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💥 Crash riskNHTSA 03V281📅 Aug 7, 2003

2000–2001 Ford Explorer & 2001–2002 Ford Explorer Sport + 2 more recall: seats

⚠️ What's wrong

On certain Sport utility vehicles equipped with high back seats, the upper bolt on the driver's side high back seat, that attaches the seat recliner mechanism to the seat back frame, could fracture. If the bolt fractures and does not jam in the seat back frame, the seat back may recline until it makes contact with an object behind the seat, such as the second row seat cushion.

💥 The risk

The driver could potentially lose contact with the steering wheel or foot pedals during such an event, increasing the risk of a crash.

🔧 The fix

Dealers will replace the driver seat upper bolt with a metal spacer and bolt. In addition, seats with tubular back frames will have the fully threaded lower recliner bolt replaced with a partially threaded bolt. Owner notification began on august 29, 2003. Owners should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.

Is the fix free? Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer under federal law, including parts and labor. (Vehicles more than 15 years old when the recall was announced can be excluded, but most manufacturers still fix them.)
NHTSA campaign
03V281000
Manufacturer recall #
03S04
Manufacturer
FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Vehicles affected
1,552,880
Component
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
Owner phone
1-800-392-3673
NHTSA hotline
1-888-327-4236
Owner letters mailed
Aug 29, 2003
Built
May 13, 1997 – Dec 24, 2000
Recall started by
ODI
Notes
Ford recall no. 03S04.customers CAN also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

Vehicles in this recall

Is your car affected? Recalls apply to specific VINs. Check my VIN

FAQ

Is the 03V281 recall repair free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer under federal law, including parts and labor. (Vehicles more than 15 years old when the recall was announced can be excluded, but most manufacturers still fix them.)

Which vehicles are included in recall 03V281?

2000–2001 Ford Explorer & 2001–2002 Ford Explorer Sport + 2 more. 1,552,880 vehicles may be affected. Check your exact car with its 17-character VIN.

What should I do?

Check your VIN, then call any authorized Ford dealer to book the free repair or call the manufacturer at 1-800-392-3673.