How reliable are Ford Taurus with high miles (100k+)?

Asked by Hgbc Jul 05, 2009 at 03:43 PM about the Ford Taurus

Question type: General

Does it also make a difference if it is a 2001 or a 2006 with same high mileage?

70 Answers

505

HI!. My uncle just given me his '95 taurus. It has 171,000 miles and it still runs good. i say it is pretty reliable. And it does make a dfference if a 2001 or a 2006 has the same high mileage, out of the 2, the 2001 is more reliable because the miles wasn't put on the vehicle as fast as the 2006 vehicle.

38 people found this helpful.
955

It all depends on the year, and the engine. Stay away from the 3.8. Transmissions usually have problems around 130,000 if not properly maintianed. Other than the tranny and the 3.8 you should be good. I've owned 4 of them, and have been happy with all of them

49 people found this helpful.
525

My 1995 w/ a 3.0 l has over 280,000 km and still running well. just replaced oil pan, only engine work done.

38 people found this helpful.
815

I am sure the year has some effect simply because the enginge design may have changed, but I can say that my Taurus has 131k on the Vulcan 3.0L and runs well. Granted, I've only put 4000 miles on the vehicle thus far since I've purchased it, but there are no signs of problems that I am aware of. Before I bought the vehicle I read up on a number of reviews too and many of them said that the Vulcan 3.0L, while somewhat underpowered, is a very reliable engine. From what I've heard, the Duratec DOHC 3.0L is less durbale, and I'd say as a general rule, the smaller the engine is, and the simpler design, the more reliable it will be.

30 people found this helpful.
9,405

Most cars usually have major services done around 100 to 120k. Buying a car with over 100k is not always bad idea. Buying a car with 80 or 90k might mean that you will need to have these services (suspension parts, ball joints, tie rods, engine mounts, sway bar links, water pumps, ect) performed around 120k. Where as a car that has already been fully serviced at 120, will save you money in the long run. If you have found a taurus with over 100k, ask for service records and be sure the fluids, especially the transmission fluid have been changed regularly. If you have found a high milage car that has been kept up on its service, I would trust that it would be a good purchase. My 1996 Taurus has 170k. It has not been well cared for and has seen better days, but with that being said it has still been a great car. I have spent less than $700 in repairs in the past 9 years on this vehicle. The transmission is starting to slip and it is on its original fluid from 1996. I feel that if the car had been better serviced it would last an easy 20 years.

41 people found this helpful.
815

Update.. I think the timing chain cover gasket is going bad on my car. After further research, it appears this is fairly common. Keep an eye out for coolant leaks as a result... youll possibly see some in the area beneath the alternator. Also, if you smell coolant upon startup it is a good sign there is a leak because it appears to drip down onto the manifold, which after heating up burns the coolant, thus producing the smell.

36 people found this helpful.
9,405

Another place to keep an eye out for coolant leaks is the coolant reservoir itself. The cooling system on these cars a pressurized system. The tank is made of plastic, and with age can develope hairlines cracks that leak when the car has been running.

35 people found this helpful.
140

i have 2006/2007 taurus runs show room new have replaced alternator, battery has 110 k bosch patium 2 plugs every 50 k installed new coil, and crank sensor because of mileage, no suspension problems. replaced surp belt. trany fulid and filter change every 30 k. no coolant leaks. use valveoline 10 w 30 w/ filter filled up before install.very dependable car.

14 people found this helpful.
575

my 2004 Taurus has 243,000 miles on it runs like butter on a hot pan, i hav to disagree with the other comments of a new car having the same miles as an older car what it comes down to is the care of the car if used how well the person before u cared for it, cause even if its 2 or 10 years older in the model line an the same miles that older car could hav been sitting for a while rusting wear items where as the newer one is still fresh out the gate an ready to run i got my ford around 70,000 miles an for the first two years to work an back not far, my grand mother had gotten sick and for 7 months i drove 6+ hours back an forth to see an care for her every day till r.i.p. she left us throws 7 months i tripled what i drove in 2 years an now that its back to just work it still drives the same i kept on that car with caring for the wear items like tires, ball joins, struts, front bumper, paint ectect.... because i keep on throws lil things it never reached the motor and the motor IS the most important part of any car an yes i hav the smaller 3.0L

31 people found this helpful.
260

hey guys I have 1996 Ford Taurus with 280,000 miles on it. runs like a dream, and have never had any problems. not going to lie its been to the shop once or twice. but only for ac work and nothing big at all. Over the years I have owned this car I have put about 200 dollars into actual repairs that werent just things that naturally go bad. but overall, yep she is rusty. but she is still my baby and we still get to have some fun on the dirt roads every now and then. love this car and because it treats me good. ps very comfy.

