The problem
On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, if the intermediate shaft yoke separates from the steering gear input shaft, the steering system becomes disconnected.
The risk
This could result in loss of steering control, potentially resulting in a vehicle crash without warning.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the steering intermediate shaft yoke to determine if the yoke is fully seated on the steering gear input shaft. If the yoke is fully seated no service is required. If the yoke is not fully seated and bolt groove and spline is visible, the intermediate shaft and bolt will be replaced as well as the bolt at the steering column connection. Owner notification began on May 30, 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 Ford at 1-800-392-3673.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 03V-196 (03V196000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 03S02 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Steering › Gear box › Shaft sector |
| Report date | May 27, 2003 |
| Owners notified | May 30, 2003 |
| Vehicles affected | 171,446 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the steering
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 03V-196 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect the steering intermediate shaft yoke to determine if the yoke is fully seated on the steering gear input shaft. If the yoke is fully seated no service is required.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 171,446 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.