How many miles can you get out of a Ford Taurus?

The Ford Taurus typically delivers about 20–25 miles per gallon combined, and with a roughly 18.5-gallon fuel tank you can expect around 370–460 miles per tank depending on engine and driving conditions. With solid maintenance, many Tauruses reach 200,000 miles or more, and some exceed 300,000 miles before retirement. The Taurus line was discontinued after the 2019 model year in North America, so current data reflect used-market examples.

Understanding how far a Taurus can go involves looking at fuel economy across generations, as well as the car’s potential for long-term reliability. This article outlines typical mpg ranges by generation, factors that influence real-world range, and practices that help maximize both fuel efficiency and total mileage.

Fuel economy across Taurus generations

Engines and configurations have shifted over the years, influencing mpg in meaningful ways. While exact ratings depend on drivetrain and trim, a practical sense of typical performance helps buyers and owners set expectations.

Here are representative mpg ranges by generation:

• 2008–2009 Taurus (3.5L V6): roughly 18–19 mpg city, 26–27 mpg highway; combined about 21–23 mpg.


• 2010–2012 Taurus (3.5L V6; SHO variants use a turbo EcoBoost): roughly 18–21 mpg city, 26–29 mpg highway; combined about 23–25 mpg.


• 2013–2019 Taurus (3.5L V6 and tuning adjustments): roughly 19–21 mpg city, 28–30 mpg highway; combined about 23–25 mpg. SHO variants with EcoBoost performance generally land in the mid-20s combined, depending on driving style.

Conclusion: EPA numbers vary by engine and drivetrain, and real-world mileage depends on how you drive and how well the car is maintained. A typical full tank (about 18.5 gallons) yields roughly 370–460 miles of range across common configurations.

Lifespan and total miles

Durability is a key factor for longevity. With regular maintenance, many Tauruses will reach or exceed the 200,000-mile mark, and a substantial number push past 300,000 miles. Because the Taurus was discontinued after 2019, total-life expectations are largely a function of the vehicle’s prior care and the quality of a used example you might buy.

Real-world life expectancy hinges on several practical factors:

Here are proven practices to maximize longevity:

• Follow the manufacturer’s oil-change intervals and use the recommended oil grade; synthetic oil can extend service intervals in many engines.


• Keep the cooling system healthy: regular coolant changes, radiator checks, and hose/water-pump maintenance to prevent overheating.


• Service the transmission as prescribed and address shifting issues or leaks promptly.


• Pay attention to the timing chain system (if applicable) and replace worn components as advised; unusual engine noises merit inspection.


• Replace spark plugs and ignition components per schedule to maintain efficiency and power.


• Maintain tires, alignment, and suspension to reduce wear and improve fuel economy and handling.


• Use quality fuel and consider periodic fuel-system cleaning if recommended by a mechanic; keep the air filter clean.


• Protect against rust and address corrosion; park in a garage when possible and wash regularly in harsh climates.

Conclusion: Diligent maintenance, prudent driving, and timely repairs can significantly extend both fuel economy and total lifespan for a Taurus.

Buying used Taurus: considerations

Pre-purchase checks

When shopping for a used Taurus, review the maintenance history, verify service records, inspect for cooling-system or engine issues, test the transmission, and have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection. Look for signs of head-gasket problems, fluid leaks, rust, and worn suspension components. A thorough history report and a professional inspection help gauge remaining life and avoid surprises.

Summary

The Ford Taurus offers typical combined fuel economy in the roughly 20–25 mpg band, with per-tank range around 370–460 miles depending on the model year and engine. With proper care, many Tauruses reach 200,000 miles or more, and some exceed 300,000 miles. The model was discontinued after 2019 in the U.S., so current mileage figures apply to used examples. For prospective buyers, prioritize a solid maintenance record and a thorough pre-purchase inspection to optimize both fuel range and long-term reliability.

How many miles will a Ford Taurus last?

A Ford Taurus can last between 150,000 and 300,000 miles or more, with the average lifespan being around 149,354 miles. While many models are expected to reach 200,000 miles or more with proper care, it's crucial to note that transmission failure is a common issue, especially on certain model years. Longevity depends heavily on regular maintenance, driving habits, and specific model year issues. 
Factors affecting lifespan

• Maintenance: Consistent and proper maintenance is the most significant factor in extending a Taurus's life, particularly for transmission fluids. 
• Driving conditions: Vehicles with a significant amount of highway driving may have a longer lifespan compared to those with mostly city driving. 
• Common issues: Some model years are prone to specific problems. For example, transmission failure is a frequently reported issue on 2003-2005 models, which can significantly impact longevity. 
• Specific model year: The lifespan can vary significantly between different years and trims. Some models, like the SHO, have specific quirks and maintenance needs that affect their durability. 

How to extend your Taurus's life

• Follow the maintenance schedule: Adhere strictly to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule for all fluids and parts. 
• Prioritize the transmission: Because the transmission is a weak point on many models, be diligent with its maintenance. Consider changing the transmission fluid more frequently than recommended, especially if the vehicle has high mileage. 
• Address issues promptly: If you notice any problems with the engine, suspension, or transmission, get them checked and repaired as soon as possible to prevent more significant damage. 
• Perform regular checks: Regularly check for oil leaks, check the tie rods and ball joints, and monitor the struts for wear. 

Can a Ford last 300,000 miles?

With proper care, a Ford truck can last 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more. That's equal to 15 to 20 years of regular use. Some high-mileage Ford trucks have even passed the 400,000-mile mark, especially those with consistent maintenance and responsible driving.

Are Fords reliable after 100k miles?

Driving your Ford past 100,000 miles is a significant milestone, but it requires careful maintenance and attention to detail. Here are some tips to keep your Ford running smoothly well beyond the 100,000-mile mark. Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your Ford running smoothly.

Are Ford Taurus reliable?

The Ford Taurus has a mixed reliability record, with some owners reporting excellent longevity and others experiencing common problems. Issues often cited include water pump failures, transmission problems (especially in certain model years), and AC system failures due to a faulty blower motor resistor. The Taurus's reliability can depend heavily on the specific model year, engine, and individual maintenance.
 
Common problems and maintenance

• Water pump: A frequent issue, though regular coolant changes can help prevent premature failure. 
• Transmission: Some models are prone to transmission issues, especially if fluid levels are not maintained. 
• AC system: The blower motor resistor can fail, leading to fan speed problems, but this is often a simple fix. 
• Gasket leaks: Oil pan gasket leaks have been reported in several model years. 
• Power transfer unit (PTU): A specific concern for the SHO model, which can fail due to leaks and heat exposure. Regular fluid changes are crucial. 

Factors that influence reliability

• Model year: Older models had more prevalent issues like transmission problems and head gasket failures. Newer models are generally considered more reliable, though they still have common failure points like the water pump. 
• Maintenance: Proper and regular maintenance, especially coolant and transmission fluid changes, is critical to the longevity of a Taurus. 
• Engine: Some engines, like the 3.5L V6, are considered robust, but component failures like the water pump can still occur. 

How to decide

• Research the specific model year: Look up known issues for the exact year you are considering. 
• Check maintenance records: Prioritize cars with a history of regular service. 
• Consider the engine: Engines like the 2.5L Duratec are generally considered good, while the 3.0L Vulcan has a higher risk of issues like cracked heads. 
• Factor in repair costs: Some repairs, like water pump or transmission issues, can be costly.