1999 Ford Taurus SE review from North America

Windshield cracked from end-to-end, on three separate occasions, during normal defrosting procedure, between 53-54,000 miles.

Interior light remains on for days on end.

Door ajar light frequently comes on during driving, without incident, causing doors to unlock.

Windshield wipers come on unexpectedly, (usually 1 pass per 2 weeks).

Interior cabin air filter makes the interior smell like a skunk every 8,000 miles.

Electronic speed sensor failed at 68,000 miles, causing the transmission to stick in first gear. (a $380.00 non-warranty repair)

Power steering pump and rack failed at 72,000 miles, causing loss of power steering and excessive fluid leakage. (a $1150.00 non-warranty repair)

Oxygen sensor failed at 80,000 miles. (a $200.00 non-warranty repair)

Coolant system was partially blocked, the thermostat was replaced, and the heater core completely clogged, at 81,000 miles. This resulted in an unheated passenger compartment in the winter. (a $350 non-warranty repair)

This car was relatively dependable during my first year of ownership.

However, I currently have little faith in driving out of town in this car, as the frequency of repairs is ever-increasing.

Also, the engine/transmission (3.0L/4-speed auto/overdrive) are not mated well to each other, or as a pair to the car. The result of this underpowered drive train is premature shifting into overdrive (4th gear) at 35 mph/1000rpm, at which point there is so little torque available, that merely touching the accelerator results in a jerky downshift into 3rd gear.

Additionally, the cabin ergonomics did not seem well thought out: Uncomfortable seats on long rides (20 min or more) ; disproportionate arm/leg reach to steering wheel/pedals; very high dashboard creates a hazardous near-object viewing obstruction for driver (i.e., less than 10 feet in front of you)

Finally, climate-control/radio knobs are just far enough out of reach to make you sometimes divert your attention from driving in order to lean toward the center console.