1997 Ford Taurus GL review from North America
"Cheap materials and poor craftsmanship bring out the worst in this car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Tie rod ends had to be replaced.
Vibrating steering wheel due to warped rotors.
Drivers side door panel was coming off.
Materials on the dashboard were coming apart.
Faulty windshield wipers.
Faulty headlights, reverse lights, and tail lights.
Oil pan gasket was replaced.
When driving over a puddle, battery light would come on, you'd lose power steering, and car would turn itself off.
Turning right at low speeds resulted in a kind of groaning noise.
Seat belts would not retract.
Needs a new stabilizer bar, due to car swaying on drawbridge.
Car rides very rough. Something is wrong with suspension because it takes bumps and swells VERY hard. Almost feels like the car is gonna fall apart when hitting a bump. You can't avoid them all.
General comments?
It just seems like ford doesn't build their cars very well. I liked the Taurus, it was nice to look at, drove well when it wanted to, and was very comfy.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Beware of repair costs; every little item requires major shop time |
| A decent car with a serious case of planned obsolescence |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 40000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 70000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Taurus |
| Date of Entry | 4th April, 2004 |