2016 Ford Police Interceptor Sedan

The 2016 Ford Police Interceptor Sedan, based on the Ford Taurus, is a popular choice for law enforcement due to its spacious interior, robust suspension, and powerful engine options. It offered a blend of performance and practicality needed for police work. Available engine options included a 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 engine producing 305 horsepower and 279 lb-ft of torque, a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine producing 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L EcoBoost I4 producing 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, all paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Some of the common likes about the vehicle were its durability, handling, and spacious interior. Common dislikes included the fuel economy, particularly with the EcoBoost engine, and some reported electrical issues.

Engine

3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, whistling noise from the engine bay, check engine light. Often caused by bearing failure within the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replacement of the failed turbocharger. Inspecting the oil supply lines to the turbocharger for blockage is also recommended to prevent recurrence.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intercooler Condensation Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or shuddering during acceleration, particularly in humid conditions. Caused by condensation buildup in the intercooler.
  • Solution: Installation of a modified intercooler with a drain hole. Reprogramming the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) may also be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

3.7L Ti-VCT V6

• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, engine knocking. The water pump is located internally and is driven by the timing chain. If it fails, coolant can contaminate the engine oil.
  • Solution: Engine disassembly, replacement of water pump and timing chain components, oil flush. In severe cases, engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L EcoBoost I4

• Coolant Intrusion
  • Description/Symptoms: Low Coolant Level, White Smoke from Exhaust, Misfires, Check Engine Light
  • Solution: In some cases, replacement of the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6F50 6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, transmission not engaging. Often caused by worn valve body components or internal clutch failure.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the transmission. Flushing the transmission fluid and replacing the filter can sometimes temporarily alleviate the issue if caught early.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Coil Spring Sag/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting low in the rear, uneven tire wear, clunking noises from the rear suspension. Common due to the heavy-duty use and added weight of police equipment.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear coil springs. Upgrading to heavy-duty aftermarket springs is recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, loose steering, uneven tire wear. Bushings wear out due to vehicle use.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front lower control arm, including new ball joint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light illuminated, dimming headlights, electrical system malfunction, vehicle stalling. High electrical load from police equipment can strain the alternator.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator. Upgrading to a higher-output alternator is recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, malfunctioning lights, erratic sensor readings. Caused by chafing or damaged wiring, especially in areas where aftermarket equipment has been installed.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the damaged wiring harness. May involve replacing sections of the harness or individual wires.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Hinge Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging doors, difficulty opening or closing doors, creaking noises when opening or closing doors. Can be caused by worn hinge pins or bushings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door hinge pins or bushings, or replacement of the entire hinge assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Frame Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat feeling unstable, creaking noise from the seat, visible cracks in the seat frame. Can be caused by wear and tear from heavy use
  • Solution: Welding repair or replacement of the seat frame.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Ford Police Interceptor Sedan, while generally a durable vehicle, experiences a range of issues typical of high-use fleet vehicles. Engine problems, especially with the EcoBoost variants, can be expensive to address. Transmission issues are also a significant concern. Suspension components are prone to wear and tear. Electrical problems are fairly common due to the added strain from police equipment. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and budget accordingly for repairs. The severity and cost of these issues vary greatly depending on the vehicle’s previous usage and maintenance history.