1996-1999 Ford Taurus: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1996-1999 Ford Taurus and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration (LX, SHO)
- Passenger and cargo room
- Optional antilock brakes
- Steering/handling
Cons
- Rear visibility
- Automatic-transmission performance (G, GL)
- Ride (SHO)
Vehicle Highlights
America's best-selling car earned its first full overhaul for 1996, adopting a stunning shape. So did the similar Mercury Sable. Both mid-sizes were larger and more rounded than their 1986-95 predecessors. Wheelbase grew by 2.5 inches, to 108.5, while overall length increased more than five inches on the sedan and nearly six on the station wagon. Both the 4-door sedan and 4-door wagon came in GL and deluxe LX trim. The GL held an overhead-valve 3.0-liter V6 engine, rated at 145 horsepower. The LX got a new dual-cam 3.0-liter Duratec V6, which produced 200 horsepower. Both used a 4-speed automatic transmission. Dual airbags were standard; antilock all-disc brakes optional on all models. An oval "integrated control panel" on the dashboard contained radio and climate controls.A low-budget G sedan joined during the 1996 model year, with the same engine as the GL. So did a new high-performance SHO sedan, holding a 235-horsepower, 3.4-liter dual-cam V8 and standard antilock braking.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Ford Taurus GL sedan Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 47 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1996-1999 Ford Taurus. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1996-1999 Ford Taurus.
Year to Year Changes
1997 Ford Taurus:
Only a handful of changes marked the '97 models. Mainly, a Mach Audio System replaced the former JBL setup as an option.
1998 Ford Taurus:
G and GL editions were gone, and an SE sedan and wagon arrived for '98, as Taurus gained a more assertive front end. The more powerful V6 engine was now optional on the LX and SE.
1999 Ford Taurus:
All models got revised instrument cluster graphics and front bucket seats were standard on LX and SE (a front bench remained a no-charge option). Sluggish sales prompted Ford to reskin the Taurus for 2000, with a more conventional shape.
Our road test for the 1996-1999 Ford Taurus includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1996-1999 Ford Taurus and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1996-1999 Ford Taurus is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
An LX accelerates with greater authority than its less-potent G/GL siblings. That 200-horsepower engine is smooth, refined, and potent at higher engine speeds. Low-speed torque is lacking, however, so you must floor the throttle to achieve brisk passing. The LX transmission shifts smoothly. Not only is the G/GL V6 engine less powerful, but it's noisier, rougher, and slower. Its transmission often stumbles, shifts roughly, and is slow to downshift for passing. Low-speed power is also lacking in the SHO's V8, though it's plenty potent at higher speeds. You simply have to wait until engine speed reaches 3000 rpm or so before much happens. Steering is light and precise. Both models corner with good grip and commendable composure. Ride quality has improved somewhat, but the suspension does not absorb bumps well and feels too stiff on rough roads. Beware: The SHO's ride is stiff at all times. Wind and road noise have been reduced compared to previous Tauruses. The modern-looking control panel for the climate and audio systems is easy to see and reach, but buttons are overly abundant and many look alike. With optional automatic air conditioning, that control pad gets packed full. Interior space is better all around than before, especially in the rear, where leg room has grown substantially. Sitting three across, however, will crowd everyone--in both front and rear. The sedan trunk is roomy--wide, deep, and reaching well forward. The driver enjoys a clear view to the front and sides, but it's difficult to see the trunk of the sedan.
Value for the Money
Though not perfect, Taurus is roomy, well-built, and enjoyable to drive. Prices went up for this generation, but Tauruses remained a good value and an excellent choice, new or used.
