Is 2013 a good year for Ford Taurus?
Yes, the 2013 Ford Taurus can be a solid choice for buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable full-size sedan at a used-car price, especially in non-SHO trims. However, there are caveats, including infotainment reliability and ownership costs that vary by model and condition.
Below we examine what makes the 2013 Taurus appealing, what to watch for when buying one, and how it stacks up in terms of performance, safety, and overall value. The assessment considers the Taurus’s place in the market as a large, feature-rich family sedan that faced a few tech-related reliability concerns during its era.
What makes the 2013 Taurus appealing
These are the strongest selling points that typically attract buyers to a 2013 Taurus.
- Spacious interior with ample passenger room and a generous trunk
- Comfortable ride quality, especially on long highway drives
- Strong engine lineup for a full-size sedan, including a sporty SHO variant
- Competitive feature set for the class, including available MyFord Touch and SYNC
- Solid highway presence and quiet cabin at speed
Overall, these attributes make the 2013 Taurus a practical pick for families or anyone needing comfort and space without moving to a luxury sedan.
What to watch for in the 2013 Taurus
These are typical caveats to consider when evaluating a 2013 Taurus, particularly in the used-car market.
- Infotainment reliability concerns with early implementations of MyFord Touch
- Potential transmission and electronic subsystem quirks reported by some owners
- Higher ongoing maintenance costs relative to smaller or less feature-rich sedans
- Fuel economy is respectable for a full-size car but may lag behind newer rivals
- Resale value can be influenced by the perceived cost of ownership and tech glitches
These factors suggest that buyers should prioritize well-maintained examples with documented service history and be prepared for potentially higher repair costs if electronics or drivetrain components age poorly.
Performance and model variations
Non-SHO Taurus models
The non-SHO Taurus models typically offer a strong and smooth V6 engine paired with a comfortable suspension tuning. They are designed for everyday practicality, with adequate acceleration for merging and passing, plus a refined ride suited to long commutes and family trips.
Taurus SHO
The Taurus SHO is the high-performance variant, featuring a more powerful EcoBoost engine and sport-tuned dynamics. It delivers sharper acceleration and a firmer ride, along with upgraded brakes and suspension components. While it provides a distinctly sporty driving experience for this class, it also carries higher maintenance costs and fuel consumption.
Ownership costs, safety, and practicality
Understanding ownership costs and safety features helps buyers gauge long-term value for the 2013 Taurus.
- Expected maintenance costs are typically higher than average for mid-size sedans, especially for the SHO
- Standard safety features include multiple airbags and stability control, with additional tech options on higher trims
- Fuel economy is reasonable for a full-size sedan of its era, but not as efficient as newer platforms
In the used-car market, balancing upfront price against potential maintenance needs is key. A well-documented service history and a thorough pre-purchase inspection can mitigate surprises.
Buying tips for a 2013 Taurus
Before you buy, use these practical steps to improve your odds of a satisfying ownership experience.
- Have a trusted mechanic inspect the transmission, engine, and electrical systems, especially if the car uses the MyFord Touch interface
- Check recalls and ensure all recall-related fixes have been completed by Ford
- Review maintenance records for timing belt/chain service, fluid changes, and tire condition
- Test-drive across city streets and highways to evaluate ride quality, steering feel, and braking response
- Compare non-SHO trims for better long-term value if performance is not a priority
With careful evaluation, a 2013 Taurus can deliver dependable space and comfort, without the higher purchase price of newer models.
Bottom line
For buyers prioritizing interior room, a comfortable ride, and strong value in the used-car market, the 2013 Ford Taurus remains a compelling option—especially in non-SHO trims. The main caveats are the potential for infotainment-related glitches and higher ongoing maintenance costs relative to smaller or newer sedans. A well-maintained example with complete service history and a proactive approach to potential tech issues can be a sensible purchase.
Summary: The 2013 Taurus offers a balanced blend of space, comfort, and everyday practicality, with the SHO delivering extra performance at a cost. Align your choice with how much you value ride comfort versus performance, and invest in a thorough pre-purchase inspection to maximize long-term satisfaction.
What are common problems with a 2013 Ford Taurus?
Transmission issues (very, very VERY hard shifting) water pump issues, coolant issues, door issues, key issues, cheap plastic interior that falls apart, malfunctioning wiper switch (wipers won't turn off), cruise control doesn't work, interior lights don't turn off even when you press the button etc etc.
Was 2013 a good year for Taurus?
As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's comfort and performance to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest. 299 out of 405 of owners (74% of them) rank the 2013 Taurus five out of five stars. Overall, consumers seem aligned in their opinions of the 2013 Ford Taurus.
How many miles can a 2013 Ford Taurus last?
A 2013 Ford Taurus can last for over 150,000 miles, or about 10 years, with an average lifespan of around 149,354 miles. With proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and timely repairs, some owners report reaching 200,000 miles and even more, though factors like transmission health are important to consider.
Factors that influence lifespan
- Maintenance: Proper and consistent maintenance is the most significant factor in determining how long a car lasts. Following the recommended maintenance schedule, including fluid changes and belt replacements, is crucial.
- Driving habits: Gentle driving habits contribute to a longer lifespan, while aggressive driving can lead to premature wear and tear on the engine and transmission.
- Common issues: Some potential weak points to watch for include the water pump and transmission. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more severe engine damage.
- Long-term reliability: Many owners report reaching over 200,000 miles without major issues, suggesting the car can be very reliable if well-maintained.
How to extend the life of your 2013 Taurus
- Follow the maintenance schedule: Stick to the manufacturer's recommended service intervals for things like oil changes, fluid flushes, and belt replacements.
- Address issues promptly: Don't ignore dashboard warning lights, especially for the check engine light. These can signal problems with the transmission or engine that should be diagnosed and fixed as soon as possible.
- Drive responsibly: Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, which puts unnecessary stress on the engine and transmission.
- Pay attention to the transmission: Be aware of any signs of transmission slipping or rough shifting and have a mechanic inspect it.
How good is a 2013 Ford Taurus?
Driving. On the road, the 2013 Ford Taurus offers a comfortable ride. All Taurus models now use a version of electric-assist power steering to further aid in fuel economy. The SHO's is the sportiest with its unique tuning, but all are reasonably weighted and allow for easy maneuverability in parking situations.
