2018 Ford Police Interceptor Sedan

The 2018 Ford Police Interceptor Sedan is a variant of the Ford Taurus designed specifically for law enforcement use. It offers enhanced durability, performance, and safety features compared to the civilian model. The engine options include a 3.5L V6 engine producing 288 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque, a 3.7L V6 engine producing 305 horsepower and 279 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine producing 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. All engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the vehicle’s robust build quality, powerful engine options, and spacious interior. Some complaints include the firm ride quality and somewhat dated interior design compared to newer models.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Coolant Leak from Water Pump
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking externally from the water pump area. May notice a coolant smell or low coolant levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump and possibly the thermostat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.7L V6

• Intake Manifold Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, check engine light. Diagnostic codes may indicate issues with intake manifold runner control.
  • Solution: Intake Manifold replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, unusual noises from the engine (whining or screeching), smoke from the exhaust, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Intrusion
  • Description/Symptoms: White smoke from the exhaust, loss of coolant without external leaks, rough running engine, check engine light. This is often caused by cracks forming in the cylinder head.
  • Solution: Replacing the cylinder head or engine replacement in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Engine Options)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the issue persists, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at highway speeds, difficulty maintaining speed uphill, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement. In some cases, transmission replacement is recommended if the torque converter failure has contaminated the transmission fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits lower in the rear than the front. Ride quality suffers.
  • Solution: Replace rear shocks and springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Premature Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or creaking noises from the front suspension, loose or vague steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected ball joint(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per ball joint.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, needing frequent jump starts. This can be caused by aftermarket police equipment (lights, sirens, radios) that are not properly installed or draw excessive current when the vehicle is off.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the electrical system to identify the source of the parasitic draw. Disconnecting aftermarket equipment, repairing faulty wiring, or replacing components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, warning lights on the dashboard, difficulty starting the engine, and eventually a dead battery.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Hinge Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The doors start to sag, make noise when opening or closing, or become difficult to align and latch properly. This is common on police vehicles due to frequent and heavy use of the doors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door hinges.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door, depending on labor and part costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking noises from behind the dashboard. Improper control over the air temperature.
  • Solution: Replace Blend Door Actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent flickering, incorrect readings, or complete failure of the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Ford Police Interceptor Sedan, while generally reliable, can experience several common issues. Engine problems, especially with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, and transmission issues can be costly to repair. Electrical issues related to aftermarket equipment and suspension wear are also common. Severity ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. Costs range from a couple hundred dollars up to several thousands depending on the type of repair that is required.