26 people found this helpful.
170

We have a 2001 Ford Taurus with 212,000 miles on it. 24 valve DOHC engine, new intake manifold at around 110,000, but only because I was foolish enough to run it still to get home when it was overheating due to a coolant leak. These engines are very unforgiving of an overheat situation. But I love it. Lots of power and torque when I want it, and rides smooth as silk. Factory transmission still, no maintenance (it's sealed anyway). Rear coil springs replaced around 100,000 (too much weight in the trunk for too long, my fault again). Starter replaced about 190,000 miles. Harmonic balancer replaced around 160,000 miles. Almost no rust, except around rear left wheel well. Other routine maintenance, tie rods, alignment, etc. I just love this car, but I will probably trade it in soon, 212,000 miles is pushing it, we'll see when we get it inspected in Nov. YES! I would buy another, and then another...

17 people found this helpful.
1,215

http://apps.facebook.com/cgchallenge/autoclub/ viewTopic.action? autoClub=1812&discussion=ds527426&view=CLUB&sntEmlId=18 575129&from=email_notification&pid=autoclubs_daily_email_dige st I hope this link works. I wrote a LOT in this other thread on the same topic. If not, search Typical Car Problems in the Taurus section here.

3 people found this helpful.
120

In my opinion, not really. We own three of them and love em all. Mine has 228,000 miles on it. I can't lie, it has had a number of repairs. But not much since I did a valve job at 175,000 miles and that was partly my fault. I let it idle alot. I travel alot with job so it gets(got) a number of stops for naps with engine idling when it was cold. My fault entirely on that one. NOw mechanic thinks fuel pump is going bad but not sure enough to change it yet. Overall, it has been good. Runs great and I've put a ton of miles on it since I bought it. Don't think previous owner took as good care as he should have. At 80,000 it's harder to back pedal. Still love it. I'm going to miss it when it has to go. My blog http://haunted505.blogspot.com

12 people found this helpful.
535

I am buying a, '02 Ford Taurus w/220k mi. for $1600.oo there are hair- line cracks in the radiator reserve tank, the driver's side door-window will not roll down, the brakes need to be changed, rust(go figure) around the driver's side door/passenger door, and pulls slightly to the right...I am getting the carfax in an hour, was told that its all highway miles, how long should I expect the car to last with proper care??? pls answer with "1313" or "1971" Thank you!!!!

53 people found this helpful.
1,015

I Have a question: We are buying a 2001 Taurus SDS 64K miles for $2500.00 No Rust feels solid, new tires, but has sat for 2 years.. Any hidden things I should look for?

101 people found this helpful.
30

My brother had one 97 that had over 305K when he sold it, the girl totalled it 8 months later but still running smooth. he changed the trans around 150K. HIs current 03 has 270K and runs smooth as day 1. My 98 wagon has 221K and still runs great, all original engine and trans.

3 people found this helpful.
170

I got a 01 tarsus with 341000 miles and stil lrunning strong. I travel approx. 110 mile a day to get to work and back home.At 300000 I had the front end and rear struts replaced.

17 people found this helpful.
120

Don't buy this car! There are a lot of problems: tensioner after 130k, water pump, fuel pump, transmission, EGR, ignition coil and PATS!!! I have NEVER heard from REAL persons, that Taurus (2001 and above) runs great after 150k! Older years, probably yes. Probably!

12 people found this helpful.
160

I have on o6 with 296816. Water pump and alternator my third used Taurus and one happy camper

16 people found this helpful.
180

I own a 06 ford Taurus love it its been one of my best car I ever owned

18 people found this helpful.
40

2001 wagon, base engine, BEST CAR I HAVE EVER OWNED! 370 thousand kilometres, and I still can't hear it run.

