2003 Ford ThunderbirdFord Thunderbird 2003

Vehicle Details: Fuel Economy, Emissions, Consumer Complaints, Decoded VIN Details, Service Bulletins

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Below you will find all available information on the 2003 Ford Thunderbird, manufacturered by Ford Motor Company.
The vehicle is described as a Rear-Wheel Drive Two Seaters Convertible(excludes sun-roof,t-bar).

ManufacturerKnown WMI(s)Fuel Type
Ford1MH 1ZW 2MH YYC 1MR WF1 1FA 1ME 3ME JC1 Premium
City MPGHighway MPGCO2 emissions
16 MPG22 - 23 MPG493.72 g/mile
Ford VIN Decoder

Use the box here to look up VINs from Ford as well as other manufacturers

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Sub-models: - Thunderbird Sport -

Frequently Asked Questions
  • What is the MPG of a 2003 Ford Thunderbird?
     - The 2003 Ford Thunderbird has an EPA estimated city efficiency of 16 MPG and an estimated highway efficiency of 22 - 23 MPG.
  • What is the fuse box diagram for the 2003 Ford Thunderbird?
     - Fuse box diagrams for the 2003 Ford Thunderbird can be found here
  • What is the annual fuel cost for the 2003 Ford Thunderbird?
     - EPA estimated annual fuel cost for the 2003 Ford Thunderbird is $3700.
  • Where is the 2003 Ford Thunderbird produced?
     - The 2003 Ford Thunderbird is produced in Wixom Michigan, United States (usa).
Available Engine & Drive Classes
  • 3.9L 8 cylinder 5-speed automatic with select shift
NHTSA Mandated Recalls

No recalls could be found for this vehicle. To ensure accuracy and for your safety, do a free VIN recall check here or here [USA] - UK - Canada.

NHTSA Submitted Mechanical & Emissions Details
  • Automatic 5-spd Rear-Wheel Drive Thunderbird

    Description Data
    Engine cylinders8
    Engine displacement in liters3.9
    TransmissionAutomatic 5-spd
    You save/spend over 5 years compared to an average car ($). savings are positive; a greater amount spent yields a negative number. for dual fuel vehicles, this is the cost savings for gasoline-8750
    Transmission descriptor; for information see the fueleconomy.gov detailsCLKUP
    Description Data
    Annual petroleum consumption in barrels for fuel type 116.5283
    City mpg for fuel type 1,16
    Combined mpg for fuel type 1,18
    Engine cylinders8
    Engine displacement in liters3.9
    Drive axle typeRear-Wheel Drive
    Annual fuel cost for fuel type 1 ($)3700
    Fuel type with fuel type 1 and fuel type 2 (if applicable)Premium
    Fuel type 1. for single fuel vehicles, this will be the only fuel. for dual fuel vehicles, this will be the conventional fuel.Premium Gasoline
    Highway mpg for fuel type 1,22
    Vehicle record id18310
    2 door luggage volume (cubic feet)8
    Model name (carline)Thunderbird
    Has my mpg data; see yourmpgvehicle and yourmpgdrivervehicleN
    If true, this vehicle operates on a blend of gasoline and electricity in charge depleting modefalse
    2-door passenger volume (cubic feet)52
    TransmissionAutomatic 5-spd
    Unadjusted city mpg for fuel type 119.5
    Unadjusted highway mpg for fuel type 130.5
    EPA vehicle size classTwo Seaters
    You save/spend over 5 years compared to an average car ($). savings are positive; a greater amount spent yields a negative number. for dual fuel vehicles, this is the cost savings for gasoline-8750
    Transmission descriptor; for information see the fueleconomy.gov detailsCLKUP
    Date the vehicle record was created (iso 8601 format)Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 2013
    Date the vehicle record was last modified (iso 8601 format)Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 2013
  • Automatic 5-spd Rear-Wheel Drive Thunderbird

