1997 Ford Taurus problems
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Common 1997 Ford Taurus problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Ford Taurus 1997, several common problems have been reported:
- Engine Stalling or Hesitation: Another common issue reported by owners of the 1997 Ford Taurus is engine stalling or hesitation during acceleration. This problem is linked to a faulty idle air bypass valve, which can cause difficulties in starting the car, especially when the engine is cold or idling. Approximately 130 people have reported this issue.
- Camshaft Sensor Magnet Failure: Owners of the 1997 Ford Taurus have experienced problems with the camshaft sensor magnet falling out of its mount, leading to damage to the synchronizers. This issue results in extended crank times during engine start-up and can trigger the check engine light. To resolve this, both the magnet and synchronizers need replacement. Around 66 people have reported this problem.
- Other Reported Issues: While the above problems are the most commonly reported, other complaints from owners of the 1997 Ford Taurus include issues related to the timing belt, transmission reliability, and potential valve seat damage. These additional concerns highlight the importance of thorough inspection and maintenance when considering purchasing or owning a Ford Taurus from this model year.
These problems with the 1997 Ford Taurus can impact the vehicle's performance, safety, and overall driving experience. Addressing these issues promptly through proper diagnosis and repair is crucial to maintaining the reliability and longevity of the vehicle.
What is the most common problem with Ford Taurus?
Some of the top Ford Taurus problems include a cracked windshield, gasket leaks, and engine problems. The Ford Taurus has an average annual repair cost of $697 with a lower frequency of unscheduled repairs, an average of 0.2 times a year, compared to its competitors.
How long do Ford Taurus engines last?
The range for a Ford Taurus is typically 180,000-200,000 miles. Based on those numbers, anything above 150,000 would be considered high mileage for a Ford Taurus.
What is the value of a 1997 Ford Taurus?
Used 1997 Ford Taurus Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (nat'l average) | |
|---|---|---|
| GL Wagon 4D | $20,995 | $2,179 |
| LX Sedan 4D | $22,880 | $1,945 |
| LX Wagon 4D | $23,985 | $2,237 |
| SHO Sedan 4D | $28,220 | $2,118 |
What is Ford Taurus known for?
Nicknamed the 'Jelly bean' for its aerodynamic shape, the Taurus made its groundbreaking debut in 1985, setting new quality standards for Ford and the entire automotive industry.
What is the most common problem with Ford Taurus?
Some of the top Ford Taurus problems include a cracked windshield, gasket leaks, and engine problems. The Ford Taurus has an average annual repair cost of $697 with a lower frequency of unscheduled repairs, an average of 0.2 times a year, compared to its competitors.
Is the Ford Taurus a good reliable car?
The Ford Taurus Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 6th out of 12 for fullsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $697 which means it has average ownership costs. The severity and frequency of repairs are lower than other vehicles, so the Taurus is one of the more reliable vehicles on the road.
What is the value of a 1997 Ford Taurus?
Used 1997 Ford Taurus Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (nat'l average) | |
|---|---|---|
| GL Wagon 4D | $20,995 | $2,179 |
| LX Sedan 4D | $22,880 | $1,945 |
| LX Wagon 4D | $23,985 | $2,237 |
| SHO Sedan 4D | $28,220 | $2,118 |
Why did Ford stop making Taurus?
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, sales of the Taurus declined as it lost market share to Japanese mid-size sedans and as Ford shifted resources towards developing SUVs. The Taurus was withdrawn after the 2007 model year, with production ending on October 27, 2006.
1997 Ford Taurus car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Taurus problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Ford Taurus vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Ford Taurus
The NHTSA has received 867 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Ford Taurus. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Ford Taurus vehicles.
