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Best & Worst Years of Ford Taurus – Graphs & Owner Surveys

The best years of the Ford Taurus are 2017-2018, 2011, 2015-2016, and 2002-2003. The years you should absolutely avoid are 2012-2014, 2004-2007, 2008-2010, and 2001. Most issues are related to lower reliability ratings and a higher cost of ownership.  

Closeup of Ford logo on blue car front parked in the street

The Ford Taurus is a sedan that first appeared on the scene in 1986. With more than three decades in production and six generations, Ford discontinued the Taurus in 2018. This came at the same time that Ford was cutting the sedan lineup by getting rid of the Fusion, Focus, and Fiesta as well. Since 1999, Ford has sold nearly three million Taurus models, proving it was once popular. Yet, there are plenty of other sedans to choose from, so evaluating your options is important to see if the Taurus is worth your money. 

We analyzed lots of data to determine which Taurus model years are the best and worst. The information we review is imperative if you want to get a great deal on a used Taurus. If you are the current owner of a Taurus, we will show you whether the sedan is worth hanging onto (based on the data). Our information comes from thousands of FIXD car scanners installed in Taurus models. We pair this information with the owner surveys and published reports on safety ratings, fuel economy, KBB valves, and recalls, so you can see the big picture. 

Best Years Why? Worst Years Why?
2017-2018

Good reliability ratings, great safety scores, low cost of ownership

>> See 2017-2018 Ford Taurus for sale

2012-2014

Low owner satisfaction, high chance of expensive engine repairs

>> See 2012-2014 Ford Taurus for sale

2011

High owner satisfaction scores, low cost of maintenance and repairs

>> See 2011 Ford Taurus for sale

2004-2007

Poor reliability scores, low safety ratings, higher cost of ownership

>> See 2004-2007 Ford Taurus for sale

2015-2016

Decent ownership scores, high safety ratings, reasonable cost of ownership

>> See 2015-2016 Ford Taurus for sale

2008-2010

High chance of expensive engine repairs, elevated chance of brake problems

>> See 2008-2010 Ford Taurus for sale

2002-2003

Recommended by owners, average cost of repairs

>> See 2002-2003 Ford Taurus for sale

2001

Low FIXD reliability score, high chance of brake, AC/heat, and fuel system trouble

>> See 2001 Ford Taurus for sale

Ford Taurus Engine Reliability Score, Safety Ratings, MPG and Value v.s. Maintenance & Repair Costs – Year by Year

Before you choose a Taurus sedan, it’s important to evaluate all of the data we’ve gathered. The four charts listed below help you piece together the engine reliability, repair costs, resale values, safety scores, and fuel economy for the most recent model years for a complete picture.

If you’re in the market for a car, take a look at our article on the USAs’ most reliable and cheapest to repair cars in the U.S. Don’t get stuck with a lemon, use our data to help you shop.

Engine Reliability Score – Over The Years

Ford Taurus Engine Reliability Score

With this chart, you see the reliability of Ford Taurus models based on two different perspectives. 

  1. The FIXD Reliability score (Green line) – data is based on how many check engine lights are thrown by Ford Taurus models during every 12,000 miles of driving (1 year’s worth of driving). 
  2. The Owner Reliability score (Gray line) from surveyed Ford Taurus owners. 

An average engine reliability score is 5, while 10 is the highest a model can get, and 1 is the lowest.

For the most part, these two lines show a similar pattern. There are a few discrepancies among the model years, where either owners are being more generous than they should, or the FIXD scores may not be representing a large enough pool of users to give an accurate representation. That’s why it’s important to reference this information with the other data to get a fuller picture. 

Still, the newer the models are, the more reliable they tend to be. While there are a few areas where newer models have failed, you can count on the majority of them being more reliable than older models, especially if they have fewer miles on the odometer. 

Before you shop for a used sedan, reference these Ford Taurus reliability scores and determine which model years aren’t worth your time. If you already know which model you want, we suggest you jump to the section about the year range for a detailed report. 

Also, take a look at our Ford CEL article you’d like more information on check engine lights for each of the Ford models

NHTSA Safety Score – Over The Years

Ford Taurus NHTSA Safety Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) performs crash tests on vehicles and determines the safety score during each model year. This information has been placed in a chart for you to see how each model year ranks. 

The Average NHTSA Safety Rating for each Taurus model year is shown as a Green line. It runs alongside the gray line that illustrates the average ranking of all vehicles we have NHTSA data for. By looking at the information together, you can see how the Taurus models perform in relation to other vehicles. 

