2002 Ford Taurus

The 2002 Ford Taurus was a mid-size sedan known for its practicality, comfort, and affordability. Engine options included a 3.0L Vulcan OHV V6 producing approximately 155 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque and a 3.0L Duratec DOHC V6, generating around 200 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Taurus for its spacious interior, smooth ride, and straightforward maintenance. Common complaints include issues with reliability, particularly concerning the transmission and certain electrical components, as well as its somewhat bland styling and driving experience.

Engine

3.0L Vulcan OHV V6

• Intake Manifold Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the intake manifold, leading to vacuum leaks, rough idling, and potential misfires.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold, often with an updated design to prevent future cracking.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks (Timing Cover)
  • Description/Symptoms: External coolant leaks originating from the timing cover gasket.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing cover gasket, which is labor-intensive.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Duratec DOHC V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Potential for timing chain slip, leading to severe engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of timing chain tensioners, chains, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, and check engine light illumination. Typically due to a faulty ignition coil.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per coil+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4F50N 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engines)

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or harsh engagement of gears. Can be caused by worn valve body components, solenoid failure, or internal wear.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, the transmission may require valve body replacement, solenoid replacement, or a complete rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (solenoid replacement) - $2500+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at highway speeds, especially during acceleration. Stall or no movement when shifting into drive or reverse.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. May also necessitate flushing the transmission and replacing the filter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sway bar links. Relatively inexpensive and straightforward repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per link
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or popping noises when turning the steering wheel or going over bumps. Reduced ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts. Often done in conjunction with strut replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to go up or down, or moving slowly and erratically.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air coming from the vents, or inconsistent airflow. Clicking noises from behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on location.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Lower Body Panels/Wheel Wells)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the lower body panels, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair, which may involve patching, welding, and repainting. Can be a costly repair depending on the extent of the rust.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ per panel
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Lens Clouding
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight lenses becoming cloudy or yellowed, reducing visibility at night.
  • Solution: Headlight lens restoration or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 (restoration) or $100 - $400+ (replacement) per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Broken Door Handles
  • Description/Symptoms: Interior or exterior door handles breaking, making it difficult or impossible to open the door.
  • Solution: Replacement of the broken door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per handle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sagging Headliner
  • Description/Symptoms: The fabric headliner separating from the backing and sagging down.
  • Solution: Headliner replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Ford Taurus, while offering practicality and affordability, is prone to certain mechanical and electrical issues. Engine problems such as intake manifold and timing chain tensioner failures can be costly to address. The 4F50N transmission is a known weak point, with potential issues ranging from slipping to complete failure. Suspension and electrical components can also be problematic. Rust can be a concern in certain climates. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and inspect the vehicle carefully before purchasing. Addressing these issues can range from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs to several thousand dollars for major overhauls.