1998 Ford Taurus problems
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Common 1998 Ford Taurus problems
The Ford Taurus, produced from 1986 to 2019, was a popular midsize car with a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0 from RepairPal:
- Engine Oil Pan Gasket Leak: This is the most reported problem, with 256 people reporting it. The engine oil pan gasket may leak, causing a burning smell due to leaking oil accumulating on the exhaust system. The issue can be fixed by replacing the engine oil pan gasket, which costs an estimated $321 to $392. The problem affects 20 model years, including 1990 to 2007, 2012, and 2014, and typically appears around 112,611 miles.
- Engine Bucks or Misfires at Freeway Speeds: This issue affects 18 model years, from 1992 to 1995 and 1998 to 2011. It doesn't generate any fault codes, and an intermittent fault in the camshaft synchronizer assembly is the cause. The problem can be diagnosed by checking the knock sensor data, and if necessary, the synchronizer assembly should be replaced. The general diagnosis of the issue costs between $88 and $111.
- Faulty Idle Air Bypass Valve: This issue causes the engine to stall or hesitate on acceleration. It can also cause problems when starting the car if the engine is cold or idling. The problem affects 13 model years, including 1990, 1994, 1997, 1998, 2000 to 2005, 2007, 2012, and 2014, and typically appears around 141,956 miles.
- Faulty Camshaft Sensor Magnet: This issue causes long crank times when the engine is being started and can also cause the check engine light to turn on. It affects 16 model years of the Taurus, from 1995 to 2010.
- Transmission Failure: This is a common problem in the 2003 and 2005 Ford Taurus models. It can cause the vehicle to not accelerate or engage in any gear due to a busted transmission that went out without any warning. Several factors may contribute to transmission failure, such as low transmission fluid levels, contaminated fluids due to poor maintenance, internal wear and tear of transmission parts, and worn clutches.
- White Smoke Emissions: Some 1990-1994, 1997-1998, 2000, 2005, 2011, and 2013 Ford Taurus models have been reported to emit white smoke from the exhaust due to a blown head gasket or a cracked cylinder head. The owners of the affected vehicles report needing to frequently top up on coolant, as their engines would frequently overheat.
- Longer Crank Times: Some 1995-2010 Ford Taurus models have been reported to experience longer crank times due to a faulty camshaft position sensor magnet. This can cause squealing noises when starting and accelerating vehicles, and can also cause a slipping transmission due to the magnet damaging the synchronizers.
These problems, while common, typically appear at higher mileage and don't necessarily indicate a lack of reliability in the Ford Taurus. However, it's important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and to consider them when purchasing a used Taurus. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent these problems from becoming more serious and costly.
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 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.
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 1998 Ford Taurus?
The value of a used 1998 Ford Taurus ranges from $232 to $1,405, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
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?
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.
What is the value of a 1998 Ford Taurus?
The value of a used 1998 Ford Taurus ranges from $232 to $1,405, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
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.
1998 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:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Ford Taurus vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Ford Taurus
The NHTSA has received 587 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Ford Taurus. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Ford Taurus vehicles.
2022-08-20
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-10
- VIN: 1fafp52s1wa
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: This car only has 73k milrs on it i am the 3rd owner. The power steering and the rack and pinion failed on this car. I was driving west on Columbus Drive in East Chicago three weeks ago when my steering became so stiff it was very difficult for me to make a turn and i could have easily hit another vehicle ir been hit by another vehicle. In researching this issue and talking to a Ford mechanic the rack and pinion is a common problem in the Ford Taurus from 1996 to 2000. There should have been a nationwide recall and there was not. A mechanic that worked at Ford at the time told me 30000 vehicles were recalled but all the vehicles should have been recalled. The problem was so big they designed a special tool to deal with it. They just waited for people to ca them and they dealt with it at that time as most of the cars were still under warranty at Ford. My problem is the original owner was a denior citizen who drove the car very little. She turned it over to the 2nd owner in 2016 with 66k miles on it. Had she driven the car the average for the industry this would have been covered unfer warranty. If you research this issue online you will discover Ford knew about it and its common to this car for the years stated above. The power steering pymp went out in July. We fixed that..the rack and pinion went out soon after. The pump had alteady been changed in that car before i got it, which leads me to believe the problem has been the rack and pinion for awhile. I have enclosed receits on tbe parts. My neighbor installed the pump for $80. Estimates in installing the rack and pinion are 250 to 400 in this area. Ive gone thru 75 in fluid loss bc the seal on the rack and pinion on the drivers side is blown so car keeps spitting out fluid. I tried to upload reveipts on the parts but i was unable to. The pump was approximately $84. The rack and pinion and return hoses were apprimately $200 thru Rockauto.
