2019 Ford Taurus
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2019 Ford Taurus, organized by category and engine/transmission configuration.
The 2019 Ford Taurus, in its final year of production, offered a comfortable and spacious ride, particularly appreciated by families and those needing ample trunk space. However, it was criticized for its dated design, fuel economy, and handling compared to newer competitors. The 2019 Taurus came with three engine options: a 3.5L 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 model) producing 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Engine
3.5L V6 (Non-EcoBoost)
- Engine Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may occur from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal. Visible oil spots under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels are common symptoms.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal is typically required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ (depending on the location of the leak)
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the water pump area. Overheating, coolant smell, and low coolant levels are symptoms.
- Solution: Replacing the water pump and possibly related hoses and thermostat.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
2.0L EcoBoost I4
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Whining or screeching noises from the turbocharger, loss of power, and/or check engine light. Can sometimes lead to complete turbo failure.
- Solution: Turbocharger replacement or repair. Inspection of oil supply lines to the turbo is also critical.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Intrusion
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the cylinder head can cause coolant to leak into the cylinders. White smoke from the exhaust, rough running, and coolant loss are symptoms.
- Solution: Replacement of the cylinder head.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $5000+
- Recalls: None Found
3.5L EcoBoost V6 (SHO)
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the water pump area. Overheating, coolant smell, and low coolant levels are symptoms.
- Solution: Replacing the water pump and possibly related hoses and thermostat.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- PTU (Power Transfer Unit) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: This unit is what sends power to the rear wheels for AWD. A common issue is fluid leaking and eventually failure of the unit. Symptoms are whining noises, vibrations, and eventual loss of rear wheel drive.
- Solution: PTU Replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic Transmission (All Engines)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Hard or jerky shifting between gears, especially at lower speeds.
- Solution: Software updates, valve body replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400 (Software update), $800 - $1500 (Valve Body), $3000 - $5000+ (Transmission Rebuild/Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Shudder
- Description/Symptoms: A shuddering or shaking sensation, especially under light acceleration at highway speeds.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush with updated fluid, torque converter replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 (Fluid Flush), $800 - $1500 (Torque Converter)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Worn Struts/Shocks
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll in turns, poor handling, and clunking noises from the suspension.
- Solution: Replacing worn struts and shocks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ (per axle)
- Recalls: None Found
- Control Arm Bushing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor alignment.
- Solution: Replacing the control arms or control arm bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (per control arm)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- SYNC System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and display glitches.
- Solution: Software updates, APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update if Available), $500 - $1200+ (APIM Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, especially after sitting for short periods.
- Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the parasitic drain. Possible causes include faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, and wiring issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (Diagnostic and repair)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Door locks that fail to lock or unlock, or that cycle erratically.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ (per door)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Heater Core Failure
- Description/Symptoms: No heat in the cabin, coolant smell inside the vehicle, and fogging of the windshield.
- Solution: Replacing the heater core.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2019 Ford Taurus, while offering a comfortable ride and spacious interior, has some common issues owners should be aware of. Engine issues, particularly coolant and oil leaks in the 3.5L V6 and turbocharger issues in the 2.0L EcoBoost, can lead to moderate to high repair costs. Transmission problems like harsh shifting and torque converter shudder are also prevalent. Electrical gremlins with the SYNC system and battery drain can be frustrating. Suspension and exterior issues can also occur. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs varying accordingly. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and review its maintenance history to identify and address any potential problems proactively.