Ford Taurus 4th generation (2000–2007)
Generation-specific owner insights from 98+ substantive owner discussions, with US complaint and recall records.
Should I buy a 2000–2007 Taurus?
6,591
US owner complaints (NHTSA), 2000–2007
33
recall campaigns
suspension
most-complained area
What owners say about this generation
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.
The version owners recommend
The 3.0 Vulcan V6 engine is the most consistently praised powertrain across owner discussions, with multiple owners reporting 200k-300k miles on it. The Duratec 3.0 DOHC also receives strong praise for reliability when properly maintained, with one owner showing a clean 200k-mile timing chain. No specific trim level emerges as a clear consensus favorite, though the SEL is mentioned positively. The 2005 model year receives several positive mentions for long-term ownership.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Pontiac Grand Prix, Ford Crown Victoria and Kia Rio.
Is a 2000–2007 Taurus right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
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Overall sentiment
Owners generally describe this generation as a reliable, no-frills, "grandpa car" that will last a long time with basic maintenance. The 3.0 Vulcan engine is frequently praised as "bulletproof" and "reliable as hell," with multiple owners reporting 200k+ miles without major issues. The Duratec engine also receives positive mentions for longevity when maintained. The main criticisms center on the automatic transmission being a weak point prone to expensive failures, particularly the AX4S/AX4N units, and body rust issues in salt-belt regions. Owners note these cars are cheap to buy, easy to work on, and parts are inexpensive and widely available.
Positioning vs competitors
Owners cross-shopping this generation against Japanese competitors often note the Taurus is cheaper to buy but less likely to reach the same high mileages. One owner described it as "nothing great but not terrible" compared to an Accord, while another noted the Accord's V6 transmission was prone to failure. Against the Pontiac Grand Prix, owners favored the Grand Prix's 3800 V6 engine but acknowledged the Taurus was acceptable for the price. The Crown Victoria is repeatedly recommended as a more reliable alternative by multiple owners. A 2007 Taurus was described as "pretty bulletproof" compared to a Mitsubishi Outlander, with one owner recommending it specifically for the 40k mileage reduction.
Recommended configurations
Owners recommend the 3.0 Vulcan V6 for maximum reliability and simplicity, with multiple reports of 200k+ miles and one owner noting they "never had to add oil between services" at nearly 300k miles. The Duratec is also recommended for those wanting more power, with owners noting it responds well to regular maintenance. The AX4N transmission is considered better than earlier units but still a known weak point. Owners advise having any prospective purchase inspected by a mechanic, checking transmission fluid condition, and looking for rust underneath, particularly in structural areas.
General recommendations
This generation suits budget-conscious buyers who want a cheap, dependable daily driver and don't mind a bland, utilitarian interior. Owners recommend having a mechanic inspect any prospective purchase, especially the transmission and underbody rust. The 2005 model year receives multiple positive long-term ownership reports. Owners advise checking transmission fluid color and smell during inspection, as burnt fluid indicates expensive problems. Rust is a significant concern in salt-belt regions, with owners specifically noting structural rust behind the front wheels and rear suspension mounting points. The 2007 model year was fleet-only and is considered reliable, with one owner reporting 112k miles purchased for $1950 needing only front-end work.
Remarks
The 2007 model year was fleet-only, which some owners note as a point of interest. The radio system in this generation is unusual: the head unit in the dash is essentially a remote control, with the actual radio mounted in the trunk. Owners report the 3.0 Vulcan engine is so reliable that one never needed oil added between services even at nearly 300k miles. The Duratec engine's timing chain was shown clean at 200k miles with regular oil changes using conventional oil for the first 100k then high-mileage oil. Owners describe the car as having "6 seats is comfy if you can love without the center storage." One owner noted these cars "sell well to credit criminals at my BHPH lot," indicating strong demand in the used market. Analysis based on approximately 98 substantive owner discussions about this generation.
