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Safety and Reliability Ratings > 2003 > Ford > CROWN VICTORIA

2003 FORD CROWN VICTORIA LX
Sedan 4 DR
Rear wheel drive


CARFAX has collected the industry's leading used car safety and reliability ratings into one, convenient report. With this report, you'll know the safety and reliability of your next used car. All information presented in this report is specific to the 2003 FORD CROWN VICTORIA LX. Please view the CARFAX Vehicle History Report for the detailed history of a specific used FORD.

 

CARFAX Safety Section One  Safety:

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CARFAX Safety Section Two  Reliability:

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NHTSA Crash Test Results National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration
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Frontal Crash: Rating:   NHTSA Five Star Legend
Driver Rating 5 of 5  
Passenger Rating 5 of 5  
Side Crash: Rating:  
Front Seat Rating 4 of 5  
Rear Seat Rating 5 of 5  
Rollover Resistance: Rating:  
Rollover Resistance Rating 5 of 5  

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides 3 different ratings - full-width frontal crash test , side impact crash test , and rollover resistance . The frontal crash test indicates how well the safety features and restraints will protect an occupant in a head-on collision. The side-impact test conveys the chance of a severe chest injury, while the rollover resistance rating estimates the risk of rolling over in a single vehicle crash. Go to NHTSA to learn more about these results.


IIHS Crash Test Results Highway Loss Data Institute
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Frontal Offset Crash Test Rating:   4 star legend
Overall Evaluation   G
Structure/Safety Cage   G
Injury Measures  
Head/Neck   G
Chest   G
Leg/foot, left   A
Leg/foot, right   G
Restraints/dummy kinematics   A
Important: Frontal crash test ratings can be compared only among vehicles of similar weight. <p>The Lincoln Town Car was re-engineered for the 2003 model year.</p> <p>The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has evaluated the crashworthiness of the Town Car in two 40 mph frontal offset crash tests into deformable barriers. In the first test, a high acceleration occurred when the dummy's head rebounded against the B-pillar, indicating a possibility of head injury. This led Lincoln to modify the frontal airbag deployment characteristics on models produced after May 2003 (note: information about when a specific vehicle was manufactured is on the certification label typically affixed to the car on or near the driver door).</p> <p>The Institute tested a second Town Car with the modified airbags, and all head injury measures were low. Ratings of the Town Car listed here are from the second test.</p> Dummy movement was reasonably well controlled in the second test. During rebound, the top of the head hit the roof rail and adjacent window frame between the A- and B-pillars. As in the first test, the driver's seat tipped toward the door. In the second test, measures taken from the head, neck, and chest indicate low risk of injuries to these body regions in a crash of this severity. Forces on the left femur, knee, and tibia indicate that injuries to the leg and knee would be possible. Head acceleration from the roof rail/window frame hit was low. 2003 Lincoln Town Car Premium Signature 4-door 4339 front seat-mounted combination head and torso airbags 118 215 78 4.6 L V8 17 25

Crash Tested Vehicle: Details | Vehicle Specifications

Side Impact Crash Test Rating:  
Overall Evaluation   P
Structure/safety cage   P
Injury Measures
Driver Passenger
4061 none 115 212 78 4.6 L V8 17 25 Measures taken from the dummy indicate that rib fractures and/or internal organ injuries would be likely in a crash of this severity. Serious skull fracture and/or brain injuries plus serious neck injuries would also be possible, as well as fractures of the pelvis and left femur. Measures taken from the dummy indicate a low risk of any significant injuries in a crash of this severity. The dummy's head was hit by the pillar behind the rear passenger door. This pillar is required by federal standard to provide some protection for occupants' heads. 2006 Ford Crown Victoria 4-door <p>The Ford Crown Victoria and Mercury Grand Marquis were re-engineered for the 2003 model year.</p> <p>Two tests of the Crown Victoria were conducted, one a 2007 model equipped with optional side airbags, and one a 2006 model without side airbags. These vehicles are rated separately, except that the structural ratings and rear passenger injury and head protection ratings for both vehicles are based on both tests.</p> The dummy's head was hit by the window sill of the driver door, producing high head injury measures.
Head Protection
  M   A
Head/neck
  M   G
Torso
  P   G
Pelvis/Leg
  M   G

Crash Tested Vehicle: Details | Vehicle Specifications

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) uses frontal offset and side impact crash tests to estimate the crashworthiness of a vehicle. These results are good indicators of how a frontal and side impact can structurally impact a 2003 FORD CROWN VICTORIA LX . The crashworthiness data for this 2003 FORD CROWN VICTORIA LX was provided by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute. Learn more about these crash test results.



Low-Speed Damage Repair Highway Loss Data Institute
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Front Crash Description: Front Crash Cost:
Front into flat barrier   Not tested by IIHS
Front into angle barrier   Not tested by IIHS
Rear Crash Description: Rear Crash Cost:
Rear into flat barrier   Not tested by IIHS
Rear into pole   Not tested by IIHS
Average Damage Per Test   Not tested by IIHS

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducts four 5 mph crash tests to assess bumper performance. These results convey how well this 2003 FORD CROWN VICTORIA LX bumpers will protect the car body from damage in low-speed collisions. Low-speed damage repair costs are obtained from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute.