4 people found this helpful.
40

I have a 2001 Taurus SES 3.0 OHV with 215,750. New head, head gasket, valves, lifters, radiator tank, coolant reservoir, front and rear coil springs and struts, many sensors, front crash sensor, heater core, plugs and wires, water pump and alternator. Will drive it tell it drops but may get a newer car and use the Taurus just for commuting to work.

4 people found this helpful.
40

Had a 1997 that I drove into the ground! When I traded it, it had 265,000 on it. One of the best cars I ever owned! Made sure to keep up w/ oil changes and maintenance and it ran like a charm. Never had a lick of trouble with it!

4 people found this helpful.
165

I am very happy with my 3.8 ford Taurus, just bought the vehicle with one hundred forty-one miles. I have put new oil changed spark plugs flushed the radiated new thermostats an have put one thousand miles on it works good, I like my ford Taurus.

10 people found this helpful.
165

I am very happy with my 3.8 ford Taurus, just bought the vehicle with one hundred forty-one miles. I have put new oil changed spark plugs flushed the radiated new thermostats an have put one thousand miles on it works good, I like my ford Taurus.

2 people found this helpful.
165

Right now I am currently working on my air conditioner system, every thing works good just have to repair my system leak.

3 people found this helpful.

I have a 2007 Ford taurus sel with 328,000 miles, runs like its brand new. It has a very small oil leak that is coming from the oil pan gasket which is common ($18 fix) but runs like a charm!

11 people found this helpful.
190

I have a 95 Taurus sedan with 237000 miles on it. She runs great but there's no ac and there is a fair amount of rust. I'm not retiring her but found a 2004 Taurus (24 valve) with 110,000 miles for 4500 dollars. Seems like a good deal but the transmission has ever been replaced. Does anyone know how long this car (on average) transmission will usually last? Thank you!

19 people found this helpful.
80

We have a 1997 Taurus with the 3.0 duratech engine, no smoke or drips, we bought it from a friend who bought it new and maintained it like crazy and we have kept it up. Still has the original red paint with no scratches or dents. We have a new Maxima that we hardly ever drive because our workhorse is the Taurus. keep up the maintenance and who knows how long they will last

5 people found this helpful.
80

by the way we have 123457 miles on our 97 taurus

2 people found this helpful.
120

U know thats great u all, but heres the problem, most of u who r answering r not specifying what 3.0 u have (the 24 valve dohc duratec engine, or the 12 valve vulcan engine,) so people are confused when trying to determine which engine has all these miles. There are people that come on here (like me) wanting to know how many miles their engine should expect to go (in my case the 24 valve duratec 3.0) and we are looking for owners that can answer that, best source to go to.) I bought another one a month ago (owned a 2002 with the 24 valve dohc that i bought at 123,000 & sold at 140,000 and never had any trouble out of it, it was an sel.) Now i bought a 2000 thats identical with the 24 valve dohc, but it has 185,000 on it, the tranny went in 100 miles of buying it and now im regretting buying it, now im just wondering about the engine since the tranny went (is 185,000 miles too high and is the engine going to go soon too?) So when u people are answering these questions for others please be specific as to what engine u have in your taurus, is it a 24 valve 3.0 v6 duratec engine, or a 12 valve 3.0 v6 vulcan engine?) We want to know how many miles are on your car (taurus) with what engine. Im hoping to see at least some 300,000 mile 24 valve 3.0 v6 duratec engines that are still purring like a kitten and still running strong without any major repairs. How is it that there are so many of these but hardly anything on the internet about them at all, especially mileage and how far theyve gone if there so wonderful?

12 people found this helpful.
110

I posted on Here maybe 6 months ago, I now have 341k miles, its the Vulcan 3.0 12 valve, as long as the previous owner took care of it is the only possible way of knowing. I change transmission fluid and oil at the correct milage stated in the manual, I also ALWAYS use what it recommends, I don't go off of what people say 'will work in it' I even use the gas station it recommends "BP". It still shifts and runs smoothly.

7 people found this helpful.
110

Sorry, my comment was 9 months ago. It is also a year 2007, maybe that's what to look for a newer year.

