2003 Ford Taurus SEL from North America - Comments

I had to replace the radio receiver, it was not broken, but the stock unit was unable to pick up the radio station that I listen to. In fairness, the station that I listen to is far away and thus has a very weak signal.

I am generally very impressed with the Taurus. I had been driving a sporty car (Mustang), but with a young child I needed to get a sedan. The idea of getting a Sedan was not something which I looked forward to. My opinions are changed after having owned this car for a while.

The interior is roomier than any other car I looked at in my comparison shopping. The seating is luxurious and comfortable. The controls are within easy reach of the driver and are clearly labeled and/or shaped so that I can make adjustments without taking my eyes off of the road. I am mildly disappointed that the audio and ventilation controls are housed in a single unit, making an upgrade to the stock stereo somewhat less attractive. The road feel is not as mushy as other sedans that I tested. It is not as agile as my old Mustang, but that is understood since it is a different car.

The Duratec V6 has plenty of power. I do notice a very slight hesitation when I push the accelerator hard. The tachometer rises immediately, but it seems like there is a slight delay until I feel the push of power. This is likely because I am used to driving sports car. I wish the fuel economy were a little better (I get about 24 MPG). Most of my driving is stop and go, so I guess that is not so bad. I have not really taken a long trip with this car; I am guessing that the highway miles would be much better.

Maintenance with this vehicle is easy. At this point, I have only had to do routine things like change the oil, check the air filter, etc. I have had no problems with the vehicle at all; it is just as reliable as my previous Ford.

I am still amazed by the value of this car; it is truly a diamond in the rough. Other vehicles in this category cost much more and offer fewer amenities. My Taurus has every available option, save the auto-dimming mirror and wood trimmed dash. I still feel like I cheated someone to get such a beautiful car for such an inexpensive price. This car is an amazing bargain, it is the perfect family sedan, yet I can get into the accelerator and have some fun on the open road when I am by myself.

I will enjoy this car for many years to come. I know that Ford plans to phase out the Taurus in favor of the new Ford 500. I can only hope that the 500 can fill the shoes of its predecessor.

Highway miles are pretty good in the Taurus.. Not as great a my Elantra, a smaller economy car, but for comfort and distance can handle long out of state trips before needing to refuel. We love cruise control in this car. This aids in fuel economy, too.

We have a 2002 wagon, selected as a serious upgrade from a 1993 Escort, used not just as a family wagon,. but for hauling music equipmment. (Bass amplifier, 3 guitars, 2 dual guitar holder, and a bag with assorted wires and wah pedals, all of which could fit in the back space and still have room up front to seat 2 average people up front (one tiny person in middle if needed), and three reasonably sized people in the middle row. Was most recently used coming down from Poconos with my husband, me, my mom, my son, neice and nephew, luggage for all and christmas presents coming home with us. We never needed the luggage rack.