Have had to have (2) sets of rear drum brakes shoes and one set of drums so far.
The front disk brake pads and rotors have been replaced once. Rotors warp easily.
Minor interior trim fits poorly. For example, the plastic trim around the sun visor arms is a very poor fit. This was improved on the newer models.
The Taurus is a fairly dependable, economical basic family car. Great for one child seat and a limited budget. Overall, it still is a good amount of car for the money. We paid $14000 for the SE with 20K on it. The 2000 is a cheaper made car than the earlier ones. Our 1996 model seemed to be a much better made car and more comfortable.
The air conditioner in the 2000 is VERY POOR. The owner's manual even eludes to this. It states that the system will be much louder than earlier models. It is VERY LOUD and blows POORLY. In a dark colored car (ours is dark green) you will have to run at speed a good half hour to get it to cool off inside. Not a good deal with kids in car seats.
Overall it's a basic, boring decent car, but don't buy a dark color in the 2000 model and plan to spend on brakes.
Poor is the main word I agree with. This type of car belongs to my mother in-law so I get to drive it. It is difficult to park because of the poor vision all around. It always seems to have something wrong with it and is far too big on the outside for the useful space inside. IT does not have many of the well thought out design features most good modern cars have. This car is now for sale and will be replaced by a good car.
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