What year of Ford Taurus to avoid?

There isn’t a single Ford Taurus year that should be universally avoided. Reliability varies by generation and the individual vehicle’s history, maintenance, and repair records.

In this guide, we explain the Taurus’ generations, outline common issues by generation, and offer practical tips to help you decide which model years to pursue or skip when shopping for a used Taurus.

Ford Taurus generations at a glance

The Taurus evolved across six generations from the late 1980s through 2019. Each generation brought different platforms, engines, and tech, which affects reliability, maintenance needs, and parts availability.

• Gen 1: 1986–1991


• Gen 2: 1992–1995


• Gen 3: 1996–1999


• Gen 4: 2000–2007


• Gen 5: 2008–2009


• Gen 6: 2010–2019

The generation you’re considering largely dictates what problems are most likely, what parts are easy to source, and what kind of maintenance history to look for. In general, later generations offer more modern safety tech and conveniences, but they can still suffer from era-specific faults or recalls.

What to watch for by generation

Below is a snapshot of the reliability landscape for each Taurus generation, focusing on typical issues reported by owners and what to test for before purchase. This is not a guarantee for every car, but it highlights common trouble spots to investigate.

Generation 1: 1986–1991

Early Tauruses set the standard for family sedans of their time, but with aging, there are notable maintenance considerations. Rust on the body and frame rails, aging suspension bushings, and electrical wiring wear are typical signs to scrutinize in high-mileage examples.

• Rust around wheel wells, jack points, and undercarriage


• Suspension wear leading to clunking or imprecise handling


• Aging electrical systems that may show up as intermittent lights or accessory failures

Concluding: Gen 1 Tauruses can be affordable, but long-term reliability and parts availability drop as they age, making them more of a historical or budget option rather than a practical daily driver.

Generation 2: 1992–1995

This generation introduced refinements but also carried over some age-related challenges. As with any aging vehicle, expect higher mileage wear on major components and evolving electrical issues. A thorough inspection is essential.

• Wear on the automatic transmission and associated cooling lines


• Rust in common problem areas and possible frame concerns on older units


• Electrical harness degradation and aging sensors

Concluding: If you’re considering Gen 2, look for the best-maintained examples with documented service histories and lower miles for the model year.

Generation 3: 1996–1999

The mid-to-late 1990s Taurus benefitted from styling and drivetrain tweaks, but some owners report transmission and engine sealing concerns as miles accumulate. A careful pre-purchase inspection is advised.

• Transmission behavior and fluid condition


• Head gasket and cooling system wear on older engines


• Electrical reliability and sensor wear with age

Concluding: Gen 3 can be reasonable value if the car has strong service records; however, higher-mileage examples may require more frequent maintenance.

Generation 4: 2000–2007

The Gen 4 Taurus brought more modern features but also introduced new families of problems related to the era’s technology and manufacturing tolerances. Key concerns often center around drivetrain and electrical reliability as the fleet aged.

• Transmission wear in higher-mileage units


• Engine cooling and gasket concerns with older V6s


• Electrical module failures affecting gauges and controls

Concluding: Gen 4 offers more modern comfort for its time, but prospective buyers should verify maintenance history and be cautious with high-mileage examples.

Generation 5: 2008–2009

The short-lived fifth generation is a transitional phase with some reported recalls and reliability questions, but it also represented progress in safety and refinement. Look for a well-documented service history and recall status.

• Recall-related fixes and service history documentation


• Transmission and powertrain wear on higher-mileage cars


• Electrical system quirks from newer electronics

Concluding: Gen 5 can be a bargain if a particular car has been meticulously serviced and retrofits have been addressed; otherwise, it carries a higher risk of expensive fixes.

Generation 6: 2010–2019

The modern Taurus introduced modern safety tech, stronger chassis, and more efficient engines. While generally more reliable than earlier generations, the Gen 6 still requires careful vetting for specific issues tied to its era’s technology and recall history.

• Transmission behavior and software updates on some models


• Electrical system diagnostics for sensors and airbags


• Recalls and service campaigns that may affect trims with specialized equipment

Concluding: Gen 6 Tauruses can be solid choices with updated safety and tech, especially later-year examples; verify recall completion and maintenance provenance.

Practical buying tips for used Taurus shoppers

Before you pull the trigger, use these practical steps to steer toward a reliable Taurus and away from potentially problematic years or cars.

• Check the vehicle history report for service records, accidents, and prior recalls.


• Verify recall status and whether all required service campaigns were completed, using official sources when possible.


• Arrange a pre-purchase inspection with a qualified mechanic who has experience with Ford mid-size sedans.


• Test drive to assess transmission shift quality, steering feel, braking response, and overall drivability.


• Inspect for rust, especially on older Gen 1–Gen 4 examples, and examine the undercarriage for corrosion and leaks.

Concluding: A well-documented maintenance history and a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection are the best safeguards when choosing a used Taurus, regardless of the model year.

Tips for choosing the best year within a generation

To maximize reliability and value, consider these targeted recommendations about selecting a model year within a generation and negotiating the purchase.

• Prefer later-year refinements within a generation, where manufacturers often address early-year glitches.


