2016 Ford Taurus

The 2016 Ford Taurus is a full-size sedan that offers a spacious interior and comfortable ride. Engine options include a 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 producing 288 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque, a 2.0L EcoBoost I4 producing 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (SHO) producing 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. All engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Taurus for its roomy cabin and large trunk, but some dislike its dated styling and fuel economy. The 2016 Taurus is known for having a good amount of space, and the SHO model has great power. However, the base V6 fuel economy isn’t the best and the car is pretty heavy.

Engine

3.5L Ti-VCT V6

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks around the water pump, thermostat housing, or coolant hoses. Can lead to overheating if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace leaking components (water pump, thermostat housing, hoses).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L EcoBoost I4

• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Turbocharger failure, resulting in loss of power, unusual noises from the engine, and potentially black smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Intrusion
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking into the cylinders, causing white smoke from the exhaust, engine misfires, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L EcoBoost V6 (SHO)

• Water Pump Failure (Internal)
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks into the engine oil, resulting in a milky appearance of the oil on the dipstick, engine overheating, and potential engine damage. Due to the internal design of the water pump.
  • Solution: Engine replacement may be necessary, or extensive cleaning of oil passages.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• PTU (Power Transfer Unit) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise, difficulty shifting, or complete failure of the all-wheel-drive system. The PTU transfers power to the rear wheels. This can happen on high mileage cars due to heat buildup.
  • Solution: Replacement of the PTU, fluid changes at regular intervals to prevent overheating.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6F50/6F35 6-Speed Automatic Transmission (All Engines)

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration, especially during light acceleration or when maintaining a steady speed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears, especially noticeable when shifting from 1st to 2nd or 2nd to 3rd.
  • Solution: Transmission tune and replacement of any worn solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Creaking or clunking noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn rear sway bar end links and/or bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• MyFord Touch/Sync System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, or complete failure of the infotainment system.
  • Solution: Update the Sync software to the latest version. If that doesn’t work, replace the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a short period, causing the car to not start.
  • Solution: Parasitic draw testing to identify the source of the drain, and repair or replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles that are difficult to open or break easily.
  • Solution: Door handle replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof sticking, failing to open or close properly, or leaking.
  • Solution: Sunroof track cleaning and lubrication, or replacement of the sunroof motor or assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Ford Taurus, across all its configurations, presents a range of potential issues. Engine problems, particularly with the 2.0L EcoBoost I4 and 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (SHO), can be severe and costly, potentially requiring engine replacement. Transmission issues are also prevalent across the board. While suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior issues are less catastrophic, they can still lead to unexpected repair bills. The MyFord Touch/Sync system is commonly reported as glitchy. Overall, the 2016 Ford Taurus can be a comfortable and spacious vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in maintenance costs when making a purchase decision.