Ford Taurus Best and Worst Years (The Complete Guide)

Choosing the perfect year model can be a mind-boggling task when buying a used Ford Taurus. With some years known for superior performance and reliability, and others notorious for frequent issues, making an informed decision is paramount.

This guide will provide you with the upsides and downsides of each model year to ensure that your choice complements your driving needs perfectly. Ready to embark on this journey? Let’s roll!

Key Takeaways

• The best years for the Ford Taurus include 2017, 2018, 2015, 2016, 2012 and 2019. These model years of the Taurus are known for their reliability, performance, and safety features.
• The worst years for the Ford Taurus are considered to be 2003, 2005, and 2002 due to various engine and maintenance issues. These model years have had numerous complaints and recalls.
• Common Ford Taurus problems include faulty wipers and cracked windshields, gasket leaks, engine issues, and problems with headlights. It’s important to address these issues promptly to ensure a better driving experience.

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Best Years For Ford Taurus

The Ford Taurus has the list of the best years and the following models  include the 2017, 2019, 2018, 2015, 2016, and 2012.

2017

The 2017 Ford Taurus also stands out in the lineup of outstanding model years for one stellar reason – reliability. This model year has proven to be a solid workhorse, backed by positive reviews and minimal complaints from Taurus owners.

It strikes a perfect balance between modern features and trusted performance making it a favorite among best car enthusiasts. Its powerful engine ensures smooth rides on highways as well as city roads, while still delivering impressive fuel efficiency.

The safety ratings of the 2017 Taurus add an extra layer of assurance with thoughtful design enhancements ensuring safe journeys every time you hit the road.

2019

The 2019 Ford Taurus is widely regarded as one of the best years for this iconic Taurus sedan. With its sleek design, powerful engine options, and comfortable interior, the 2019 Taurus offers a truly enjoyable driving experience.

It received high marks for its refined handling and smooth ride quality, making it perfect for daily commuting or long road trips.

In terms of safety features, the 2019 Taurus comes equipped with advanced technology like blind-spot monitoring, rearview camera, and adaptive cruise control to help keep you safe on the road.

It also boasts a spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers.

Furthermore, the reliability of the 2019 Ford Taurus has been well-regarded by car enthusiasts. While no car is completely immune to issues, this model year has shown great dependability overall.

This makes it an attractive option for those looking to buy a used Ford Taurus without worrying too much about potential Ford Taurus problems.

2018

In 2018, the Ford Taurus years continued to prove itself as a Taurus is a reliable and well-performing sedan. With its sleek design and comfortable interior, the 2018 model year received positive reviews from car enthusiasts.

The Taurus showcased impressive safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and rearview cameras, making it an ideal choice for families looking for peace of mind on the road. In terms of fuel efficiency, this year’s model offered decent mileage, ensuring that drivers could enjoy their journeys without constantly worrying about gas consumption.

Overall, the 2018 Ford Taurus stood out as a solid option in terms of reliability and performance. It’s no wonder why many car lovers consider it one of the best years for the Ford Taurus lineup.

2015

The 2015 Ford Taurus is considered one of the best years for this iconic sedan. Known for its sleek design and reliable performance, the 2015 model combines style with practicality. It comes equipped with a powerful engine that offers a smooth and responsive driving experience.

The interior boasts comfortable seating and ample legroom, making it ideal for long drives or daily commutes. In terms of safety, the 2015 Taurus received top ratings from various agencies, ensuring peace of mind on the road.

With its impressive reliability rating and fuel efficiency, the 2015 Ford Taurus is a great choice for car enthusiasts looking for a dependable and enjoyable ride without breaking the bank.

2016

The 2016 Ford Taurus is one of the best years for this popular sedan. Known for its reliability and performance, the 2016 model offers a comfortable ride and a spacious interior. It also boasts impressive technology features, including an intuitive infotainment system with voice recognition and smartphone integration.

In terms of safety, the 2016 Taurus received high marks, with advanced features such as blind-spot monitoring and rearview camera. With its powerful engine options and smooth handling, the 2016 Ford Taurus delivers a satisfying driving experience that car enthusiasts will appreciate.

If you’re in the market for a used Ford Taurus, consider checking out the highly regarded 2016 model year for its exceptional value and overall quality.

2012

The 2012 Ford Taurus is a sedan that often regarded as one of the best years for this iconic sedan. With its sleek design and powerful performance, it quickly gained popularity among car enthusiasts. The 2012 Taurus boasted a spacious interior with comfortable seating for five people, making it an ideal choice for families or those who value ample legroom.