Based on this data, the Ford Taurus drops below average several times. The 2001-2002 and 2008-2019 don’t meet the national average. 

If you choose a sedan with higher safety ratings, you have a better chance of getting cheap car insurance for your used vehicle

If you live in one of the states listed below, we can show you the cheapest vehicles to insure in yours. 

What Used Cars Are the Cheapest To Insure In:
Ohio
North Carolina
Michigan
Georgia
Texas
New York
Illinois
Pennsylvania
California

MPG – Over The Years

Ford Taurus Average MPG

You want to save every penny possible when you visit the gas pump. That’s why comparing Taurus models is vital to determine the most fuel-efficient ones. Our Taurus gas mileage graph shows the average mpg by model year from the information supplied by fueleconomy.gov

The most fuel-efficient models are from 2013 to 2015. These earn 22 mpg on average, compared to some models that only get 19 mpg. That three miles-per-gallon difference can add up quickly, especially during longer trips.

Current Market Value of All Ford Taurus Years & Cost Per Year to Repair and Maintain Each

Ford Taurus Market Value vs Cost of Repairs

It’s important to budget for repair and maintenance costs. That’s why we show you what other owners spend on average. This rating tends to follow closely with the vehicle’s reliability, so you must look at the complete picture. Don’t forget to factor in how much time your sedan will be in the shop for every repair. 

These repair costs profoundly affect the resale value of the Ford Taurus. If your sedan is newer and doesn’t experience a lot of problems, you can sell it for more money. On the other hand, a lemon car is going to whittle away at your savings and give you trouble when it’s time to sell. 

Despite conventional wisdom, you should never assume that the newer models cost the least amount of money to maintain. It’s important to look at the data. 

When two model years have similar resale values, we recommend trying to get a newer one. If the reliability scores are good, you can spend a little more and receive additional technology and features. 

All of our values are estimated by the model year with the average mileage reported by the survey respondents. Because mileage is such a critical factor, the KBB value on the used car you are looking at might vary significantly based on what’s listed on the odometer. Check the KBB resale value report before buying any used car. 

When shopping for a used Ford Taurus, it’s important to keep in mind that not all vehicles are cared for equally. To protect yourself from lemons, take along a FIXD Sensor on your test drive. FIXD connects to a free app on your smartphone to tell you more about the vehicle you’re checking out, including check engine lights and other hidden issues that the owner or dealership may be attempting to hide. Click here to learn more and get FIXD for only $19.99 (regular price $59)!

Important Features Timeline

Ford Taurus Timeline of Important Features

1996: Available as a sedan or wagon, new GL, LX and SHO trim levels

1997: New exterior colors debut

1998: Revised trim levels

1999: LX offers optional speed control, five-spoke aluminum wheels replace chrome wheels on SE trim

2000: Redesigned for 4th generation with a fresh interior and exterior design

2001: Lower Anchor and Tether for Children (LATCH) comes standard, SES trim gains a six-disc CD changer

2002: Standard floor mats with all trims, base V6 engine earns better fuel economy

2003: SEL trim includes dark wood trim, Imola leather-trimmed seats, and a satin-finished instrument cluster

2004: New front and rear fascias arrive

2005: Trim levels reduced to SE and SEL, tire-pressure monitoring comes standard with alloy wheels

2006: Wagon removed from the lineup, Duratec V6 engine discontinued

2007: Only available for fleet sales

2008: Model returns to consumer sales with a new three-bar grille, a retuned suspension, and more powerful engine

2009: Stability control comes standard, SE trim becomes the base model

2010: Release of 6th generation, available SHO performance model

2011: Rearview camera comes standard with Limited and SHO trims, Sync-equipped models include a three-year subscription to Traffic, Directions and Information service

2012: Remains unchanged

2013: Newly available turbo-four engine, standard 3.5L V6 becomes more efficient and powerful

2014: New wheel designs added

2015: Minor standard equipment upgrades

2016: MyFord Touch interface replaced with Sync 3 infotainment system

2017: Remains unchanged

2018: Turbo-four engine discontinued, power-adjustable pedal no longer a part of Equipment Group 201A

The Best Years of the Ford Taurus

Ford Logo on a steering wheel

With all of the data above at our disposal, we have determined which Taurus model years are worth spending money on. Our rankings are largely influenced by the FIXD Reliability score, but we balance this information with the Owner Reliability score, safety ratings, and fuel economy. We also examine the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that plague each model and dive deeper into the open recalls, as outlined by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

2017-2018 Ford Taurus

FIXD Reliability Score: 6/10

Owner Reliability Score: 10/10

KBB Value: $13,671-$18,745

Fuel Economy: 20 mpg

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $250-$500

Safety Rating: 4.8/5

The 2017 and 2018 Ford Taurus were the final two models before it was discontinued. These two model years have the highest owner reliability score and a decent FIXD rating. 

