2002 Ford Taurus

Introduction

The 2002 Ford Taurus is a midsize sedan available with a range of engine and transmission options. It offers a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and powerful V6 engines. However, like all vehicles, the Taurus has some common issues reported by owners.

Engine

3.0L Vulcan V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: 02V049000
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, reduced engine power, engine hesitation
  • Solution: Replace ignition coils
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from engine, engine hesitation, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: 02V050000

3.4L InTech V8

• Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, rough idle, engine hesitation
  • Solution: Replace IMRC valves
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Spark Plug Blowout
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, reduced engine power, engine knocking
  • Solution: Repair spark plug threads, replace spark plugs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (AX4N)

• Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, delayed shifting
  • Solution: Replace torque converter clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: 02V046000

5-Speed Automatic (5R55W)

• Transmission Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping, no engagement
  • Solution: Replace transmission solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, rattling noise from front suspension
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Rear Shock Absorber Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, decreased handling
  • Solution: Replace shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not operating properly, clicking noise
  • Solution: Replace window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not functioning properly, flickering or dimming
  • Solution: Repair or replace instrument cluster
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

Exterior

• Headlight Lens Fogging
  • Description/Symptoms: Fogged or cloudy headlights, reduced visibility
  • Solution: Clean or replace headlights
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+

Interior

• Cup Holder Damage
  • Description/Symptoms: Cup holders cracking or breaking
  • Solution: Replace cup holders
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+

Summary

Overall, the 2002 Ford Taurus is a reliable midsize sedan with some common issues. Most of the reported issues are relatively minor and affordable to fix, with the exception of some major engine and transmission problems. However, the severity and cost of the issues can vary depending on the specific engine and transmission configuration.