2021-03-15
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-21
- VIN: 1FALP52U4VG
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: OIL LIGHT DOES NOT COME ON WHEN LOW. 2. ENGINE LIGHT ALWAYS ON. 3 WHEN I WAS DRIVING THIS WINTER, THE BRAKES, THEY LOCKED UP ON ME AND I ALMOST HAD A COLLISION WITH TWO OTHER CARS BUT I HIT A CURB AND WAS ABLE TO GET MY CAR MOVING AGAIN. 4.CAR IS LOUD WHILE DRIVING. 5 CAN'T GET GOOD GAS MILAGE.6.CAR HAS DEVELOPED AN OIL LEAK.
2018-04-11
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-18
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FALP52U0VG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: AUTO TRANS. SHIFT QUAD QUICKLY BECAME SLOPPY AND IN FACT SOMETIMES WOULD NOT START IN PARK POS. AND YOU HAD TO HUNT FOR NEUTRAL WHERE IT WOULD ALWAYS START. THEN ON THE THIRD DAY, WHILE PARKED OVERNIGHT ON PRIVATE PROPERTY, IT DID START IN PARK, BUT WHILE ON A VERY HIGH IDLE I GOT OUT OF THE CAR FOR A SECOND AND WHILE STANDING BESIDE THE CAR IT SLIPPED OUT OF PARK AND INTO REVERSE KNOCKING ME TO THE GROUND AS IT RAPIDLY SPED REARWARD TILL IT HIT AND CAME TO REST AGAINST A CONCRETE WALL
2016-03-28
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-21
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FALP57U7VA
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOST POWER. IN ADDITION, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED BUT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
2015-09-27
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-27
- VIN: 1FALP57U7VG
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING THE CAR AT A LOW RATE OF SPEED A FEW MILES FROM MY NEIGHBORHOOD, I NOTICED THAT THE BRAKE LIGHT INDICATOR CAME ON. I SLOWED DOWN TO LOOK AROUND THE CAR BUT COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING. I DROVE THE CAR HOME AND JUST AS I WAS DRIVING INTO MY NEIGHBORHOOD, THE BRAKES STOPPED WORKING. VERY LUCKILY, I DID NOT GET INTO AN ACCIDENT. IT TURNS OUT THAT THE METAL REAR BRAKE LINES RUNNING UNDERNEATH THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT DOOR WERE COMPLETELY CORRODED AND ONE OF THE LINES HAD BURST (THE ONE AFFECTING THE DIAGONAL BRAKE CIRCUIT FOR THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE AND REAR PASSENGER SIDE). THIS CAME WITHOUT WARNING, AND I COULD HAVE EASILY BEEN STRANDED (OR KILLED) ON A BUSY HIGHWAY OUT OF CONTROL. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE JUSTIFYING A RECALL. AMAZINGLY, THE OTHER UNDERSIDE COMPONENTS OF THE VEHICLE ARE IN MUCH BETTER SHAPE THAN THE BRAKE LINES. WHY FORD WOULD FAIL TO PROPERLY COAT OR PROTECT A CRITICAL COMPONENT LIKE THE REAR BRAKE LINES SO THAT THEY WOULD NOT CORRODE IS AN INEXCUSABLE SAFETY HAZARD. I HAVE READ OF THIS REAR BRAKE LINE ISSUE ELSEWHERE BEING EXTREMELY COMMON FOR THIS VEHICLE, SO THIS IS NOT A "ONE OFF" EVENT. SOONER OR LATER, SOMEONE WILL GET INTO A SERIOUS ACCIDENT OR BE KILLED!
