2003 ford excursion v10 engine

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• 2003 Ford Excursion

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2003 Ford Excursion review: Our expert's take

Posted on 12/9/02 Vehicle Overview Shoppers looking for the largest sport utility vehicle in any showroom must turn to Ford. The Excursion measures nearly 19 feet long — that’s nearly 21 inches longer than the company’s full-size Expedition, and it is more than 7 inches longer than its next closest rivals, the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL.

Built on the same platform as Ford’s F-250 Super Duty pickup truck, the Excursion exceeds an 8,500-pound gross vehicle weight rating (the vehicle’s weight plus what it can carry in passengers and cargo), which makes it exempt from federal emissions and fuel-economy requirements. Ford has been promoting environmental concerns in connection with its SUV lineup, which includes an announcement that the Excursion qualifies as a Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV).

Environmentalists have never stopped jeering at the jumbo Excursion, citing its close-to-insatiable fuel consumption. The standard 44-gallon fuel tank is indicative of the vehicle’s unappetizing gas mileage, though Ford emphasizes the fact that it gives the vehicle a long range between fill-ups.

The Excursion comes with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive (4WD). A new Eddie Bauer series joins the XLT and Limited models for 2003, and they will feature an Arizona Beige grille insert and fascias. Early in 2003, a new 6.0-liter Power Stroke diesel engine will debut, and it will deliver 325 horsepower and 550 pounds-feet of torque. A new TorqShift five-speed-automatic transmission will accompany that diesel engine. New 16-inch forged wheels and an in-dash six-CD changer go on the Limited edition, and all A-pillars on the driver’s side gain grab handles.

Despite rising fuel prices in 2000 and into 2001, Ford’s behemoth SUV managed to sell well enough. But total sales for 2001 dipped by 31.7 percent to just 34,710 units, as reported by Automotive News . In July 2002, Ford sources acknowledged that production of the Excursion will end after the 2004 model year.

Exterior Even though the Excursion is abundantly sized, traditional SUV styling includes four side doors. Ford claims that the Excursion’s back doors are wider than those on the Suburban for easier access to the middle and rear seats. The rear door is a tri-panel arrangement, which features a window on top that flips up and twin Dutch doors below that open to the sides. A BlockerBeam runs across the vehicle below the front bumper to prevent cars from sliding underneath it in the event of a collision.

Aluminum wheels hold 16-inch tires. The Excursion rides a 137.1-inch wheelbase, stretches 226.7 inches long overall and has an 8.1-inch ground clearance. Two-wheel-drive (2WD) models are 77.2 inches high, vs. 80.2 inches high for the 4×4 editions. A standard trailer hitch provides similar protection at the rear.

Interior The Excursion has a nine-passenger capacity, plus 48 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the rear seat. The seats of the second-row split bench tip and fold forward to allow easier access to the third row. The rear bench seat is removable and rolls on built-in wheels. The cargo volume grows to 146 cubic feet with the rear seat removed and the middle bench folded down; that space can carry a 4-by-8-foot plywood sheet. Optional power-adjustable accelerator and brake pedals adjust within a 3-inch range to suit individual drivers.

Under the Hood Three engines are available in the Excursion. A 255-hp, 5.4-liter V-8 is standard on 2WD models. A 310-hp, 6.8-liter V-10 goes into 4WD models and is optional on 4x2s, and an optional 7.3-liter V-8 turbo-diesel produces 250 hp. These engines team with a four-speed-automatic transmission. A new 325-hp Power Stroke 6.0-liter diesel will arrive during the 2003 model year; it will team with a new five-speed-automatic transmission. The Excursion’s towing capacity is as high as 11,000 pounds with the V-10 or diesel engine.

Safety Antilock brakes are standard, but side-impact airbags are not available.

Driving Impressions Describing the drive in an Excursion is easy: You’re in a truck, period. Expect the typical engine and transmission drone found in trucks, coupled with ride quality that bears little resemblance to a passenger car. Ford’s newly redesigned Expedition yields a far more pleasing experience overall — including more satisfactory acceleration — and the slightly smaller model has enough interior space to suit most buyers.

The Excursion’s new Power Stroke diesel engine performs admirably, but it enhances the sensation of being in a full-fledged truck. A Power Stroke diesel Excursion managed to climb some steep grades but at a leisurely pace.

Consumer reviews

• Comfort 4.5
• Interior 4.4
• Performance 4.5
• Exterior 4.5
• Reliability 4.7

Most recent consumer reviews

Best running truck i have ever owned.

