2002 Ford Taurus problems

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2002 Ford Taurus

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Common 2002 Ford Taurus problems

The 2002 Ford Taurus has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to acceleration issues, engine problems, and transmission failure.

  • Engine Problems:
    The 2002 Ford Taurus has been reported to have engine problems, including leaking engine oil pan gaskets, engine misfires, and engine stalls or hesitations on acceleration.
  • Transmission Failure:
    The 2002 Ford Taurus has been reported to have transmission failure, which comes with an average repair cost of $1,930.

In conclusion, the 2002 Ford Taurus has several common problems related to acceleration issues, engine problems, and transmission failure. These problems can be caused by various factors, including worn-out or damaged parts, faulty sensors, or issues with the engine management system. If you own a 2002 Ford Taurus, it is essential to keep an eye on these issues and address them promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle.

2002 Ford Taurus engine

What problems do 2002 Ford Taurus have?

Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

Are 2002 Ford Taurus good cars?

Edmunds says

The Ford Taurus is a solid choice in a family sedan. If you value feature content and domestic origin more than build quality and predicted future worth, this is a great car to consider.

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 many miles does a 2002 Ford Taurus last?

Change the oil RELIGIOUSLY every 3,000 miles, and the engine will easily last 200,000 miles.

What problems do 2002 Ford Taurus have?

Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

Are 2002 Ford Taurus good cars?

Edmunds says

The Ford Taurus is a solid choice in a family sedan. If you value feature content and domestic origin more than build quality and predicted future worth, this is a great car to consider.

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 many miles will a 2002 Ford Taurus last?

It's typical to see a Ford Taurus end its life around 180,000-200,000 miles.

2002 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:

  • Suspension problems
  • Visibility problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Structure problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Ford Taurus vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2002 Ford Taurus

The NHTSA has received 1469 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Ford Taurus. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Ford Taurus vehicles.

2020-12-11

SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-12-08
  • VIN: 1FAFP55S32G
  • Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE LIGHT STARTED TO FLASH WHILE DRIVING HOWEVER, THERE WAS NO BRAKE MALFUNCTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AUBURN AUTOMOTIVE (500 S. OPDYKE RD, WATERFORD, MI 48328, (248) 332-9300) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE UNDERCARRIAGE OF THE VEHICLE WAS EXTREMELY RUSTED AND THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. *BF
2020-06-15

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-06-12
  • VIN: 1FAHP59S62A
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 65 MPH, THE FRONT AND REAR DRIVER'S SIDE COIL SPRINGS FRACTURED. THE CONTACT DROVE TO THE RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE CONTACT NOR INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 60,000.
2019-07-18

VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-05-31
  • VIN: 1FAFP52U12A
  • Components: VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE'S WINDSHIELD WAS LOOSENING ON THE UPPER PASSENGER SIDE. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE WINDSHIELD WAS COMING OUT OF THE MOLDING. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 129,000.
2019-02-01

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-01-01
  • VIN: 1FAFP55U92G
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL: I BOUGHT A CAR FROM A MAN LESS THAN 5 MONTHS AGO AND I SLOWLY STARTED TO NOTICE SOME THINGS. I STARTED OUT WITH 3 WINDOWS WORKING INSTEAD OF FOUR WHICH I WAS NOT TOLD. MY DRIVER SIDE WINDOW DOESN'T EVEN WORK AND IT STOPPED ABOUT A MOTH AGO. A WEEK BEFORE THAT MY AIRBAG LIGHT COMES ON, MY BROTHER WAS ACTUALLLY THE ONE DRIVING WHEN THAT HAPPENED. ALSO, I FOUND OUT THAT I HAD THE WRONG BATTERY IN THE CAR SO I DON'T KNOW WHAT OTHER DAMAGE THAT HAS DONE. PLEASE CONTACT ME FOR MORE INFORMATION.
2018-09-28

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-10-14
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1FAFP56S72A
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: ON 14 OCT 2017, THE SUBJECT VEHICLE HAD JUST BEEN SERVICED. ON THE DRIVE HOME, THE THROTTLE CABLE BECAME STUCK CAUSING THE CAR TO NOT STOP ACCELERATING. THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO EXIT THE HIGHWAY AND STOPPED THE CAR BY CRASHING INTO A DUMPSTER/FENCE AT A SERVICE STATION.
2018-08-06

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-02-01
  • VIN: 1FAFP55222G
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,ENGINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, THE DOOR AJAR WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED EVEN WHEN THE DOORS WERE NOT OPEN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURES COULD NOT BE DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000. *DT *TR
2018-03-04

