🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Lincoln

Model:

LS

Year:

2003

Product Name:

2003 Lincoln LS Owner's Manual

Chassis Code:

DEW98 (shared with Jaguar X200 XJ/S-Type)

Model Generation:

Second Generation (2003-2006)

Vin Code:

Platform: DEW98, Engine code varies (e.g., V8 for 4.6L V8)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Lincoln LS was positioned as a luxury sport sedan, competing with European and domestic rivals offering a balance of performance and comfort.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with vehicles like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, and Cadillac CTS, emphasizing rear-wheel-drive dynamics and premium features.

Key Features:

Rear-wheel drive platform (shared with Jaguar S-Type), optional all-wheel drive, choice of V6 and V8 engines, available adaptive suspension, premium interior appointments.

Suspension Type:

Independent front and rear suspension with optional adaptive damping (Adaptive Variable Suspension - AVS).

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Driver and Passenger Safety, Instruments and Controls, Vehicle Features (Climate Control, Audio, Security, Cruise Control), Before Driving (Fuel, Break-in, Cargo), Driving (Engine, Transmission), Maintenance, Unexpected Situations (Tire, Battery, Overheating, Fuses), Technical Information, Warranty, Customer Relations

Index Availability:

Yes, comprehensive index provided for quick reference.

Page Count:

Estimated 150-200 pages (typical for owner's manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Other Manuals Available:

This listing is for an Owner's Manual. Lincoln also produced Factory Service Manuals (FSM) and Parts Catalogs for more in-depth technical information.

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Booklet

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Restraint Systems (Seat Belts, SRS Airbags), Instrumentation and Gauges, Information Display, Dashboard Layout, Steering Column Controls, Climate Control System, Audio System, Security System, Cruise Control System, Fuel System, Engine Operation, Transmission Operation, Maintenance Minder System, Fluid Levels, Minor Service Procedures, Vehicle Storage Procedures, Tire Changing, Battery Service, Overheating Procedures, Fuse Box Locations and Replacements, Vehicle Specifications, Tire Specifications, Emissions Control Systems

Electrical System:

Basic understanding of dashboard indicator lights, fuse box layout, and general electrical features. Detailed wiring diagrams are in the service manual.

Lighting System:

Operation of headlights, taillights, interior lights, and turn signals. Bulb replacement instructions may be included.

Procedures Included:

Proper use of seat belts and child restraints, understanding dashboard indicators and gauges, operating climate control and audio systems, setting cruise control, pre-drive checks (fuel, tires), basic engine and transmission operation, understanding the maintenance minder, checking fluid levels, minor maintenance tasks, procedures for flat tires, dead batteries, overheating, and fuse replacement, vehicle storage, warranty claim procedures

Technical Depth:

Owner-level operational and basic maintenance information. Does not cover advanced diagnostics or full repair procedures; these are typically found in service manuals.

Diagnostic Coverage:

Basic troubleshooting for common issues, fuse identification, and understanding warning lights. Advanced diagnostics require specialized scan tools and service manuals.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Printed)

Print Quality:

High-quality paper, clear text, and diagrams typical of OEM publications

Binding Type:

Staple-bound or perfect-bound booklet

Paper Type:

Glossy or semi-gloss paper stock

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement V6:

3.0L (183 cu in)

Engine Type V6:

3.0L DOHC V6 (Duratec 30)

Horsepower V6:

232 hp @ 6,250 rpm

Torque V6:

220 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm

Engine Displacement V8:

4.6L (281 cu in)

Engine Type V8:

4.6L DOHC V8 (Modular, 2-valve or 3-valve depending on sub-model)

Horsepower V8:

280 hp @ 6,000 rpm (2-valve); 302 hp (3-valve with performance package)

Torque V8:

286 lb-ft @ 4,750 rpm (2-valve); 300 lb-ft (3-valve)

Fuel Induction:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (Recommended)

Engine Code V6 Specific:

3.0L V6 (Duratec 30), VIN Digit 8 usually 'L'

Engine Code V8 Specific:

4.6L V8 (Modular), VIN Digit 8 usually 'X' (2-valve) or '3' (3-valve performance package)

Engine Layout:

Front Engine, Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission V6:

5-speed Automatic (5R55N)

Transmission V8:

5-speed Automatic (5R55S)

Transmission Features:

Electronic control, SelectShift manual mode on some models

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 199.1 inches (5057 mm)

Width:

Approx. 71.6 inches (1819 mm)

Height:

Approx. 56.4 inches (1433 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 114.5 inches (2908 mm)

Front Track:

Approx. 61.3 inches (1557 mm)

Rear Track:

Approx. 61.7 inches (1567 mm)

Curb Weight V6:

Approx. 3,700 - 3,850 lbs (1678 - 1746 kg)

Curb Weight V8:

Approx. 3,850 - 4,050 lbs (1746 - 1837 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by configuration, consult vehicle placard

Seating Capacity:

5

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 15.0 cubic feet

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4-star (2003)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4-star (2003)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:

5-star (2003)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:

5-star (2003)

IIHS Front Offset Score:

Good (2003)

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) / AdvanceTrac

Braking System:

Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, front seat side-impact airbags, pretensioning seat belts

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Premium audio system, available CD changer, optional Navigation System, available voice-activated controls.

Climate Control Type:

Dual-zone automatic climate control with manual override.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control, optional Parking Assist (rear obstacle sensors).

Connectivity Features:

Not equipped with modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity as standard; early models might have had optional phone integration kits.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (consult manual for specifics).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles

Transmission Fluid Change:

Refer to manual; typically at higher mileage intervals (e.g., 100,000 miles) or under severe usage.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-20 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (API Certified)

Coolant Specification:

Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3

Transmission Fluid Specification:

MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid

Power Steering Fluid:

Ford Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent specified by manufacturer)

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Washer Fluid Concentrate or Water/Washer Fluid Mix

Known Issues:

Coil-on-plug (COP) ignition failures, transmission issues (especially early models or with neglect), differential leaks, fuel pump failures, HVAC blend door actuator failures, various suspension and steering component wear (ball joints, tie rods).

Cooling System Issues:

Potential for coolant leaks from hoses or water pump seals; thermostat failures can occur.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Lincoln, Ford's luxury division, has a long history of producing premium American sedans and coupes, known for comfort and distinctive styling.

Model Evolution:

The Lincoln LS was introduced in 1999 as a rear-wheel-drive sport sedan, a departure from Lincoln's traditional front-wheel-drive models. The 2003 model year marked a significant refresh, with updated styling, interior refinements, and powertrain enhancements, including the introduction of the more powerful 3-valve V8 option.

Production Location:

Atlanta, Georgia, USA (Ford's Atlanta Assembly Plant)