Segment:
Retro-styled personal luxury convertible/coupe
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet SSR, Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible, potentially some European convertibles (e.g., BMW Z4, Mercedes-Benz SLK) in terms of style and luxury, though at a lower price point.
Design Philosophy:
Modern interpretation of the classic 1955-1957 Ford Thunderbird, featuring retro styling cues with modern engineering and amenities.
Body Styles:
Two-door convertible with a removable hardtop (optional) and a two-seat coupe version.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Workshop
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Diagnostics, Electrical Schematics, Troubleshooting
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 1800-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine management, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (5R55N), clutch, driveshaft, axles, differential
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear independent), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS, traction control)
Body And Frame:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, convertible top mechanism
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, climate control, audio system, power accessories, wiring diagrams, connector locations, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, specific component testing, use of diagnostic tools (e.g., NGS/PATS)
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Calibration And Adjustment:
Wheel alignment, headlight aiming, throttle body cleaning and relearn, ABS bleeding
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Length:
187.2 inches (4755 mm)
Width:
71.7 inches (1821 mm)
Height:
52.9 inches (1344 mm)
Wheelbase:
107.2 inches (2723 mm)
Front Track:
61.2 inches (1554 mm)
Rear Track:
60.6 inches (1539 mm)
Front Headroom:
38.0 inches (965 mm)
Front Legroom:
41.9 inches (1064 mm)
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 5.1 cubic feet (with convertible top up)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,735 lbs (1694 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 4,500 lbs (2041 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (out of 5)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (out of 5)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Acceptable
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags (optional or standard depending on trim)
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up roll bars integrated behind the seats
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium sound system (e.g., JBL) with steering wheel audio controls.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) with digital display.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Keyless Entry:
Standard or optional keyless entry system with remote.
Seats:
Power adjustable front seats, heated front seats (optional).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (12 months), or as indicated by the Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor (if equipped).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (platinum-tipped spark plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 50,000-100,000 miles, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
7.0 US quarts (6.6 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (VC-7B, Orange)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 10.5 US quarts (9.9 liters)
Common Problems:
Ignition coil failures, occasional transmission shifting issues, water pump leaks, convertible top hydraulic system leaks, rear main seal leaks, early ABS sensor failures.
Thunderbird Legacy:
The Thunderbird nameplate has a long and storied history with Ford, dating back to 1955, evolving through multiple generations as a personal luxury car.
New Generation Launch:
The 2002 model marked the relaunch of the Thunderbird nameplate after a hiatus since 1997, returning to its two-seater, rear-wheel-drive, convertible roots with a retro-inspired design.
Production Period:
2002-2005 (this manual covers the 2003 model year within this generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Ford Wixom Assembly Plant, Wixom, Michigan, USA
