Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2019
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and model variant, ranging from extreme frustration to high satisfaction.
6 problems reported (2 very frequent, 4 recurrent) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentInternal water pump failure (3.5L & 3.7L engines)
Coolant leaks into the engine oil, leading to catastrophic engine damage if not addressed. A very expensive repair requiring engine removal.
- Very frequentTransmission shifting problems
Includes rough shifts between 2nd and 3rd gear, failure to shift into higher gears (stuck in 3rd), and feeling of being in neutral. Affects 6F50/6F55 transmissions.
- RecurrentPersistent electrical and module failures
Includes audio control module failure (resulting in no sound), malfunctioning wiper switches, interior lights that won't turn off, and failing airbag sensors.
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentCooling system failures
Radiator explosions, rotting hoses, and thermostat issues, particularly in older high-mileage examples.
- RecurrentEngine misfires and stalling
Intermittent power loss, flashing check engine lights, and engines shutting off while driving, often related to ignition components like the DIS module in older SHOs.
- RecurrentPoor interior material quality
Cheap plastic interior components that break or fall apart easily.
The version owners recommend
Taurus SHO with Performance Package: Owners of the sixth-generation (2010-2019) SHO specifically recommend models equipped with the Performance Package, citing benefits like stiffer suspension bushings, upgraded brakes, and a 3.73 final drive ratio which improves throttle response over standard gearing. For older generations, the 1994 Taurus SHO with the Yamaha V6 is mentioned as a memorable and engaging model, though noted for its own specific maintenance needs.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Chevrolet Impala, Lincoln MKS and Ford Fusion.
Is the Taurus right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and model variant, ranging from extreme frustration to high satisfaction. The sixth-generation (2010-2019) models, particularly non-SHO trims, attract significant criticism for major, costly mechanical failures, including internal water pump leaks leading to catastrophic engine damage and persistent transmission shifting problems. These issues are frequently described as rendering the vehicle a financial burden, with repair costs often exceeding the car's value. In contrast, the Taurus SHO performance variant (2010-2019) and older generations (e.g., 1994, 2000, 2007) receive more positive remarks from long-term owners who praise their power, comfort, and durability when properly maintained. The consensus indicates that reliability is highly dependent on specific model year, engine, and diligent upkeep, with the platform earning a reputation for being either a dependable workhorse or an unreliable money pit.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a full-size American sedan offering more interior space than mainstream midsize competitors like the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. The Taurus SHO is viewed as a high-performance, all-wheel-drive sleeper sedan. In the used market, it is often compared to its corporate sibling, the Lincoln MKS, with some owner discussions suggesting the luxury version can sometimes be found for a similar or lower price. It is generally not perceived as competitive with European luxury sedans in terms of refinement or reliability but is considered a value-oriented alternative for space and, in SHO trim, power.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient owner data available to form a consensus on recommended configurations beyond the preference for the SHO Performance Package. One owner recommends using quality or OEM parts for repairs and not skimping on maintenance.
General recommendations
Strongly recommended to get a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection, especially for sixth-generation (2010-2019) models, to check for early signs of water pump failure (coolant mixing with oil) and transmission health. For the 3.5L EcoBoost engine in the SHO, proactive maintenance and care are emphasized as critical for long-term reliability. Budget for significant repair costs, as major failures (engine, transmission) are common and expensive. The vehicle may represent a good value only if purchased at a very low price with a clean bill of health from an inspection, acknowledging the potential for high future repair bills. Not recommended for buyers with limited budgets for unexpected repairs.
Remarks
The provided data covers an extremely wide range of model years (1990-2019) and conditions, from high-mileage beaters to well-maintained performance models. The most severe and frequently cited criticisms are concentrated on the sixth-generation (2010-2019) models with the 3.5L and 3.7L V6 engines, specifically regarding the internal water pump design. This failure is noted as a known, costly design flaw. Positive experiences are almost exclusively from owners of the high-performance SHO variants or from those who have invested heavily in meticulous maintenance of older models. The data suggests a stark dichotomy: the Taurus can be a source of great satisfaction or profound regret, with little middle ground. Analysis based on approximately 30 substantive owner discussions and problem reports.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Taurus VIII (Middle East)2022–2026moderate confidenceRead report
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for the 2022-2026 Taurus is mixed and heavily shaped by its market: it is a Middle East-only sedan that owners widely understand to be a rebadged Ford Mondeo/Fusion built in China rather than a continuation of the US Taurus.
6 problems reported (6 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- IsolatedInfotainment system bugging out and shutting the car down
(One test-drive report of two shutdowns; a separate owner reported only a single Bluetooth-related screen shutdown in nearly a year.)
- IsolatedInterior rattling noise
(One owner called it the worst problem they had and speculated it is common across Ford vehicles.)