2015-04-05
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-03
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FALP52U3VG
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: ON 4/3/2015 MY MOTHER IN LAW PULLED INTO THE DRIVEWAY AFTER A 10 MILE TRIP TO TOWN. UPON PULLING IN THE DRIVEWAY THE CAR STARTED ON FIRE IMMEDIATELY, AT FIRST SHE THOUGHT THE CAR WAS OVERHEATING (WHITE SMOKE) THEN REALIZED THE CAR WAS ACTUALLY ON FIRE (BLACK SMOKE). SHE HAD TO BE HELPED BY AN IDAHO POWER EMPLOYEE WHO WAS DRIVING BY. A TOTAL OF TWO 15LB FIRE EXTINGUISHERS AND GARDEN HOSE WERE USED TO KEEP THE FIRE AT BAY UNTIL THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED. THE CAR WAS DESTROYED FROM THE DASH PANEL FORWARD. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT DETERMINED THE FIRE STARTED AT THE POWER DISTRIBUTION BOX LOCATED BY THE MASTER CYLINDER ON THE FIREWALL. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT DETERMINED THE CAUSE AS AN "ELECTRICAL FIRE", UP UNTIL THE FIRE THE CAR HAD NO KNOWN ELECTRICAL OR MAJOR MECHANICAL PROBLEMS. THE CAR HAD NO MODIFICATIONS AND WAS COMPLETELY STOCK. NO INSURANCE CLAIM WAS FILED AS I ONLY CARRIED LIABILITY COVERAGE ON THE CAR. *TR
2014-11-03
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-10-15
- VIN: 1FALP58S4VG
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD TAURUS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO SHIFT GEARS AND STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESTART AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE AND WAS JUMPSTARTED. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
2014-05-06
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-06
- VIN: 1FALP57U5VG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MUDDY WATER IN OVERFLOW TANK
2013-07-19
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-04-15
- VIN: 1FALP54N2VA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED SPORADICALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER SEVERAL TIMES, BUT THE DEALER HAD NOT BEEN ABLE TO DETERMINE WHAT CAUSED THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN, BUT THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 140,000. *TR
2012-08-29
STEERING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-22
- VIN: 1FALP52UXVA
- Components: STEERING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE COMING TO A STOP, THE A FRAME SHEARED OFF AND LANDED ON TOP OF THE STEERING BOX, CAUSING STEERING LOSS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSIS AND THE CONTACT WAS TOLD THAT THE A FRAME WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 135,000.
2012-08-19
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-18
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FALP54N2VA
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: ACCELERATED AS NORMAL TO 30MPH, RELEASED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, AND THE CAR KEPT ACCELERATING UP TO AT LEAST 50MPH. FAILED TO STEER 90 DEGREES LEFT, RESULTING IN THE CAR JUMPING THE CURB. LOST CONTROL IN DAMP GRASS, AND RAN INTO A TREE. *TR
2012-06-29
STEERING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-02
- VIN: 1FALP52U2VG
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE
- Summary: I PURCHASED MY 1997 FORD TAURUS IN FEBRUARY 2010, AND SHORTLY AFTER EXPERIENCED MY ODOMETER STOPPING AND MY POWER STEERING STOPPING AT THE SAME TIME. IT USUALLY HAPPENS IF I DRIVE THE CAR LONGER THAN 30 MINUTES, OR IF I SIT AT A STOP LIGHT TO LONG. IT ALSO SEEMS TO HAPPEN AT SPEEDS OF 40 MPH OR HIGHER. I ALSO NOTICED THAT MY TRANSMISSION WILL SLIP, AND I WILL FIND MY CAR MOVING FORWARD AFTER STOPPING. I HAVE GOTTEN USED TO STAYING A GOOD DISTANCE FROM CARS SO I HAVE ROOM TO STOP. *TR
2012-04-11
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-04-03
- VIN: 1FALP52U3WG
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ALL FOUR COIL SPRINGS FAILED. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 4V332000 (SUSPENSION: FRONT: COIL SPRINGS) BUT WAS ADVISED BY THE MANUFACTURER THAT THE 1999 MODEL WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. HE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 88,000.
