Used 2003 Lincoln Town Car Consumer Reviews
axle issues on 2003 models
I own multiple cars, 98 town car, s500 98, mercury GM 98 and this one 2003 town car. Better ride than anything else, not as soft as 98 town car though, they changed the front suspension and the ride became firmer. All model year 2003 town cars (made in the year 2002) have issues with the rear axle, I had to replace mine after 18,000 miles on it, and I don't drive much at all so it was at my expense, there was a recall on all of these cars but a free repair was only for vehicles sold to fleets rather than individuals, If you hear a whining sound from the rear, or any sort of "road noise" that means the rear axle is bad. They did resolve the problem on all of 2004+ town cars.
Comfortable Land Yacht
I have owned 4 town cars and one navigator. The town cars have all improved in quality, and this car is no exception. Very smooth, quiet, and the ultimate road car. I love the steering wheel controls for the stereo, ac, and Cruise. The car now has 122,000 miles on it. Repairs have included a new rear axle (bearings went out), 2 sets of brakes (rotors tend to warp), and 4 (!) new drivers side power window switches! The cd changer isn't working properly. Other than that, just regular maintenance. It has been quite reliable and gets reasonable gas mileage for such a large car. On state highways going 65, I get 27 mpg. On i90 going 80 mpg, I get 22-23 mpg. Very comfortable car!
- Signature SedanMSRP: $4,9956 mi away
- Signature SedanMSRP: N/A74 mi away
- Executive SedanMSRP: N/A193 mi away
A Great Deal!
I bought my 2003 Executive used with 68,000 miles on it. It is pearl white with tan leather interior. I had trouble with water leaking in through air intake under passenger wiper. I repaired with automotive adhesive glue and sealed the joint with undercoating spray. That fixed it. I also had trouble with hesitation. I took it to the local Lincoln dealership and for just under $500, a tune-up and transmission fluid made it drive like a new car. I am at 143,000 miles and plan to keep it at least 90,000 more miles (new Michelins). I added in-dash navigation, satellite radio, and bluetooth. This is my fifth Lincoln and fourth Town Car. I will have another, no doubt.
Better than ever
The '03 town car is better than ever, new front and rear suspension, 17" wheel, a stiffer frame lets this huge sedan feel quite nimble, excellent cornering..better power and noting like it in terms of comfort and interior space. A true American Luxury car, nice torquey v8, 26-27 mpg on the highway, very quiet just a pleasure to drive.
2003 Towncar-Signature
I purchased my TC in early 2007 with only 29000 and have had nothing but good service from it. Yes, it's old American styling and ride but I love the car anyway. Gets 20mph city and 25-26 highway if you don't abuse it. Whisper quiet ride. Huge trunk. Minimal problems after 66000 miles. Getting 200,000 miles shouldn't be problem but I may find a nice low mileage 07 to 09 at some point in time. My only complaint---lousy in the snow and ice.
My favorite car to date
I have had loads of cars in my day, but the 03 TC is the best so far. The ride is awesome (seems a little more sporty than older models though), the leather int is super, engine power is more than most. I'm glad to see the hood ornament is back and the front cup holders finally hold a cup! Plenty of room in the back for the kids. Would recommend this car to all who want 4500 lbs of classic American luxury!
Get one before they are all gone!
I have long been a fan of the Town Car, it's classic looks, the floating/comfortable ride and long term dependability. That's why taxis and limos use them. I had to replace the fuel pump and the coil packs but at 110K, it was time. This car looks great for a 15year old ride and it has all the space a man and his family can ask for. Power is decent, and not an issue for me. I'll hold on to this car as long as the body holds out. UPDATE: Well... I have with a heavy heart sold my Town Car. I have a number of cars and some are too similar in what they offered, so I sold the TC and bought a convertible Mustang. The TC is an amazing car. A blend of roominess, smooth, power and classic style. If I had more parking at home, I'd have kept it. Love having all that space and that smooth ride.