2018-03-30
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-01
- VIN: 1FAFP53S3XG
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ALL FOUR SEAT BELTS IN THE VEHICLE MALFUNCTIONED AND FAILED TO RETRACT, WHICH LEFT THE OCCUPANTS UNSECURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BAYSHORE FORD OF PENNSYVILLE (200 S. BROADWAY ST, PENNSYVILLE, NJ). THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE MANUFACTURER NO LONGER PRODUCED PARTS FOR THE VEHICLE AND IT COULD NOT BE REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 139,000.
2015-01-15
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-15
- VIN: 1FAFP53S4WG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD TAURUS. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE HORN BECAME INOPERABLE AND THE SERVICE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 148,230.
2014-11-24
SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-11-21
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE BRAKES FAILED COMPLETELY AND THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED CONTINUOUSLY. THE FAILURE HAD RECURRED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE NEEDED A REAR PROPORTIONING VALVE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 138,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
2014-10-17
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-17
- VIN: 1FAFP52U4WG
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: THIS IS THE SCARIEST THING I HAVE EVER SEEN WHILE DRIVING MY TEENAGE SON'S VEHICLE. HIS VEHICLE WOULD NOT DECREASE IN SPEED. WHILE TAKING OFF FROM A STOP, WITHOUT TOUCHING THE PEDAL, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN. I HAVE NEVER SEEN A VEHICLE ACCELERATE WITHOUT HITTING THE GAS PEDAL. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERN ESPECIALLY SINCE ITS A TEENAGERS VEHICLE. I SEE THAT NEWER TAURUSES HAD A RECALL FOR THE EXACT SAME ISSUE. MANY WERE REPORTING THE VEHICLE ACCELERATING ON ITS OWN, THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT MY SON'S DID TONIGHT. ALSO, WHEN I PLACED HIS VEHICLE IN PARK, THE VEHICLE REVVED UP TO 4000 RPM'S LIKE SOMEONE WAS HITTING THE GAS. I HAD TO SHUT THE CAR OFF BEFORE IT BLEW THE ENGINE. IT WAS NERVE RACKING. THIS IS LIKELY TO CAUSE A SERIOUS INJURY OF DEATH TO MY CHILD. *TR
2014-09-24
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-11
- VIN: 1FAFP52U8WA
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEATER WAS NOT WORKING IN THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING, BUT WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 177,000. UPDATED 10/30/14*CN
2014-09-15
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-04
- VIN: 1FAFP52U8WA
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 1998 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE MADE A JERKING MOTION AND FAILED TO ACCELERATE PROPERLY. THE FAILURE RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES AND AT VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000.
2014-06-30
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-19
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STARTED TO ROLL AWAY. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT HAD TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL QUICKLY AND SHIFT INTO PARK. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 260,000.
2013-09-03
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-08-27
- VIN: 1FAFP52S1WG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE NOTICED THE VINYL ON THE DASHBOARD WAS DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS BUT WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 66,000.
