Name: 2003 Ford F-150
Brand: Ford

Ford F-150

RECALL ALERT: There are 11 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 11 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Owner Reports

Worse Better

Owner Satisfaction Owner Satisfaction

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

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Ford vs. Other New Car Brands

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2003 Full-sized pickup trucks Ratings

2003 Ford F-150

$3,500 - $13,225

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Owner Satisfaction

2003 Chevrolet Avalanche

$3,650 - $6,075

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2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

$3,450 - $8,575

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2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD

$ NA

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2003 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD

$ NA

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2003 Dodge Ram 1500

$3,475 - $6,350

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2003 Dodge Ram 2500

$3,700 - $9,000

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2003 Dodge Ram 3500

$5,725 - $10,375

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2003 Ford F-250

$3,475 - $7,750

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2003 Ford F-350

$3,550 - $8,800

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2003 GMC Sierra 1500

$3,625 - $7,650

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2003 GMC Sierra 2500HD

$ NA

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2003 GMC Sierra 3500HD

$ NA

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2003 Toyota Tundra

$4,650 - $7,850

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Model History

2021-

Current Generation

The F-150 continues to be a workhorse but it adds more tech, advanced safety features, and a hybrid version for the 2021 model year. The mildly upgraded cabin remains very quiet, and the crew cabs we tested are super roomy. The popular 2.7-liter turbo-V6 provides effortless acceleration and respectable fuel economy, at 19 mpg overall. The new "PowerBoost" hybrid has loads of power and gets 20 mpg overall. The F-150's ride and handling have improved slightly. Clever new features include a foldaway gear selector that creates a flat workspace, a tailgate designed to serve as a workbench, and an optional built-in generator with the ability to power job-site equipment. The F-150 has Ford's easy-to-use, new Sync 4 infotainment system. Every F-150 comes with standard FCW and AEB with pedestrian detection. Ford's new all-electric truck, resurrected the Lightning name, is aiming for the eco market instead of a performance edge. The new EV will reportedly have up to 563 hp with an estimated 300-mile range.

2015-2020

2015 Redesign Year

A redesigned F-150 arrived for 2015 with an aluminum body that saved 700 pounds for better fuel economy. Our tested crew-cab models were cavernously proportioned front and rear. Both were almost tomb-silent as well. The driving position is comfy and roomy, while the standard tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and optional power-adjustable pedals accommodate truckers of all shapes and sizes. While large windows and relatively narrow pillars provide good visibility, a rearview camera was an option. The towing package adds an integrated trailer brake controller, towing mirrors, and a revised rear axle ratio. We'd get the XLT or higher trim, as the basic XL work-truck version limits the availability of desirable comfort and safety features.

2009-2014

2009 Redesign Year

Freshened in 2009, the F-150 gained standard stability control. A revised six-speed automatic transmission also produced better fuel economy. Handling was secure and braking performance was also vastly improved, though some testers complained about poor feel from the pedal. A spacious interior and a deep cargo bed are also pluses. On the other hand, the ride is stiff and the engine sounds unrefined when pressed. However, road noise is held to a whisper and wind rush barely exceeds background levels. Crash-test results and cabin storage are impressive, while Ford's Sync system provides voice control for phone calls and music players.

2004-2008

2004 Redesign Year

The 2004 redesign endowed the Ford F-150 with ride and handling improvements, including a tight (for a full-size pickup truck) 47 ft. turning circle. Crash-test results also improved significantly. However, braking performance was just adequate in our tests and the powertrain isn't very smooth. On the other hand, offroad performance is commendable, interior comfort is also good and outward visibility is too. The spring assisted tailgate makes loading cargo easier. This version of the Ford F-150 also demonstrates better noise isolation, as well as fit and finish, than its predecessor.

1998-2003

1998 Redesign Year

The F-150 is the half-ton version of Ford's best-selling F-Series pickup line. Like most pickups, it offers multiple configurations and powertrains. During our tests, the boxy pre-1997 F-150 rode well and quietly on most roads. Its ride and braking improved with a full load. We found the seats erect, but roomy. Ford completely redesigned the F-150 for 1998, improving comfort, handling, and refinement. An optional third door on extended-cab models became available in 1998, and a fourth door was offered in 1999. The supercharged SVT Lightning serves up sports-car-quality acceleration. A four-door crew-cab was introduced for 2001.

Ford F-150

2003 Pickup trucks Reliability

Crash and Rollover Tests

Crash and Rollover Tests

Ford vs. Other New Car Brands

Owner Reports

Ford vs. Other New Car Brands

Ford vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash and Rollover Tests

2003 Full-sized pickup trucks Ratings