2010 Ford Taurus

The 2010 Ford Taurus marked a significant redesign, aiming to revitalize Ford’s full-size sedan offering. Engine options included a 3.5L Duratec V6 engine producing 263 horsepower and 249 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6F50 6-speed automatic transmission. For the SHO (Super High Output) model, there was a more powerful 3.5L EcoBoost V6, producing 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, paired with the 6F55 6-speed automatic transmission. The Taurus was generally praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and available technology, but some owners found its large size cumbersome, and the fuel economy of the standard V6 was not class-leading. Common complaints often revolved around electrical issues and some powertrain quirks, while many appreciated the car’s overall value and safety features.

Engine

3.5L Duratec V6

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks often originate from the water pump or the thermostat housing. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant puddles under the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty water pump or thermostat housing, including new gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L EcoBoost V6 (SHO)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Turbocharger failures can result in reduced engine power, unusual noises (whining or screeching), and potentially excessive smoke from the exhaust. This can also trigger a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed turbocharger(s). A thorough inspection of the oil supply lines to the turbochargers is recommended to prevent future issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6F50 6-Speed Automatic (Standard V6)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of harsh shifting, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear, and occasional hesitation during acceleration.
  • Solution: A software update to the Transmission Control Module (TCM) might resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 (software update), $800 - $3000+ (valve body/rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

6F55 6-Speed Automatic (EcoBoost V6 SHO)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter shudder or failure can lead to erratic shifting, vibrations, and stalling.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter and flushing the transmission fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature sagging of the rear suspension, leading to a lower ride height and potentially affecting handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear springs and possibly the shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• SYNC System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent freezing, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and difficulty pairing devices.
  • Solution: Attempting a system reset, updating the SYNC software (if available), or, in severe cases, replacing the SYNC module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset), $100 - $300 (software update, if applicable), $500 - $1000+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Ajar Sensor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The “door ajar” warning light illuminates even when all doors are securely closed, potentially draining the battery and preventing remote locking.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door ajar sensor, often integrated into the door latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Water Leaks into Trunk
  • Description/Symptoms: Water accumulates in the trunk after rain or washing the car. This can lead to musty odors and potential damage to items stored in the trunk.
  • Solution: Inspect and reseal the trunk weatherstripping, taillight seals, and any body seams in the trunk area.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, jamming, or water leaks around the sunroof seal.
  • Solution: Replacing the sunroof motor, repairing the sunroof track mechanism, or replacing the sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Ford Taurus, while a comfortable and spacious sedan, does have some common issues. Engine and transmission problems, while not universally prevalent, can be costly, especially concerning turbocharger failure in the SHO models. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the SYNC system, can be frustrating. Suspension sagging and water leaks are also worth noting. While many of these issues may not affect every vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of them and thoroughly inspect any used Taurus before purchase. The severity of the issues varies, with estimated repair costs ranging from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for major component replacements.