The FIXD Reliability score for the 2017 and 2018 Taurus is a 6 out of 10, which is among one of the highest of all the models. Additionally, the Owners Reliability score hits a perfect 10 out of 10 with both models.

The NHTSA crash testing score for these models is 4.8 (out of 5). Not only is that a near-perfect rating, but it’s also higher than average. 

With these two sedans, there are some of the lowest annual maintenance and repair costs. For these ranges, the 2018 Ford Taurus averages just $250 a year. Even the 2017 Taurus is rated at $500 a year. While the 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty expired a little bit ago, some of these may still be covered by the 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, helping to keep the cost down.  

The biggest concern is the possibility of the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) trouble code. This repair may require a new catalytic converter, costing $1,538 to $2,041, on average.

While there are three recalls listed for the 2017 Ford Taurus, the 2018 Ford Taurus only has two shown. 

2011 Ford Taurus

FIXD Reliability Score: 1/10

Owner Reliability Score: 10/10

KBB Value: $5,668

Fuel Economy: 21 mpg

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $250

Safety Rating: 4.6/5

The 2011 Ford Taurus continues to have a low annual maintenance and repair cost, along with a high Owner Reliability Score and safety rating.

The FIXD Reliability score for the 2011 Ford Taurus is only 1 out of 10, but this number is strictly based on the number of DTCs per year, weighted by mileage. Because it doesn’t factor anything else into the equation, it could be lower than it needs to be. For that reason, we are looking at the other data to give us this model as a top choice. For example, the Owners Reliability score hits a perfect 10 out of 10 with the 2011 model year, proving drivers are happy.

The NHTSA crash testing score for this model is 4.6 (out of 5). While it’s a little lower than our previous choice, it’s still above average. 

Not only is the annual repair and maintenance cost among the lowest with this model but there’s also a minimal chance of expensive repair bills. It scores low with engine, transmission, brake, AC/heat, and fuel system repairs.

We have seen some instances of the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) trouble code. This repair may require a new catalytic converter, costing $1,538 to $2,041, on average. There’s also a chance for the O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction – Bank 1 Sensor 1 (P0130) code. If this repair requires a new oxygen sensor, you may spend $153 to $306. 

Additionally, the 2011 Ford Taurus only has four open recalls. 

2015-2016 Ford Taurus

FIXD Reliability Score: 3-6/10

Owner Reliability Score: 8-10/10

KBB Value: $8,229-$11,631

Fuel Economy: 20-22 mpg

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $500-$857

Safety Rating: 4.8/5

The next two models span the 6th and 7th generations with favorable owner scores and decent fuel economy numbers. 

The FIXD Reliability score for the 2015 Ford Taurus is higher at 6 out of 10 because it’s the final model of a generation, while the 2016 Taurus gets a 3 out of 10. The opposite happens with the Owners Reliability score, where the 2016 Taurus earns a perfect 10 out of 10, while the 2015 gets a slightly lower score of 8 out of 10. 

The NHTSA crash testing score for both of these models is 4.8 (out of 5). Not only is this a nearly-perfect score, but it also exceeds that of other models. 

The annual repair and maintenance cost remains reasonable with both models, with the 2016 Taurus costing slightly less ($500). However, neither of them exhibit an increased chance of major engine or transmission repairs. The only elevated risk is with the fuel system on the 2015 Taurus models, but it’s minimal. 

Both models exhibit an increased chance of the Unable to Bleed Up Fuel Tank Vacuum (P1450) trouble code. Yet, this issue could be something as small as a stuck fuel filler cap or a kinked hose. Additionally, the 2015 Ford Taurus has shown the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) trouble code. With this problem, you may need to install a new catalytic converter, costing $1,538 to $2,041, on average. 

The 2015 Ford Taurus does show five recalls. However, the 2016 Ford Taurus is only dealing with two open recalls. 

2002-2003 Ford Taurus

FIXD Reliability Score: 1/10

Owner Reliability Score: 8-9/10

KBB Value: $1,610-$1,749

Fuel Economy: 20 mpg

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $625-$875

Safety Rating: 4.0/5

The 2002 and 2003 Ford Taurus still earns great reviews from owners. Plus, they don’t cost a lot to maintain or repair, even though they are older models. 

