How long will a 2018 Ford Taurus last?

The 2018 Ford Taurus can reasonably reach about 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance; many owners report hitting the 150,000–200,000 mile range as a reliable baseline, and a select few push beyond 250,000 miles. The exact lifespan depends on upkeep, driving conditions, and how well the car has been cared for over time.

Beyond raw mileage, longevity hinges on maintenance rigor, climate, road conditions, usage patterns (commuting vs. long highway trips, towing), and the quality of previous repairs. This article examines expected durability for the 2018 Taurus, key factors that influence lifespan, maintenance practices to maximize life, and what to anticipate as the car ages.

What affects the Taurus's longevity

The following factors largely determine how long a 2018 Taurus will remain roadworthy and how much you’ll spend to keep it running.

• Maintenance history and adherence to service schedules


• Driving conditions (highway mileage versus stop-and-go city driving, towing)


• Climate and road conditions (salt exposure, temperature extremes, corrosion risk)


• Quality of parts and repairs (OEM versus aftermarket components, skilled service)


• Previous ownership and whether recalls and updates were completed

These factors collectively influence how long the Taurus can last and how much maintenance it will require as it ages.

Maintenance milestones and best practices to maximize life

To maximize longevity, follow a disciplined maintenance plan aligned with Ford recommendations and general automotive best practices. The list below highlights common intervals and critical components to monitor.

• Oil and filter: every 5,000–7,500 miles with synthetic oil, or per the owner's manual based on driving conditions


• Engine coolant: inspect and flush as recommended; typically every 60,000–100,000 miles depending on coolant type


• Transmission fluid: inspect and replace per manual guidance; many manufacturers suggest every 60,000–100,000 miles under normal use


• Brake fluid and brake system: flush every 2–3 years or as needed; replace pads/rotors as worn


• Spark plugs (for V6): usually around 100,000 miles in modern engines; replace if misfiring or performing poorly


• Tires: rotate every 5,000–7,500 miles; replace as tread wears

Rationale behind maintenance intervals

These intervals are designed to prevent wear from escalating into costly failures while preserving fuel efficiency, emissions, and overall reliability. Following the recommended schedule helps ensure critical systems—engine, transmission, cooling, and brakes—remain in good condition as the Taurus racks up miles.

Adhering to these intervals greatly influences how long the Taurus can stay on the road and minimizes surprise repairs as it ages.

Common wear points and potential failures to watch

As the Taurus accumulates miles, certain components tend to wear more quickly. Proactive inspection can catch issues early and avoid abrupt breakdowns.

• Transmission: signs of slipping, rough shifts, or shuddering warrant prompt inspection


• Water pump and cooling system components: leaks or overheating require attention


• Electrical systems and sensors: aging electronics can cause drivability issues


• Suspension and steering: bushings, ball joints, and tie rods wear with mileage


• Brakes and rotors: wear and warping increase with use and mileage

Regular diagnostics and timely repairs are essential to extending life and maintaining safety in a 2018 Taurus.

Early warning signs to monitor

Watch for unusual noises, illuminated warning lights, poor acceleration, or unusual shifting. Addressing these symptoms early can prevent more extensive damage and help preserve long-term reliability.

Expected costs and what you should plan for as the car ages

Costs typically rise with age and mileage. Major components such as the transmission or engine, if they fail, can lead to substantial repair bills. Budgeting for routine maintenance plus a contingency fund for unexpected repairs helps keep ownership affordable as the Taurus ages.

Sticking to preventive maintenance and addressing issues promptly reduces the likelihood of costly emergencies and supports a longer, safer lifespan for the vehicle.

Summary

In general, a well-maintained 2018 Ford Taurus can be expected to last around 200,000 miles or more, with many reaching 250,000 miles and a few approaching or surpassing 300,000 miles. Longevity depends on consistent maintenance, driving conditions, and timely repairs. If you’re shopping for a used Taurus, review the service history, check for recalls, and assess how well the prior owner cared for the car. For current owners, a disciplined maintenance routine and early addressing of issues will maximize the chances of a long, dependable life.