1 people found this helpful.
30

I have have 03 Taurus wagon w/127000k. Runs like a dream bought new always maintained .Take care of automobile it will take care of you.No major repairs outside of regular maintenance.Vulcan 12v engine

3 people found this helpful.
120

My 1995 Ford Taurus wagon has 256,000 miles and still runs great. I have had to change the radiator, but transmission and engine have always run smooth and never changed. I am ready to put another radiator in because for some reason, the first one expired at 166,000 and now this one, 90,000 miles and 10 years later...oh well. Not too bad for a 21 year old car.

3 people found this helpful.
30

I have a '99 Taurus, Duratec 3.0l DOHC. Been driving it for about five years, 70 miles per day, to and from work, over 100000 miles since I bought it. Replaced water pump and serpentine belt about a two years ago. Other than that, no problems. Best car I've ever owned. By the way, it has 249000 miles on it now. I expect it to go another 249000. I service transmission every 60K and use synthetic blend motor oil.

3 people found this helpful.
85

My 04 Taurus is over 300k mile now and still running good. Only changed starter, alternator and ABS control module and all done by DIY. The starter and alternator are very easy to change. I spoke to an autozone guy the other day and I was told his taurus reached 500k miles.

6 people found this helpful.
30

I pretty sure most if not all with 200.000 miles or more are the 12 valve sohv . I'm putting a large trans cooler on mine after l do a trans flush and run Mobile 1 synthetic flush the radiator and just run green antifreeze because the Orange shit ford has just gums up your radiator. Just make sure you get all old out first. Drain, fill with water, run 2-3 min's, repeat 3 times

3 people found this helpful.
40

taking care of I'm a mechanic and working on cars for 20 years and I wouldn't own a Ford.I've done multiple engines heads and lots of Transmissions I'm working on one today that has an engine problem and I just did a transmission in a 06 last week

4 people found this helpful.
120

Well, I have no other choice due to my physical disabilities than to own my 20 year old car with 257,000 miles with original engine and transmission. I have changed the radiator twice, but have few complaints. My '95 Taurus must have a miracle engine then.

2 people found this helpful.
50

My 2004 sedan 3.0L DOHC engine 165k miles has been extremely reliable. Purchased used in w/ 20k miles in 2006 as a former fleet car from Phoenix, Az. Oil pan gasket at 130k - minor. Faulty starter ring gear at 25k - dealer warranty - cost $0. New struts and springs at 150k - typical. Taurus rear coil springs fatigue and sag. First rear brake job at 100k mi. Yes, the DOHC engines are more work to change the rear cylinder bank spark plugs, however with a 60k service life (if one uses the recommended Platinum plugs) its not a meaningful concern. The DOHC offers the same mileage but 30 additional HP and torque. The Duratec engine was designed by Porsche. Ford continued to use the Duratec in the Fusion until 2012, rated up to 265HP. Then replaced with Eco-Boost engines. I have used Amsoil full synthetic in the engine and transmission since day one. Car gets 30mpgs highway due to reduced engine friction and better cylinder sealing. Synthetic oil can withstand a lot more heat and has a much better detergent package than non-synthetic. Also Amsoil filters are superior to all others. The Amsoil full syn ATF is good for up to 90k miles, would depend if you perform a full 14qt replacement or simply drop the trans pan and change 7qt and renew by dilution. My trans has had zero trouble and minimal sediment in the trans pan. Note, I do not tow nor am I farmer - considered severe service. (Turbo charging is also considered severe service). I have the engine oil analyzed and go 1 year on engine oil changes. So I do know without doubt Amsoil can go 1 year or 25k on an oil change. I used the Amsoil in a 1999 Sable 3.0L DOHC, sold at 155k ran like a top and also got 28-30mpgs. Mobil 1 full synthetic would be a good 2nd choice. Toyota uses Mobil 1 in their dealer services with 10k service interval. My neighbor's 2011 Fiesta 1.6L 5-spd, DI 40k miles has improved from 35mpg to 39-40mpg after switching to Amsoil. In the last 10k miles she has saved 3 oil changes and 12L of oil going to recycling. Note it requires 3-5k miles for Amsoil or Mobil 1 to remove the carbon built-up on the rings before one begins to see mileage improvements. I've used Amsoil in Honda Civics, Toyota RAV 4, '68 Chrysler Newport, '69 Dodge Charger 383 Magnum - countess other cars. Never a problem. Top alcohol and nitro funny car drag racer, at Woodburn raceway in Portland, Or. use Amsoil 60 wt, no other oil can withstand the punishment. I am not an Amsoil dealer. Failing to use Amsoil or Mobil 1 is just ignorant. The Germans were using full synthetic engine and gear oils in the 1930s, so synthetic are not new. Regards.

