Transmission broke down at 110,000 miles.
The actuator in rear passenger door has gone bad twice since I bought the car in 1998.
The interior lights do not function properly and I've had to take it to my mechanic three times so far to have them fixed. One time they drained the battery.
Check engine light has been on for one year, despite having the mechanic run a diagnostics on it with company provided software.
The interior roof padding has started to peel off.
This is my second Taurus. The first one was a 1994 model which had a different design than the 1996 version. I miss the power and pick up that the 94 model had with its 3.8L engine. Although the 96 model is roomier than the 94, it seems as though Ford stripped the GL model off of some options like power seats and trunk lock that were available in 94. The 96 model with its 3.0L engine does not have any better gas mileage than the 94 with 3.8L, but has significantly lower power.
Overall, I enjoy driving this car. It has a slick design and is comfortable for the driver, especially on long trips. The console is wrapped around nicely and the buttons are within the reach.
I have to admit that I am disappointed with the frequent trips to the shop I had to make with this car. The resale value has plummeted drastically, though not surprising.
My wife and I drive a 1995 Ford Taurus, with the 3.8 V6. This car has 325,000 miles on the original engine. Still runs very quiet, on the original exhaust. I would buy another one, but I am afraid that the new one may not give that kind of service..
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