The FIXD Reliability score for the 2002 and 2003 Ford Taurus models is much lower at 1 out of 10. Yet, the Owners Reliability score is an 8 out of 10 with the 2002 model and 9 out of 10 with the 2003 Taurus.

The NHTSA crash testing score on these models does dip a little lower at 4.0 (out of 5). However, it’s still average among other models from this year. 

Even though these are older models, we aren’t surprised by the annual repair and maintenance costs. The 2002 Ford Taurus averages $625 a year, while the 2003 Ford Taurus is ranked at $875. While there’s a slightly elevated risk of expensive transmission repairs with the 2002 model and increased brake trouble with the 2003 Taurus, these numbers aren’t surprising. 

Both Taurus models deal with the Misfire Detected on Startup (P0316) trouble code. A simple tune-up may be all that’s needed to resolve this problem. Additionally, the 2003 Ford Taurus suffers from the System Too Rich (P0175) code. If this problem requires a new Mass Air Flow Sensor, you may spend $172 to $309. 

The 2002 Ford Taurus does have four open recalls and some investigations worth noting. The same is true with the 2003 Ford Taurus, showing four recalls and investigations. 

The Worst Years of the Ford Taurus

Damaged motor car Ford Taurus in the city street.

2012-2014 Ford Taurus

FIXD Reliability Score: 5-8/10

Owner Reliability Score: 6-10/10

KBB Value: $3,431-$6,933

Fuel Economy: 21-22 mpg

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $633-$1,625

Safety Rating: 4.6-4.8/5

As part of the 5th generation, the 2012 to 2014 Ford Taurus models have some favorable reviews. However, the instance of engine and transmission repairs is much higher and the cost of annual repair and maintenance skyrockets to the highest of all models.

The FIXD Reliability score of the 2012 Ford Taurus model is the highest of the three at 8 out of 10. However, the 2014 Taurus only earns a 6 out of 10, while the 2015 Ford Taurus gets a 5 out of 10. In comparison, the Owners Reliability score is a 6 out of 10 for the 2012 Taurus, an 8 out of 10 on the 2013 model and 10 out of 10 with the 2014 Taurus.

2012 Taurus models have an NHTSA crash testing score of 4.6 (out of 5). This is only slightly lower than the 2013 and 2014 Taurus, with a 4.8 (out of 10) rating. 

Our biggest complaint with the 2012-2014 Taurus models is the cost to repair and maintain. While the 2013 Ford Taurus only shows an average repair bill of $633 a year, there’s a much higher chance of engine repairs possible. Additionally, the 2014 Taurus shows an estimate of $906 a year, with a higher chance of engine and transmission repairs. What’s most alarming is the 2012 Ford Taurus with its annual repair and maintenance cost of $1,625, which is among the highest of all model years. This Taurus also suffers from an extremely high chance of expensive engine and transmission repairs. 

All three Taurus models suffer from the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) trouble code. With this problem, you may need to install a new catalytic converter, costing $1,538 to $2,041. The 2012 Ford Taurus also exhibits the O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction – Bank 1 Sensor 1 (P0130) code. If this repair requires a new oxygen sensor, you may spend $153 to $306.

The 2012 Ford Taurus deals with five recalls. In comparison, the 2013 Ford Taurus has nine recalls, while the 2014 Ford Taurus only suffers from four recalls. 

2004-2007 Ford Taurus 

FIXD Reliability Score: 1-2/10

Owner Reliability Score: 7-8/10

KBB Value: $1,855-$2,480

Fuel Economy: 20 mpg

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $500-$1,150

Safety Rating: 3.8/5

The 2004 through 2007 Ford Taurus models haven’t earned favorable reviews. Plus, the NHTSA scores are lower than average.

The FIXD Reliability score of the 2004-2006 Ford Taurus models is only 1 out of 10, while the 2007 Taurus earns a 2 out of 10. In comparison, the Owners Reliability score is an 8 out of 10 for the 2006 Taurus, while the other three models earn a 7 out of 10.

All four Taurus models earn an NHTSA crash testing score of 3.8 (out of 5). This isn’t favorable, considering it’s lower than average among other vehicles we’ve recorded. 

There are also some higher repair and maintenance bills to consider. The 2006 Ford Taurus has the lowest at $500 per year, but there’s a higher chance of engine repairs. The 2007 is the next highest at $694, while the 2005 is rated at $1,000 and the 2006 model at $1,150. These three Taurus cars have a much higher chance of either engine, transmission, brake, AC/heat or fuel system repairs costing more than $500. 