2012-03-13
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-13
- VIN: 1FALP57U5VG
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WOULD STICK WHEN THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS BEING UTILIZED. THE CONTACT HAD TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE AND DISENGAGE THE CRUISE CONTROL IN ORDER TO STOP THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO INSPECTED THE VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL BUT FOUND NO FAILURES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
2011-12-21
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-21
- VIN: 1FALP53S1VG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT DURING AN INSPECTION, THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRAME ON THE BASE WAS RUSTED, DEEMING THE VEHICLE AS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND NON-REPAIRABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 81,540. UPDATED 02/09/12*LJ UPDATED 03/16/12
2011-09-13
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-13
- VIN: 1FALP52U2VG
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED AFTER CLOSING HIS SEAT BELT, IT WOULD RETRACT BACK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED NOR HAD IT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 28,000. I HAVE NOT HAD THE DEFECT REPAIRED. THE BUCKLE RELEASES BY ITSELF APPROX 2% OF THE TIME, EVEN AFTER I PULL ON IT INITIALLY AND IT SEEMS SECURE. I WAS IN A ACCIDENT APPROX 2-3 YEARS AGO, AND THE BELT DIDN'T RELEASE. IT WAS A MINOR ACCIDENT WITH ON INJURIES. [XXX] *LN INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
2011-08-18
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-17
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: I HEARD RATTLING IN THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE TOWARDS THE WHEELS OF THE CAR. I ASSUMED THAT IT WAS MY BRAKES NEEDING REPLACED. I TOOK IT IN FOR REGULAR MAINTENANCE TO HAVE THE BRAKES REPLACED AT WHICH TIME THEY DID A DIAGNOSTIC ON THE BRAKES, THEY WERE STILL GOOD AND FOUND THAT MY AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEM HAD FAILED (HYDRAULICS THAT ACTUALLY PUSH THE BRAKE PADS DOWN), THANKFULLY I WAS NOT ON THE HIGHWAY GOING 55MPH LIKE I USUALLY DO WHEN THIS HAPPENED. FORD NEEDS TO RECALL THE ENTIRE BRAKING SYSTEM OF THE FORD TAURUS GL STATION WAGON ACCORDING TO ALL THE COMPLAINTS THAT I HAVE SEEN ALSO KEEPING IN MIND MOST OF THE COMPLAINTS WERE OVER 100,000 MILES. SOMEONE WILL BE KILLED DUE TO THIS FAILURE. GOD FORBID THERE MIGHT BE CHILDREN IN THE VEHICLE WHEN IT HAPPENS. FORD STEP UP TO THE PLATE AND FIX THIS PROBLEM NOW!! IT IS GOING TO COST ME $2100.00 TO HAVE THE PUMP AND HYDRAULIC SYSTEM REPLACED AND THIS IS NOT AN EXAGGERATION. I DEPEND ON THIS VEHICLE AND CAN NOT AFFORD TO BE WITH OUT IT. :( AS FAR AS I AM CONCERNED ONE COMPLAINT SHOULD WARRANT A RECALL. LIVES ARE AT STAKE. *KB
2011-05-10
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-01
- VIN: 1FALP52U4VA
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THE TRANSMISSION SLIPPED AND THE RPMS INCREASED WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE CONTACT PERFORMED A DIAGNOSTIC TEST AND THE FAILURE WAS LOCATED WITHIN THE TRANSMISSION HEAD GASKET AND FILTER. THE TRANSMISSION HEAD GASKET AND FILTER WERE REPLACED. THE FAILURE WAS NOT CORRECTED. THE TRANSMISSION CONTINUED TO SLIP AND THE RPMS INCREASED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 136,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 137,777.