    Description Data
    Engine cylinders8
    Engine displacement in liters3.9
    Engine descriptor; see fueleconomy.gov detailsSPORT
    TransmissionAutomatic 5-spd
    You save/spend over 5 years compared to an average car ($). savings are positive; a greater amount spent yields a negative number. for dual fuel vehicles, this is the cost savings for gasoline-8750
    Transmission descriptor; for information see the fueleconomy.gov detailsCLKUP
    Description Data
    Annual petroleum consumption in barrels for fuel type 116.5283
    City mpg for fuel type 1,16
    Combined mpg for fuel type 1,18
    Engine cylinders8
    Engine displacement in liters3.9
    Drive axle typeRear-Wheel Drive
    Engine descriptor; see fueleconomy.gov detailsSPORT
    Annual fuel cost for fuel type 1 ($)3700
    Fuel type with fuel type 1 and fuel type 2 (if applicable)Premium
    Fuel type 1. for single fuel vehicles, this will be the only fuel. for dual fuel vehicles, this will be the conventional fuel.Premium Gasoline
    Highway mpg for fuel type 1,23
    Vehicle record id18311
    2 door luggage volume (cubic feet)8
    Model name (carline)Thunderbird
    Has my mpg data; see yourmpgvehicle and yourmpgdrivervehicleY
    If true, this vehicle operates on a blend of gasoline and electricity in charge depleting modefalse
    2-door passenger volume (cubic feet)52
    TransmissionAutomatic 5-spd
    Unadjusted city mpg for fuel type 119.9469
    Unadjusted highway mpg for fuel type 131.7691
    EPA vehicle size classTwo Seaters
    You save/spend over 5 years compared to an average car ($). savings are positive; a greater amount spent yields a negative number. for dual fuel vehicles, this is the cost savings for gasoline-8750
    Transmission descriptor; for information see the fueleconomy.gov detailsCLKUP
    Date the vehicle record was created (iso 8601 format)Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 2013
    Date the vehicle record was last modified (iso 8601 format)Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 2013
Bulletins

Bulletins are notices put out by manufacturers in conjunction with the NHTSA to notify the public of manufacturing issues or changes.

