2003 Ford F-350

Introduction:

The 2003 Ford F-350 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its impressive towing and payload capacities. It was offered with a range of powerful engine and transmission options, including:

• 5.4L Triton V8 (260 hp, 350 lb-ft torque)
• 6.8L Triton V10 (310 hp, 425 lb-ft torque)
• 7.3L Power Stroke V8 diesel (235 hp, 525 lb-ft torque)
• 4-speed automatic (4R100)
• 5-speed automatic (5R110W)

Reviewers praise the F-350 for its ruggedness, dependable performance, and comfortable interior. However, some owners have reported encountering various issues with the vehicle.

Engine

5.4L Triton V8

• Spark plug failure: Premature wear of spark plugs can cause misfires, rough idling, and reduced power.
• Solution: Replace spark plugs and ignition coils.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Recalls: None Found

6.8L Triton V10

• Intake manifold runner control failure: The intake manifold runner control valve can fail, leading to poor idle quality, reduced power, and increased fuel consumption.
• Solution: Replace intake manifold runner control valve and gaskets.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
• Recalls: None Found

7.3L Power Stroke V8 Diesel

• Injector failure: Fuel injectors can fail prematurely, resulting in rough running, poor fuel economy, and black smoke from the exhaust.
• Solution: Replace fuel injectors and o-rings.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4R100)

• Gear slipping: Transmission gears may slip under load, causing loss of power or transmission failure.
• Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
• Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic (5R110W)

• Solenoid failure: Solenoids that control gear shifting can fail, leading to transmission slipping, hard shifting, or no forward or reverse gears.
• Solution: Replace failed solenoids.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Recalls: None Found

Suspension

Front suspension:

• Ball joint failure: Ball joints can wear out prematurely, causing excessive play in the steering and suspension.
• Solution: Replace ball joints.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per side
• Recalls: None Found

Rear suspension:

• Leaf spring breakage: Leaf springs can break under heavy loads, affecting the vehicle’s handling and ride quality.
• Solution: Replace leaf springs.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
• Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery drain: Various electrical components can malfunction and drain the battery overnight.
• Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace faulty components.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
• Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Body rust: Corrosion can occur on exposed metal surfaces, particularly in areas with high humidity or salt exposure.
• Solution: Repair or replace affected body panels.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of damage
• Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracking: The dashboard cover can crack over time, especially in hot climates.
• Solution: Replace dashboard cover.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2003 Ford F-350 is generally a reliable and capable workhorse. However, some owners may encounter issues with the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, or interior components. These issues can vary in severity and cost, but many can be resolved with proper maintenance and repairs.