2011-03-23
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-03-13
- VIN: 1FALP57U8VG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: CLUNKING SOUND EMANATING FROM ENGINE COMPARTMENT. TOOK IN FOR OIL CHANGE, WAS TOLD THAT THE ENGINE CRADLE ( SUB-FRAME ) WAS DANGEROUSLY ROTTED OUT. CRADLE REPLACED WITH ONE WITHOUT ROT. *TR
2011-01-28
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-01
- VIN: 1FALP57U0VG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I OWN A 1997 FORD TAURUS WAGON. EMPHASIS ON WAGON. IT HAS THE SAME FRAME AS THE WINDSTAR VANS AND I HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. MY ENGINEER HUSBAND, WHO SPENT YEARS IN THE AUTO INDUSTRY, WILL NOT ALLOW ME TO DRIVE THE CAR AS, 'THE CAR IS GOING TO BREAK IN HALF WHEN YOU ARE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD.' I HAD IT TOWED TO OUR LOCAL REPAIR SHOP AND THEY VERIFIED THE SAME. I CALLED THE FORD RECALL DEPARTMENT IN DETROIT AFTER SEEING THE WINDSTAR RECALL ON THE LOCAL NEWS. FORD TOLD ME TO HAVE IT FIXED AND SAVE THE SLIP IN CASE A FEW YEARS FROM NOW IT WAS PART OF A RECALL I MIGHT BE ABLE TO BE REIMBURSED. THIS REPAIR IS THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS. I AM ON CHEMO WITH A CO-PAY OF $3102.98 AND FIFTEEN DOSES TO GO. I CAN EITHER NOT LIVE AND BUY A CAR OR LIVE AND NOT HAVE A CAR. AFTER EXPLAINING THIS TO THE FORD REP I WAS TOLD TO CONTACT YOU. THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR THIS CORROSION PROBLEM AND I DO NOT FEEL I SHOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR WHAT IS ALREADY A RECALL ISSUE. THE FORD CASE NUMBER IS [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
2010-10-31
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-28
- VIN: 1FALP51U4VA
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKE LINE BURST. CONTROL BECAME NONEXISTENT. GOT VERY LUCKY BRINGING IT HOME, ALTHOUGH I DID RUN INTO THE BACK OF MY GARAGE (BECAUSE THE BRAKES DIDN'T WORK). *TR
2010-09-01
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-30
- VIN: 1FALP54N8VA
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING OUT OF HIS GARAGE, THE FRONT COIL SPRING ON THE DRIVERS SIDE BROKE AND RIPPED THE TIRE APART. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED OR REPAIRED AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. THERE WERE NO WARNING SIGNS OR PRIOR INSTANCES OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO ADVISED HIM TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALERSHIP. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 176,000. UPDATED 12/29/10 *BF UPDATED 12/30/10
2010-05-05
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-05
- VIN: 1FALP52U2VG
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: FRT AND REAR SPRINGS ON MY 97 FORD TAURUS BROKE PREMATURE. *TR
2010-04-12
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-10
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FORD HAS NOT INCLUDED THE 97 TAURUS WAGON-WE HAVE IN THE FRONT END ET. MOTOR CRADLE, FRAME FAILURE, IN THE RECALL, THEY HAVE YEARS BOTH SIDES. I HAVE LOST ALL TRADE IN VALUE ON THIS VEH. AND IT COULD HAVE BEEN VERY DANGEROUS, HAD IT NOT HAPPENED IN MY DRIVEWAY-- THE FRAME ON BOTH SIDES FAILED AND THE CAR CAN NOT BE DRIVEN, IF THIS HAD HAPPENED ON THE OPEN ROAD IT WOULD HAVE BEEN A DISASTER/ STEERING WOULD HAVE BEEN IMPOSSIBLE-- THEY ARE GETTING AWAY WITH THIS, JUST BY LIMITING THE YEARS COVERED-- IT IS HAPPENING TO ALL TAURUS' WITH THE SAME FRONT FRAME PROB. IT HAS COST ME A VERY GOOD CAR WITH ONLY 80K MILES ON IT, AND MADE IT IMPOSSIBLE TO GET A TRADE ON A NEW VEH. I STILL HAVE THE CAR IN MY YARD FOR INSPECTION, IF ANYONE IS INTERESTED,WHICH I DOUBT. I CAN'T AFFORD TO GET AN ATTORNEY TO FIGHT THIS, AND I THINK THERE ARE MANY OTHER USERS IN THE SAME BOAT- POSS. SOME OF THEM INJURED IN ACCIDENTS BECAUSE OF THIS, YOU HAVE MY E-MAIL IF ANOTHER QUESTIONS NEED CLARIFYING THANKS *TR
2010-03-26
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-09
- VIN: 1FALP52U1VA
