The Ford Taurus has been a staple in the automotive world since its introduction in 1986, earning a reputation for comfort, reliability, and long-lasting performance. Whether you’re considering a used Taurus or already own one, understanding its common issues and which model years to approach with caution can save you time, money, and stress.

At SEALIGHT LED, we’re also here to help improve your driving safety—upgrading your vehicle’s lighting system with high-quality LED bulbs can make a significant difference, especially for older models with malfunctioning headlights.

Is the Ford Taurus Reliable?

The Ford Taurus is reliable for a full-size sedan. RepairPal gives it a 4.0 out of 5, ranking it 6th out of 12 in its class. Owners spend around $697 per year on repairs, with unscheduled visits averaging just 0.2 times a year, and only an 11% chance of major repairs—all signs that the Taurus is built to last.

Reliability does vary by model year. J.D. Power shows the 2010 Taurus scoring 84 out of 100, while the 2019 model scored 75. Years like 2013, 2015, and 2017 fall in the high 70s. Overall, the Taurus consistently performs well, especially when it’s well-maintained.

Resale value is another strong point. While sedans depreciate naturally, the Taurus generally holds value better than larger SUVs. Compared with something like the Ford Expedition, which can lose nearly 50% of its value in five years, the Taurus offers lower long-term costs and a more stable resale.

In short, the Ford Taurus is a dependable, practical sedan that combines reliability with reasonable ownership costs, making it a smart choice for long-term driving.

Top 8 Common Problems in Ford Taurus Models

The Ford Taurus has been a dependable full-size sedan for many years, but like any long-running model, certain issues have consistently appeared across multiple generations. Understanding these problems helps owners maintain reliability, avoid costly repairs, and improve safety on the road.

Cracked Windshields and Defective Wipers

Some Taurus owners, particularly of the 2014 redesign, reported windshields cracking under cold weather conditions. Defective wipers and malfunctioning multiswitches also caused lights or wipers to operate incorrectly, affecting visibility and safety.

Sealight Tip: If your wipers behave unpredictably or you notice windshield stress, have a certified mechanic inspect it promptly. Upgrading to Sealight LED headlights and exterior lights can enhance visibility and ensure reliable operation in adverse weather conditions.

Engine Issues

Engine concerns have been reported across multiple model years. The 2013 Taurus experienced engine stalls or temporary loss of acceleration due to faulty electronic throttle bodies. Older models from 1992–2011 frequently suffered from engine misfires caused by camshaft synchronizer assembly faults. Idle air bypass valve problems in 2001 and 2003 models could cause stalling or rough idling.

Typical Fixes:

Throttle body replacement: $200–$800 plus labor

Aftermarket camshaft synchronizer: $80–$160 plus labor

Gasket Leaks

Oil pan gasket leaks were common in 1990–2007, 2012, and 2014 models. Leaks can lead to oil seeping into the exhaust system, sometimes causing burning smells, rough idling, or even stalling.

Repair Cost: $15–$50 plus labor

Prompt gasket repairs prevent further engine damage and keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Transmission Failures and Long Crank Times

Transmission failure is most prevalent in 2003–2005 models, causing gear engagement issues and costly repairs. Long crank times were reported in 1995–2010 models, often linked to faulty camshaft position sensor magnets.

Repair Costs: Transmission repairs can run into thousands, while camshaft sensor replacements are less costly but critical for reliable operation.

White Smoke Emissions

Models from 1990–1994, 1997–1998, 2000, 2005, 2011, and 2013 were reported to emit white smoke from the exhaust due to blown head gaskets or cracked cylinder heads. Symptoms include frequent overheating and coolant top-ups.

Fixes:

Head gasket replacement: $100–$300

Cylinder head repair: $300–$600 plus labor

Prompt repairs prevent severe engine damage and maintain safe operation.

Water Pump Failures

Taurus models from 2011–2016, especially those with the 3.5L V6 engine, have been reported to experience water pump failures. The pump’s location inside the engine makes replacement labor-intensive and costly, with total repair costs potentially reaching $4,500.

Electrical and Fuel System Problems

The 2013 Taurus had reports of electrical system issues, including sudden loss of power steering assist, sometimes requiring a new power steering control module at around $2,700. A few 2019 models faced “crank but no start” problems, often tied to fuel pump failures, though these were less widespread.

Official Safety Recalls

Several Ford Taurus recalls highlight potential safety risks:

2011–2013: Electric power steering issues in ~423,000 vehicles could lead to sudden loss of power assist.

2013–2018: Rear suspension toe link fractures in over 211,000 vehicles, risking loss of control.

2013–2015: Faulty fuel pump control modules in 3.5L EcoBoost engines could cause engine stalls.

2017–2018: Ignition key could be removed when the transmission was not in park, increasing risk of unintended movement.

Owner Tip: Always check for recalls using your VIN on NHTSA or Ford websites. Recall repairs are typically free.

Real-World Ford Taurus Headlight & Fog Light Problems

We know a lot of Ford Taurus owners are frustrated with dim halogen headlights. Even premium bulbs like the SilverStar ZXE often don’t deliver the brightness drivers expect. On forums, some drivers even described night driving as unsafe, with high beams barely stronger than low beams.

Upgrading to HID or LED can help, but we’ve also seen cases where the extra current damaged connectors or caused flickering. Often, the real problem isn’t just the bulb—it’s corroded wiring, weak grounds, or worn relays cutting down voltage. Cleaning connections or re-grounding has solved dim light issues for many Taurus owners.

When it comes to LEDs, projector housings usually handle the upgrade better than reflectors. Done right, they offer brighter, longer-lasting light without the yellow tint of halogen. But the key is using quality parts and making sure your electrical system is ready for it.

At SEALIGHT, we know the smartest headlight upgrades start with the basics—clear lenses, solid wiring, and proper aiming. Once that foundation is set, upgrading to a Ford Taurus LED headlight bulb makes all the difference. SEALIGHT bulbs feature a true 1:1 halogen design for a precise beam pattern, CANBUS-ready technology to prevent flicker or error codes, and long-lasting performance that halogen simply can’t match. For Ford Taurus owners tired of dim, yellow headlights, SEALIGHT LEDs deliver the clarity and confidence you’ve been missing.

Final Words

The Ford Taurus remains a solid choice for buyers seeking a dependable full-size sedan. By understanding common problems, avoiding problematic years (2002, 2003, 2005), and proactively upgrading key systems like lighting, you can keep your Taurus running safely for years to come.

Don’t compromise on visibility or safety. Explore Sealight LED lighting upgrades today and ensure your Taurus delivers reliable performance in every drive.