Complaints and recalls by model year
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2007 | 149 | 1 | vehicle speed control |
| 2006 | 318 | 3 | vehicle speed control |
| 2005 | 774 | 1 | vehicle speed control |
| 2004 | 375 | 2 | vehicle speed control |
| 2003 | 1,223 | 4 | power train |
| 2002 | 1,471 | 4 | suspension |
| 2001 | 1,049 | 10 | suspension |
| 2000 | 1,232 | 8 | suspension |
Source: US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices for this generation
2007 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:padscampaign 16E026000
Bosch Brake Components LLC (Bosch) is recalling certain aftermarket replacement front brake pads, models Bosch QuietCast BC598 and BP765, Bosch Blue BE598 and BE598H, Prostop PD598 and PD765M, Duralast Gold DG598, Duralast MKD598, Stop Master ST598, UltraStop ULT598, UltraLife MX598 and MX765, BrakeBest MKD765, and Prostop Platinum PGD598. These brake pads, manufactured October 1, 2014, to October 31, 2015 are intended for use on 2001-2007 Ford Taurus, 2001-2005 Mercury Sable, 1995-1999 Ford Taurus SHO, 1995-2002 Lincoln Continental, and 1993-1998 Lincoln Mark VIII vehicles. The brake pad shim may shift out of position causing the shim to contact the brake disc resulting in damage to the disc.
2006 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:padscampaign 16E026000
Bosch Brake Components LLC (Bosch) is recalling certain aftermarket replacement front brake pads, models Bosch QuietCast BC598 and BP765, Bosch Blue BE598 and BE598H, Prostop PD598 and PD765M, Duralast Gold DG598, Duralast MKD598, Stop Master ST598, UltraStop ULT598, UltraLife MX598 and MX765, BrakeBest MKD765, and Prostop Platinum PGD598. These brake pads, manufactured October 1, 2014, to October 31, 2015 are intended for use on 2001-2007 Ford Taurus, 2001-2005 Mercury Sable, 1995-1999 Ford Taurus SHO, 1995-2002 Lincoln Continental, and 1993-1998 Lincoln Mark VIII vehicles. The brake pad shim may shift out of position causing the shim to contact the brake disc resulting in damage to the disc.
2006 · electrical system: instrument cluster/panelcampaign 06V119000
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES BUILT FOR ONE SPECIFIC FLEET CUSTOMER WERE MODIFIED FOR OPTIONAL HANDS-FREE CELLULAR PHONE OPERATING CAPABILITY. TO PROVIDE THIS FUNCTIONALITY, A SPECIAL OVERLAY WIRE HARNESS WAS INSTALLED THAT INADVERTENTLY DID NOT INCLUDE THE CIRCUITS FOR PASSENGER AIR BAG DEACTIVATION INDICATOR (PADI) LAMP FUNCTION. AS A RESULT, THESE VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, 'OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION.'
2006 · visibility:windshield wiper/washer:motorcampaign 05V520000
ON CERTAIN TRUCKS, PASSENGER CARS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR MAY HAVE BEEN PRODUCED WITHOUT GREASE BEING APPLIED TO THE OUTPUT SHAFT GEAR.
2005 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:padscampaign 16E026000
Bosch Brake Components LLC (Bosch) is recalling certain aftermarket replacement front brake pads, models Bosch QuietCast BC598 and BP765, Bosch Blue BE598 and BE598H, Prostop PD598 and PD765M, Duralast Gold DG598, Duralast MKD598, Stop Master ST598, UltraStop ULT598, UltraLife MX598 and MX765, BrakeBest MKD765, and Prostop Platinum PGD598. These brake pads, manufactured October 1, 2014, to October 31, 2015 are intended for use on 2001-2007 Ford Taurus, 2001-2005 Mercury Sable, 1995-1999 Ford Taurus SHO, 1995-2002 Lincoln Continental, and 1993-1998 Lincoln Mark VIII vehicles. The brake pad shim may shift out of position causing the shim to contact the brake disc resulting in damage to the disc.