Injury, Collision, & Theft Indicators Highway Loss Data Institute
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Index: Score: Rating:
Injury Index 71 Better than average
Collision Index 80 Average
Theft Index 58 Better than average


These scores are stated in relative terms, with 100 being the average for all cars in each category. Scores greater than 100 represent higher risk in each category. For example, an injury indicator score of 122 means that a passenger in this model is 22% more likely to be injured in an accident. The injury, collision, and theft indicators for this 2003 FORD CROWN VICTORIA LX are provided by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute. Learn more about these results.



Safety Recalls
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NHTSA Safety Recalls:
Important: The following recalls were issued for the 2003 FORD CROWN VICTORIA LX by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA). To find out if a specific 2003 FORD CROWN VICTORIA LX still has open recalls that require repair, CARFAX recommends contacting an authorized dealership for more information.

Recall date: 01-07-2004
Units potentially affected: 4,218
NHTSA campaign number: 03V472000
Defective part or component: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
Description: On certain natural gas vehicles, if a flame from a vehicle interior fire becomes locally directed at the natural gas fuel tank located immediately behind the rear seat, the flame could damage the fiberglass wrap on the tank weakening the tank. If the strength of the tank is significantly compromised, it could rupture, increasing the risk of a fire. Dealers will install an insulator behind the current seat back. Owner notification began on January 7, 2004. Owners should contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.


This 2003 FORD CROWN VICTORIA LX safety recall information was provided by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Data Loss Institute and is derived from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration list of safety recalls. Please call the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration Auto Safety Hotline at 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236) to report safety defects or to obtain information on cars, trucks, child seats, and highway or traffic safety. CARFAX does not review, validate or edit the information and statements provided by the National Highway Traffic and Saftey Administration, which do not represent the opinion of CARFAX.



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J.D. Power Ratings
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Ownership: Rating:
Initial Ratings (up to 1 year)  
Overall Quality Rating 4.5 of 5
  Mechanical Quality Rating 4.5 of 5
  Feature and Accessory Quality Rating 5 of 5
  Body and Interior Quality Rating 3.5 of 5
Overall Appeal Rating 3.5 of 5
  Performance Rating 3.5 of 5
  Comfort Rating 3.5 of 5
  Feature and Instrument Panel Rating 3.5 of 5
  Style Rating 3 of 5
Midterm Ratings (1-3 Years)  
  Mechanical Reliability No data from source
  Feature and Accessory Reliability No data from source
  Body and Interior Reliability No data from source
Long Term Ratings (3-5 Years)  
Overall Dependability Rating 5 of 5
  Mechanical Dependability Rating 5 of 5
  Feature and Accessory Dependability Rating 4.5 of 5
  Body and Interior Dependability Rating 5 of 5

J.D. Power and Associates uses selected highlights from the firm's quality and customer satisfaction syndicated studies to create the Power Ratings at the model-level. These ratings and awards are based on model rankings within each vehicle segment, whereas Power Circle Ratings compare all models across segments.

All information provided by J.D. Power and Associates is proprietary information owned by J.D. Power and Associates and is protected by U.S. and international copyright law and conventions. Reproduction of this information, in whole or in part, by any means is prohibited without the express written consent of J.D. Power and Associates, other than printing copies of the JDPA content by site visitors for their personal use. J.D. Power and Associates® is a registered trademark of J.D. Power and Associates.



Identifix Reliability Ratings
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Category: Comments: Rating:
Engine Occasional problems on this vehicle are failures of the Ignition Coils and the Fuel Pump. Failure of the Fuel Pump may prevent the vehicle from starting. The cost to repair the Ignition Coils is estimated at $105.00 for parts and $26.00 for labor for each coil needed. The cost to repair the Fuel Pump is estimated at $260.00 for parts and $195.00 for labor. All prices are estimates based on $65.00 per flat rate hour and do not include diagnostic time or any applicable sales tax. Moderate Problems
Transmission & Driveline Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Steering & Suspension Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Brakes Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Heating & Air Conditioning Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Starting & Charging An occasional problem on this vehicle is failure of the Alternator. Failure of the Alternator may prevent the vehicle from starting. The cost to repair the Alternator is estimated at $292.00 for parts and $71.50 for labor. All prices are estimates based on $65.00 per flat rate hour and do not include diagnostic time or any applicable sales tax.. Moderate Problems
Accessories Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Identifix Legend


This 2003 FORD CROWN VICTORIA reliability information was provided by Identifix. Identifix is the nation's largest technical support service for the aftermarket auto repair industry. CARFAX does not review, validate or edit the information and statements provided by Identifix, which do not represent the opinion of CARFAX.