  • TSB-12-8-1 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY: Ford/lincoln/mercury: may have sludge buildup in throttle body leading to less airflow or engine idling rpm fluctuation and hard starts or battery disconnect or dead battery after keep alive memory (kam) clear. Models 2003-05 thunderbird
  • CSP 07M07 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION: Ford/lincoln mercury: certain 2003-2005 model year lincoln ls and ford thunderbird vehicles equipped with 3.9l engine with extended warranty coverage on ignition coil assemblies and on 2003 my vehicles only , engine valve cover gaskets.
  • 0707 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE: Certain 2003 model year lincoln ls and ford thunderbird vehicles equipped with 3.9l engine - extended warranty coverage on ignition coil assemblies and engine valve cover gaskets. Also have an owner's letter. *nj
  • 0708 - POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION: Automatic transmission solenoid emissions warranty extension. Sample consumer letter attached. *kb
  • 02162 - STRUCTURE:BODY: Water/moisture in cop wells - dtc P0301-P0308 - 3.9l engine - vehicles built through 5/1/2004. *tt
  • 18615 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING: Unusual engine noise or engine knock concerns due to regular fuel. *tt
  • 18515 - STRUCTURE:BODY: Moisture in storage compartment. *eh
  • 18320 - STEERING: Vibration felt for a few miles of driving after parking. *eh
  • 042107 - POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM): General (pcm) power train control module programming procedures. *tt
  • 042213 - SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:ABS WARNING LIGHT: Diagnostic trouble code (dtc) C1145 and/or C1155 stored in anti-lock brake system (abs) module. *tt
  • 04219 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) and electronic throttle control (etc) lamps on with both diagnostic trouble code (dtc) P2106 and P2135. *tt
  • 04174 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) illuminated - system lean diagnostic trouble codes (dtc's) - service tips. Various models including 2004 f-series. *tt
  • 02208 - EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER: Climate control a/c service tech tips. *eh
  • 031404 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE: Engine misfire or running - coil on plug (cop) ignition systems - wds cop kit diagnostic tips. To include various 2005 models. * ar this article 04161 supersedes tsb 03-14-04.
  • 041514 - VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT: Rear window defroster grid/integral antenna diagnosis and repair - terminal tab repair. *tt
  • 17946 - SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:ABS WARNING LIGHT: Abs warning indicator on with diagnostic trouble code C1145 and/or C1155. *tt
  • 17942 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Key-in-ignition warning chime sound whenever the driver's door is open (even with no key in the ignition), the easy exit feature inoperative when the key is removed from the ignition, or the steering column (and seat if applicable) moving b
  • 031501 - VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT: Inoperative electric rear window defroster (heated backlite) grid lines, integral antenna concerns. *tt
  • 04101 - STEERING: Steering gear squeak when turning the steering wheel, especially during low speed parking maneuvers. *tt
  • 02176 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH: Lamp-brake-invadvertent disabling of brake shift interlock. *mj
  • 17756 - STEERING:GEAR BOX (OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION): Steering gear noise. *tt
  • 17740 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Electtronic throttle control warning message or lamp on - malfunction indicator lamp (mil) on with diagnostic trouble code (dtc) P2106 - possible driveability symptoms. *tt
  • 17382 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Diagnostic trouble code (dtc) P0300-P0308 or P0350-P0358. *tt
  • 17338 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Diagnostic trouble code (dtc) P2106 stored in the pcm (powertrain control module). *tt
  • 17666 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE: Diagnostic trouble code (dtc) U0300 (internal control module software incompatibility) stored in the pcm with no other dtc's present. *tt
  • 17512 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: An intermittent malfunction indicator lamp (mil) on with diagnostic trouble code (dtc) P0462 (fuel level sensor a circuit low) or P2067 (fuel level sensor b circuit low) caused by an improperly installed remote start system. *tt
  • 17479 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) on with ignition coil related diagnostic trouble codes (p035x). *tt
  • 17258 - EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER: Squeaking noise when switching climate control between panel, floor and panel/floor modes. *tt
  • 03181 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Remote keyless entry (rke) - service tips. *tt
  • 16940 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Passive anti-theft system (pats) parameter reset required after module programming. *tt
  • 03148 - POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:COOLING UNIT AND LINES: New transmission cooler flusher - service tips. 2003 escort and super duty f series included. *tt
  • 03144 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE: Engine misfire or rough running condition with coil on plug (cop) ignition systems may be more accurately diagnosed using the optional worldwide diagnostic system (wds) coil on plug (cop) kit. 2003 super duty f series included. *tt
  • 03159 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: A no-start condition due to a discharged battery. *tt
  • 03158 - POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION: Vehicles built between 11/18/2002 and 05/17/2003 with the 5r55s transmission may exhibit harsh shifts. *tt
  • 0398 - FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER: Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) illumination with diagnostic trouble codes P0442, P0455, P0456, P0457, P1442 or check fuel cap lamp illuminated with diagnostic trouble code P0457. *tt
  • 16868 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Diagnostic trouble code B2519 ( hgh mount stoplamp circuit failure). *tt
  • 16788 - POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM): Vehicles with the controller area network (can) may exhibit a powertrain control module (pcm) non-communication event, which could lead to an unnecessary pcm replacement using normal diagnostics. Various models including the 2003 super dut
  • 16893 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Illuminated tcil e or an error message with diagnostic trouble code P1744 only. *tt
  • 16892 - SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC: Squeal noise from the rear brakes on vehicles produced before 5/15/2003. *tt
  • 16694 - SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST: Power seat function - contact request / detroit region. *tt *jb
  • 0295 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY: Excessive electrical system current draw which could result in a discharged battery and a no crank condition. *tt service tips. *tt
  • 7867 - POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE: Driveline vibration (a high frequency buzz) that is felt through the seat and floorpan at highway speeds. *tt
NHTSA decoded information from VIN

138 Results returned successfully. NOTE: Any missing decoded values should be interpreted as NHTSA does not have data on the specific variable. Missing value should NOT be interpreted as an indication that a feature or technology is unavailable for a vehicle.

