1997 Ford Taurus LX 3.0

Summary:

A good idea, but does not live up to it's reputation

Faults:

Engine overheating.

Cooling system problems, leaks.

Transmission malfunction, stopped working.

Courtesy lights won't go out.

Front rotor replaced at 30000 miles.

Ignition switch failures.

Water pump replacement at 50,000 miles.

Body rattles.

Heater core leaked.

Windshield washer failed at 60,000 miles.

Cam Shaft sensor failed.

General Comments:

This car is the worst one I have ever owned. I wound up putting a new engine in it. Replaced the transmission. Had the heater core replaced. Had the radiator replaced. Front brakes and rotors wore out within 30,000 mile of use. (All highway driving). This car spends more time in the shop than I do at work.

I have spent over $7,500 on this car and the spending never ends.

Do you know anyone who needs a lemon!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 23rd December, 2002

1997 Ford Taurus GL 3.0

Summary:

Needs a little bit more work

Faults:

The only thing I have to complain about my car is that the Transmission is shot only after 5 years of having this car and ford won't do nothing about it, I know my waranty is up, but for the price you pay for the car and in such a short amount of time for this transmission to break is outragis Ford should compensate.

General Comments:

I love my car it drive nicely never had any problems till now (transmission) It has a smooth ride.

Nice safety features.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 6th November, 2002

1997 Ford Taurus GL 3.0 Vulcan V6

Summary:

A well-built, reliable car!

Faults:

Had to replace the right-hand tie-rod at 70000 miles. Took the car in for service after hearing a clunking noise and was told it was the tie-rod. Have not heard the noise since the tie-rod was replaced. Cost: $60.00.

The tires wear unevenly. Don't know yet if it is the front or rear as I have the tires rotated and didn't notice the wear until later. They wear on the inside. Had the vehicle four-wheel aligned and the front was adjusted slightly; we'll see if it helps.

General Comments:

Besides the above minor problems, I love this car. My mechanic repeatedly tells me that the vehicle is in exceptional condition, even after 102000 miles! I have had chances to trade-in the vehicle for new vehicles, but have always talked myself out of it because I can find nothing wrong with this car! It still drives like new, goes down an open highway very comfortably, does not use any more oil (or any of the other fluids for that matter) than a new car does, and is quiet with no squeaks or rattles whatsoever. I have test-driven brand new cars that don't drive as well as this car, or do not "feel" as well-built. Anytime the odometer reaches 100,000 miles on any vehicle I get a little nervous as I frequently travel long distances, but with this car I feel totally safe. My wife usually drives the car and she loves it, too. We both take very good care of it, with proper maintenance and decent driving habits. Have read numerous reviews of faulty vehicles, but after owning this car I don't understand them, as my car is the same car from the same build plants. I think if you take care of your vehicle like you should, it will pay huge dividends in the future.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th November, 2002

30th Jan 2003, 08:23

I think it's very fortunate that at least one person in the world hasn't had problems with the door ajar light on the Taurus being constantly lit. To imply that this problem might have anything to do with not following the service schedule is a bit of a stretch though. I've had mine in for service umpteen times just because of the problem and the dealership has yet to fix it. I also am unable to get the windshield washer fluid to flow when trying to clean the windows. Very dangerous and just plain terrible when driving on wet, salted roads. If it weren't for these freaky seemingly electrical problems, my Taurus would be a great car.

7th Jun 2004, 08:00

I have had the same problem with my Taurus. It's generally well maintained except for the door ajar coming on from the driver's side door every now and then. It's annoying and my door will not lock as well as the lights staying on. I found that just by rubbing the connectors with rubbing alcohol and even just cleaning the connector with a rag it will work fine afterwords. Never have had any problems with the wiper blades and it still runs strong after 87k.

21st Nov 2006, 09:03

Just wanted to pass on to all. My daughter bought the 1997 SHO as her first car. We had a few mechanical problems with it, but the lot she bought it from was very helpful in getting the car fixed. Where I am pleased with the car is how tough it is. She put it to the test. On her way to work she rolled it end over end. It landed on the wheels and she shut off the engine and stepped out of the car. She had a bruise on her chest from the seat belt and a swollen nose from the airbag. That's it. As a father I would replace her transmission every year knowing it is built ford tough.