Large Recall NHTSA · 03V280000 Reported August 5, 2003

Ford/speed control cable

Ford Motor Company · Vehicle Speed Control · 448,005 vehicles potentially affected

NHTSA ID
03V280000
Manufacturer Campaign
03S03
Manufacturer
Component
Vehicle Speed Control
Vehicles Affected
448,005
Recall Type
Vehicle
Report Received
August 5, 2003

Defect Summary

On certain sport utility vehicles equipped with speed control and 4.0l sohc engines, if the strand cover on the speed control cable becomes flared at the end, the speed control cable may bind when the speed control is activated.

Safety Consequence

The throttle return spring force may not be sufficient to overcome the binding condition when the speed control is disengaged. braking function would be maintained though stopping distances may be increased.

Corrective Action

Dealers will inspect the speed control cable and, if necessary, replace it. owner notification began august 29, 2003. Owners should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.

What you should do

  1. Look up your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm this recall applies to your vehicle.
  2. Contact an authorized Ford Motor Company dealer and reference recall ID 03V280000 or campaign 03S03.
  3. Schedule the free repair. By federal law, the manufacturer must remedy the defect at no cost.
View Official NHTSA Notice →
Related

Similar Recalls

Other recalls from Ford Motor Company or involving Vehicle Speed Control.

FAQ: Recall 03V280000

Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.

What is recall 03V280000?

NHTSA recall 03V280000 was issued by Ford Motor Company on August 5, 2003. It addresses: Ford/speed control cable. The recall affects approximately 448,005 vehicles, with the defect involving the Vehicle Speed Control component.

How do I get this recall repaired?

Contact any authorized Ford Motor Company dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 03V280000 or the manufacturer campaign number 03S03. Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.

Is my vehicle included in this recall?

The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.

How long do I have to get a recall repair done?

There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.

Where does the data on this page come from?

All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.