How many miles is a Ford Taurus good for?

A Ford Taurus can last between 150,000 and 300,000 miles or more, depending on proper maintenance. The average lifespan is around 149,000 miles, but many can reach 200,000 miles or higher with dedicated care. A major factor affecting longevity is the vehicle's transmission, which can be a point of failure, especially in older models. 
Factors affecting a Ford Taurus's lifespan

• Maintenance is key: Regular oil changes, fluid checks, and other scheduled maintenance are crucial for achieving high mileage. 
• Transmission care: The transmission is a common weak point. Some models can fail before 100,000 miles if not properly maintained. A transmission replacement can significantly extend the life of the vehicle. 
• Age-related issues: Older models may experience problems like misfires, catalytic converter damage, and issues with the steering and suspension. 
• Engine strength: Some engines, like the older 3.0L Vulcan V6, have proven very durable and have been reported to last for hundreds of thousands of miles. 
• Specific model year concerns: Some sources suggest checking the water pump and coolant for potential issues on certain models. 

What to do to extend the life of a Taurus

• Follow the maintenance schedule: Adhere to the manufacturer's recommended service intervals. 
• Monitor the transmission: Pay close attention to how the transmission shifts and be prepared for potential issues in older vehicles. 
• Address problems quickly: Don't ignore minor issues like leaks or warning lights, as they can lead to bigger problems later. 
• Use the right fluids: Ensure you are using the correct coolant for your vehicle, as specified by the manufacturer. 

How many miles will a 2018 Ford Taurus last?

around 180,000-200,000 miles
It's typical to see a Ford Taurus end its life around 180,000-200,000 miles. You might hit the higher or lower number depending on how well you maintain and care for your vehicle.

Is the 2018 Ford Taurus reliable?

The 2018 Ford Taurus is considered a reliable car, with ratings from sources like CarParts.com and Cars.com indicating above-average or strong reliability, and U.S. News & World Report giving it a 3.5 out of five predicted reliability rating from J.D. Power. It has a lower-than-average frequency of unscheduled repairs and a good predicted lifespan, though some models have experienced specific issues like a fault in the fuel pump control module or a potential problem with the rear suspension toe link in certain model years.
 
Reliability ratings and lifespan

• Above-average reliability: The 2018 Taurus received strong reliability ratings from various sources, including a 4.0 out of 5 from RepairPal and 4.7 out of 5 from owner reviews on Cars.com. 
• Predicted lifespan: The average predicted lifespan for a Taurus is around 149,354 miles or about 10.2 years, and many can last up to 180,000-200,000 miles with proper maintenance. 
• Repair frequency: The vehicle has an average of 0.2 unscheduled repair visits per year, which is lower than the average for its class. 

Common issues

• Ignition key: A recall was issued for the 2017-2018 models because the key could be removed when the transmission was not in park. 
• Fuel pump control module: Some 3.5L EcoBoost engines from 2013-2015 models had a faulty fuel pump control module that could cause engine stalling. 
• Rear suspension toe link: A fracture in the rear suspension toe link was a concern in the 2013-2018 models, potentially leading to a loss of control. 
• HVAC fan: Some 2010-2019 models experienced issues with the HVAC fan speed, often traced to a faulty blower motor resistor (fan control module) located under the glove box. 
• Power steering: Some 2011-2013 models experienced power steering failures, though this does not apply to the 2018 model. 

Tips for buyers

• Check for recalls: Always check the VIN on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or Ford website to ensure any recall repairs have been completed for free.
• Inspect key components: When buying a used model, have a mechanic inspect for potential issues like the rear suspension and fuel pump control module, especially if it is a 3.5L EcoBoost engine. 

Can a Ford Taurus last 300,000 miles?

The Ford Taurus has been a staple in Ford's lineup for years, and its reliability is one of its standout features. Many Taurus owners report trouble-free driving well beyond the 300,000-mile mark. With proper care, this sedan can provide comfortable and dependable transportation for a long time.