5 people found this helpful.
90

I have a 2006 Taurus 3.0 Vulcan 280,000 miles I avg 30 mph highway I love this car and I"m going for 400,000 miles

7 people found this helpful.

i have 2015 ford taurus with 172853 KM and its still good no issue at all and am using it in extremely hot area in middle east

30

I got a 2003 Taurus Wagon SE for $600 with 176k on it, runs like new, has a bad strut or something in the front right, every big bump results in a rattle/knock. Replaced its spidered windshield, Leaks bad (gone through 4 quarts since I got it) one of the cigarette lighters stopped working, but I still got 1 under it. With the 3.0 Duratec engine I can still keep up with or pass most small sedans from a dead stop, just gotta get the rpm past 3.5 grand. (don't drive like I do) In a week or two I am going to change the fluids on it. Tranny, engine, and power steering (its dirty) and find where that darn oil leak is coming from!! I slid into a ditch, got wedged next to a tree, and after this incident I lost power to all of the windows. :( (gotta check wiring) To clarify the fluids, Mercon V is the updated and refined version of Mercon, everything that uses Mercon can now use Mercon V, everywhere I have looked says the same thing. However you cannot put Mercon into a Mercon V system. So for both power steering and transmission for both the 3.0 Vulcan and 3.0 Duratec you can use Mercon V. Also, if you still have the stock retractable radio antenna, treat it like you would a child, because the previous owner broke it, and took it out. Its hard to find.

3 people found this helpful.
40

I have a Ford Taurus 2001 with 273k miles (3.0L V6 Engine). Still running like new. I have so much confidence in it, that I would drive it across the country and back without fear of it breaking down.

4 people found this helpful.

I have a 1996 Taurus wagon that has had the transmission out on it (except for 1st and reverse) for the last 4 years. I also had a 1991 Taurus wagon. Both trannies went out at around 120,000. The cost to rebuild the transmission is $2000-$2500 - far more than the car is technically worth. Any salvage transmission, if findable, would have the same # of miles. I have driven it sporadically in my hometown to haul items from my late mother-in-law's house to storage and to haul the lawn mower. So, I'm between a rock and a hard place. Im going to see where I am at financially after taxes this year.

10

We have an '04 Wagon. The only recurring issue has been the darn coils. Of course each occurrence is a different coil! For those unfamiliar, I believe there are six coils. The front three are easily accessible, but my mechanic told me that if you end up having just one of the back ones go out, best to replace all three at once.

1 people found this helpful.

Update: I used to have a 2001 Taurus. I traded it in at almost 250k because the power seat went out. Looking back, foolish. I was ready to trade. Wasnt worth what I got. I got a 2008 chevy impala and while I loved that car to death, it had problems from day one with only 19k. I drove it cross country twice. Never fixed issues. Had loan. The coolant leaked, it used oil and the windows had issues from day one. At 72k the transmission starting going out. Later wrecked it(not bad but previous deer hit made it a total loss, that I never fixed). I had a number of problems with my taurus but only once did it strand me on the side of the road. The ac compressor seized. My last trip was over 500 miles away. The taurus had 232k. Never feared it would break down. I have 2 more. One with 101k(2006), the other with 134k(2002) but currently driving my focus. Gas mileage in my 2006 isn't that great. It's better in the 2002 and the 2001 got really good gas mileage. MY taurus's are/were all vulcan engines. There aren't too many dohc duratec's. I haven't seen many anyway. THe Ford Focus 2005-2011 have duratec. Don't know if that's a reliable comparison but never any problems with mine.Overall, I have no complaints with Taurus. My mechanic said he thought the chevy was better than Ford. I don't know. He said corolla was best which I'm sure it is. There are many places where you can find older taurus's(vulcan engines) without a boatload of miles. I've seen several(no rust) with under 150k for about 2500. KNowing what I know now I wouldn't have a problem with buying one with higher mileage. Of course knowing how it was maintained is good. I changed all of my fluids every 45k. Now Ford recommends 60k. I'm still going to follow that schedule on my taurus's. In my 01 with 250k I never had to replace the transmission, alternator, water pump, any suspension components except struts, brakes at 175k. Did do valve job at 175k. AC compressor at 98k. THe rest was just normal stuff that wear out with age. Whoever got the car drove it another 3-4 yrs after I traded. Don't know how many miles it had. My goal was to drive to 300k but it just wasn't a viable road car at 250k. It drove fine. JUst needed something with lower miles. But I absolutely loved that car. Hated to see it go and every time I see a white one I miss the one I had. Anyway, I put a 170k on the car. Bought it with 80k, 6 yrs old and cost me 6000 dollars. With warranties(had more than 1, they were willing to had a 3rd at 228k I said no), repairs, maintenance I had about 14k in the car. If I'd bought a brand new one I'd had more in it with loan interest. I just hope to get as much from the rest of my Ford's.