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Best Town Car Ever
I am 39 years old and have owned Lincolns since 1987. My family owned Lincolns since the 1979 Lincoln Town Car edition (a classic vehicle). Although I am an avid Lincoln fan, therefore a bit biased, I must say that the 2003 Town Car is by far one of the BEST Lincolns I have had the pleasure to own. I have been renting Town Car's when I go on business trips since 1989 and and when I had the opportunity to rent a 2003, I instantly decided to trade my 2002 Continental on a black Town Car Cartier. Geez, what fantastic car. This car handles like it is floating on a cloud. I can't say enough about what a magnificently constructed vehicle this is.
last of the big american cars
This is my second Town Car. I owned a 1996 which I found to be absolutely amazing in quality and style. This one is also a beautiful car, but, I have had some minor troubles with it that I did not experience with the previous model. Most notably, my power seat broke which resulted in a very costly repair. I do love this car though and am disappointed that the model is to be discontinued. I plan to buy another newer one next spring. I love the traditional look, rear drive reliablilty, and incredibly luxurious feel. Hood ornament, full bench seat without cluttered console, column shift,chrome grille and strips, and gigantic trunk. They don't make many like these anymore. I love it.
What a Bargin !
I was between the new Infiniti M45 & the new mid-year Town Car, the Limited Edition Cartier. The Infiniti had more optional toys and what I thought was exterior styling more to my taste. I thought the M45 was beautiful from any angle. I drove both. The T.C. was the winner for smoothness and comfort. The M45 was tight inside, especially in the rear and legroom in front. Price was the clincher! Both listed just dollars apart. Infiniti dealer would give just $1,300 off MSRLP and there was no factory rebate. The TC had $4,000 rebate & $3,500 off MSRLP & $1,000 owner loyality bonus, for $8,500 of MSRLP. That closed the deal.
I only do 2,000 miles a year, but luv it
In the 6,000 miles I have there has not been a single adjustment needed, not problem to be fixed. I love the car very much. It's the Special Mid-Year model, the "Limited Edition"in that Silver-Green Fire mist color. 1,000s of compliments on the color! Car needs 70 horsepower more, otherwise near perfect. Love the power closing trunk- toy. Love the moonroof and the in the trunk out of the way CD Changer with the single slot in dash CD. Sadly, for '05 they dumped that (along with Autolamp system & Rainsense wipers (I mean WHAT are they thinking? These are standard on a Toyota Avalon & not available on a '05 TC at any price?) I find the driver's door very heavy and it not easy to open !
Best Car On The Road
I have owned three Town Cars in my life and I am only 25 years old. Come to think of it I believe I am one of the few young people out there who like these Town Cars. My Town Cars are an 89, 90, and 94 ALL of them with 400,000+ miles. I work in Canada and live in FL. Except for annual and regular maintenance...there are no problems with the car. The ride is the best out there. I have driven Mercedes, BMW and Lexus. Those brands are nothing compared to a Town Car. Do you know if any import (sedan based) that can haul 6 people with full luggage in 100 degree weather with the AC on high from FL to Canada. I do it 4 times a summer.
Getting better all the time!
Still the best touring sedan on the market, and a steal compared to others in it's class. Much better dynamics, 17" wheel, R&P steering, tigher all over, 240 hp feels like more because of the 280 ft lbs of torque. Room galore, This car is much better than people think,like a FWD...but we all know RWD is in! you can buy these cars brand new with $10,000 off the sticker at the year end sales...I got mine for $34,000 and traded my 2000 TC final cost was $14,000 at 3.8% $413.00/mo for 36 months...can't beat that. Nothing like a Town Car...nothing, quiet, faster, and comfort.
My Experience with my Lincoln
After purchasing my lincoln in june of 2003, I found that luxury and comfort were superior. I finally had a car I was proud of. I added a landau top and extra chrome to the vehicle and was very happy with the car.
Affordable luxury
This car is the last of American big cars. It's too bad that these aren't made any more as people favor smaller more European style cars. For the money I paid, this car is quite comfortable. I do mostly highway driving, and achieve an average of 24 miles per gallon on regular unleaded and during the winter it drops to 22 miles per gallon. Parts and service are abundantly available since this vehicle was manufactured for so many years with so little changes. This vehicle brand is still used by limousine and livery services, even though it was discontinued after 2011. I love this car.
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Value plus
Best ride on the road. Bigvehicle with space, space.. people tell me " you could put 3 bodies in the trunk". Super road car and still gets 25/28 mpg. Love this car
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Never own another GM car again...
