The problem
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.
The risk
If the strength of the tank is significantly compromised, it could rupture, increasing the risk of a fire.
The fix
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.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 03V-472 (03V472000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 03S08 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Fuel system, other › Storage › Tank assembly |
| Report date | November 6, 2003 |
| Owners notified | January 7, 2004 |
| Vehicles affected | 4,218 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the fuel & propulsion system
- 1996 Ford Crown Victoria fuel system problems 46
- 1997 Ford Crown Victoria fuel system problems 29
- 1998 Ford Crown Victoria fuel system problems 17
- 1999 Ford Crown Victoria fuel system problems 20
- 2000 Ford Crown Victoria fuel system problems 12
- 2001 Ford Crown Victoria fuel system problems 7
- 2002 Ford Crown Victoria fuel system problems 8
- 2003 Ford Crown Victoria fuel system problems 9
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 03V-472 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: 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.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 4,218 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.