2013-02-21
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-02-18
- VIN: 1FAFP52S7WG
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKE TO STOP AT A LIGHT ON A HIGHWAY ACCESS ROAD, THE VEHICLE HAD TROUBLE STOPPING. IT STARTED VIOLENTLY JERKING AND VIBRATING AND THE BRAKES WERE ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR. THE RPM'S READ IN THE 4'S. I PULLED OVER AND IN A PARKING LOT, THE VEHICLE RAPIDLY REACHED 45 MPH WITHOUT STEPPING ON THE GAS PEDAL. I WAS RELUCTANT TO HAVE IT REACH A GREATER SPEED SO I STOPPED THE VEHICLE. IT ONCE AGAIN DID NOT WANT TO RESPOND PROPERLY TO THE BRAKES. I CALLED FORD AND EPLAINED THE SUDDEN ACCELERATION AND THE VEHICLE DIFFICULTY IN STOPPING, THERE ARE NO RECALLS. I RESEARCHED ONLINE, AND IT APPEARS THAT THERE IS A FAULTY CRUISE CONTROL CABLE THAT STICKS TO THE THROTTLE AND LEAVES IT OPEN. I ONCE AGAIN CONTACTED FORD FOR AN ESTIMATE TO REPLACE THE CRUISE CONTROL CABLE. THE SERVICE ADVISOR STATED THAT THERE WAS NO SUCH THING AS A CRUISE CONTROL CABLE. I CALLED THE PARTS DEPARTMENT AND THEY SAID THAT PART IS AFTERMARKET AND IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION. I WAS READING THE AOL VEHICLE COMPLAINTS ON THIS AND ACCIDENTS HAVE OCCURED AND PEOPLE HAVE BEEN INJURED. I DON'T KNOW WHY FORD DOES NOT RECOGNIZE THIS SERIOUS SAFET ISSUE IN A TIMELY MANNER. *TR
2013-01-04
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-04
- VIN: 1FAFP52U6WA
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN SHIFTING FROM REVERSE TO PARK OR FROM DRIVE TO PARK, THE VEHICLE WOULD RAPIDLY ACCELERATE. THE ENGINE RPMS INCREASED EXCESSIVELY AND THE CONTACT SHIFTED INTO PARK AS HE TURNED THE ENGINE OFF IN ORDER TO STOP THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE RECURRED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A MECHANIC OR TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION OR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
2012-09-14
STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-14
- VIN: 1FAFP57U3WA
- Components: STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: APPLIED BRAKES WHILE STOPPED IN PARKING LOT,PEDAL WENT TO FLOOR,ALL BRAKE FLUID NOW UNDER CAR. UNABLE TO LIFT CAR,NO METAL EXISTED FROM FLOORPAN TO ROCKER PANEL BOTTOM. BRAKE LINES HAD BEEN AFFIXED TO THIS METAL,AND NOW HAD LOST SUPPORT/MOUNTING PLACE AND VIBRATED AND FELL APART. THE OUTSIDE OF THE CAR LOOKED ALMOST NEW,BUT THE PLASTIC TRIM ON THE LOWER SILL HID THE PROBLEM OUTSIDE. NOW,THE DOOR SILL(BOTH SIDES)ARE GETTING SO BAD,WE ARE AFRAID TO STEP ON THEM,OR GO OVER A BAD BUMP OR RAILROAD TRACK. I DON'T UNDERSTAND THIS,AS THIS METAL ROTTED FROM THE INSIDE-OUT,AS THOUGH IT NEVER WENT THRU A RUST PREVENTION BATH PROCESS. MY FRIENDS ARE CURRENT FORD PEOPLE OR,LIKE MYSELF,ARE RETIRED FORD PEOPLE,THEY SAID TAURUS VEH. CANT HAVE THIS EXTREME PROBLEM,BUT I DO. THANKS FOR ASKING. *TR
2012-08-24
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-17
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FAFP52S3WA
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: AFTER DRIVING ABOUT A MILE, THE AIR CONDITIONING STOPPED AND BLACK SMOKE CAME OUT OF THE HOOD. STOPPED THE CAR AND THOUGHT OF OPENING THE HOOD BUT SAW FLAMES. THREE ADULTS AND TWO CHILDREN (5 AND 2 YRS OLD) GOT OUT OF THE CAR. CALLED POLICE AND FIRE SERVICE. BY THE TIME THEY ARRIVE, THE CAR WAS IN FLAMES. THE ENGINE AND FRONT ROW SEATS WERE TOTALLY BURNT. THE CAR WAS A TOTAL LOSS. THERE WAS NO WAY TO DETERMINE THE REASON FOR THE (MYSTERIOUS) FIRE. THIS HAPPENED IN MIAMI, FLORIDA. *TR
2012-07-19
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SEAT BELTS,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-18
- VIN: 1FAFP52U1WA
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SEAT BELTS,WHEELS