Love this truck, rides really smooth, is super reliable, trouble free, and has a fantastic towing capacity rating. I have owned this truck for 5 yeas and never had a single problem with it, has about 171k miles on it now and it just keeps going.

• Comfort 5.0
• Interior 5.0
• Performance 5.0
• Exterior 5.0
• Reliability 5.0
• Purchased a Used car
• Used for Transporting family
• Does recommend this car

Love driving for 800 miles without fill ups.

Very safe for family driving , good towing , camping or daily grocery pickups, can fit ten foot long lumber within cab. Heavy loads ok .

• Interior 4.0
• Performance 4.0
• Exterior 4.0
• Used for Commuting

Bad to the bone, this truck will outlast you .

Truck excided my expectations , my first was a v8 this one is a 6.0 desiel . Power speed comfort and dependability. I think I'll let them bury me in it. Lol

Have questions about warranties or CPO programs?

Compare the competitors

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All model years for the ford excursion.

• 2005 Ford Excursion
• 2004 Ford Excursion
• 2002 Ford Excursion
• 2001 Ford Excursion
• 2000 Ford Excursion

2000 - 2005 Excursion 6.8L

• Torque Specs

2003 Ford Excursion Specifications

Other makes, top 10 fords ever.

Car advice put simply.

Ford V10 years to avoid — most common problems

Make an informed decision by uncovering the ford v10 years to avoid..

Before the release of the 6.8L V10 Triton engine in 1997, Ford offered a 7.5L V8 engine that had been on the market since 1968. The 7.5 V8 was a thriving commercial truck space innovation and a popular gas option considering the International/Powerstroke diesel engines. Notwithstanding the significant demand for the V8, the engine had to be produced on a separate assembly line which wasn’t cost-efficient, leading to the discontinuation of the 7.5L V8 gas engine.

After the demise of the 7.5, the only non-diesel engine options for truck drivers were the 4.6 Triton and the 5.4 Triton. Unfortunately, these engines needed more power for commercial applications and the hauling requirements for Super Duty trucks.

The 6.8L Triton V10 engine rolled in and was more cost-efficient and offered more horsepower than the Powerstroke engine, with high towing capacity and more affordable pricing. However, there are some downsides to this engine that we will be discussing in this article, along with the Ford V10 years to avoid and the best years you could consider.

Why you can trust REREV’s advice on which car model years to avoid: Our car experts look at official data, ask real drivers what they think, and talk to experienced mechanics to make sure our list is useful. This reliable info can make buying a car easier for you. Want to know how we do it? Find out more about our research methodology .

Most common Ford V10 problems

Several common issues you could experience on a Ford V10 engine are worth noting. These include problems with the PCV hose, exhaust manifold , spark plugs, and gas mileage .

Spark plug issues

A prevalent engine-related issue with the Ford V10 is with spark plugs. Pre-2002 Ford V10 engines have a design flaw within their spark plug and cylinder head designs that causes the plugs to either weld themselves to the cylinder head or eject out of the cylinder head.

The V10 engines used a cast iron engine block and aluminum cylinder heads with centrally mounted spark plugs. In comparison to the aluminum cylinder head, the spark plugs were produced from steel, whose heat tolerance differs from aluminum.

The most significant design flaw was the spark plug holes in the cylinder head. At a depth of just 5 inches, the spark plugs had to be remarkably short to fit within their respective walls in the cylinder head. Ford decided to accommodate the short depth by shortening the threads’ length, allowing only about four threads on the spark plugs in contrast to traditional spark plugs with 10+. This means there was little to hold the spark plugs in place.

As a result of the heat properties, the threads get welded into the cylinder head, weakening the material and the hold. In the process, one of these two things happens:

• The plugs blow out of the cylinder head because the material weakens and breaks
• You are unable to get the spark plugs out when making replacements because they are welded in place

Cracked PCV hose

Modern gas engines are equipped with a recirculating system called Positive Crankcase Ventilation, or PCV. A car’s engine burns gasoline and releases waste gasses as a byproduct. While most of these gasses go to the exhaust system for further burning, some get stuck in the engine.

When these waste gasses get trapped, they go down to the crankcase, which holds oil below the engine. If the gasses sit in the crankcase for too long, they can ruin the oil, causing critical engine issues. As a result, the PCV system is equipped with a valve within the crankcase that releases these gasses, recirculating them back into the intake manifold for re-burning.

