowing from the vents, and a musty smell. The solution is to diagnose and repair the HVAC system. Cost to fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Dashboard cracking: The dashboard can crack over time, especially in areas that are exposed to sunlight. The solution is to replace the dashboard. Cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Seat belt failure: The seat belts can fail, making them ineffective in a crash. The solution is to replace the seat belts. Cost to fix: $200 - $500+
  • Airbag failure: The airbags can fail, making them ineffective in a crash. Symptoms include a warning light on the dashboard and a lack of deployment in a crash. The solution is to replace the airbags. Cost to fix: $500 - $1,500+

Summary

The 2003 Ford E-350 Club Wagon is a spacious and versatile vehicle, but it has its share of problems. The most common issues include engine problems, transmission problems, suspension problems, electrical problems, and interior problems. Some of these issues are minor and can be fixed relatively cheaply, while others are major and can be very expensive to fix. Overall, the E-350 Club Wagon is a reliable vehicle, but it is important to be aware of the potential problems that can occur.

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