Faults:

Auto transmission failed abruptly, without warning, and completely.

Constant loss of coolant. Couldn't find the leak, but the dealer said it was near the water pump.

General Comments:

Until transmission went out - on the highway, leaving me stranded - car was dependable and comfortable.

Only later learned how many others had trouble with the transmission as well.

Feel Ford should have done a recall on the transmission, or aided with the cost of repair for low mileage cars like mine.

The last Ford I'll ever buy.

Faults:

Nothing has gone wrong with this car in the time that I have had it, it has been very reliable so far.

General Comments:

Comfortable and very pleasing to the senses for an "old school" American car.

Good, smooth base engine that provides plenty of power for most needs.

Cabin interior squeaks from time to time from inferior plastic moldings and fittings.

Easy to maintain and dealer support is phenomenal.

Decent gas mileage for such a heavy vehicle, uses regular 87 octane fuel for cheaper running costs.

Bland exterior sometimes makes other drivers judge the vehicle a "grandpa's car". This is both a good and bad thing.

Overall a very solid and reliable car so far. If bought from a private party, take it to a mechanic and have them give it a thorough check-up.

Faults:

The air conditioner temperature solenoid failed at around 87,000 miles. Part was about $89.00 but labor to install was $250.00.

The digital heater control unit failed at around 89,000 miles. Replaced broken unit with one from a salvage yard. The cost was $50.00 and installation was self-performed.

The compact disc player unit failed around 93,000 miles. The cassette portion of the unit still works, so I have not replaced the compact disc player yet.

General Comments:

The car is very quick for a four door sedan. It can outrun most other four-door cars out there with the exception of a few.

The handling of the car is mediocre. Obviously, Ford set the car up for touring rather than racing. The ride is mildly rough and body roll is moderate.

The brakes are very good. I have yet to experience any fade.

The styling of the car is pretty bland. Aside from subtle side extensions, driving lights, low rear spoiler, dual exhaust, "SHO" insignias on the rear bumper and doors, and larger wheels, the car looks just like any other Taurus of that year. This is not necessarily a bad thing. It makes for real "sleeper" car.

Faults:

I have had no real problems with the car. Although when I bought it I found the previous owner had skid so hard that the tires had been flat spotted. So there is noticeable wheel hop above 60 M.P.H.

I had to change the spark plugs when it hit the 152,000 mile mark. I really should have when I bought it. I put Splitfire performance spark plugs in and noticed a huge increase in performance.

General Comments:

I have really found this car to be fun. I have driven many cars - BMWs, Audis, etc. The refinement of this car is nowhere close to the refinement of the latter. I have found that it still gets the job done and will easily go 90 M.P.H. without complaining at me. Who really needs to go any faster.

Ford's 3.0L V6, from what I have heard, is the one of the companies' best engines, and I don't doubt it. I average about 22 to 30 miles per gallon and with work being 40 miles away that gas mileage seems very nice.

Overall I love my car, but I would love to have a Honda Civic.