The PCV valves release the gasses into the intake manifold through the PCV hose. This hose is connected to the intake manifold from the PCV valve. The PCV hose is made from plastic and is prone to cracking. When it cracks, the intake manifold loses pressure, causing air to leak out of the intake system, leading to various performance-related issues.

Exhaust manifold failure

Exhaust manifolds are bolted up to the exhaust system and engine cylinders, and they transfer used engine air to the vehicle’s exhaust system, where it is released into the atmosphere. On the Ford V10, the studs or bolts that fasten the manifold to the engine block are susceptible to rust and failure.

This generally happens after several years and is more common in areas with salty air. When these bolts fail, it doesn’t lead to any catastrophic outcome. Your manifold won’t fall out beneath your vehicle when you drive. However, the bolts will loosen, thus creating an exhaust leak. When this happens, your car loses all back pressure, causing a handful of issues concerning performance.

Gas mileage problem

All owners of the Ford V10 engines arrive at the same conclusion -do not drive a V10 if you are concerned about fuel economy. The engine is highly fuel-thirsty and can do just about 15 miles to a gallon on the highway and around 10-13 MPG in the city. If you are using your truck for towing, this even worsens -the fuel economy goes down to about 8-10 MPG.

Another significant problem is corrosion. The bolts that fasten the exhaust manifold can become rusty with time, making them incapable of holding it in place, especially in areas like the midwest, where salt is common on the roads.

As with the PCV hose, buying and attaching more durable bolts should address this problem. A significant problem you want to avoid is the lack of support from the original bolts resulting in cracks and leaks in the exhaust manifold.

Which Ford V10 years to avoid?

Some of the problems in these Ford V10 years to avoid include spark plug issues, cracked PVC hose, and rust.

As we mentioned, the Ford V10 and many other vehicle engines have a PCV system that recirculates engine exhaust gasses. The problem here is straightforward. While the V10 uses a valve that is efficient at taking out these waste gasses, the hose is made of plastic, making it prone to breakage.

When this hose breaks, a path to the manifold loses pressure, causing power loss and poor fuel economy. Fortunately, this is an easy fix. An average at-home mechanic could easily replace this hose with a sturdier one before the issue escalates to a more significant problem.

1997-2002 model years

As you know, a vehicle’s spark plugs are screwed below the cylinder head, often with a spark plugs wrench, and are held in by metal threads. In the pre-2002 Ford V10’s case, the spark plugs would get extremely hot to the extent that they would somehow jump out of the metal thread and shoot out.

Most drivers complain that they would hear a pop and a sudden loss of power because one of their vehicle’s cylinders was deactivated by the absence of spark plugs.

We’ll begin by saying that the Ford V10 is a reasonably good engine, although It doesn’t have the typical onboard diagnostics system on modern vehicles, partly due to the lack of need. The onboard diagnostics system lets you connect a code reader that detects why your car is showing a check engine light .

Although these diagnostics aren’t always accurate, the check engine light gives you a clue that you must take your vehicle to a mechanic who would perform proper diagnostics.

Best Ford V10 years

The Ford Triton V10 legendary unit is perhaps the most underestimated among high-performance gas engines. It is a truck engine that has also been used in several vans, project cars, RVs, etc. You can get a great performance experience from this engine, but that’s only possible if you stick to any of the many trusty year models of the V10 engine. 

We recommend the following reliable Ford V10 year models as safe to purchase without worrying about any significant cause for concern.

• 2005 Ford V10
• 2006 Ford V10
• 2007 Ford V10
• 2008 Ford V10

Ford V10 engines from 2005 to 2008 are reliable, with just a few complaints about its factory install spark plugs. 2005 to mid-year 2008 Ford V10 engines had the infamous breakaway spark plugs. You can quickly resolve this by replacing the spark plugs (on your routine maintenance intervals) with an improved design.

2008 and later V10 engines (with 2008 build dates) mostly use the improved design spark plugs from the factory, so they hardly ever have any issues. However, be careful, as some 2008 trucks have 2007-built engines that might have the old design plugs. Nevertheless, any 2005 or later V10 that has had the current design plugs installed and has had regular maintenance should be fine.

Is the Ford V10 worth buying?

The Ford V10 engine has an excellent reputation for reliability. Assuming the engine is operated in optimal maintenance conditions throughout its life, it can last at least 200,00 miles before requiring significant repairs. This means that you shouldn’t be scared of the Ford V10 unless you are frightened about getting 10 MPG from your vehicle.