Variable Value
Air Bag Loc Curtain1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Air Bag Loc Front1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Air Bag Loc Side1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Body ClassConvertible/Cabriolet
DisplacementCC3900.0
DisplacementCI237.99260196945
DisplacementL3.9
Doors2
Engine ConfigurationV-Shaped
Engine Cylinders8
Engine ManufacturerFord
Error Text0 - VIN decoded clean. Check Digit (9th position) is correct
Fuel Type PrimaryGasoline
MakeFORD
MakeID460
ManufacturerFORD MOTOR COMPANY, USA
Manufacturer Id976
ModelThunderbird
ModelID2345
Model Year2003
NCSA Body TypeConvertible(excludes sun-roof,t-bar)
NCSA MakeFord
NCSA ModelThunderbird (all sizes)
NoteFeature Car- Name TBD
Plant CityWIXOM
Plant Company NameWixom
Plant CountryUNITED STATES (USA)
Plant StateMICHIGAN
Seat Belts AllManual
VIN1FAHP60A53Y102612
Valve Train DesignDual Overhead Cam (DOHC)
Vehicle TypePASSENGER CAR
Most Recent Consumer Complaints and Accidents
CrashFireTowedInjuredDeathsFailure
Date
NoNoN NoneNone20160731

When i open the vehicle door at night other vehicle drivers can not see my opened vehicle door when i enter or exit the vehicle even with a reflector or light on the vehicle door because it is blocked when enter or exit the vehicle by my body. I applied highly reflective tape to the lower flange of the vehicle door and also was granted a united states patent no. 9,308,859 under the title motor vehicle door having reflective luminant component on lower interior edge. The advancement allows over two thirds of any vehicle door to be seen at night by other vehicle drivers and will reduce in my estimation one life lost per night per ten million vehicles or globally 35,000 lives a year. I would like my advancement to become a new fmvss with cause and encourage accountability at nhtsa to respond to my genuine concerns. Please advise of what assistance your agency can provide me with the validated new knowledge in visual vehicle accident avoidance that i provide that is now being applied.

CrashNoY 1 InjuredNone20160529

Tl* the contact owns a 2003 ford thunderbird. While stopped in traffic, the contact's vehicle was rear ended by another vehicle. As a result, the contact rear ended the preceding vehicle. The air bags failed to deploy. The contact sustained neck and back injuries that required medical attention. The passenger sustained a concussion and back injuries that required medical attention. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 160,000.

NoNoN NoneNone20150930

I've owned my 2003 thunderbird since it was new. It now has 65000 miles and is driven only 2000 miles a year, over the last 5 years. During this period, i have had all 8 coils replaced, one at a time. The first time was within the first 1000 miles. Generally it occurs while driving in traffic, being on the freeway or on local streets. The engine starts to misfire and not function. After the 3rd or so incident, i was informed that ford recognized the problem and would honor the repair. The only problem with this, knowing of the problem, they refused to replace all at the same time. In other words, they would only replace when the coil malfunctioned, this now has occurred 8 times. Now my motor has failed and needs to be replaced. My understanding is that when the coil malfunctions the corresponding cylinder also is not functioning properly. Again, the car only has 65000 miles and has never been mistreated. The cost to replace the engine is almost $10,000. This motor is a jaguar production 3.9 model. Done when ford had a brief relation with jaguar. To say the least, i am very disappointed with ford and their lack of taking responsibility. By the way, when they replace the motor, the old coils will be reinstalled on the rebuilt engine.