Additionally, this model year received high marks for its smooth handling and responsive steering, providing a confident driving experience. While some earlier Taurus models had their fair share of issues, the 2012 version proved to be reliable and dependable.

It showcased improvements in fuel efficiency compared to older models, offering decent gas mileage without compromising on power.

Worst Years For Ford Taurus

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The worst model years for the Ford Taurus include 2003, 2005, and 2002 due to various engine and maintenance issues.

2003

The year 2003 Ford Taurus is widely regarded as one of the worst for the Ford Taurus. It was plagued with numerous issues, notably suspension issues and engine problems that left many owners frustrated and seeking repairs. This model year had a high number of complaints and recalls, causing headaches for those who owned or were considering purchasing a Ford Taurus from this particular year.

In terms of reliability and overall performance, the 2003 Ford Taurus falls short compared to other model years. If you’re in the market for a used Ford Taurus, it’s best to steer clear of the 2003 Taurus version and opt for one from a different year that offers better reliability and fewer potential problems.

2005

In terms of the Ford Taurus, one year that didn’t quite live up to expectations was 2005. This particular model year had its fair share of issues that left car lovers feeling less than satisfied.

Engine problems and reliability concerns were among the top complaints during this time period. While some may argue that there were worse years for the Taurus, the 2005 Ford Taurus still stands out as a disappointment in terms of overall performance and dependability.

It’s important for potential buyers to keep this in mind when considering a used Ford Taurus from this particular year.

2002

The year 2002 wasn’t a great one for the Ford Taurus. It’s considered one of the problematic model years to buy this car due to its numerous issues and complaints from owners. Many reported problems with faulty engines, transmission failures, and electrical malfunctions.

These issues led to frequent breakdowns and costly repairs, making it a frustrating choice for car enthusiasts. If you’re considering buying a used Ford Taurus, it’s best to steer clear of the 2002 model year and opt for more reliable options like those produced after 2012 or even earlier years like 2015 or 2019 that have received positive reviews from both critics and drivers alike.

2001

The Ford Taurus model year 2001 is not one of the best options when it comes to this popular car. Although there are no major recalls specific to this year, owners have reported various issues that make it less desirable.

Some common problems include faulty wipers and cracked windshields, gasket leaks, engine issues, and headlights that stop working unexpectedly. These reliability concerns can be a headache for car owners looking for a dependable vehicle.

So if you’re considering purchasing a used Ford Taurus, it’s generally advised to steer clear of the 2001 Ford Taurus model year.

2004

In 2004, the Ford Taurus had a few issues that car lovers should be aware of. This model year is known for experiencing problems with faulty wipers and cracked windshields, which can be quite frustrating.

Additionally, some owners reported gasket leaks, leading to potential engine issues. Headlights were also a common complaint among Taurus drivers during this year. While it may not be the worst year for the Taurus, it’s important to keep these common problems in mind if you’re considering purchasing a used 2004 Ford Taurus.

2000

The year 2000 was not one of the best for the Ford Taurus. It had its fair share of issues and complaints from car owners. Some common problems reported with the 2000 Taurus include faulty wipers and cracked windshields, gasket leaks, engine issues, and problems with headlights.

These issues can be frustrating to deal with and may require expensive repairs. While there are certainly worse years for the Taurus, if you’re considering a used model, it’s advisable to look beyond the 2000 version and explore more reliable alternatives from other years.

Key points:

– The year 2000 had its fair share of issues for the Ford Taurus.

– Common problems include faulty wipers and cracked windshields, gasket leaks, engine issues, and problems with headlights.

Common Problems With Ford Taurus

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Some common problems with the Ford Taurus include faulty wipers and cracked windshields, gasket leaks, engine issues, and problems with headlights. Read on to find out more about these commonly reported issues and how they can affect your Ford Taurus.

Faulty Wipers And Cracked Windshields

The Ford Taurus, like any other vehicle, has its fair share of common problems that car lovers should be aware of. One issue that some owners have reported is faulty wipers and cracked windshields.

This can be frustrating as it affects visibility during rainy or snowy weather conditions. It’s important to note that this problem seems to be more prevalent in certain model years, such as 2002, 2003, and 2005, which are considered the worst years for the Taurus.

However, it’s worth mentioning that these issues are not universal across all Taurus models and can vary depending on the specific car’s maintenance history and overall condition. Being proactive with regular windshield wiper replacements and addressing any cracks in the windshield early on can help minimize these concerns for a better driving experience overall.

Gasket Leaks

Gasket leaks can be a common issue with certain Ford Taurus models. These leaks occur when the gaskets, which are responsible for creating a tight seal between engine components, become damaged or worn over time.

