1994 Ford Taurus SHO from North America - Comments

Two months after I purchased the car, the transmission failed as I was climbing a hill at high power. The mechanic showed me the part; it was a metal gear that broke in half.

The alternator quit a month later. 6 months after replacing, the battery light is on again. I just ignore it.

Within 6 months, the starter failed. The first replacement lasted 6 months and failed. The second replacement lasted 6 months and failed. I am on my third starter in 2 years.

The engine developed a no start condition. The control module for the fuel pump failed. I started to use a hammer to bang the module in the morning to get the fuel pump to run.

Currently, the car has developed a monstrous misfire and engine skip. After an hour in heavy traffic, it will just shut down and won't start for a half hour. The mechanic can't figure what is wrong, but wants to replace the fuel pump (for $450), spark plugs and wires (for $660), timing belt (for $481), cylinder id sensor (for $250) etc. The car is essentially totaled for want of a tune up. And they can't guarantee that that is what the problems are.

Air conditioner leaks refrigerant. Blower motor only runs on high.

Battery light blinks like a flashing red light.

Various plumes of oil smoke constantly emanate from the engine compartment.

I had to move down from a BMW when I purchased this car. The reviews said it was a BMW at Ford prices. I've never had the pleasure of enjoying the car because it is constantly broken down. I have NEVER in my life been stranded on the side of the road as often as with this nightmare. Stay far, far away.

Dump this flying coffin before it kills you!!

660 for spark plugs and wires!!!???!!!

Get a new mechanic!

As for your comment, I too am having the same problems with my 94 Taurus. I guess I will have to find a way to salvage what I can. Thank You very much. PS. Anyone need parts?

Yes, the plug wires run appx 300.00 for a set, and the spark plugs require special spacers/shims if they are worn. Consider going to a parts yard to see if you can find a used, but good, wire set.

Do the same for the alternator, or Autozone has fair prices on remans. The oil smoke can be caused by oil in the sparkplug wells (see shims, above) or a loose connection to the powersteer pump, the resulting fluid leak does drip directly on the cat converter (NOT GOOD!) Autozone can get a pump overnight, but because it is using a remote container for the fluid, involves about 3 hours to install. I had to replace alternator in my car also, along with power steering pump. But do not despair, once you get it right, you will be more satisfied than you ever were with your beamer (I have and old 318i - no comparison) Also be sure to check out the many SHO clubs offered on the net, many tips and trix - drop me line with questions at: dominicdistrola@excite.com Good Luck!

I've had my 93 sho for almost 2 years now and the only promblem I've had so far was my feul pump. Which I replaced myself for sixty-five bucks.I'd recommend a manuel transmission cause the biggest promblem with the the Yamaha designed engine was finding a transmission the engine would not eat. Although I would love to transfer the 4 speed racing stick from my 87. (Also still running strong) I think you just received a lemon, but I hope you the best of luck.

Hey if your starters are going that fast you might want to get your flywheel checked its probably worn.

Hi, I too have a 1994 SHO, it has 130,000 miles and I'm juss now havin my first real trouble with it. Yeah I have replaced the altinator and starter, but I bought it used what else can you exspect from a used car, they don't last for ever, As far as prices I'm not going to lie, there a very costly car, but then again what ford is cheap. I'm now lookin for transmission for it. I'm having troubles on my search but I've found its cheaper to rebuild it then to buy a used headach from a scrap yard. and to who ever put on there why the oil gets into the spark plug well, thank you I couldnt for the world figure that out. But to all who is unhappy with there 94, sho be patient its cheaper to fix a car then to buy a new one.

I also have a 1994 Ford Taurus SHO. The transmissing has had to be replaced twice. My sunroof also does not work any longer. The spark plugs are in a terrible spot and are not the easiest thing to replace. The struts are also about gone in this car so I think its about time for me to move on to a better more reliable car. I also have to say that my SHO gets 13 miles to the gallon. No where near the 30 that some of these ppl say that they are getting.

I also have a 94 SHO Taurus. I purchased it with 117,500 miles and it now has 123,000. What I have found is that you need to do your homework with this car. Changing the spark plugs and wires yourself is easy and takes about 45 minutes if you know what you are doing. I did it myself in my garage.

Resources are available on the internet that will help you with maintenance issues if you are a do-it-yourself kinda person.

I love my 94. It handles great, is fast, and very well equipped. I bought it for $1900.00, and plan to keep it for some time.

I did have had a 1994 SHO for 5 years. Put a lot of money in it, but this car gave a ride like no other. I did sell the car; it had 266.000 miles on it. It's still running, but just one thing, I will never buy a special edition car. It cost a lot of money and I was getting serious parts problems. I did wait 10 days for a simple hose in back of the motor, and the computer is expensive when it fails.