All four Taurus models deal with the manufacturer-specific P1000 DTC. In some cases, a new battery cable terminal is needed, costing an average of $57 to $491. The 2007 Ford Taurus is also known for the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) trouble code. If it needs a new catalytic converter, expect to spend $1,538 to $2,041. 

The 2004 Ford Taurus has two recalls, while the 2005 Ford Taurus only deals with one. Additionally, the 2006 Ford Taurus shows three open recalls, while the 2007 Ford Taurus is only listing one. 

2008-2010 Ford Taurus

FIXD Reliability Score: 4-5/10

Owner Reliability Score: 7-10/10

KBB Value: $2,918-$3,571

Fuel Economy: 19-21 mpg

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $750-$1,500

Safety Rating: 4.67/5

These three Taurus models earn average reliability scores but suffer from major repairs and higher ownership costs.

The FIXD Reliability score of the 2009 Ford Taurus models is 4 out of 10, while the 2008 and 2010 Taurus models earn a 5 out of 10. In comparison, the Owners Reliability score is a 7 out of 10 for the 2008 Taurus, a 10 out of 10 on the 2009 model, and an 8 out of 10 with the 2010 Ford Taurus. 

All three Taurus models earn an NHTSA crash testing score of 4.67 (out of 5). This is higher than average, showing these models are safer than some others.

The 2009 Ford Taurus has the lowest repair and maintenance cost of the three at $750, while the 2008 is the highest at $1,500. Either way, all three models have a high instance of expensive engine repairs, and show trouble with the brakes. Additionally, the 2009 and 2010 Ford Taurus exhibit a higher likelihood of AC/heat repairs. 

All three Taurus models deal with the manufacturer-specific P1000 DTC. With other models, the most likely repair is a new battery cable terminal, possibly costing an average of $57 to $491. The 2010 Ford Taurus also exhibits a more probable chance of the O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction – Bank 1 Sensor 1 (P0130) code. If this repair requires a new oxygen sensor, you may spend $153 to $306.

The 2008 Ford Taurus has two recalls, while the 2009 Ford Taurus only shows one. On the other hand, the 2010 Ford Taurus deals with three open recalls. 

2001 Ford Taurus

FIXD Reliability Score: 1/10

Owner Reliability Score: 7/10

KBB Value: $1,864

Fuel Economy: 19 mpg

Annual Maintenance/Repair: $1,000

Safety Rating: 4.0/5

This earlier Taurus model doesn’t get the greatest reliability scores and it deals with a higher cost of repairs. 

The FIXD Reliability score of the 2001 Ford Taurus models is 1 out of 10. However, the Owners Reliability score is a 7 out of 10, showing more appreciation from drivers. 

This Taurus model has an NHTSA crash testing score of 4.0 (out of 5). While this seems low, it is above average of other models from the same year.

With such a higher cost of maintenance and repair, this car may not be worth its weight. One expensive repair easily exceeds the value of the sedan, making it worth nothing to the owner. With a much higher chance of brake, AC/heat, or fuel system repairs, this car is only one repair bill away from the scrap yard. 

The 2001 Ford Taurus seems to suffer from the Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected (P0304) code. It also shows a higher likelihood of both the System Too Lean – Bank 2 (P0174) code and the System Too Lean – Bank 1 (P0171) code. Because of the low value of this car, it may not even be worth diagnosing the issue to fix it. 

The NHTSA has some alarming information about the 2001 Ford Taurus. Not only does it show eight recalls, but this car has ten investigations. 

FAQs

What years of the Ford Taurus have engine and/or transmission problems?

The Ford Taurus models with a higher chance of expensive engine repairs include the 2004, 2006-2010, 2012-2014, and 2018. There’s also a higher instance of transmission repairs with the 2002, 2004-2005, 2012, and 2018 cars.  

What is considered high mileage for a Ford Taurus?

Considering this sedan wasn’t used for street racing or towing heavy loads, you may find many cars lasting longer than expected. However, without knowing how a car was cared for, it would be difficult to determine its lifespan. If it was well-maintained, the Taurus could easily go over 200,000 miles.

Based on our data, a high-mileage Ford Taurus could be considered anything over 175,000 miles.

Older Ford Taurus models (2001-2012) show an average mileage range between 100,000 and 275,000. There are quite a few models that have exceeded 200,000 miles. However, the Ford Taurus doesn’t hold its value once the mileage gets high. One mechanical problem could make the Taurus a yard ornament. 

