2003 Ford Thunderbird problems, recalls, safety rating, MPG & value

Q: What gas mileage does the 2003 Ford Thunderbird get?

The 2003 Ford Thunderbird has a U.S. EPA estimate of 18 mpg combined (16 city / 23 highway).

Q: How much is a 2003 Ford Thunderbird worth?

Comparable 2003 Ford Thunderbird listings run roughly $7,800–$17,200, typically around $12,422 (from 22 vehicles).

2003 Ford Thunderbird at a glance

Owner complaints73

Combined18 mpg

Typical price$12,422

Free: that car's specs and build sheet, model-year recall campaigns and a fair price.

2003 Ford Thunderbird common problems

The most-reported problem areas across all 73 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — and what to check before you buy.

Electrical System

Test every electrical feature: windows, locks, infotainment, charging and all lights. Watch for flickering, dead accessories or warning lights.

Power Train

Drive through every gear: watch for slipping, hard or delayed shifts, and shudder. Check for transmission/driveline leaks and noises.

Service Brakes

Brakes should feel firm and quiet — no grinding, pulsing or pulling. Check for an ABS light and uneven pad/rotor wear.

Hydraulic

Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.

Engine And Engine Cooling

Check coolant level and color, look for leaks, and confirm the engine reaches normal temperature without overheating.

Engine

Listen for knocks or ticking, check for leaks and blue/white exhaust smoke, and make sure it doesn't overheat. No check-engine light should be on.

2003 Ford Thunderbird safety ratings

Frontal crash★★★★★

Side crash★★★★★

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings (NCAP), tested as the 2003 Ford Thunderbird 2-DR Convertible w/SAB. Ratings can differ by body style and drivetrain.

2003 Ford Thunderbird MPG & running costs

Combined18 mpg

City16 mpg

Highway23 mpg

Est. annual fuel cost$4,550

Source: U.S. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov. The EPA lists 2 versions of this model year; combined is shown as a range and the other figures are averages.

What's a 2003 Ford Thunderbird worth?

Low

$7,800

Typical price

$12,422

High

$17,200

From 22 comparable 2003 Ford Thunderbird listings.

Estimated 5-year cost to own

A rough guide to what running a 2003 Ford Thunderbird costs over five years and 75,000 miles.

Fuel (5 yrs)$22,750

Fuel only$22,750

Per mile$0.30

How this is estimated: fuel is the U.S. EPA annual cost at 15,000 miles a year. There aren't enough comparable listings to estimate depreciation for this model, so it is left out. Not included: insurance, maintenance, repairs, taxes, registration and finance costs. Treat it as a comparison guide, not a quote.