The problem
On certain passenger vehicles equipped with 17 inch chrome wheels, the chrome wheels were not heat-treated. These wheels May crack at the lug-nut holes, which could result in the loss of the lug-nut torque.
The risk
If this condition occurs, the driver May experience noise and/or vibration while driving the vehicle. Continued operation of the vehicle could result in the wheel separating from the hub, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the wheels to make sure that all the wheels have been heat-treated. Any wheel that has not been heat-treated will be replaced. Owner notification began April 14, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Lincoln at 1-800-521-4140.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 03V-136 (03V136000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 03S01 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Wheels |
| Report date | April 7, 2003 |
| Owners notified | April 14, 2003 |
| Vehicles affected | 1,736 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the wheels & tires
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 03V-136 repair free?
Yes. Lincoln dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect the wheels to make sure that all the wheels have been heat-treated. Any wheel that has not been heat-treated will be replaced. Owner notification began April 14, 2003.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 1,736 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.