NoNoN NoneNone20150831

Tl* the contact owns a 2003 ford thunderbird. The contact stated that the headlights failed. While driving 50 mph, the headlights and tail lights failed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but a failure code could not be produced due to the failure occurring intermittently. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified. The approximate failure mileage was 48,000.

NoNoN NoneNone20150728

Basically, all suspension rusted out, including both front suspensions, spindle rods, sway bar, outer tie rods, both rear tie rod links, rear lower and upper control arms , front upper control arms, rear shocks. All the work was performed by the local ford dealer. I was told this was not a unique problem to this vehicle. Driving the vehicle made squeeky noises all the time!

NoNoN NoneNone20141001

One of the 4 bolts that hold the rear suspension to the vehicle fell out of the car. The bolt failed due to corrosion and possibly over torquing at the factory. Severe corrosion inside the pocket that houses this bolt. Ford dealer says it is not covered and is at least 10 hours labor and is concerned the remaining 3 bolts may be corroded as well. They are also concerned that the frame rail on the body may be affected. This has been a south florida car its entire life and has been garaged its whole life. It has never been exposed to road salt or snow and has only been driven in rain on limited occasions. Major safety issue since the rear suspension could fall out of the car. *tr

NoNoN NoneNone20140926

Vehicle experiences unintended engine acceleration when stopping for a red light or placing the car in park. Motor hit over 3500 rpm while parking before i could shut down the ignition. *tr

NoNoN NoneNone20140327

While making a u-turn in a culd-e-sac at 5 mph, the wrench light came on. I can only reach a speed of 40 mph now. I am afraid to turn the car off until i get home. *tr

NoNoN NoneNone20130610

Car sputtered and misfired causing partial power loss and speed loss. Problem is ignition coils. Have now had to replace a total of three during two similar events. Two dealers failed to inform me of extended warranty on this known problem. *tr

Read and Submit Vehicle Complaints -- 31+ complaints filed
Common OBD-II Error Codes
  • P0301 [1] Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected
  • P0308 [2] Cylinder 8 Misfire Detected
  • C1145 [2] Speed Wheel Sensor RF Input Circuit Failure
  • C1155 [2] Speed Wheel Sensor LF Input Circuit Failure
  • P2135 [1] Throttle/Pedal Pos Sensor/Switch A / B Voltage Correlation
  • P2106 [3] Throttle Actuator Control System - Forced Limited Power
  • P0300 [1] Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
  • P0350 [1] Ignition Coil Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction
  • P0358 [1] Ignition Coil H Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction
  • U0300 [1] Internal Control Module Software Incompatibility
  • P2067 [1] Fuel Level Sensor "B" Circuit Low
  • P0462 [1] Fuel Level Sensor Circuit Low Input
  • P0442 [1] Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (small leak)
  • P0455 [1] Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (gross leak)
  • P0456 [1] Evaporative Emissions System Small Leak Detected
  • P0457 [1] Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected
  • P1442 [1] A/C Evaporator Air Temperature Circuit Range/Performance
  • B2519 [1] High Mount Stop Lamp Circuit Failure
  • P1744 [1] Slip Solenoid System
Latest VINs Decoded for this Manufacturer
VIN Year Model Manufactured In
1FAHP60A73Y1138992003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
1FAHP60A53Y1026122003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
1FAHP62A83Y1040132003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
1FAHP60A63Y1138592003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
1FAHP60A53Y1100292003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
1FAHP60A83Y1048072003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
1FAHP60A13Y1026102003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
1FAHP60A03Y1028562003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
1FAHP60A63Y1043702003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
1FAHP60A53Y1107882003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
1FAHP60A53Y1006172003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
1FAHP60A43Y1138752003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
1FAHP60A93Y1076352003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
1FAHP62AX3Y1058432003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
1FAHP60A43Y1023092003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
1FAHP60A33Y1129302003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)
1FAHP60A73Y1009122003ThunderbirdWIXOM MICHIGAN, UNITED STATES (USA)

Nearby VIN Numbers: 1FAHP60A85Y107404 |

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