What other vehicles should I consider?

Ford doesn’t make any new sedan models, but you could choose a used Fusion, Focus, or Fiesta. There are also several SUV models that drive like sedans, such as the EcoSport, Escape, and Bronco or Bronco Sport. 

Chevrolet still makes the Malibu, which is a comparable sedan, if you don’t mind switching brands. There’s also the Trax, Trailblazer, Equinox, or Blazer to consider. 

What owners of the Ford Taurus like to use their car for:

Percent based x/5-star: 0-10% = 1, 11-20% = 2, 21-30% = 3, 31-40% = 4, 41%+ = 5

Frequent Use Categories: How Useful? (Out of 5 Stars)
Family Vehicle *****
Lots of Driving (travel/long commute) ****
Hauling/Towing *
Office on Wheels *
Sport/Fast Driving *
Luxurious Driving *
Outdoor/Off-Road *

A Note About Data and Information Sources

This article has many details about Ford Taurus reliability; here’s what we used for our assumptions and recommendations.

  • FIXD Reliability Score & Data: Engine reliability information is captured via the FIXD App

The FIXD Reliability Score is calculated using the number of DTCs per year, weighted by mileage. This is then turned into a scale of 1-10 for easy graphing. 

This is an objective score.

  • Owner Reliability Score & Data: This data is the result of surveying Ford Taurus owners who use FIXD. 

The Owner Reliability Score comes straight from owners of the Ford Taurus.  

This is a subjective score.

To determine the Owner Reliability Score we ask each car owner:

How reliable would you say your Ford Taurus is?

a. Just point A to point B driving

a. A Daily Commuter

b. Good for a 100 mile road trip

c. Good for a 500 mile road trip

d. I could take a cross-country road trip, no problem

From here we translate their answers into the Owner Reliability Score:

a. = 2

a. = 4

b. = 6

c. = 8

d. = 10

Keep in mind, owners may think their car is more or less reliable than it actually is. 

One potential problem is that people often buy the same make or model they are used to when they go car shopping, just a newer year.

Ford, for instance, has a number of consumer loyalty awards for the Ford F-Series, Ford Mustang, and Ford Expedition.

Car owners may be so loyal to the make or model they currently own that they would have trouble accurately comparing their cars’ reliability to others. 

It’s for this reason that we ask car owners a question that is relative to mileage rather than relative to other cars. 

Still, be mindful of the accuracy of these Owner Reliability Scores, people’s perceptions and unconscious blindspots can skew data. 

We suggest looking at both the FIXD Reliability Score and the Owner Reliability Score for this reason.

  • KBB Value: Average private-seller valuations as supplied by Kelley Blue Book (KBB), based on a Ford Taurus with typical mileage for that respective model year.
  • Fuel Economy: Mileage-per-gallon estimates according to the EPA MPG on Fueleconomy.gov
  • Annual Maintenance/Repair: Upkeep expenses as reported by surveyed Ford Taurus owners
  • Safety Rating: Crash test data collected and reported by NHTSA. We average all ratings for each year to come up with a simplified, average safety score. This makes it easier to look at on a graph.

References

  1. Ford Taurus, wikipedia.org. Retrieved May 25, 2023, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Taurus
  2. Ford Taurus review, edmunds.com. Retrieved May 26, 2023, from https://www.edmunds.com/ford/taurus/2018/review/
  3. Ford Warranty Information, ford.com. Retrieved May 26, 2023, from https://www.ford.com/support/warranty/
Brian Jones Profile Picture

Brian Jones owns a used car dealership outside of Dallas, Texas. He has also worked for decades as an ASE Certified Master Technician for a variety of new car dealerships. Now he spends his time consulting dealerships and writing for some renowned publications, such as Motor1 (https://www.motor1.com/info/team/brian-jones/). When he’s not working, he’s tinkering around with pickup trucks and traveling with his family.

We’re here to help you simplify car care and save, so this post may contain affiliate links to help you do just that. If you click on a link and take action, we may earn a commission. However, the analysis and opinions expressed are our own.

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About the Author

Brian Jones

Brian Jones

Brian Jones owns a used car dealership outside of Dallas, Texas. He has also worked for decades as an ASE Certified Master Technician for a variety of new car dealerships. Now he spends his time consulting dealerships and writing for some renowned publications, such as Motor1 (https://www.motor1.com/info/team/brian-jones/). When he's not working, he's tinkering around with pickup trucks and traveling with his family.

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