1997 Ford Taurus LX from North America - Comments

Rear sway bar broke at about 75,000 miles. It was replaced with no additional problems.

I don't understand why Ford uses plastic control bars on the front suspension. One of these broke at approx. 70,000. Auto insurance met me half way because of a wreck 9 months prior. Cost for me was around $85.00.

My door ajar sensor goes haywire when the ambient temperature is above freezing, causing the dome light to stay on and the automatic door locks to malfunction. Can't afford to get it fixed just yet. I just have to remember to lock the doors manually and take out the dome light bulb when this happens.

Right before the warranty expired, the A/C quit on one of the hottest days of the year in '98. Ford corrected this problem with no additional difficulties.

I love this car, even with it's occasional stumbles. The Duratech V-6 is one of the best engines Ford has to date. It has some serious thrust when the throttle is applied.

My family feels safe in this car. I've driven to Florida from Kentucky in relative comfort. Rides pretty good for a mid-size.

I would definitely buy another Taurus, but would like to have rear disc brakes installed as an option. I love the factory 4 wheel disc brakes on my '97 LX.

The dome light problem is a typical problem. It can be fixed by squiting a generous amount of rust check all around the door mechanism that actually holds the door shut. Simply apply a good supply everywhere that you can.

All ya gotta do about your door sensor is squirt some WD-40 in the latch. It's a very common problem. I do that with every oil change as a preventive measure.

I just bought my taurus used and so far it's a good car. I do have the door light problem which I guess is pretty common. my check engine light also comes on at times and my low coolant light is on constantly even though I have enough coolant in it. I am thinking its the thermostat? the car temperature changes with the outside temp. I just took it on an 8 hour road trip and it ran great! my only worry is a burning smell coming from the engine when its been running for a while. overall a pretty good car so far.