2004 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:padscampaign 16E026000
Bosch Brake Components LLC (Bosch) is recalling certain aftermarket replacement front brake pads, models Bosch QuietCast BC598 and BP765, Bosch Blue BE598 and BE598H, Prostop PD598 and PD765M, Duralast Gold DG598, Duralast MKD598, Stop Master ST598, UltraStop ULT598, UltraLife MX598 and MX765, BrakeBest MKD765, and Prostop Platinum PGD598. These brake pads, manufactured October 1, 2014, to October 31, 2015 are intended for use on 2001-2007 Ford Taurus, 2001-2005 Mercury Sable, 1995-1999 Ford Taurus SHO, 1995-2002 Lincoln Continental, and 1993-1998 Lincoln Mark VIII vehicles. The brake pad shim may shift out of position causing the shim to contact the brake disc resulting in damage to the disc.
2004 · seats:front assembly:power adjustcampaign 04V330000
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH POWER ADJUSTABLE SEATS MAY HAVE BEEN INADEQUATELY WELDED.
2003 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:padscampaign 16E026000
Bosch Brake Components LLC (Bosch) is recalling certain aftermarket replacement front brake pads, models Bosch QuietCast BC598 and BP765, Bosch Blue BE598 and BE598H, Prostop PD598 and PD765M, Duralast Gold DG598, Duralast MKD598, Stop Master ST598, UltraStop ULT598, UltraLife MX598 and MX765, BrakeBest MKD765, and Prostop Platinum PGD598. These brake pads, manufactured October 1, 2014, to October 31, 2015 are intended for use on 2001-2007 Ford Taurus, 2001-2005 Mercury Sable, 1995-1999 Ford Taurus SHO, 1995-2002 Lincoln Continental, and 1993-1998 Lincoln Mark VIII vehicles. The brake pad shim may shift out of position causing the shim to contact the brake disc resulting in damage to the disc.
2003 · exterior lighting:brake lights:switchcampaign 04V106000
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES ARE BEING RECALLED TO CORRECT A PROBLEM WITH A MALFUNCTIONING STOP LAMP SWITCH AND/OR ASSOCIATED WIRING. THIS MALFUNCTIONING COULD RENDER THE STOP LAMPS INOPERABLE OR CAUSE THEM TO STAY ON ALL THE TIME. THIS COULD CAUSE CONFUSION TO A FOLLOWING DRIVER, WHICH COULD LEAD TO A CRASH.
2003 · engine and engine coolingcampaign 04V105000
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE AIR FILTER PAPER IN THESE VEHICLES CAN SMOLDER OR BURN.
2003 · visibility:windshieldcampaign 03V087000
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 212, "WINDSHIELD MOUNTING." THE WINDSHIELDS MAY POTENTIALLY EXHIBIT INCREASED WIND NOISE, WATER LEAKAGE, AND SQUEAKS AND RATTLES.
2002 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:padscampaign 16E026000
Bosch Brake Components LLC (Bosch) is recalling certain aftermarket replacement front brake pads, models Bosch QuietCast BC598 and BP765, Bosch Blue BE598 and BE598H, Prostop PD598 and PD765M, Duralast Gold DG598, Duralast MKD598, Stop Master ST598, UltraStop ULT598, UltraLife MX598 and MX765, BrakeBest MKD765, and Prostop Platinum PGD598. These brake pads, manufactured October 1, 2014, to October 31, 2015 are intended for use on 2001-2007 Ford Taurus, 2001-2005 Mercury Sable, 1995-1999 Ford Taurus SHO, 1995-2002 Lincoln Continental, and 1993-1998 Lincoln Mark VIII vehicles. The brake pad shim may shift out of position causing the shim to contact the brake disc resulting in damage to the disc.
10 more recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Owner insights summarize real ownership discussions for this generation only. Complaint and recall data is public NHTSA (US) information. Always verify recalls against your VIN at nhtsa.gov.