Is the 2014 Ford Taurus a reliable car?
The 2014 Ford Taurus is generally considered an average reliability choice for a used full-size sedan, with some model-year quirks and a reliability profile that depends heavily on maintenance history.
To understand what this means in practice, this article reviews how the Taurus performed in reliability surveys and owner reports, highlights common trouble spots, and offers practical buying advice for someone considering a 2014 Taurus. It emphasizes that reliability can vary by engine, drivetrain, and how well the car was cared for by previous owners.
Reliability snapshot of the 2014 Taurus
Below is a concise look at how reviewers and owners view the Taurus in terms of dependability. Experiences vary by trim, engine choice, and upkeep, with some examples delivering steady service and others presenting more frequent repair needs as miles accumulate.
- Overall reliability is mid-pack for full-size sedans of its era; well-maintained examples can be dependable, while others may require more repairs as they accumulate miles.
- Two recurring problem areas appear in owner reports: transmissions (shifts, smoothness, and occasional recalibration) and infotainment/electrical systems (including the MyFord Touch interface) in several model years.
- Maintenance history matters a lot: regular service, timely transmission care, and adherence to recalls tend to correlate with fewer problems later on.
In practice, a well-documented service history and a thorough pre-purchase inspection can tilt reliability toward the positive, while a lack of maintenance can lead to more frequent headaches down the line.
Buying a used 2014 Ford Taurus: what to check
Before purchasing, it helps to verify critical maintenance and look for warning signs. The following checklist highlights the most important areas to review for a 2014 Taurus.
- Obtain and review full maintenance records, focusing on transmission service, oil changes, and recall-related repairs.
- Conduct a thorough road test to detect transmission responses, including smooth upshifts, hesitation, or slipping, especially during the initial minutes of operation.
- Evaluate the MyFord Touch/electronic interface for responsiveness, error messages, freezes, or other glitches; confirm software updates if available.
- Inspect for dashboard and interior noises, electrical gremlins, brake wear, and tire condition; check for undercarriage leaks or unusual sounds during a test drive.
- Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection with a diagnostic scan to identify potential hidden issues.
Taking these steps can reduce the risk of owning a Taurus that develops reliability headaches after purchase.
Engine and drivetrain options for the 2014 Taurus
The 2014 Taurus lineup offered multiple engines and drivetrain configurations across trims. A conventional V6 powered most models, paired with Ford’s six-speed automatic transmission, while higher trims or high-performance variants used turbocharged EcoBoost powerplants and, in several configurations, all-wheel drive.
Engines and drivetrain overview
In short, buyers could choose from a standard V6 engine with an automatic transmission or opt for EcoBoost-powered variants on certain trims, with all-wheel drive available on select configurations. This diversity means reliability can vary by powertrain, as turbocharged engines often require more attentive maintenance and may exhibit different wear patterns than the naturally aspirated V6.
Warranty, recalls and ongoing support
Ford’s recall campaigns have touched Taurus models over the years. When evaluating a used 2014 Taurus, verify that any open recalls have been addressed and consider performing a VIN-based recall lookup for the specific vehicle.
- Check for open recalls and ensure completed recall work is properly documented.
- Request a vehicle history report to identify previous ownership, accidents, and maintenance gaps.
- Consider a limited warranty or certified pre-owned program if buying from a dealer to reduce risk.
Being thorough on recall history and coverage can help ensure a smoother ownership experience, regardless of the vehicle’s displayed reliability indicators.
Summary
The 2014 Ford Taurus offers solid value for a used full-size sedan, but reliability is not uniform across the lineup. A well-maintained example with complete service records is likely to be dependable, while units with spotty maintenance—especially around the transmission and electronics—may require more frequent repairs. Prospective buyers should prioritize maintenance history, perform a thorough pre-purchase inspection, and check for open recalls to gauge the true reliability of a specific Taurus.