- IsolatedHigh rate of dealership recalls/bug fixes
(One secondhand report from a dealership employee.)
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedGoogle Maps connectivity/display problems when a phone is connected
(A small cluster of owners in one discussion reported the same issue, but it was attributed by some to the phone/app rather than the car.)
- IsolatedAuto start/stop not always engaging
(Owners describe it as normal system behavior tied to temperature, battery, and climate settings rather than a fault.)
- IsolatedRemote start not available from the factory on some cars
(Owners report the hardware may be present but the key fob button and software are absent in some markets.)
Is a 2022–2026 Taurus right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Taurus VI2009–20191,831 complaints · 46 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): steering (509) · engine (231) · fuel/propulsion system (213)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2009-2019 Taurus generally describe it as a comfortable, spacious, and quiet highway cruiser that is reliable when maintained, but the ownership experience is heavily shadowed by two recurring mechanical fears: the internal water pump and the PTU on all-wheel-drive models.
17 problems reported (1 very frequent, 6 recurrent, 10 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentInternal water pump failure
Often leaking externally behind the alternator and occasionally mixing coolant into the oil.
- RecurrentPTU (power transfer unit) failure or fluid degradation on AWD models
- RecurrentRough cold shifts and transmission mount wear on the 6-speed automatic
+ 14 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentCoolant leaks traced to the water pump weep hole area near the alternator or AC compressor
- RecurrentOil pressure warning light and beeping
Sometimes traced to a leaking oil pressure switch on 3.5/3.7 engines.
- RecurrentAC clicking or blend door actuator failure
- RecurrentBluetooth and SYNC/APIM radio issues
- IsolatedBackup camera failure requiring repeated replacement
- IsolatedSunroof leaking
- IsolatedWindshield cracking attributed to body engineering
- IsolatedElectronic power steering assist issues and steering rack replacement
- IsolatedValve cover gasket and front cover oil leaks
- IsolatedTransmission pan seep
- IsolatedSeat control switch failure from spilled debris
- IsolatedBrake light switch failure causing AdvanceTrac warnings and shift problems
- IsolatedTurbo failure from oil starvation on EcoBoost models
- IsolatedEngine getting louder with possible timing chain guide wear
Is a 2009–2019 Taurus right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Taurus V2007–2009388 complaints · 2 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): vehicle speed control (97) · power train (60) · engine and engine cooling (40)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners view this generation as a dependable, spacious, and comfortable used car that offers strong value for the money, particularly for first-time buyers or budget-conscious shoppers.
10 problems reported (1 very frequent, 4 recurrent, 5 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentTransmission failure or slipping, particularly loss of 4th gear and OD clutch pack issues
- RecurrentWater pump failure on the 3.5L engine, internally driven and can destroy the engine
- RecurrentPower Transfer Unit (PTU) issues on AWD models
+ 7 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentElectronic throttle body problems causing stalling or unresponsive pedal
- RecurrentBrake lines rusting out, particularly in salt-belt regions
- IsolatedABS system bypassed due to rusted lines
- IsolatedHead gasket failure around 150k miles
- IsolatedVibration in reverse caused by heat shield
- IsolatedClimate control and radio head unit failures
- IsolatedTransmission vent tube missing cap
Is a 2007–2009 Taurus right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Taurus IV2000–20076,591 complaints · 33 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): suspension (2244) · vehicle speed control (1191) · power train (661)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners generally describe this generation as a reliable, no-frills, "grandpa car" that will last a long time with basic maintenance.
14 problems reported (1 very frequent, 5 recurrent, 8 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentTransmission failures, particularly torque converter and internal clutch pack issues
Multiple owners report expensive rebuilds or replacements needed, with one shop quoting $2100 for a rebuild and another owner describing the AX4S/AX4N as prone to failure.
- RecurrentIntake manifold gasket leaks causing idle issues
Owners describe this as "almost definitely" the cause of idle problems and "all but guaranteed after a certain number of years.".
- RecurrentPCV hose or elbow collapse causing rough idle
A $3 part that owners report splitting and causing vacuum leaks.
+ 11 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentBody rust, particularly structural areas behind front wheels and rear suspension mounts
Owners report these cars "rust out very bad underneath" in salt-belt regions.
- RecurrentBlower motor resistor failure causing no air from vents
Owners describe it as a common, cheap (~$10) fix.
- RecurrentKeyless entry fob programming issues
Owners report aftermarket fobs failing within a week and needing dealer programming.
- IsolatedRadio display fading
One owner reports the display being only visible at night.
- IsolatedRear exhaust manifold cracking around 200k miles
One owner reports this as the only unscheduled repair needed.
- IsolatedHead gasket failure around 150k miles
One owner reports this occurrence.
