Is the 2007 Ford Taurus good or bad?
The 2007 Ford Taurus is generally a mixed bag: it offers a comfortable ride and generous interior space, but reliability concerns and aging technology keep it from standing out among newer sedans.
This article examines what makes the 2007 Taurus appealing or problematic, including ride quality, interior practicality, powertrains, maintenance costs, safety features, and how it stacks up against other used-car options in its price range.
Performance, Comfort, and Practicality
Pros and negatives summarized for buyers who prioritize ride feel, roominess, and daily usability.
- Comfortable ride quality with a smooth, quiet cabin on most roads.
- Spacious interior and a large trunk, making it a practical family sedan.
- Simple, straightforward controls and easy maintenance access for a car of its era.
- Competitive used-car pricing relative to newer sedans, providing good value upfront.
- Stable highway manners and predictable handling for routine commuting.
Overall, the Taurus excels as a practical, comfortable daily driver with ample passenger and cargo space, though it lacks sporty handling or cutting-edge technology by modern standards.
Interior and cargo highlights
The interior prioritizes space and usability, with roomy seating for adults in both front and rear positions and a trunk designed for substantial cargo. Material quality and feature content vary by trim, but even base models offer a straightforward, functional layout that can appeal to buyers who want simplicity over premium flourishes.
Reliability and Maintenance
This section covers how dependability typically plays out in the field, along with common repair considerations for this generation.
- Reliability is variable: well-maintained examples can deliver solid, low-stress ownership, but some units experience transmission or electrical issues as they age.
- Transmission concerns have been reported by some owners, particularly in higher-mileage examples; regular maintenance and fluid changes can mitigate risk but replacement costs can be meaningful.
- Electrical gremlins, including sensor and dashboard-related problems, are among the more common trouble spots for some Taurus models in this era.
- Suspension and steering components (like control arms and bushings) may wear with time, impacting ride quality and handling.
- Rust and corrosion can appear on older examples, especially around wheel arches and underbody panels in regions with harsh winters or salted roads.
Reliability heavily depends on how well the car has been maintained and how it was driven over its life. A Taurusthat has documented regular service history and few major repairs tends to be more dependable than one with gaps in maintenance.
Maintenance costs and parts availability
Parts for the Taurus are generally accessible due to its age and shared components with other Ford models of the era, which helps keep maintenance costs in check for many owners. However, as with any older vehicle, repairs can be more expensive if major components (such as the transmission or engine-related items) require service, so budgeting for planned maintenance is wise.
Safety, Fuel Economy, and Ownership Costs
A look at safety features, real-world fuel economy, and the ongoing expenses of owning a 2007 Taurus.
- Safety equipment includes standard dual front airbags and anti-lock brakes on many trims, with some models offering optional or later-era side airbags and stability-control features.
- Fuel economy for the Taurus in this generation tends to be modest by modern standards, typically in the upper-teens to mid-20s mpg range depending on engine choice and driving conditions.
- Ownership costs can be reasonable for a used family sedan, though potential buyers should plan for possible transmission repairs, electrical work, and routine maintenance as the car ages.
- Resale value is generally modest given the model’s age, so most buyers will be purchasing primarily for budget-friendly upfront pricing rather than long-term equity.
In short, safety and efficiency are adequate but not standout compared with newer sedans. The Taurus remains a practical option for buyers who value space and comfort over cutting-edge safety tech or high fuel economy.
Buying a used 2007 Taurus: what to check
If you’re considering a 2007 Taurus on the used market, this checklist helps identify cars with solid fundamentals and avoid common pitfalls.
- Obtain a full maintenance history, including transmission service records and any major repairs.
- Have a trusted mechanic inspect the transmission, cooling system, and engine for signs of wear or leaks.
- Inspect body and frame for rust, especially around the wheel arches, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
- Check electrical systems: gauges, lights, HVAC, and accessory functions to catch intermittent issues early.
- Test drive to assess ride quality, braking, steering response, and any unusual noises or vibrations.
- Review recall history and ensure any open campaigns have been addressed by a dealer.
