1988 Ford Taurus GL review from North America
"A well equipped car for the money"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Constant velocity joints, water pump had to be replaced at 123000 kilometres.
Rear struts/springs failed at 140000 kms
Heater core failed 146000 kms
Constant coolant system problems, such as blown heater hoses plagued the car for as long as I owned the car.
Pump for washer fluid failed twice.
Tie Rod ends dangerously loose, replaced at 160 000 k's.
Brakes and rotors replaced, usual wear and tear.
Chronic corrosion problem below gas filler cap, repaired twice, seems to be a common problem.
General comments?
A roomy, comfortably riding sedan, great for hauling around a bunch of college students.
Adequate performance with the V6, although slow down shifting on expressway on ramps is a bit frightening if you're not used to it.
Handles well for a car this size, better than most mid sized cars I have driven. Handled snow and ice well, but the tail had a tendency to slide around corners if you're not careful.
Not the cheapest car to maintain, with relatively high fuel consumption, frequent repairs etc. Don't buy this car without some mechanical knowledge, money set aside for costly repair work.
A decent first car.
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  | 1988 - Taurus LX 140 HP 3.0 V6 fuel-injected I'll never forget this car, it is the king of low budget transportation |
| Reliable for a year, then is a bottomless money pit |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 litre 12v V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 6/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 120000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 167000 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 24th April, 2002 |