- Summary: THE CAR HAS A RECALL ON LIGHTS SEAT BUCKLE AND STUD. *TR
2012-07-09
STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-03
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS
- Summary: WHEN I WAS TURNING A CORNER MY CAR STARTED TO SHIMMY LIKE IT HAD A FLAT TIRE I GOT OUT TO CHECK ONLY TO FIND THERE ISNT A FLAT TIRE AND THAT MY RACK AND PINION IS GONE BAD ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF MY CAR I JUST REPLACED THE SAME PART ON THE OTHER SIDE A YEAR AGO EVERYTIME THE ALIGNMENT GOES OUT THE RACK AND PINION GOES BAD! *TR
2012-05-31
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-31
- VIN: 1FAFP57U9WG
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 10 MPH WHEN THE THROTTLE BECAME STUCK, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO ABNORMALLY ACCELERATE WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE BY SHIFTING INTO NEUTRAL AND APPLYING THE BRAKES. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A DEALER TO HAVE THE CRUISE AND THROTTLE CABLE REPLACED BUT THE DEALER DID NOT HAVE THE NECESSARY PARTS. THE DEALER LUBRICATED THE COMPONENTS BUT THAT DID NOT REMEDY THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT ALSO REPLACED THE CRUISE CONTROL MODULE BUT TO NO AVAIL. THE CONTACT HAD EXPERIENCED THE FAILURE NUMEROUS TIMES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000. UPDATED 07/25/12*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WOULD ACCELERATE ON ITS OWN. EACH TIME, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WOULD GO DOWN ON ITS OWN, AND THE CONSUMER HAD NO WAY OF CONTROLLING THE VEHICLE. AS THE CONSUMER STEPPED ON THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO GO FASTER. THE DEALER FIXED THE PROBLEM. HOWEVER, IT RETURNED MONTHS LATER. THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONSUMER, PARTS WERE NO LONGER BEING MADE. THEY SPRAYED THE CABLES, BUT THE SUDDEN ACCELERATION RETURNED WEEKS LATER. UPDATED 07/25/12
2012-04-12
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-02
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FAFP52U9WA
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE HAS HAD TWO INCIDENTS THAT MAY BE RELATED TO FAULTY ACCELERATION. PERHAPS YOU NEED TO INVESTIGATE OLDER FORD TAURUS FOR PROBLEMS CURRENTLY UNDER REVIEW ON 2006, ETC. DATES AND MILEAGE ARE APPROX. I DO NOT HAVE REPORTS AVAILABLE. VEHICLE HAD SPEED CONTROL. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK THE ACCELERATOR SUDDENLY REVVED UP WHEN I HIT THE BRAKES. HAPPENED SO SUDDENLY THE CAR WENT OUT OF CONTROL BOUNCED OVER PARKING LOT BUMP AND HIT OTHER VEHICLES CAUSING DAMAGES TO THOSE AS WELL AS MY VEHICLE AND INJURY TO ME AS WELL AS COST ME A TICKET. THAT WAS IN 2006 AS I RECALL. IN JANUARY, 2009 OR DECEMBER, 2008 THE ACCELERATOR SUDDENLY REVVED UP AGAIN WHEN I WAS PULLING INTO TRAFFIC FROM A PARKING LOT ON TO THE HIGHWAY. I SHUT OFF THE ENGINE AND VOLUNTEERS HELPED PUSH THE VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD. I HAD IT TOWED AND HAVE HAD IT STORED IN MY DRIVEWAY SINCE. NO ONE HAS EVER SCANNED, ETC. TO DETERMINE WHAT WAS WRONG. IS IT SAFE TO EVEN SELL TO ANYONE? MILEAGE FOR THE SECOND INCIDENT WAS APPROX. 147000. I HAVE A MANDATE FROM THE CITY TO REMOVE THE VEHICLE BY MAY, 2012 OR FACE FINES THEREFORE IF YOU NEED ANYTHING TEST NEEDS DONE BEFORE THEN. MESSAGE PHONE ONLY INCLUDED. *TR
2011-10-06
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-06
- VIN: 1FAFP57U2WG
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEAT BELTS FAILED BY NOT RETRACTING AND LOCKING INTO PLACE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THEY ADVISED HER THAT THE SEAT BELTS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 98,000.
