2004 Ford Taurus

Introduction:

The 2004 Ford Taurus is a full-size sedan offered with a range of engine and transmission options. It is powered by a choice of a 201-horsepower 3.0-liter V6, a 223-horsepower 3.9-liter V6, or a 260-horsepower 3.0-liter Duratec V6. Transmission options include a 5-speed automatic for the 3.0-liter V6 and a 6-speed automatic for the 3.9-liter and Duratec V6 engines. The Taurus received high marks for its spacious interior, smooth ride, and comfortable seating. However, some owners have reported various issues with the vehicle.

Engine

3.0-liter V6

• Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The IMRC fails, causing the engine to lose power and stall.
  • Solution: Replace the IMRC.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The camshaft position sensor fails, causing the engine to run rough or stall.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.9-liter V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket fails, causing coolant to leak.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0-liter Duratec V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner fails, causing the timing chain to become loose and potentially jump.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed Automatic

• Transmission Slippage:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips out of gear while driving, resulting in loss of power.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter fails, causing the transmission to shudder or slip.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

6-speed Automatic

• Shifting Delay:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission experiences delayed or erratic shifts.
  • Solution: Update the transmission control module (TCM) software.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on dealer
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fluid Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission leaks fluid from the pan or lines.
  • Solution: Replace the gasket or lines as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The strut mount wears out, causing the suspension to become loose and noisy.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mount.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electrical Short:
  • Description/Symptoms: The electrical system experiences a short, causing it to malfunction or fail.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the short.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the location of the short
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: The power door locks fail to operate correctly or become inoperable.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The headlights fail to illuminate or flicker.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight bulbs or diagnose the electrical circuit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Heater Core Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: The heater core leaks and causes a musty smell in the cabin.
  • Solution: Replace the heater core.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioner Compressor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The air conditioner compressor fails, resulting in a lack of cool air.
  • Solution: Replace the air conditioner compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Ford Taurus is a reliable vehicle with a spacious interior and comfortable ride. However, it is not without its issues. The most common problems reported by owners include engine and transmission problems, with the timing chain tensioner failure being the most serious and expensive issue. Suspension and electrical issues are also known, but they are less severe and less costly to fix. Overall, the 2004 Taurus is still a decent choice for a full-size sedan, but buyers should be aware of the potential issues before making a purchase.