NHTSA Recall 03V281000: Recliner (seats)
FORD MOTOR COMPANY reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 1,552,880 vehicles. It affects 4 models including the Ford Explorer.
| NHTSA campaign | 03V281000 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer campaign | 03S04 |
| Component | SEATS › FRONT ASSEMBLY › RECLINER |
| Report received | August 5, 2003 |
| Owner notification | August 29, 2003 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation |
Defect
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.
Safety risk
The driver could potentially lose contact with the steering wheel or foot pedals during such an event, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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.
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 covered by recall 03V281000
| Make and model | Model years |
|---|---|
| Ford Explorer | 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 |
| Ford Explorer Sport | 2001, 2002 |
| Ford Explorer Sport Trac | 2001, 2002 |
| Mercury Mountaineer | 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 |
Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.