This can lead to oil or coolant leaks, causing potential engine damage if not addressed promptly. While this problem is not exclusive to the Ford Taurus, it has been reported by some owners of older model years like 2003 and 2005.

It’s important to regularly inspect your Taurus for any signs of gasket leaks and address them promptly to prevent further damage and maintain the performance and reliability of your vehicle.

Engine Issues

The Ford Taurus has had its fair share of engine issues over the years. One particular year to avoid is 2003, as it was plagued with various engine problems that caused headaches for owners.

These issues ranged from faulty fuel pumps to frequent overheating, resulting in costly repairs and frustrating breakdowns on the road. It’s recommended to steer clear of this model year if you’re looking for a reliable Ford Taurus.

On the flip side, some of the best years for the Taurus when it comes to engine performance include 2012, 2015, and 2019. These models have received positive reviews for their smooth and efficient engines that offer a satisfying driving experience.

Issues With Headlights

The Ford Taurus, like any other vehicle, has had its fair share of issues with headlights over the years. One common problem reported by owners is the rapid burning out of bulbs, especially on older models.

This can be frustrating and costly to constantly replace bulbs. Another issue that some drivers have faced is flickering or dimming headlights. This can affect visibility at night and can be a safety concern.

Taurus is worth noting that these headlight problems are more commonly associated with earlier model years, such as the 2000 Ford Taurus and 2001 Taurus models.

It’s important to keep in mind that not all Ford Taurus vehicles will experience these headlight issues, and they may vary depending on the specific year and model you own. If you’re considering purchasing a used Ford Taurus, it may be wise to research the reliability ratings of different model years to ensure you choose one less likely to have headlight issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to the Ford Taurus, there are definitely standout years to consider and others that may be best avoided. The best years for this model include 2012, 2015, and 2019, while the worst years tend to be in the early 2000s such as 2002 Ford Taurus and 2003 model years.

Overall, doing your research on specific models and being aware of potential issues can help you make an informed decision when purchasing a used Taurus.

FAQs:

1. What are the best years for the Ford Taurus?

The best years for the Ford Taurus are generally considered to be from 2010 Taurus model to 2019 Taurus model. These models have been known for their Ford Taurus reliability, performance, and overall customer satisfaction.

2. Which years should I avoid when buying a Ford Taurus?

While most model years of the Ford Taurus have been reliable, there were some issues reported with earlier versions of the Taurus. It is recommended to avoid models produced between 2005 and 2007 Ford Taurus due to potential transmission problems.

3. What factors make certain years of the Ford Taurus better than others?

Certain factors contribute to certain years of the Ford Taurus being considered better than others. These include improvements in engine performance, technological advancements, safety features, and general design upgrades that enhance overall comfort and driving experience.

4. How can I ensure I am purchasing a reliable Ford Taurus regardless of the year?

To ensure you are purchasing a reliable Ford Taurus regardless of the year, it is important to do thorough research on specific model histories and maintenance records. Additionally, having a trusted mechanic inspect your potential purchase before finalizing any transaction can help identify any potential issues or concerns with the vehicle

Question	Answer
What are the best years for the Ford Taurus?	According to experts, the best years for the Ford Taurus were 2010, 2013, and 2014 Taurus.
What are the worst years for the Ford Taurus?	The worst years for the Ford Taurus were 2000, 2001, 2003, and 2005.
What should I know about the reliability of the Ford Taurus?	The Ford Taurus has had mixed reliability scores over the years. Some model years have had significant issues with the engine and transmission, while others have been more reliable.
What model years of the Ford Taurus should I avoid?	It is generally recommended to avoid model years 2000, 2001, 2003, and 2005 Taurus.
What are some common problems with the Ford Taurus?	Some common problems with the Ford Taurus include automatic transmission issues, oil pan gasket leaks, and electrical issues.
What are some of the best Ford Taurus models?	Some of the best Ford Taurus models include the 2010 model, 2013 model, and 2014 model years.
Is the Ford Taurus a reliable car?	While the Ford Taurus has had some reliability issues over the years, it is generally considered a reliable sedan.
What are some recent model years of the Ford Taurus?	Some recent model years of the Ford Taurus include 2014 and 2015.
What are some older Ford Taurus models to consider?	If you are on a budget, some older Ford Taurus models to consider include the ’97 Taurus and 1999 Ford Taurus model years.
What is the SHO package for the Ford Taurus?	The SHO package is an optional performance package for the Ford Taurus that includes a more powerful V6 engine and upgraded suspension and brakes.