How does AWD work on a Ford Taurus?
In the Ford Taurus, all-wheel drive is an automatic system that normally powers the front wheels and engages the rear when traction is compromised. It requires no driver action and uses sensors and a rear clutch to distribute torque as needed for grip and stability.
This article explains how Ford’s Intelligent AWD operates in the Taurus, where it appears in the lineup, and what drivers should know about performance, limitations, and maintenance in typical on-road conditions.
How Intelligent AWD operates in the Taurus
Ford’s Intelligent AWD in the Taurus is designed to balance efficiency with traction. The system predominantly sends power to the front wheels, which helps maximize fuel economy in normal driving. When sensors detect wheel slip or a loss of grip, the system can rapidly activate a rear-drive path through a rear differential clutch, sending torque to the rear axle to regain traction. The process happens automatically and continuously, adapting to changing road surface and driving conditions.
Several vehicle systems work together to manage this action. The powertrain provides the baseline drive; the rear differential houses an electronically controlled clutch that can engage to transfer torque to the rear wheels; and the vehicle’s braking, stability, and traction-control systems monitor wheel speed, throttle input, steering angle, and yaw to fine-tune the torque split. The result is a more stable launch in rain or snow and more confident cornering on damp pavement, without requiring any input from the driver.
Key components of Taurus AWD
- Electronically controlled rear differential clutch that modulates torque to the rear axle
- Front powertrain, including the transaxle and front differential, handling most of the drive torque under normal conditions
- Integrated sensors and control electronics that monitor wheel speeds, throttle position, steering input, and vehicle dynamics
- Vehicle stability control and ABS systems that coordinate with AWD to maintain grip and control
The rear differential clutch is central to how AWD behaves in the Taurus. When conditions are stable, the system prioritizes front-wheel drive to optimize efficiency. If slip is detected at the front or if the car needs additional traction during acceleration or through a turn, the clutch engages to send more torque to the rear wheels. There is no driver-operated mode to “lock” or manually adjust torque split; all adjustments occur automatically in real time.
Where AWD appears in the Taurus lineup
In the Taurus family, Intelligent AWD is an option or standard on some trims, most notably on performance-oriented variants and certain EcoBoost configurations. The arrangement is designed for on-road use, offering improved traction in rain, snow, slick pavement, and during brisk acceleration, while maintaining everyday usability and fuel efficiency. It is not a traditional off-road four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing.
Because availability varied by model year and trim, prospective buyers should consult the specific vehicle’s window sticker or owner’s manual to confirm whether AWD is equipped. The system operates automatically, so there is no manual lever or button to engage AWD on a Taurus that has it.
Driving in AWD: what to expect
On wet or light snowy surfaces, AWD helps with initial grip and reduces the likelihood of wheel spin when you move off or accelerate through a corner. During brisk cornering on damp pavement, the system can transfer torque to the rear to help stabilize the vehicle’s path, especially if the front wheels begin to slip. However, AWD does not turn the Taurus into a rugged off-road vehicle, and it cannot overcome the basic physics of stopping distances on ice or snow or replace winter tires.
Drivers should treat AWD as a stability aid rather than a safety guarantee. Safe driving practices—appropriate speeds for conditions, attentive braking, and season-appropriate tires—remain essential. AWD units also integrate with the car’s stability programs, which may apply brake force or reduce engine power to help maintain control when the vehicle begins to slide.
Maintenance and reliability considerations
Because the AWD system relies on a rear differential clutch, routine maintenance focuses on the rear differential fluid as specified by Ford. Following the recommended service intervals helps ensure smooth operation of the clutch engagement and disengagement. If you notice unusual noises, vibrations, or a lag in engaging rear-wheel torque, it’s wise to have the system inspected by a dealer or trusted technician to verify fluid condition and electronic control operation. As with all complex drivetrains, proper maintenance supports reliability and performance over time.
In everyday use, the Taurus’ AWD system is designed to be seamless. There are no user-adjustable settings for torque distribution, and no dedicated off-road modes. The system’s strength lies in its automatic, sensor-driven response to changing road conditions, allowing drivers to focus on the road rather than the drive mode.
Summary
The Ford Taurus’ AWD system is an automatic, front-biased setup that uses an electronically controlled rear differential clutch to add rear-wheel torque when needed. It works in concert with steering, throttle, wheel-speed, and stability-control systems to improve traction and cornering stability on wet and slick surfaces, while remaining primarily an on-road solution rather than a rugged off-road system. For owners, understanding that the system operates behind the scenes helps manage expectations and emphasizes the importance of proper maintenance and appropriate tires for winter conditions.