815

I occasionally flip cars and when I do its a Taurus. why because they are reliable and don't have to worry about them coming back with any major issues. most of them have miles over 100k . with that said the Vulcan motor is my choice for these cars due to the fact I believe the duratec engines overpower the transmissions in the similar model which leads to transmission failure. so if you are looking for a cheap comfortable ride Taurus with a Vulcan is the way to go.

6 people found this helpful.
110

Update: 343k on odometer before message center light burnt out two months ago. I calculate it has 346k+ now still running strong.

3 people found this helpful.
60

I drive a 2010 Taurus SE... I'm almost at 300k miles ... It's a hell of a car if you take care of it (regular oil + transmission fluid changes)

6 people found this helpful.
30

My 2004 Taurus SES Duratec has 284,000 miles on it as of today. I purchased it many years ago with 104,000 miles. I should have traded the care with 220,000. That is when it really started costing money. At about 226k the catalytic converters went bad. $2,600 to replace. Thinks went pretty will until I hit just over 280k. That is when the transmission went south. Another $2,600 spent, followed that two weeks later with a $1,600 A/C replacement. I've kept the oil changed with Amsoil every 10,000 miles and the engine still seems really strong with minimal oil consumption. I still really like the car and want to take it to 300,000 miles. Looking back though, I would have been wise to turn loose of it at 200,000 miles.

3 people found this helpful.
20

01 to 06 are prone to a particular tranny issue. It's not REALLY the tranny...its the torque converter which strips and won't run the tranny fluid pump. Good u tube vids on the subject.

2 people found this helpful.
10

Im looking to buy a 2010 ford taurus sel it has 12700 thousand miles one owner car they want 7600 dollars do u think thats a good and what about the mileage

1 people found this helpful.
70

I have a 2013 Ford Taurus Limited with 112K miles, I bought it when it was a year old with 28K on it, Enterprise rental car, most of the used Taurus's were rentals, very reliable car. Key is transmission, engine, and coolant changes.

2 people found this helpful.
10

I have the 1997 model ford taurus lx flor shift. Since 2004 I have very comfortable vehicle. I've had some problems since I gasped. It's mostly due to the wrong construction of the engine. Now the engine is good, but I have changed the valve body twice to have automatic glans 3 and 4 videst problem. but the same problem is happening. There is no fault sign on the fault device. I do not know where it originated. Can you help me. 2018 mithatbakoglu@gmail.com

1 people found this helpful.
50

I have a 2004 Taurus SES with 351,500 miles on it as of today (05/14/18). I bought it used in 2005 when it only had 19K miles on it. I am the second owner. If properly maintained, you can easily get 500K miles out of them, if not more. Of course, you have to be willing to do preventive maintenance. Transmission, CV axles, and all 4 wheel hub assemblies replaced at 300K miles. All front and rear suspension components replaced twice: once at 200K miles and at 340K miles. Mobil 1, 10W-40 Synthetic ONLY, with oil changes every 8K miles. 5 alternators, 5 batteries, 3 water pumps, OEM fuel injectors at 310K miles, and new front and rear catalytic converters at 345K miles. Still get 29 MPG at 70 MPH on highway. Plenty of horsepower, rings are tight, valves are good. Just put new molded carpet with mass backing in interior and got some new door panels off a 2007 Taurus at a salvage yard. Interior looks brand new and car rides like brand new and is quiet as a church inside while driving. I'm in sales and I drive an average of 3,000 miles per month. LOVE THIS CAR!