Though not perfect, Taurus is roomy, well-built, and enjoyable to drive. Prices went up for this generation, but Tauruses remained a good value and an excellent choice, new or used.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Ford Taurus GL sedan Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 47 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Ford Taurus includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Ford Taurus .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
The air conditioning may not cool properly because the lines leak at the spring-lock couplings. Larger O-rings are available. (1996-97)
Automatic transmission:
Vehicles with the AX4S automatic transmission may shift harshly from first to second gear. (1996-97)
Dashboard lights:
The check engine light comes on for a variety of reasons including bad gasoline, a wobbling accessory drive pulley, or bad spark plugs. (1996-97)
Engine knock:
Knock during heavy acceleration on 3.0-liter V6 equipped vehicle may be cured by reprogramming ignition from "no retard" to "retard." (1999)
Engine misfire:
Frequent camshaft failures on V8 models leads to expensive expensive engine repair or replacement. A class action suit has been filed against Ford by SHO owners. (1996-99)
Heater core:
Installing a restrictor in the heater inlet hose may repair heater cores leaks. (1996-1999)
Steering problems:
The power steering gets harder to turn when decelerating from about 50 miles per hour or when shifting form reverse to drive requiring replacement of the control module and/or transmission range sensors. (1996)
Suspension noise:
The sway bar links wear prematurely causing a clunking noise. Revised parts are available. (1996-97)
Tire wear:
Rear tires wear prematurely due to incorrect rear alignment (toe and camber). (1996-97)
Tire wear:
Inner edge of rear tires wear excessively from camber problems corrected with a revised rear suspension adjuster kit. (1996-97)
Vehicle noise:
Rattling and buzzing from under the car is common due to loose heat shields on the catalytic converter and/or muffler. (1996-97)
Vehicle noise:
Noises from the front end (popping, clunking, knocking) result from worn sway bar links. Countermeasure links have been issued by the carmaker. (1996-97)
Water leak:
Water leaks onto the front floor because of poor sealing of the cabin air filter cowl inlet. (1996-98)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $440 |
| Alternator | $350 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,115 |
| Brakes | $280 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $605 |
| Exhaust System | $415 |
| Radiator | $585 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $600 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $350 |
Our price chart for this generation Ford Taurus details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1999 | |||
| Taurus SHO | $3,700-4,300 | $3,000-3,500 | $1,100-1,200 |
| Taurus sedan | $2,400-2,900 | $1,700-2,100 | $500-600 |
| Taurus wagon | $2,700-3,200 | $2,000-2,400 | $600-700 |
| 1998 | |||
| Taurus SHO | $3,200-3,800 | $2,500-3,000 | $800-1,000 |
| Taurus sedan | $2,200-2,700 | $1,600-1,900 | $400-500 |
| Taurus wagon | $2,500-3,000 | $1,800-2,200 | $500-600 |
| 1997 | |||
| Taurus SHO | $2,700-3,300 | $2,000-2,500 | $600-700 |
| Taurus sedan | $2,000-2,400 | $1,400-1,700 | $300-400 |
| Taurus wagon | $2,200-2,700 | $1,600-1,900 | $400-500 |
| 1996 | |||
| Taurus SHO | $2,400-3,000 | $1,700-2,200 | $500-600 |
| Taurus sedan | $1,800-2,200 | $1,200-1,500 | $300 |
| Taurus wagon | $1,900-2,300 | $1,300-1,600 | $300-400 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Ford Taurus include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 108.5 | 108.5 |
| Overall Length, in. | 197.5 | 199.6 |
| Overall Width, in. | 73.0 | 73.0 |
| Overall Height, in. | 55.1 | 57.6 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3326 | 3480 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 15.8 | 81.3 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 16.0 | 16.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 61 | 82 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.2 | 39.3 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.6 | 42.6 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 36.2 | 38.9 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 38.9 | 38.5 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
All Tauruses except the SHO had a 3.0-liter V6 engine: either an overhead-valve version rated at 145 horsepower; or a dual-overhead-cam V6, which produces 200 horsepower. Beneath the SHO's hood sat a dual-cam V8, making 235 horsepower. All Tauruses had a 4-speed automatic transmission, but the one in G/GL models, with the less-potent engine, lacked electronic controls.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc V8 | 3.4 / 207 | 235 | 230 | 4-speed automatic: 17/26 | 4-speed automatic: 16.5 |
| ohv V6 | 3.0 / 182 | 145 | 170 | 4-speed automatic: 20/28 | 4-speed automatic: 18.3 |
| dohc V6 | 3.0 / 181 | 200 | 200 | 4-speed automatic: 19/28 | 4-speed automatic: 17.1 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Ford Taurus include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1999 Taurus |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | -- |
| Front Impact, Passenger | -- |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1996-1999 Ford Taurus directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1996:
Brake-fluid indicator can malfunction.
1996:
Vacuum diaphragm in fuel-pressure regulator was damaged during manufacture; if it tears or ruptures, liquid fuel could be released from air-cleaner assembly or exhaust system.
1996-97:
"Park"-pawl abutment bracket has sharp edge, which can cause pawl to hang up and not engage gear; vehicle can then move, even though indicator shows "Park."
1997 w/AX4S automatic transaxle:
Low/intermediate servo cover can separate while vehicle is moving, allowing transmission fluid to contact the hot catalytic converter.
1997-98:
Headlamp-aiming instruction in owner's manual is not sufficiently clear.
1998-99 w/manual seat tracks:
Front-seatbelt-buckle attaching stud may have been improperly heat-treated, resulting in cracks.
1999 w/"California" Emissions:
Incorrect transmission-oil-cooler line was installed, which contacts ABS module bracket and, over time, can wear and develop a leak.
1999:
Retainer clip can disengage from accelerator cable and fall into pedal-arm pivot area; engine may not fully return to idle, and insulator could interfere with cable.
1999:
Seatbelt retractor may have incorrectly formed pin shaft that could, in some circumstances, prevent seatbelt webbing from being extracted.
1999-01:
Front coil springs on certain cars sold in specified states could fracture, due to corrosion associated with road salt used in winter.
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