2011-08-26
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-18
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 98 FORD TAURUS WAGGON BUILD DATE OF 11/4/97 WITH 105,000 MILES, FRONT PASSANGER COIL SPRING BROKE WHILE DRIVING SLOWLY, THANK GOD. APPARENTLY VERY COMMON, WHY IS THERE NO RECALL FOR THIS!! NO APPARENT REASON, LIGHT USEAGE MOSTLY HIGHWAY MILES. *TT
2011-08-22
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-21
- VIN: 1FAFP52U1WA
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 1998 FORD TAURUS FRONT DRIVERSIDE COIL BROKE WHILE DRIVING. *TR
2011-03-30
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,STRUCTURE,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-11-10
- VIN: 1FAFP57UXWA
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,STRUCTURE,TIRES
- Summary: IN JUNE 2008 I STARTED MY REGULAR YEARLY MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE OF MY 1998 FORD TAURUS WAGON. I HAD MY OIL CHANGE & ROTATED/BALANCED MY TIRES. IN OCTOBER 2008 I HAD TWO TIRES REPLACED (ALL OF MY SERVICE WAS DONE @ A FORD DEALERSHIP IN MY CITY) AND A MULTI-POINT INSPECTION FOR MY VEHICLE INSPECTION. THE MECHANIC ADVISED ME THAT MY CAR NEEDED REAR SHOCKS, AS THE OUTER CASING WAS ROTTED! LEFT INNER TIE ROD WAS LOOSE & FRONT BRAKES WERE WORN. I WENT IN ON OCT 23, 2008 AND HAD ALL OF THE WORK DONE!,$417.45 FOR FRONT BRAKES, RESURFACED FRONT ROTORS; REPLACED FRONT INNER TIE ROD. THEN ON 11/10/08 I WENT IN TO HAVE MY VEHICLE INSPECTED AND WAS ADVISED THAT IT FAILED, THE ROCKER PANELS WERE ROTTED OUT! I MADE AN APPT FOR 11/19/08 TO FIND OUT HOW MUCH IT WOULD COST TO FIX THIS & LEARNED THAT THE ROCKER PANELS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FROM FORD & THAT I NEEDED TO FABRICATE NEW ONES! MY CAR, WHICH HAD 142,555 MILES ON IT, WHICH I THOUGHT TO BE IN PERFECT CONDITION, DID NOT PASS INSPECTION BECAUSE OF SUB-FRAME ROT! THIS VEHICLE HAS ONLY BEEN SERVICED BY FORD DEALERSHIPS, WHO HAD JUST POCKETED $621.45 OF MY MONEY TO PERFORM WORK ON A CAR THAT THEY REFUSED TO INSPECT! IN SEARCHING FOR ESTIMATES TO REPAIR THIS DAMAGE I LEARNED THAT ALL TAURUS' RUSTED IN THE SAME PLACE! UNDER THE ROCKER PANEL COVERS, RIGHT WHERE MINE WAS ROTTED. I WAS TOLD BY EVERY COMPANY TO JUNK MY CAR! I CALLED FORD TO EXPRESS MY CONCERNS AND WAS ONLY TOLD "YOUR CAR IS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY". I JUST LEARNED TODAY ABOUT RECALLS ON FORD VEHICLES DUE TO SUBFRAME ROT! MY CAR IS STILL SITTING IN MY DRIVEWAY. I HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO FIX IT AND HAVE NOT JUNKED IT YET BECAUSE I AM SO SADDENED THAT IT WAS NEVER FIXED BY FORD. I HAVE EVERY RECEIPT FOR ALL THE WORK PERFORMED ON MY CAR AND WOULD LIKE MY CAR TO BE INCLUDED IN THE UPDATED RECALLS ON FORD VEHICLES! THANK YOU. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
2011-03-18
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-03-18
- VIN: 1FAFP52U6WG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 1998 FORD TAURUS WITH RELATIVELY LOW MILES. ALWAYS CARED FOR. MECHANIC INFORMED ME IT HAS A ROTTED SUBFRAME. THIS HOLDS THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION. DEALER STATED THERE ARE NO RECALLS FOR THIS MODEL YEAR. THE CAR (WHICH IS IN OTHERWISE EXCELLENT CONDITION) IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AT THIS POINT. 3 INDEPENDENT MECHANICS WERE SURPRISED TO SEE THIS LEVEL OF ROT IN A CAR OF THIS CONDITION. *TR