5 people found this helpful.
50

To answer BigTuna35's question. I have the 12 valve OHV, Flex Fuel engine, VIN: 2. I also might add the car has the original engine, heads, timing chain, power steering pump, rack, oil pump, and fuel pump. Keeping your engine compartment clean is imperative too, as heat is an engine's worst enemy. This is mine. Pic take last week 05/05/18. I have no doubt 500K miles is easily achievable. I have done other things to the car (starter, brakes/rotors/drums several times, etc.) in addition to what was stated above. If you annualized my maintenance and repair costs for this vehicle since it was paid off in 2009, it costs me roughly $75/month to operate, or about $900 a year. Can't beat that with a stick. I'll get in it tomorrow and drive to Barrow, Alaska, and make it. Oh, I also have a full size spare. Dump the donut if you have one and get a full size spare. You can get a rim at any salvage yard for $25 and a used tire. It fits perfectly in the trunk pushed up against the back of the seats with room enough to spare for a tool box on the side, leaving the front portion of the trunk open for groceries, etc. I also want to add that I run P225/60R16 tires, which is the largest/widest tire you can put on a Gen 4 Taurus. Stock is P215. I get a much smoother ride and far superior handling with the P225's, plus they make the car look great from the front or rear.

Hey Walter, how do you keep your engine clean? I'm running sea foam through the tank, but what do you suggest?

70

Sea foam is not necessary IMO, gasoline has enough detergents to prevent gunk in the tank, depending on how hold your Taurus is, you may have an inline fuel filter that should be changed every 50K or so. Cleaning engine must be done with care, do not high pressure spray, especially on electronic components and wire harnesses. I use an organic cleaner citris based spray on and hose gently off, and immediately start car and dry off.

1998 Taurus SE 24 Valve DOHC Duratec 3.0........odometer 278,500 runs strong (had car 17 years now), doesn't smoke, never been into motor period, all OEM, uses oil some oil because all the seals on the motor leak, several batteries, couple alternators, had to put new blades inside water pump when it starting heating up a few years back and I figured out that was what had happened and immediately fixed. BEST motor I've ever seen by far!!

My overdrive stopped working properly and my mechanic says it needs a new transmission. Yet, the car shifts fine in Drive. I just cannot drive over 50 mph as it puts strain on the engine. Mine has 265,000 miles...runs better than a new car, but cannot figure out the Overdrive problem. When it goes over 40 mph, the overdrive shifts to a lower gear. Help?

20

I have a 2004 Taurus SEL wagon 24V. Currently at 416,000 miles. Bought from original owner at 140,000. In sales and drive 200 to 250 miles 5 days a week. Use 10W30 Synthetic blend and one quart Lucas Oil Stabilizer at every oil change. (5000 miles). All original engine and trans with no major issues. Trans gets service every 100,000. Coolant also. Just replaced the alternator. I drive like a granny and it loves it. Oil has been analyzed at 300 and 390, shows almost no issues. This is 3rd Taurus , other two went at least 180,000 with no major issues. 1st one was a 1988 Taurus wagon 5 speed manual. These are great vehicles for someone who takes care of them. Just had valve covers done and I am shooting for 500,000. This is one car if you take care or it, it takes care of you.

2 people found this helpful.
50

I have a 1995 Ford Taurus GL 3.0L and it has 56k on it. I just got it from my grandmother who recently decided to stop driving. She only drove it 12k miles in the last 20 years. The car needs a new mass air flow sensor, muffler and there is an issue with the fuel pressure. It is currently in the shop. Once those things are fixed I hope to drive it for the rest of my life. I’ve recently been considering driving it across the country. Would that be a bad idea? I just think the car should hit the open road like it never has before. Glad to see so many positive experiences on here!

5 people found this helpful.
30

Alexander, if you read this please email me on universum2001@hotmail.com i got the same 95 in white. I live in europe. Lets share some Taurus Photos and info. Excelent cars!!!

2 people found this helpful.

I'm considering the purchase of a 2000 Taurus with 100K miles on it. My mechanic says it is in great shape. One owner. Buying it for my 20 year old daughter. Price is $2500. Should I do it?

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