In the dictionary, when you look up luxury, there is a picture of a Towncar.
Now skeptical
Bought my 2003 towncar with 19000 miles on it .This car has been babied and has never seen a rain drop.At 35000 miles had to replace fuel pump.When l bought the car it needed parking assist repairs.After 2 modules Ford still could not get it working.Also power pedal motor stopped working.The car only has 37000 miles on it and has been a money pit
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Great ride; Rear End Problems
Bought this used Town Car after having owned a 1996 Executive. Better car; better ride; great styling. Around 72K mi developed noise in rear end. I'm now informed that I need a bearing kit for the rear axle. Wearout at less than 75K mi is unsatisfactory. Ford had a recall on "some" 2003 TC's, but not mine. Also had to replace brake rotors. They seem to warp easily and require regular turning (maybe it's new metallic type pads). Overall, I still love the car and I'll stay with it
Easy to Love and Easy to Drive
Great Ride compared to '02 Towny, THIS IS the AUTO to be Ridin' the Freeway/Tollway or anyway. Yes, Yes,Yes rear drive American luxury is the best!! Auto wipers, lights, radar, sonar, compass, nav system, and lots of ROOMMMMMMMM. And...while inside the weather is so delightful!! Everything operates with ease (I programmed the home-link). The T Car is so easy to drive. Great brakes, acceleration and nimble handling. Outside is, well...outside and I'm inside chillin' or warmin' and cruisin'. Love when the radar/sonar shuts off my audio system!!
Love my Town Car
This is my second TC. My first was a 1997 model. Both produced a smooth, comfortable ride, especially on long trips. I also use the car for long (100 mi) work trips each week. Yes, style is dated but the car has so many positive features, like good gas mileage for a large car, cavernous trunk, easy to read dash display, automatic climate control, back-up sensor, heated seats, more. Small problems crop up now & then, but I expect that with so many luxury features available. Plus, the car is no spring chicken. Things break.
Great car with bad looking sheet metal
Cannot figure out how Ford can neglect a great car by allowing its luxury cars exterior design get so out of date. Cadillac's Deville has not faired nearly as badly. Some of my friends have owned Lincolns for years and they now have Toyota Avalons or Lexus. From a quality, reliability,and premium vehicle standpoint, this is a fine product. Ford get with it. This is not a livery only vehicle.
Third, Worst and Last
This is my third and last Lincoln. The quality is just plain overrated, mediocre at best. The wind noise around the front windows/doors will drive you crazy, not to mention the engine noise. Not enough power for this size car and lousy gas mileage. A/C will not keep occupants cool if outside temp is over 80.
Very reliable
I use this car for car service this is the best car for transporting people and their luggage.A very reliable car and roomy.This is my third tc and best one yet my first one i put on 3 hundred fifty thousand and the second one i still have and am trying to sell it which has 573,423 miles as odometer reads so you can imagine how reliable these cars are.
Luxury Sedan Preference
I have owned three Lincoln Town Cars and found them to be consistently of top quality and excellent in performance. The newest convenience features are always offered. I am entirely satisfied with this vehicle.
2003 plus and minus
Lincoln improved on a lot of little things on the 2003's, but the steering is a bit of a let down. The steering is more stiff due to the rack and pinion steering, plus riding on the interstate you feel a lot of wind resistance underneeth your feet. Car is more responsive and feels a little more sporty. All of the standard quality is still there, but the steering and different ride may turn off a lot of traditional Town Car owners. I also own an Aviator, no complaints at all about that one except the gas mileage. It's awesome! Town Car beats it only on ride comfort, but not by much.
Big car works for big man
This is my first car in about 10 years, but my third TC. I am 6'9" and about 300lbs and have the leg room and head room in this car that I need. I had an Expedition before, nice vehicle, but no Town Car. Really enjoy the drive. I just took a 17 hour trip from Michigan to North Dakota and was amazingly fresh after being in this smooth rider for so long. Great car and I got over 25 mpg on the trip.
