2003 Workhorse W42 problems

Verdict · NHTSA data

Limited data — recalls on file

NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 2003 Workhorse W42 — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but one recall campaign applies to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.

NHTSA complaints

Recalls

Investigations

Crash-involved

Fires reported

Injuries

Deaths

—

NCAP overall

How does 2003 compare to other W42 years?

W42 NHTSA complaints by model year, 2003 highlighted. Red bars are years to avoid.

See all W42 years to avoid →

Does the 2003 Workhorse W42 have recalls?

1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.

07V233000Fuel SystemJune 8, 2007 · 4,174 units

Defect

CERTAIN COMMERCIAL CHASSIS BUILT WITH GASOLINE FUEL TANKS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY." FUEL SPILLAGE DURING A ROLLOVER TEST EXCEEDED 142G, WHICH DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE STANDARD.

Consequence

FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy

VEHICLES WILL BE FITTED WITH A NEW WIDE RETAINING RING AND ADDITIONALLY ANY VEHICLES BUILT PRIOR TO JULY 1, 2003 WILL ALSO BE FITTED WITH AN EXTRA RETENTION CLIP. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 27, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT WORKHORSE AT 877-294-6773.

2003 Workhorse W42 — common questions

Is the 2003 Workhorse W42 reliable?

The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 1 recall should be verified as completed.

Does the 2003 Workhorse W42 have recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign affecting the 2003 Workhorse W42. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.

How does 2003 compare to other W42 years?

Does the 2003 Workhorse W42 have recalls?

2003 Workhorse W42 — common questions

Is the 2003 Workhorse W42 reliable?

Does the 2003 Workhorse W42 have recalls?

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