• Favor models with lower mileage and a full maintenance log, ideally with dealer service records.


• Look up recall and service campaign history for the specific year and trim, ensuring all required fixes were completed.


• Get a professional pre-purchase inspection and request road testing to assess real-world performance.

Concluding: By prioritizing later-year refinements, documented maintenance, and verified recalls, you reduce the likelihood of surprise repairs regardless of the Taurus generation.

Summary

The Ford Taurus spans six generations, each with its own reliability profile. Rather than singling out a single year to avoid, buyers should focus on the generation, verify maintenance and recalls, and obtain a thorough inspection. Later within a generation and well-documented vehicles tend to offer the best balance of modern features and reliability.

Bottom line: do your homework, check the recall history, and inspect or test-drive any Taurus with a critical eye. With careful selection, a Taurus can be a solid used-car value across several model years.

What year to stay away from Ford?

Ford years to avoid include the 2004-2006, 2010, and 2013-2017 F-150s due to issues like engine and transmission problems, while some model years of the Escape, like 2013, 2016, and 2021, are also flagged for various defects. Other years like 2011-2012 for the EcoBoost F-150 and 2011 F-250 are also listed for specific, though sometimes separate, concerns. 
Ford F-150

• 2004-2006: Prone to engine problems with the 5.4L Triton V8, such as spark plug breakage and cam phaser failures, as well as transmission issues and electrical problems. 
• 2010: Experienced transmission issues, including harsh shifting, along with widespread problems like frame rust and door handle failures. 
• 2013: This year had issues with the transmission downshifting and requires a specific recall to be completed. 
• 2015-2017: These years saw problems with the introduction of aluminum bodies and the 10-speed transmission, along with turbocharger and timing chain issues in some models. 
• 2018 with 5.0L V8: Suffered from a major oil consumption problem. 
• 2021: As the first year of the new generation, this model has had electrical issues, infotainment glitches, and problems with the PowerBoost hybrid system. 

Ford Escape

• 2013: Had various electronic and mechanical issues, including problems with the GPS, radio, and backup camera/sensors. 
• 2016: Prone to transmission issues, engine failures, power steering problems, and noisy brakes. 
• 2020-2021: Experienced oil leaks, electrical problems, and engine oil separator leaks. 

Other Ford models

• 2011 F-250: This year is known for the "death wobble" and other transmission woes. 
• 2017 F-250: Also has a high number of complaints and recalls, largely due to the "death wobble" suspension issue. 
• 2008 and 2013-2014 Ford Escape: These model years are also flagged for engine and transmission concerns. 

What is the most reliable year of the Ford Taurus?

The most reliable Ford Taurus years are often cited as 2008, 2015, and models from 2013 onward, though certain model years may have specific issues to watch for. The 2008 model is praised for its high reliability rating, while the 2015 model is noted for being trouble-free, with other positive reviews for years 2013-2018 and 2018. For the SHO performance model, 2013 and later are recommended due to a facelift and a performance package that became available around that time. 
Specific reliable years

• 2008: Received a high score on its J.D. Power Quality and Reliability Rating, with a single, reliable engine option. 
• 2015: Praised by owners for being reliable and having a "beautiful" design, with one owner reporting no issues after 10 years. 
• 2013-2018: Generally considered a good range, with the 2018 model receiving a 5.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating from owners on Cars.com. 

Potential issues to be aware of

• 2010-2013 SHO models: Had early 3.5L EcoBoost engines with potential cam chain issues. 
• Power Transfer Unit (PTU): A potential failure point for models with the all-wheel-drive system, especially from 2013 onwards due to seal cracks and heat. 
• Water pump: A potential issue that may require replacement, especially on some models. 
• Turbo oil leaks: Can occur in SHO models. 

What is the most common problem with Ford Taurus?

Top Ford Taurus Problems

• Engine Oil Pan Gasket May Leak.
• Engine Buck/Misfire at Freeway Speeds.
• Problem With Idle Air Bypass Valve May Cause Engine Performance Problems.
• Camshaft Sensor Magnet may Damage Synchronizers.
• automatic lights not working.
• Blown/Cracked Head Gasket Can Cause White Smoke From Exhaust.

What years are good for Taurus?

The best years for Taurus are often considered to be those with significant astrological events, such as 2025, which promises romance and career opportunities, and 2026, which is predicted to be a steady year for growth. Historically, specific years like 1997, 2009, and 2026 are highlighted as having strong potential for financial success for Taurus individuals, according to the Times of India. 
Upcoming years

• 2025: This year is predicted to be a strong one for Taurus, bringing opportunities for romance, career, and professional news, according to Allure. 
• 2026: This year is expected to be one of steady growth, patience, and thoughtful action in career and relationships. 

Potential for financial success 

• The years 1997, 2009, and 2026 are specifically identified as years where Taurus individuals may find significant financial gain, according to Times of India. 

Life stages

• Post-Saturn return: Many astrologers suggest that Taurus individuals begin to build significant wealth and success after their first Saturn return, typically in their 30s, as they gain clarity on their goals and how to achieve them, notes Yahoo.