2004 Ford Taurus

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2004 Ford Taurus, organized by category and powertrain configuration, using the format you requested.

The 2004 Ford Taurus was a mid-size sedan known for its practicality and affordability. Engine options included the 3.0L Vulcan V6 producing 155 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque, and the 3.0L Duratec 24V V6 generating 201 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciated the Taurus’s comfortable ride and spacious interior, but some common complaints included less-than-stellar fuel economy and some reliability concerns.

Engine

3.0L Vulcan V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak from the intake manifold gasket, leading to overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and low coolant levels.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, or difficulty starting. Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0340 may be present.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Duratec 24V V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, particularly on startup. Can lead to timing chain slippage and potential engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioners, guides, and potentially the timing chain itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, stalling, or erratic idle speed.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the IAC valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4F50N)

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shaking or vibrating sensation, especially during light acceleration at around 30-45 mph.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter or perform a transmission flush and add a friction modifier. A transmission flush can be a temporary solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+ (for torque converter replacement), $100 - $200 (for flush and friction modifier)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Slipping/Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission hesitates or slips when shifting between gears. Can be more pronounced when cold.
  • Solution: Could be due to low fluid level, worn clutches, or valve body issues. Requires diagnosis, and repair may involve fluid change, valve body repair, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 (Fluid Change, may not fix the issue), $500 - $1000 (Valve Body), $2000-$4000+ (Rebuild/Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension when going over bumps. Can also cause poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Coil Spring Sagging/Broken
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal. May experience a rougher ride.
  • Solution: Replace the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows stop working or operate slowly/erratically.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, or complete failure to start.
  • Solution: Replace the fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: 05V329000 - The fuel delivery module may crack, causing a fuel leak.

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the lower body panels.
  • Solution: Repair and repaint affected areas, or replace rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Blend Door Actuator Failure (HVAC)
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control air temperature effectively. One side of the vehicle may blow hot air while the other blows cold. Clicking noise from behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Door Handle
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaks internally, making it difficult or impossible to open the door from the inside or outside.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Ford Taurus has some known issues, particularly with the transmission (torque converter shudder, slipping) and the 3.0L Duratec engine (timing chain tensioner). Electrical and suspension components also experience common failures. The severity ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs. Overall, buyers should carefully inspect the transmission, listen for engine noises, and check for rust before purchasing.