1998 Ford Taurus sho problems
The Ford Taurus SHO (Super High Output) is the high-performance variant of the Ford Taurus. Originally intended as a limited-production model, the SHO would be produced for the first three generations of the model line, from the 1989 to the 1999 model years. After an 11-year hiatus, the model was revived for 2010, continuing through the 2019 discontinuation of the Taurus model line.
In contrast with standard versions of the Taurus, the Taurus SHO was not designed with a Mercury Sable counterpart; however, the 2010-2019 SHO served as the basis for the Ford Police Interceptor Sedan (replacing the long-running Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor). The final version is the only Taurus ever offered with the twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine.
The first three generations of the SHO were assembled by Ford at Atlanta Assembly (Hapeville, Georgia); the fourth generation was assembled by Chicago Assembly (Chicago, Illinois).
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Common 1998 Ford Taurus sho problems
The 1998 Ford Taurus SHO is known for several common problems that owners have reported over the years. These issues range from minor inconveniences to significant mechanical failures that can be costly to repair.
One of the most common problems with the 1998 Ford Taurus SHO is related to the transmission. Many owners have reported experiencing transmission failure, which can result in the vehicle being unable to accelerate or engage in any gear. This issue can be caused by various factors, such as low transmission fluid levels, contaminated fluids due to poor maintenance, internal wear and tear of transmission parts, and worn clutches.
Another common problem with the 1998 Ford Taurus SHO is related to the engine. Some owners have reported experiencing engine problems, including issues with the camshaft position sensor magnet, which can result in longer crank times, squealing noises when starting and accelerating the vehicle, and slipping transmission due to damage to the synchronizers.
The 1998 Ford Taurus SHO is also known for issues with the cooling system. Some owners have reported experiencing overheating, which can be caused by a faulty coolant bottle installation, a leaking coolant bottle, or a failed radiator fan.
Additionally, some owners of the 1998 Ford Taurus SHO have reported experiencing electrical problems, including issues with the fuel pump, battery, and charging system. These problems can result in the vehicle not starting or experiencing surging idle, which can be caused by a faulty EEC-V pinout, a bad alternator, or a failing fuel pump.
Finally, some owners of the 1998 Ford Taurus SHO have reported experiencing issues with the exhaust system, including problems with the catalytic converter and the Y pipe. These problems can result in the vehicle emitting white smoke from the exhaust, which can be caused by a blown head gasket or a cracked cylinder head.
In conclusion, the 1998 Ford Taurus SHO is known for several common problems that owners have reported over the years. These issues include transmission failure, engine problems, cooling system issues, electrical problems, and exhaust system problems. While some of these issues can be minor inconveniences, others can be costly to repair and pose serious safety risks to the driver and other motorists on the road. Therefore, it is essential to stay vigilant and address any issues promptly to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the vehicle.
How reliable is the Ford Taurus SHO?
The Ford Taurus is a reliable midsize car with a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0 from RepairPal.
Is a 1998 Ford Taurus a good car?
The Taurus has comfortable seats, a plethora of cupholders and ashtrays, nicely integrated armrests and optional rear-passenger airconditioning controls. Not many people buy midsized sedans for their outstanding handling characteristics, and for the most part the Taurus does not address these people's concerns.
What is the most common problem with Ford Taurus?
The primary problem is transmission failure, which comes with an average repair cost of $1,930. The good news is that these problems don't typically arise until the vehicle has reached higher mileage. In fact, the average mileage according to reports is 93,200. Behind the 2003 Taurus is the 2005 model.
How long can a Ford Taurus SHO last?
According to vehiclefreak.com, a typical Ford Taurus will last around 200,000 miles with proper care. Those with less maintenance might last closer to 180,000 miles, so it's best to care for them well if you want your Taurus to make it as long as possible.
1998 Ford Taurus sho complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Ford Taurus sho.
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1998 Ford Taurus sho recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1998 Ford Taurus sho.
- Manufacturer: Robert Bosch LLC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:PADS
- Summary: Bosch Brake Components LLC (Bosch) is recalling certain aftermarket replacement front brake pads, models Bosch QuietCast BC598 and BP765, Bosch Blue BE598 and BE598H, Prostop PD598 and PD765M, Duralast Gold DG598, Duralast MKD598, Stop Master ST598, UltraStop ULT598, UltraLife MX598 and MX765, BrakeBest MKD765, and Prostop Platinum PGD598. These brake pads, manufactured October 1, 2014, to October 31, 2015 are intended for use on 2001-2007 Ford Taurus, 2001-2005 Mercury Sable, 1995-1999 Ford Taurus SHO, 1995-2002 Lincoln Continental, and 1993-1998 Lincoln Mark VIII vehicles. The brake pad shim may shift out of position causing the shim to contact the brake disc resulting in damage to the disc.
- Consequence: A damaged or broken brake disc may reduce a vehicle's braking power, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Bosch will instruct the owners how to have the affected brake pads replaced, free of charge. The recall began on May 26, 2016. Owners may contact Bosch customer service at 1-888-715-3616.
Additional sources
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