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD TAURUS. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH USING THE CRUISE CONTROL, THE CONTACT APPLIED THE BRAKES AND NOTICED THAT THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY BEGAN TO ACCELERATE. THE CONTACT PUSHED THE CRUISE CONTROL DEACTIVATION BUTTON WHICH STOPPED THE ACCELERATION. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS BEFORE THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALERSHIP AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 75,469. UPDATED 05/07/10. *LJ UPDATED 07/12/10*JB
2010-03-16
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-14
- VIN: 1FALP52U1VG
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE PLASTIC OVERFLOW BOTTLE FROM THE RADIATOR KEEPS FAILING. I HAVE REPLACED IT 3 TIMES IN THE PAST 4 YEARS,WAS TOLD AT PARTS STORE THEY SELL ABOUT 5 A MONTH BETWEEN THE FORD TAURUS AND MERCURY SABLE,IT IS GETTING COSTLY AND FORD HAS NO ANSWER. *TR
1997 Ford Taurus recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1997 Ford Taurus.
2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
2006-03-23
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
1998-02-10
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE TEXT AND/OR GRAPHICS FOR THE VEHICLE HEADLAMP AIMING INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED IN THE OWNER GUIDES ARE NOT SUFFICIENTLY CLEAR. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: IF THE HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES ARE REPLACED, CUSTOMERS MAY BE CONFUSED BY THE AIMING INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED IN THE OWNER GUIDES CAUSING THE HEADLAMPS TO BE IMPROPERLY AIMED.
- Remedy: OWNER GUIDES CONTAINING REVISED AIMING INSTRUCTIONS WILL BE MAILED TO OWNERS OF THESE VEHICLES.
1997-06-09
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AX4S AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLES. THE LOW/INTERMEDIATE SERVO COVER CAN SEPARATE FROM THE TRANSAXLE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN. IF THIS OCCURS, TRANSMISSION FLUID WILL LEAK CONTACTING THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER.
- Consequence: THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER TEMPERATURE MAY BE HOT ENOUGH TO IGNITE THE TRANSMISSION FLUID AND CAUSE A VEHICLE FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TRANSMISSION AND REPLACE THESE SERVO COVERS.
1996-09-05
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
- Summary: THE PARK PAWL ABUTMENT BRACKET HAS A SHARP EDGE WHICH CAN CAUSE THE PARKING PAWL TO HANG UP AND NOT ENGAGE THE PARK GEAR. THIS WOULD ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO MOVE EVEN THOUGH THE GEAR SHIFT INDICATOR SHOWS THAT THE VEHICLE IS IN PARK.
- Consequence: UNINTENDED AND UNEXPECTED VEHICLE MOVEMENT CAN RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY AND PROPERTY DAMAGE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE PARK PAWL ABUTMENT BRACKET.
Negative 1997 Ford Taurus car reviews
Positive 1997 Ford Taurus car reviews
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Ok, it sounds like they're having some trouble with their car - mine doesn't start right either. The paint is chipping, the back window doesn't work properly, and it needs a tune up. But despite all that, I love it! It's definitely an improvement over the 03 Sable I had, which broke down at only 53,000 miles.
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Very good investment! I recommend this year and model to anyone.
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I recently purchased this car from my mother, who had owned it since 2001. I have a history with this car, having driven it somewhat regularly when I owned a 1995 Mitsubishi Galant. This is actually my second Taurus, the first being a 1992 GL 3.8 Essex. What I really love about this body style is how spacious the interior is. Despite being a sedan, the rear has so much room for passengers and cargo. As a tall person, I find it very comfortable. While the 3.0 Vulcan doesn't produce as much torque as the 3.8 did, it still has ample passing power and can easily merge into traffic on the freeway. I do find the transmission to be a bit fumbly at moderate speeds, so I try to go easy on it. Even after 13 years, the design still looks great!