Close to perfection
My '03 is a mid-year LIMITED EDITION Signature Series. Only 1311 of these were made. She is perfect, never a problem. Silent interior, has decent power (could use 65 more horsepower. Flawless execution of assembly & detail. Loads of trunk room, and interior space to spread out. Love the Limited's black grille with chrome surround & HID Fog Lights. Like the Cassette & C.D. in dash combo with a 6- disc changer in the trunk. Steering is tight and the handling is worlds better than the pre-1998 Town Cars. She's a unique light silver-green met with gray/beige interior. Only has 12,000 on her, as from November to April I use a Jeep Cherokee Limited 4X4 (2001)
It's all good
Not sure about the need for a digital and analog speedometer, but that's been an issue with this model since it was introduced. Can't surpass the car for comfort and reliability. Sometimes problematic small issues, but easily remedied under warranty.
Sweating
BUYERS BEWARE: Two problems potential purchasers should be aware of. Ask to see Special Service Message 16990. The a/c has a significant decrease in cooling capacity at highway speeds. VERY UNCOMFORTABLE. I sweat at highway speeds. Lincoln does not have fix. Also a mysterious noise behind dash on drivers side. Lincoln has been unable to repair mine.
Lincoln's lost their build quality
With 21 years and 400K miles driving Lincolns, I loved them and bought the '03. More annoying issues with this car than I've had in 20 years. Vibration at idle is built-in and can't be corrected. Compared to older Lincolns,the car has poor acceleration from low RPMs with poorer gas mileage and a smaller gas tank.Contrary to the manual-duplicated pages-doesn't have DSP.Left out an AM filter so the AM reception was a return to the '50s. With a fix,dash now rattles. Gas tank cover wouldn't open. Lincoln won't communicate. Comparing features, Lincoln designers have done next to nothing in 10 years. I take that back-- they took the quality out.
Homicidal car at best
I purchased this "Florida driven" vehicle in April of 2011. It had 70k original miles on it which was one of the selling points. The minute I drove it off the lot, the problems began. Power drivers seat died $360, a/c compressor $500, engine manifold cracked and leaked coolant all over engine damaging spark plugs and cylinders $2000+, bi-polar alarm system $450, engine shuts off randomly when driving but starts back up instantly(??) and this weeks newest problem is an exhaust leak which was estimated to be about $250 at local garage. Next sedan will most definitely be either a Cadillac Deville or Mercedes S-Class. This Town Car is a death trap on wheels.
No More American Cars for Me!
I swore after a nightmare with 1 other American car I would never own another - should have stuck with that! After having the car for 3 mos. (bought used at 2 yrs.) and 60,000 had to replace the rear axle = $1250.00. Hub bearings at 65,000 miles = $600.00. Automatic trunk mechanism at 70,000 miles = $400 to repair. Getting rid of this car....PRICELESS. The electrical system is failing, all the "fancy" gizmos either don't work anymore at all, or work only intermittently, and this is the biggest piece of junk I've ever owned. Good riddance to the Lincoln Towncar. Goodbye, Ford, Hello Honda! At least our other car, a Honda is still going strong at 265,000 miles with very little $$ spent!
Lincoln Town Car
This is my sixth Town Car and they have all been very reliable. this drives better than any prior car I have owned. Has new tires. Interior is leather and is new looking. This car has some extras usually found only on Cartier Models
Much better than Cadillac
Very good vehicle, best Town Car to date
I love Lincoln Town Cars! START MAKING THEM AGAIN
I went to a dealer who charged WAY too much; according to the value assessed on edmunds.com. My bad; I should have done some homework. I had an almost identical Lincoln Town Car that had 336,000 miles on it and it was going to cost more than it was worth to fix it so, I went to the dealer and was shocked to see the exact car...different color and THIS one has a sun roof....sitting there like it was waiting for me. At purchase, it had 92000 miles on it, so; based on my OTHER Town Car; this baby should have plenty of life left in it. I'm VERY happy with my purchase (except the paying too much part of it) ONLY problem is that the park assist only works when it's raining. But, that is the ONLY thing that isn't working.
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Nice Town Car
This Is Our Third TC And They Get Better And Better. The Comfort Cannot Be Beat. I Really Like The Performance On The '03 TC, It Is A Joy To Drive.