- IsolatedABS system bypassed with pinched-off brake lines
One owner reports finding this on a 2007 model.
- IsolatedElectronic throttle issues causing stalling or unresponsive pedal
One owner reports this on a 2007 model.
- IsolatedWater pump failure
One owner reports a dealer-caused water pump issue leading to premature death of the car.
- IsolatedAlternator failure causing stalling
One owner reports this possibility being diagnosed.
- IsolatedBrake lines rusting out
One owner notes Ford brake lines are notorious for rusting in salt states.
Is a 2000–2007 Taurus right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2001. Years to avoid: 2013, 2005, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Ford Taurus years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 17 | 2 | back over prevention |
| 2018 | 50 | 4 | back over prevention |
| 2017 | 44 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2016 | 82 | 4 | back over prevention |
| 2015 | 279 | 6 | back over prevention |
| 2014 | 235 | 5 | steering |
| 2013 | 590 | 9 | steering |
| 2012 | 79 | 5 | steering |
| 2011 | 187 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2010 | 204 | 3 | steering |
| 2009 | 64 | 0 | engine and engine cooling |
| 2008 | 175 | 1 | power train |
| 2007 | 149 | 1 | vehicle speed control |
| 2006 | 318 | 3 | vehicle speed control |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices104 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2019 · structure:exterior trimcampaign 25V611000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Taurus vehicles. The driver and front passenger B-Pillar door trim may detach while driving.
2019 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 25V695000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Flex, 2015 Explorer, Lincoln MKT, Lincoln MKZ, 2015-2016 C-Max, Escape, Taurus, 2016 Fusion, 2018-2019 Taurus, 2019 Lincoln MKT, Fiesta, and 2020 Mustang vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, intermittent, or blank image when the vehicle is in reverse.
2018 · electrical system:ignitioncampaign 18V141000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Ford Taurus vehicles equipped with mechanical key ignition systems. The keys for these vehicles may be able to be removed from the ignition when transmission is not in the PARK position. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection."
2018 · suspension:rearcampaign 20V072000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Lincoln MKT and Ford Flex and Taurus vehicles with the Police Interceptor or SHO Performance Pack. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
2018 · structure:exterior trimcampaign 25V611000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Taurus vehicles. The driver and front passenger B-Pillar door trim may detach while driving.
2018 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 25V695000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Flex, 2015 Explorer, Lincoln MKT, Lincoln MKZ, 2015-2016 C-Max, Escape, Taurus, 2016 Fusion, 2018-2019 Taurus, 2019 Lincoln MKT, Fiesta, and 2020 Mustang vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, intermittent, or blank image when the vehicle is in reverse.
2017 · steeringcampaign 17V530000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Explorer, Taurus and Police Interceptor Utility and Sedan vehicles. The steering gear heat shield fasteners may corrode, allowing the heat shield to detach.
2017 · electrical system:ignitioncampaign 18V141000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Ford Taurus vehicles equipped with mechanical key ignition systems. The keys for these vehicles may be able to be removed from the ignition when transmission is not in the PARK position. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection."
2017 · suspension:rearcampaign 20V072000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Lincoln MKT and Ford Flex and Taurus vehicles with the Police Interceptor or SHO Performance Pack. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
2017 · structure:exterior trimcampaign 25V611000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Taurus vehicles. The driver and front passenger B-Pillar door trim may detach while driving.
2016 · engine and engine cooling:engine:gasoline:turbo/superchargercampaign 16V925000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Taurus, 2016-2017 Ford Flex, Lincoln MKT, 2017 Ford Explorer and Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with 3.5L GTDI engines. Improperly brazed turbocharger oil supply tubes may leak oil on engine components.
2016 · suspension:rearcampaign 20V072000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Lincoln MKT and Ford Flex and Taurus vehicles with the Police Interceptor or SHO Performance Pack. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
2016 · structure:exterior trimcampaign 25V611000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Taurus vehicles. The driver and front passenger B-Pillar door trim may detach while driving.
2016 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 25V695000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Flex, 2015 Explorer, Lincoln MKT, Lincoln MKZ, 2015-2016 C-Max, Escape, Taurus, 2016 Fusion, 2018-2019 Taurus, 2019 Lincoln MKT, Fiesta, and 2020 Mustang vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, intermittent, or blank image when the vehicle is in reverse.
2015 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 16V621000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS and Lincoln MKT vehicles equipped with 3.5L GTDI Ecoboost engines and 2013-2015 Ford Taurus Police Interceptor vehicles. A component within the fuel pump electric module (PEM) may overheat causing a loss of electrical power to the fuel pump.
89 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
EcoBoost 245
2.0L 4-cylinder · 245 hp · FWD · manual
Built 2015–2019