2011-02-18
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-02-17
- VIN: 1FAFP52U8WA
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING IN REVERSE APPROXIMATELY 2 MPH WHILE IN THE DRIVEWAY AND HEARD A GRINDING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE, FOLLOWED BY THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE COLLAPSING TO THE GROUND. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND DETECTED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE COIL SPRING FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE CONTACT EXPERIENCED THE SIMILAR DEFECT AS MENTIONED IN THE RECALL ON THE 1999-2001 MODELS UNDER THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 04V332000 (SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,450.
2011-02-07
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-01
- VIN: 1FAFP52U0WA
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER PARKING THE VEHICLE AND TURNING IT OFF, IT WOULD NOT START AGAIN. THE FAILURE OCCURRED INTERMITTENTLY. NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENTAL PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY A DEALER AND THEY INFORMED HER THAT THEY WERE UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 142,000.
2011-02-07
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-02-05
- VIN: 1FAFP52U4WA
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I WAS PULLING OUT OF MY DRIVE WAY AND MY COIL SPRING ON MY 1998 FORD TAURUS WENT THREW MY FRONT RIGHT TIRE. LUCKILY I WAS ONLY PULLING OUT OF MY DRIVE WAY. THIS COULD HAVE BEEN VERY SERIOUS, JUST TWO DAYS BEFORE I WAS DRIVING TO SYRACUSE AND GOING 70MPH ON THE FREEWAY, I WOULD HAVE MORE THEN LIKELY DIED DUE TO THIS. NOW FORD KNOWS THERE IS A DEFECT IN THE COILS IN THERE CARS BUT YET HAS DONE LITTLE TO FIX IT OR HELP PEOPLE. NOW I AM OUT 600 PLUS DOLLARS BECAUSE I HAD TO REPLACE MY TIRE AND PAY FOR A WHOLE NEW COIL SPING ASSEMBLY FOR BOTH SIDES ON THE FRONT OF MY CAR. ALL I WANT IS FOR FORD TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY AND BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS AND THESE FAULTY COIL SPINGS AND FOR ME TO GET MY MONEY BACK. *LN
1998 Ford Taurus recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1998 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.
1998-08-25
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL SEAT TRACKS. THE FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLE ATTACHING STUD MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY HEAT TREATED. THIS HEAT TREATMENT MAY HAVE RESULTED IN CRACKS DEVELOPING IN THE STUD.
- Consequence: IF THE STUD IS CRACKED, IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SEAT BELT BUCKLE MOUNTING BRACKET AND STUD ASSEMBLY.
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.
Negative 1998 Ford Taurus car reviews
Positive 1998 Ford Taurus car reviews
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This car is a blast to drive, and the V8 engine provides excellent power, especially at higher speeds. The interior is spacious and comfortable, and the trunk is large enough to hold four sets of golf clubs. Although there may be some issues with the camshaft, my SHO has over 125K miles and is still running great (with the exception of getting the cams welded). If you're considering a SHO, I highly recommend getting the cams welded!