When considering the purchase of a diesel-powered truck, the Dodge Cummins , Duramax, and Ram EcoDiesel engines are among the top contenders, each offering distinct advantages in terms of power, efficiency, and reliability. However, informed buyers should also be aware of specific model years that might be less desirable due to various issues or shortcomings.

What is the life expectancy of a Ford V10 engine?

The Ford V10 engine is considered fairly reliable, lasting upwards of 300,000 miles; however, problems start creeping in after about 200,000 miles.

What year did Ford V10 go to 3 valves?

Ford introduced a 3-valve variant in 2005, with a power boost of about 362 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque.

Filip is a lifelong car enthusiast with over 3 years of experience writing about cars and had worked as a mechanic apprentice for over 5 years, gaining hands-on expertise in automotive mechanics. At REREV, he combines his passion for cars with his comprehensive knowledge to provide readers with a unique blend of technical insight and engaging storytelling that sets the bar high for automotive content.

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what a beast

Great truck - purchased in 2003 new. 180k miles. no major issues and still runs great. Last week a Dodge Ram rear ended me at thirty five miles an hour while I was stopped at a light. His truck is trashed, broken rad., power steering fluid all over the place, need to be towed. My fender is dented and tail light broken. has been on the beach, in 20 inches of snow, towed horses and other cars out of snow drifts, and has suffered my wife hitting posts etc. It keeps on going strong.

When you have to take everything with you!

2 big dogs(50 lbs and 90 lbs), 3 kids, The wife and I, and all our travel stuff fit fine in this monster. We purchased ours in 2010 with 122,000 miles on it. We've put 20K miles on it with minimal problems. We did replaced the ball joints($900) and put in new spark plugs($600). Great value for the vehicle, all leather, and comfortable. We purchased ours from a private party for $7400. The V10 engine is a gas hog, but will go for 300K miles. Same engine used in buses and limo's. Average about 12 mpg, but it that is better than driving two cars and getting 20 mpg in each car.

The Biggest and Best SUV Ever Created

My current Excursion is my best Excursion by far. My first was the Limited 6.8L V10. My current Excursion exceeds and surpasses in all categories. I'll keep this one as long as parts are made for it. I see other SUVs on the road and wonder why bother. I've added after market airbag shocks which has increased the towing capabilities and smoothness of ride while towing. I tow a 10K lbs travel trailer year round, and my excursion has no problem whether pulling passes in Montana or on the long flats of Florida.

2003 Excursion

We really like this rig. I've owned two Suburbans and I like this Excursion much better. I am amazed by the fuel milage with the 7.3 diesel-- 18 to 20 mpg. We got the Eddie Bauer version and the drop down DVD is a huge hit. Might buy a second one if I can get a good enough deal. Only complaint so far is poor visibility out of right side mirror. It would benefit from a larger parabolic mirror.

I love this car!!

I needed more room. And I like fords. So this rig really won me over, it looks better than the suburban and pulls better too!

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Geographic coordinates of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia

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Coordinates of Elektrostal in decimal degrees

Coordinates of elektrostal in degrees and decimal minutes, utm coordinates of elektrostal, geographic coordinate systems.

WGS 84 coordinate reference system is the latest revision of the World Geodetic System, which is used in mapping and navigation, including GPS satellite navigation system (the Global Positioning System).

Geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude) define a position on the Earth’s surface. Coordinates are angular units. The canonical form of latitude and longitude representation uses degrees (°), minutes (′), and seconds (″). GPS systems widely use coordinates in degrees and decimal minutes, or in decimal degrees.

Latitude varies from −90° to 90°. The latitude of the Equator is 0°; the latitude of the South Pole is −90°; the latitude of the North Pole is 90°. Positive latitude values correspond to the geographic locations north of the Equator (abbrev. N). Negative latitude values correspond to the geographic locations south of the Equator (abbrev. S).

Longitude is counted from the prime meridian ( IERS Reference Meridian for WGS 84) and varies from −180° to 180°. Positive longitude values correspond to the geographic locations east of the prime meridian (abbrev. E). Negative longitude values correspond to the geographic locations west of the prime meridian (abbrev. W).

UTM or Universal Transverse Mercator coordinate system divides the Earth’s surface into 60 longitudinal zones. The coordinates of a location within each zone are defined as a planar coordinate pair related to the intersection of the equator and the zone’s central meridian, and measured in meters.

Elevation above sea level is a measure of a geographic location’s height. We are using the global digital elevation model GTOPO30 .

Elektrostal , Moscow Oblast, Russia