2002 Ford Taurus SE review from North America
"Overpriced with excessive early maintenance"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The passenger seat belt retractor locked up and failed at 44000 miles. It was replaced under warranty.
The rear struts and springs have sagged excessively since 50000 miles. Ride height is way below specs. Replaced struts and springs. Springs were dealer only.
The blower motor thermal limiter has failed three times in 40000 miles. Dealer only part. $18 each time.
EGR differential pressure sensor failed at 58000 miles. Not covered under warranty. Replaced it myself with $20 dealer part.
Fuel system Injection pressure Sensor failed at 68000 miles. Difficult to get from dealer.
Cam position sensor and cam position synchronizer failed at 69500 miles. This appears to be an all too common failure item. Sensor was $35 and synchronizer was $160, but you need a special tool to install the synchronizer. Dealer charge for this repair was $275.
General comments?
Rides good on the highway and in town.
Fuel economy is good on highway when car is running good with no broken parts, about 30 mpg.
All the failure items above seem to be common. I'm not sure that 'Quality is Job 1' at Ford.
Recommended Reviews:
  | 2002 - Taurus SES 3.0L OHV Vulcan V6 Great car at a great price |
| Super Value and never broke down yet |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 OHV Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 3/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 3/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 33000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 70000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Suburban |
| Date of Entry | 3rd February, 2004 |