2003 Ford Mustang gt problems
The sixth-generation Ford Mustang (S550) is a pony car that was manufactured by Ford from 2014 until 2023. In departure from prior Mustang models, the sixth-generation Mustang included fully independent rear suspension on all models, as well as an optional 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged and direct injected four-cylinder engine. The Mustang was introduced as a 2015 model year vehicle, marking the fiftieth anniversary of the Ford Mustang, which was revealed as a 1965 model year vehicle on April 17, 1964.
The sixth generation was also the first Ford Mustang to be marketed and sold globally, and represented the first time that factory right-hand-drive Mustangs were produced in addition to the left-hand-drive models. This was part of the "One Ford" business plan, which also applies to the Fiesta, Focus, Fusion/Mondeo, Escape/Kuga, Edge, Ford Transit Connect, and Ford Transit, as well as other models.
Background
The sixth generation of the Ford Mustang debuted on December 5, 2013, with same-day media events in Dearborn, Michigan, Los Angeles, California, New York City, New York, Barcelona, Spain, Shanghai, China, and Sydney, Australia. The 2015 Mustang marked the 50th anniversary of continuous Mustang production, which began in March 1964 in advance of the debut of the original Mustang at the 1964 New York World's Fair on April 17, 1964, in Flushing, Queens.
Development of the 2015 Mustang, codenamed "S550", began in 2009 under chief engineer Dave Pericak and (from late-2009) exterior design director Joel Piaskowski, shortly after the updated 2010 model year Mustang went on sale.In December 2010, an exterior design theme proposal by Kemal Curic from Ford's Cologne, Germany design studios was selected by design management. Curic (also responsible for the 2011 Focus (2012 in the US) and the 2014 Mondeo/Fusion) relocated to Ford's design studios in Dearborn in January 2011. During mid-stage development, Curic's original exterior design proposal was eventually rejected by Ford executives, resulting in rapid design changes. After reviewing 3 different exterior theme proposals (A, B, and C) in design clinics in September 2012, the final exterior design (Theme A) was approved by Ford management, with the final design freeze occurring in December 2012, 20 months ahead of originally scheduled August 2014 production.
The interior design program began in the spring of 2010, under Doyle Letson. By late 2011, a final interior proposal was settled on and was a combination of Themes A & B. In June 2012, the final interior design was frozen. The decision to utilize an independent rear suspension for this generation (which had been standard on the 99-04 SVT Cobra) was made very early on (the original intent had been to append an IRS to the existing S197 platform, which ironically enough had been tested with an IRS during its development), and its inclusion resulted in several changes to the platform, not least of which being the redesign of the front suspension (the new platform features a double-pivot MacPherson strut front suspension, similar to a design used on many BMWs); the result, according to Chief Engineer Dave Pericak, was a brand new platform that had very little in common with its predecessor, from a structural perspective, other than the wheelbase, which carried over. The first test mules in 2010 model year bodies were spotted earlier in June 2012, and the first S550 prototypes were built five months later (exterior design freeze) in May 2013.
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Common 2003 Ford Mustang gt problems
The Ford Mustang GT 2003 is known for several common problems that owners have reported over the years. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues and their details:
- Air Conditioner Problems: Issues with the air conditioner can range from leaking hoses to complete system failure. In some cases, a certified mechanic may need to replace the entire air conditioning system.
- IAC (Idle Air Control) Wear: The IAC in the 1996-2004 Mustang GT can wear down over time, particularly if the driver has aggressive driving habits. Replacing a worn-down IAC is an easy and affordable repair that can be done in about 5 to 15 minutes.
- Clutch Failure: The clutch in the 1996-2004 Mustang GT can give out around the 130,000-mile mark. If this happens, it's recommended to have it replaced by a certified mechanic. It's also a good idea to have the clutch housing inspected for wear and tear, particularly if the clutch starts slipping.
- Intake Manifold Cracks: The intake manifold in the 2003 Mustang GT is notorious for cracking, particularly if the car is driven aggressively. Replacing the intake manifold is a common repair that should be done by a mechanic or Ford dealer.
- Headunit (CD Player/Radio) Failure: The headunit in the 2003 Mustang GT can take a "sh#$" and become a "brick," rendering it unusable. This issue can be caused by various factors and may require the help of a certified mechanic to diagnose and fix.
- Engine Cooling Issues: The 2003 Ford Mustang has experienced engine cooling issues, with some drivers reporting engine stall and overheat due to a clutch issue. A recall was issued in 2006 for potential engine fires caused by a faulty Purolator fuel filter, affecting over 58,000 units.