One Sweet Ride
After the first test drive, I knew this was my car. Now that I've owned it for about 8 months, I can only say that I am extremely pleased with the car. On long trips, there's nothing like cruising down the interstate, feeling like I'm driving my leather couch down the road, only without my big-screen tv in front of me. I've had absolutely no problems with the car. I average 18 mpg around town and a very respectable 25 mpg on the highway. Another big plus with the TC is the safety aspect of having that amount of metal and airbags around you. The car simply looks impressive and is a treat to drive. It may not have stellar performance, but the two ton luxury road yacht makes me happy anyway.
opinions are just that!
This is what a Lincoln should be! The interior is impressive. The combination of walnut wood, satin nickel and brass is a very sophisticated! The ride and handling is to die for. Its about time Lincoln has designed a car that states I am accomplished yet unpretentious. Although they did bring back the Lincoln hood ornament(I missed that).
One of the Best
I have owned my share of automobiles, Cadillacs, SUV's, etc. So far this is one of best I have driven for confort.
Salesman's Car
I've driven this car 67,000mi in the past 18 months. As a salesman with high mileage, I luxuriate in it's overall comfort. The huge trunk has an insert to keep loose articles secured below the false floor. This coupled with the limited use spare provides the most usable space in any trunk on the market. The plush leather seats are very comfy & real wood trim is classy. The navigation system is easy to use and very helpful. The backup assist, makes parking this large car a breeze. I average 24 mpg on regular gas. The brakes have been the only problem area. In the first 40,000 miles, I replaced all 4 brake pads & rotors. Beauty, comfort, low insurance & gas economy - Expensive but worth it!
what a ride!
We've only had our TC a few weeks but let me tell you we love it! We traded a 2000 crown vic and it has been so much better than we expected. I love everything about the car. I believe it has about every option availible on the signature and I'm glad I did not buy a Deville. If you want a happy wife or just an excellent automobile for your family you've got to get one of these!
4TH LINCOLN TC
HAD A 1999 AND JUST TRADED FOR THE'03. I AM VERY PLEASED WITH THIS AND FIND IT TO BE WHAT I EXPECTED.
Happy Warrior
Licoln has put back into this model all the things they removed after the 1996 Town Car.Passengers all comment about how well it drives and how functional the insides is.
2003 4dr cartier premium
Overall this vehicle has been very pleasurable and comfortable to drive. Although this automobile may not appeal to every young person, it has turned the heads of many.
Great Car
Great car. Some problems with the A/C. The power of a Mustang with top of the line luxury. Would recommend to anyone.
Good, and the reason for 2 speedos
I have had 6 S Class MBs whilst living in Asia and Europe. The last one was an S320 diesel which had to go back 13 times to the dealer. This is my 2nd Town Car whilst living in the USA. And it's great, good gas mileage and reasonably reliable. The "new" 2003 redesign is a reasonable job. It rides better than an S Class, as quiet too. Not so good at going round corners. I love the 2 speedos for when I go to Toronto - change the digi one to kmh
Love my Town Cars
Have always loved town cars. this is my third
Finally, Americans Make Something
American cars have been know to lack in quality and durabilty. For the last years luxury cars made by American automobile makers have lacked everything that is much needed. Yet, this Lincoln Town Car Signature Series is the best competition fro cars like Mercedes Benz, Lexus, and BMW. I Saw This Car, And Loved It You Will Too.
comfort city
THE TOWNCAR IS DEFINITELY A CLASSIER VERSION OF THE BASIC ENTRY LEVEL GRAND MARQUIS. IF YOU LIKE LOT'S OF ROOM, COMFORT, SAFETY, CLASS, EXTENDED WARRANTIES AND FREE MAINTENANCE PLUS A REASONABLE PRICE WITHIN THIS CLASS, THEN THIS IS THE CAR FOR YOU. THE CAR IS NIMBLE, AND REASONABLY FAST FOR SUCH BULK... THE DESIGN COULD USE SOME UPGRADE AS WELL AS THE FRONT DASH, BUT OVERALL THE CAR IS WORTHY OF THE CONSUMER REPORT'S RECOMMENDED LIST. BY THE WAY I NOT AN OLD TIMER AND I HAVE HAD MY SHARE OF SMALL TO MIDSIZE UPSCALE FOREIGN CARS, FOR THE PRICE, VALUE, SAFETY AND THE FUN OF DRIVING A BIG BOAT (CRUISER) YOU CAN'T GO WRONG.