Intellichoice Cost of Ownership & Value Rating Intellichoice
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Cost of Ownership (2003 - 2007):
Category:    Crown Victoria LX 4 Dr Sedan:    Crown Victoria LX Sport 4 Dr Sedan:
Depreciation $15,973 $17,457
Financing $3,627 $3,845
Insurance $6,220 $6,220
State Fees $482 $502
Fuel $4,400 $4,400
Maintenance $1,762 $1,935
Repairs $832 $832
Total 5-Year Ownership Cost $33,296 $35,191

Ownership costs are the costs to purchase and operate a vehicle over a period of time. Understanding these costs can save you money and help you make a wiser financial decision when it comes time to select a vehicle. Intellichoice is one of the leading providers of automotive information in the U.S.

Original Manufacturer Warranty
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Coverage: Years/Mileage:
Basic 3 years or 36,000 miles  
Drivetrain 3 years or 36,000 miles  
Emissions No data from source  
Corrosion 5 years with Unlimited mileage  
Transferable Transferable: no cost, unlimited owners covered.  
Roadside Assistance No data from source  
Safety Belt & Inflatable Restraint Safety belt and inflatable restraint system are covered for 5 years or 50,000 miles.  
Specific Components 8 years or 80,000 miles  
Notes: Transferable: no cost, unlimited owners covered. Roadside assistance administered by Ford Roadside Assistance. Alignment and wheel balance covered 1/12,000. Safety belt and inflatable restraint system covered for 5/50,000. 2007-2009 models are covered for 5/60,000. 2001-2003 tire defects covered during the new vehicle limited warranty period. 2004-2005 model year tire wear covered 1/12,000. 2007-2009 tire defect coverage is prorated during the new vehicle limited warranty period. 2003-2007 Ford Powertrain Extended Service Contract applies to Focus deliveries in all states except Florida; 5/100,000 coverage. May be transferable. The powertrain warranty is valid on vehicles delivered in Florida. The 2008 and later Focus has 5/60,000 powertrain warranty coverage. Manufacturer covers emissions components under basic warranty. Emissions coverage may vary by state. Refer to owners manual for specific details. J&L Warranty Pros recommends performing a vehicle information report to confirm applicable manufacturer warranty coverage.  

This 2003 FORD CROWN VICTORIA LX warranty information has been provided by J&L Warranty Pros.


New Car Test Drive Review
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Category: Review:
Summary:

The traditionalist's choice.
By Kim Reynolds, NewCarTestDrive.com

Ford Crown Victoria may be the most traditional domestic automobile available today. Or, depending on how you look at it, it could be one of most unconventional, given how far the market has migrated from this car's basic recipe. In the Crown Victoria, you have the classic ingredients of the American automobile: size, V8 power, rear-wheel drive, four doors, all packaged in the once ubiquitous three-box sedan configuration.

With room for up to six occupants, a huge trunk, safety features aplenty, a well-cushioned ride and a silence-is-golden acoustic experience, the Crown Vic has plenty to offer big families or older drivers for whom driving thrills are moments preferably avoided.

Yet with technical upgrades including rack-and-pinion steering, a revamped suspension, and a stiffer chassis, the Crown Victoria's driving experience is far from lackluster. Its character is fluid and relaxed, its performance surprisingly competent. Sprinkle-in a pinch of new-for-2003 visual enhancements, and you have a Crown Victoria that's a traditional, but evergreen choice.

Overview:

For 2003, Ford's largest sedan, the Crown Victoria, may look very similar to last year's offering, but there's been plenty of changes under the skin to keep it technically up to date. Key among them is a new, stiffer chassis that includes front frame sections designed to better absorb crash energy. Handling precision is improved via the adoption of more precise rack-and-pinion steering, plus there's been an extensive redesign of its front and rear suspensions.

Once the most common type of automobile on America's highways, Ford's big rear-wheel-drive Crown Victoria is now something of an anomaly. But Ford's biggest sedan still has significant virtues: affordable V8 performance and room for six people (if configured with a three-abreast front bench seat). It almost sounds odd today, but this sort of car and seating arrangement is what most people drove in the 1950s, during the Eisenhower administration.

Crown Vic's interior and trunk volumes compare well against those of an SUV. Indeed the Crown Victoria offers the largest trunk in its class. Its old-fashioned low seat height doesn't afford today's popular elevated-perspective of the road, but climbing in as effortless as settling into your favorite arm chair). This lowness also pays a noticeable dividend in ride quality over tall, hobby horse SUVs. This is why the Crown Vics are so popular as taxi cabs and police cars.

The Crown Victoria is popular for its impressive safety ratings, easy entry/exit, big windows, pleasant ride quality, quiet interior, confusion-free controls, and adjustable pedals.

Read the complete 2003 Ford Crown Victoria review

© 2002 NewCarTestDrive.com

CARFAX does not review, validate or edit the information and statements provided by NewCarTestDrive.com, which do not represent the opinion of CARFAX.



Awards
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View awardees recognized by Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds.com, Polk Automotive, and J.D. Power and Associates.



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