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I recently purchased a 98 SE Touras with a salvaged title and I absolutely love it! I added blue headlamps which are the best ever and I am now looking to buy rims. Additionally, I installed a SHO spoiler and performance exhaust tips which added 16 HP! To make my car look more stylish, I also added a 'Ford Racing' sticker under the hood. I upgraded my car audio with a KOSS CD Changer, and while there is no bass, the sound quality is still great. I also love the oval dash! It's worth noting that my transmission is still running smoothly without a 50,000 mile flush!
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This is the second Taurus that I have owned. You really can't beat the value you get with this car. I have had very few problems outside of the normal maintenance items.
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This has been the best car I have ever owned! Overall, it's even better than my vintage Corvette. It's always ready to GO! Plus, it has great creature comforts and a killer sound system. Eventually, I will have to move on from my car with 120,000 miles. Unfortunately, Ford has chosen to stop offering this great car. I wonder where I will go now?
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Exceptional handling - very easy to drive. The biggest disappointment is the alternator, which has been replaced twice. The headlamps still flicker and dim with regularity.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Ford Taurus problems:
1998 Ford Taurus Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1998-ford-taurus/problems
Problem with your 1998 Ford Taurus? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1998 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 ... Taurus Car Club of America : Ford Taurus Forum ... 1998 Taurus SE - 3.0 OHV - SOLD 1997 Taurus ... Engine's in the Ford's went up substantially ...
How reliable is the 1998 Ford Taurus? : r/Ford
https://www.reddit.com/r/Ford/comments/51cx7s/how_reliable_is_the_1998_ford_taurus/
Sep 6, 2016 ... From what I've read online at edmunds from reviewers, the car is pretty reliable averaging an 8.5/10 in terms of overall reliability. If there ...
97 Sho Common Problems? | Taurus Car Club of America : Ford ...
https://www.taurusclub.com/threads/97-sho-common-problems.119110/
Feb 1, 2007 ... Taurus Car Club of America : Ford Taurus Forum ... common problems associated with this model car. I ... 1998 Taurus SE. Fully Loaded 117000 miles ...
Q&A: 1996 Ford Taurus GL - Common Problems & Solutions
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/0mr4q-presently-owner-1996-ford-taurus-gl-4dr.html
Mar 17, 2007 ... I am presently an owner of a 1996 Ford Taurus GL, 4dr. I am experiencing many electrical problems that are intermittent - Answered by a ...
Other years of Ford Taurus
Are you having problems with your 1998 Ford Taurus?
Savion Hegmann 2024-09-14
The 24 valve V6 is great and provides good acceleration and handling. The interior room and comfort are also good, as well as the exterior appearance. However, the A/T performance is mediocre and the gas mileage is unexceptional. Additionally, there are concerns about long-term reliability and poor front disc rotor/pad wear. Overall, I would still recommend this vehicle, especially considering the price. It looks as good as an SHO!
Kenny Adams 2024-07-13
The transmission was replaced at 58,000 miles, the A/C at 45,000 miles, and the fuel injectors. Unfortunately, every week something else went wrong. It's been a frustrating experience and I don't think I'll be buying American cars again.
Preston Douglas 2024-07-06
My girlfriend and I purchased a car with 61,000 miles, but unfortunately the transmission failed at 64,000 miles. Although the repair cost us $1,100, we were determined to fix it as we believe that a car with the power of the DURATECH V-6 should not have any issues. Now, we can confidently pass without worrying about the shifting.
Wilbert Douglas 2024-06-25
The transmission has been a persistent issue since the first day, and despite the dealer's assurances, it now needs to be replaced at 88K. However, the engine is impressive and the rest of the car provides reliable basic transportation. It is worth noting that the power steering can go out after extended highway driving, although the dealer has been unable to identify any issues. Overall, this car is a solid choice for those seeking dependable transportation.
Cade Langworth 2024-06-17
I recently purchased a 98 Ford Taurus 3 months ago, but unfortunately, I am not enjoying it as much as I had hoped. I was expecting more special options at this price range, similar to what GM products offer. If I may, I would like to suggest that Ford consider a complete redesign of the Taurus.