1996 Ford Taurus

Introduction:

The 1996 Ford Taurus was a full-size sedan known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride. It was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options, including:

• 3.0L Vulcan V6 (155 hp, 185 lb-ft torque)
• 3.8L Essex V6 (200 hp, 225 lb-ft torque)
• 4.6L Modular V8 (215 hp, 285 lb-ft torque)

Engine

3.0L Vulcan V6

Intake Manifold Gasket Failure

• Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, loss of power
• Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Recalls: None Found

3.8L Essex V6

Head Gasket Failure

• Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
• Solution: Replace head gaskets
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Recalls: None Found

4.6L Modular V8

No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (3.0L Vulcan V6)

Transmission Slipping

• Description/Symptoms: Transmission hesitates to shift, slippage in gears
• Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic (3.8L Essex V6)

Transmission Leaks

• Description/Symptoms: Fluid leaks from transmission
• Solution: Replace transmission seals
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
• Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic (4.6L Modular V8)

Transmission Control Module Failure

• Description/Symptoms: Transmission shifts erratically or doesn’t shift
• Solution: Replace transmission control module
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
• Recalls: None Found

Suspension

Struts or Shocks Failure

• Description/Symptoms: Worn or bouncy suspension, poor handling
• Solution: Replace struts or shocks
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Recalls: None Found

Sway Bar Links Failure

• Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise while turning or driving over bumps
• Solution: Replace sway bar links
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
• Recalls: None Found

Electrical

Alternator Failure

• Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, dead battery
• Solution: Replace alternator
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
• Recalls: None Found

Battery Failure

• Description/Symptoms: Vehicle won’t start, weak or dead battery
• Solution: Replace battery
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
• Recalls: None Found

Interior

Power Window Failure

• Description/Symptoms: Windows won’t go up or down
• Solution: Replace power window motor or switch
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Recalls: None Found

Heater Core Failure

• Description/Symptoms: No heat coming from vents, coolant leaks inside the vehicle
• Solution: Replace heater core
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Recalls: None Found

Exterior

Door Handle Failure

• Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening doors, door handles break or detach
• Solution: Replace door handles
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
• Recalls: None Found

Wiper Motor Failure

• Description/Symptoms: Wipers don’t work or work intermittently
• Solution: Replace wiper motor
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1996 Ford Taurus has some common issues that can be costly to repair, such as transmission problems and head gasket failure. However, many of the issues are relatively minor and can be fixed for under $1,000. Overall, the Taurus is a reliable vehicle that offers a comfortable and spacious ride.