- Powertrain Complaints: There are 40 powertrain complaints on file for the 2003 Ford Mustang, with trouble shifting and cars getting stuck in park or reverse being common issues. These problems can be caused by various factors, including how the car is driven and maintained.
- Body Paint Problems: Some 2003 Mustang owners have reported paint blistering around the bumpers and severe peeling and chipping off the front edge of the hood. This issue can be caused by various factors, including improper insulation of aluminum hoods from iron-based connecting and supporting parts.
- Interior Accessory Problems: Interior accessory problems, such as issues with the radio/sync display, are among the most reported 2017 Ford Mustang issues. These problems can be caused by various factors and may require the help of a certified mechanic to diagnose and fix.
While the Ford Mustang GT 2003 has experienced several common problems, it's important to note that the car is generally reliable, with a 3.5 out of 5.0 rating from RepairPal and an 85/100 rating from J.D. Power. With careful handling and regular maintenance, the Ford Mustang can easily enjoy a long service life.
Are 2003 Mustang GT reliable?
The average rating is a 4.4 out of 5 stars. The 2003 Ford Mustang Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5. It ranks 21st out of 32 for all car brands.
How many miles does a 2003 Mustang GT last?
On average, expect a 2003 Ford Mustang to last around 200,000 miles on the original engine and powertrain. With excellent maintenance you can almost certainly get a new Mustang to 300,000 miles, but remember that the previous owner has probably been doing burnouts and donuts in this thing.
What year is the most reliable Mustang GT?
- 2005-2010 gt with the 4.6L. These engines have been shown to be extremely reliable and can easily hit over 200k and some people even hitting 400k. ...
- 2015-2017 gt. This gets the second spot due to having upgraded engine components. ...
- 2011-2014 gt. This was the first year of the modern 5.0.
How long do Mustang GT engines last?
According to vehiclehistory.com, the Ford Mustang will last around 200,000 miles before it runs into serious trouble. The more you care for the car, the more likely it is to reach that point and even beyond. The more love you put into your vehicle, the better mileage you will get out of it.
How reliable is the 2003 Mustang GT?
The average rating is a 4.4 out of 5 stars. The 2003 Ford Mustang Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5. It ranks 21st out of 32 for all car brands.
How long can a 2003 Mustang GT last?
On average, expect a 2003 Ford Mustang to last around 200,000 miles on the original engine and powertrain. With excellent maintenance you can almost certainly get a new Mustang to 300,000 miles, but remember that the previous owner has probably been doing burnouts and donuts in this thing.
What years are the most reliable Mustang GT?
- 2005-2010 gt with the 4.6L. These engines have been shown to be extremely reliable and can easily hit over 200k and some people even hitting 400k. ...
- 2015-2017 gt. This gets the second spot due to having upgraded engine components. ...
- 2011-2014 gt. This was the first year of the modern 5.0.
Are Mustang GT reliable?
The Ford Mustang is generally reliable, getting a 3.5 out of 5.0 from RepairPal and 85/100 from J.D. Power. The Mustang is known to have issues with its radio display, driveshaft, paint, and camshaft position sensor, among other problems.
2003 Ford Mustang gt complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Ford Mustang gt.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Ford Mustang gt problems:
Common problems with 2003 mustangs GT? | Ford Mustang Forum
Mar 13, 2011 ... Common problems with 2003 mustangs GT? ... What are some of the common problems with 2003 mustangs? ... The intake manifold is notorious for ...
What to look for in a GT? Reliability? Common Problems ...
Jan 21, 2009 ... 4.6L (1996-2004 Modular) Mustang - What to look for in a GT? Reliability? Common Problems? - Hi guys, I used to have a 2001 V6 and its time ...
2003 Mustang GT 4.6 Reliability | Ford Mustang Forum
Jan 14, 2013 ... They are known for jamming and being an all around pain in the ass. But that's really about it; these cars really don't have any chronic or ...
2003 Ford Mustang Problems and Complaints - 13 Issues
Top 2003 Ford Mustang Problems · Squeaking noise while turning due to worn outer tie rod ends · Squeaking noise while turning due to worn outer tie rod ends.
2003 Ford Mustang Convertible: Q&A on V6 Engine & Common ...
Aug 3, 2009 ... I have a 2003 ford mustang convertible with a 3.8 v6 engine. 5 speed manual trans.my problem is when the car is in neutral I can rev the ...
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