A mechanically solid, well-documented example can still serve as a reliable, spacious family sedan, particularly for buyers mindful of upfront price and ongoing maintenance costs rather than cutting-edge features.
Summary
The 2007 Ford Taurus offers ample interior space, a comfortable ride, and affordable used-car pricing, making it a reasonable choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize practicality. Its reliability is variable and highly dependent on maintenance history, and it lacks the modern technology and fuel efficiency of newer sedans. For those who can find one with solid service records and a thorough pre-purchase inspection, the Taurus can still deliver dependable, everyday transportation; for others, it may be better to look at more modern options in the same price range.
How many miles will a 2007 Ford Taurus last?
A 2007 Ford Taurus can have a lifespan of over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, but its average lifespan is estimated at about 149,354 miles or 10.2 years. Some owners have reported reaching much higher mileage, with some examples exceeding 300,000 miles. Factors like consistent maintenance and driving habits significantly impact its durability.
Average vs. long-term lifespan
- Average lifespan: Based on data, the average lifespan is around 149,354149 comma 354149,354 miles or 10.210.210.2 years.
- High-mileage potential: With proper care, many Ford Tauruses can last for much longer, with some exceeding 200,000200 comma 000200,000 or even 300,000300 comma 000300,000 miles.
Factors affecting lifespan
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial for longevity. A lack of proper upkeep can shorten its life significantly.
- Driving habits: How the car is driven also plays a role. The average Ford Taurus is driven about 12,08712 comma 08712,087 miles per year in its first 10 years.
- Vulnerable components: Some components, like the transmission, can be a weaker point, especially with rough treatment. On certain models, the internal water pump can also be very expensive to replace if it fails.
What to consider when buying
- Look for good maintenance records: A well-maintained 2007 Taurus is more likely to have a longer life ahead of it.
- Check for common issues: Be aware of potential weak points like the transmission and suspension, especially on higher-mileage examples.
- Consider the project car potential: Even older Tauruses with high mileage can be good for those interested in mechanical projects, especially if the engine is still in good condition.
Is the 2007 Ford Taurus reliable?
The 2007 Ford Taurus is generally considered a reliable car with above-average ratings, a long life expectancy (often 180,000-200,000+ miles), and average repair costs. However, common issues reported include potential engine oil leaks, occasional engine bucking at highway speeds, problems with the idle air bypass valve, and issues with the window regulators and airbags.
You can watch this video to learn about common engine and transmission problems in Ford Taurus models from 2000 to 2007: 54s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Jan 3, 2025
Reliability
- Overall: The 2007 Ford Taurus has an "above average" reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0, ranking 6th out of 12 full-size cars.
- Longevity: With proper care, it can be a dependable vehicle with a long lifespan, often reaching 180,000-200,000 miles or more.
- Repair Costs: The average annual repair cost is around $697, which is average for its class, and the severity and frequency of repairs are lower than average.
Common issues
- Engine Problems:
- Engine oil pan gasket or other engine oil leaks
- Engine bucking or misfire at highway speeds
- Problems with the idle air bypass valve
- Camshaft sensor magnet can damage synchronizers
- Electrical and Other Issues:
- Window regulator failure, particularly on the driver's side
- Airbag warning light may come on, sometimes accompanied by a non-functional horn and cruise control
- Charging system issues
- Starter may need replacement
- Maintenance:
- Some owners reported a squeaking alternator needing replacement.
What to look for when buying
- Be aware of the potential for common issues like oil leaks and check for signs of past repairs.
- Inspect the power windows and listen for the alternator squeak.
- If possible, get a pre-purchase inspection to check for any existing problems.
What is a 2007 Ford Taurus worth today?
The value of a used 2007 Ford Taurus ranges from $792 to $3,841, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
What is the bad year for the Ford Taurus?
The best years, such as 2017-2018, 2011, and 2015-2016, offer reliability, safety, and value. Comparatively, years like 2003-2005 and 2012-2014 are plagued with issues, higher repair costs, customer complaints, and are among the Ford Taurus years to avoid.