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Congratulations on your new purchase! I just bought a 1997 Taurus LX sedan for my mom who lives in TX while I live in CA. Her truck recently broke down and she was in dire need of a car but with very little money. Luckily, I stumbled upon this beauty on Craig's List for only $400 and had to check it out. The seller warned me that it might overheat, but I figured it could only be a few things. I started with the cheapest parts first, such as the thermostat, flush, and finally a water pump. After two days of hard work, $500, and lots of grease and grime, my mom now has a very strong and reliable car. I drove it 1300 miles to her without a single issue! I'm so glad I could help my mom out in this way.
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I love this car! It has been very dependable and low maintenance. I would definitely buy another one.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Ford Taurus problems:
97 Sho Common Problems? | Taurus Car Club of America : Ford ...
https://www.taurusclub.com/threads/97-sho-common-problems.119110/
Feb 1, 2007 ... Visit www.v8sho.com to find out all about it. to make a long story short, the cams are hollow, and the lobes and drive sprockets are press-fit ...
1997 Ford Taurus Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1997-ford-taurus/problems
Problem with your 1997 Ford Taurus? Our list of 6 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 Ford Taurus.
what are some of the known problems of 97-02 taurus's ? | Taurus ...
https://www.taurusclub.com/threads/what-are-some-of-the-known-problems-of-97-02-tauruss.160783/
Oct 31, 2010 ... Bad engine mounts allow the engine to rock destroying the plastic radiator tanks and plastic heatercore tanks. #5 Cracking coolant reserve tanks ...
1997 Taurus what is the most common problem with these when ...
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/7t207-taurus-1997-taurus-common-problem.html
Jun 8, 2013 ... 1997 Taurus what is the most common problem with these when they overheat - Answered by a verified Ford Mechanic.
Ford Taurus Problems — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/2705/ford/taurus/ford-taurus-problems
Jan 14, 2002 ... I had the same problem with my 97 Taurus GL two years ago. It is a door switch. I hear this is quite common. I had it fixed at the dealer, $160.
Other years of Ford Taurus
Are you having problems with your 1997 Ford Taurus?
Frederik Skiles 2024-11-24
The best thing about this car is that it can seat eight people, which is quite rare for a van. We did have to change the fuel pump at 55,000 miles earlier this year, and the door clips can come off at times. Additionally, the AC could be better and it tends to make some noise when driving on steep hills, unless you use premium gas. However, it handles well in windy conditions on the highway.
Aron Muller 2024-11-06
Despite the exterior and interior looks of the car, it has been a very reliable and safe car to drive. It holds up great in accidents and I have had no problems even though it is a FORD.
Berry Russel 2024-10-24
The transmission failed just after the warranty expired, at 48,000 miles. Despite living in Germany in support of the US military, we received no assistance from Ford, and the fact that these cars are not built with European specs meant that it took us 6 months and $2500 to get it fixed. We have also experienced a number of other issues, including a broken seat belt, interior door coming loose, and broken CD player. It is clear that improvements need to be made to ensure that these cars are better suited to European conditions.
Cielo McDermott 2024-10-16
Bought used. Price was right. Needed transmission repair at 65000, but luckily we had an extended warranty. Overall, it's been a decent car. We've taken it on a few long trips, over 800 miles, and it rides well on the highway. In town, the ride is just okay. The interior design is comfortable, especially the driver and passenger seats. We plan to keep it until it dies, even though it doesn't have much resale value.
Wilbert Wintheiser 2024-10-01
In my experience, I've had some issues with the car such as the door switches failing and a few other mechanical problems. However, I've learned from this experience and will make sure to read reviews before purchasing my next car.