I don't know where to start on the 03...
All 4 wheels had to be replaced, rack and pinion, rear end whine had to be fixed, front seat cushions replaced, rear air conditioning unit had to be re-mounted, tail gate motor came loose and was hanging in the tail gate, a/c seat quit working, a mysterious leak under the hood would happen and then vanish at times- still never figured that one out. 3 door latches replaced, all 4 weather stips replaced, mirror motor replaced, problems with the running boards, side cladding came loose, car started to have a very rough idle at stop lights around 30000k, nasty whirring sound during start-up sometimes and loud booming sound at start-up other times- both of which were never fixed.
It was in the shop for 76 days total. And I still ost the buy-back option that Ford claims they give if the vehicle is on the shop for more than 45 days total with under factorey warranty.
Ford's favorite words to say are "we couldn't duplicate the problem".
Bought with 17000k, traded it with 46000k.
From what I have heard over time, the 05-06 had a better build quality.
But to be perfectly honest if I ever do get another one. It will be the new bodystyle. Everthing was redone, and it is a Consumer Report best buy.