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-02-26
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: FRONT PASSENGER COIL SPRING BROKE CAUSING A BLOWOUT ON THE TIRE IN MOTION ON A CITY STREET
2018-02-17

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-02-16
  • VIN: 1FAFP55202G
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: DRIVING AT A SPEED OF ABOUT 25 MPH ,MY CAR SUDDENLY REVVED UP AND SPED UP WITHOUT MY PRESSING THE GAS. I NEARLY REAR-ENDED A CAR IN FRONT OF ME. I PRESSED ON MY BRAKE AS HARD AS I COULD BUT IT DID NOT HELP MUCH .I DOWNSHIFTED TO 3RD GEAR BUT STILL NOT MUCH HELP. FINALLY IT RETURNED TO NORMAL SPEED. I WAS TOO SCARED AND DID NOT SEE HOW HIGH THE RPMS WENT.
2018-02-01

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-01-03
  • VIN: 1FAFP53U22A
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: MY 2002 FORD TAURUS SUDDENLY WOULD NOT SHIFT OUT OF PARK. MY BACK DRIVER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT WON'T WORK. I LOOK IT UP AND SAW A RECALL BUT WHEN I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP THEY SAID THERE WASN'T A RECALL ON MY CAR. PLEASE HELP
2017-10-15

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-10-14
  • VIN: 1FAFP52U12G
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: THE CAR HAS EXPERIENCED 2 FAILURES OF THE RIGHT FRONT STRUT SPRING RESULTING IN DESTRUCTION OF THE TIRE. FIRST AT 75,000 MILES SECOND AT 100000 MI. BOTH TIRES FLATTENED AT BETWEEN 30 & 50 MPH
2017-09-23

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-06-29
  • VIN: 1FAFP56S52A
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: COIL SPRING IN DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT STRUT FAILED SUDDENLY WHEN VEHICLE WAS BEING DRIVEN ON RESIDENTIAL STREET IN SISTER BAY, WI. THERE WAS A LOUD BANG WHEN SPRING FRACTURED AND SUSPENSION COLLAPSED. FAILURE OF COIL SPRING OCCURRED AT ABOUT 10:15 AM ON THURSDAY JUNE 29, 2017. AFTER VEHICLE WAS SAFELY PARKED IN A BANK PARKING LOT THE OWNER THEN JACKED UP FRONT END AND REMOVED WHEEL/TIRE. OWNER NOTICED HOW ENERGY RELEASED WHEN COIL SPRING FRACTURED DROVE SPRING VIOLENTLY DOWNWARD TO FRONT WHEEL KNUCKLE ASSEMBLY. FORTUNATELY WHEN SPRING WAS DRIVEN DOWNWARD IT DID NOT PUNCTURE TIRE. THE NEXT DAY VEHICLE WAS LOADED ON A TRANSPORTER AND TAKEN TO JIM OLSON EXPRESS IN STURGEON BAY, WI, FOR REPAIR. SUBSEQUENT REPAIRS INCLUDED REPLACEMENT OF BOTH FRONT STRUTS AND ALIGNMENT CHECK/ADJUSTMENT. TOTAL COST OF REPAIR INCLUDING CHARGE OF USD 165 BY TRANSPORTER COMPANY WAS USD 1,010. AT TIME OF COIL SPRING FAILURE THE VEHICLE HAD 134,128 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. VISUAL INSPECTION BY OWNER OF BROKEN PIECE OF COIL SPRING DID NOT REVEAL ANY SURFACE CORROSION. OWNER SPECULATES COIL SPRING FRACTURE MAY HAVE BEEN DUE TO 15 YEARS OF STRESS LOADS ON THE SPRING OR PERHAPS THERE WAS A DEFECT IN METAL OF COIL SPRING.
2017-07-16

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-07-16
  • VIN: 1FAFP55U62A
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: ENTERING MY NEIGHBORHOOD WHEN GAS PEDAL "BROKE". CAR ACCELERATED TO HIGHEST RPM AND I HAD TO COUNTERACT THIS BY PUTTING BOTH FEET ON MY BRAKES TO KEEP MY CAR FROM FLYING OFF AND HITTING SOMETHING. EXTREMELY SCARY. CAR CANNOT BE TURNED ON WITHOUT THE ENGINE REVVING TO THE HIGHEST POSSIBLE SPEED. HAD I BEEN ON THE INTERSTATE I MAY BE DEAD. GAS PEDAL IS DEPRESSED ALL THE WAY TO FLOOR. HAVE NOT YET HAD IT INSPECTED BY A SHOP.
2017-04-18

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-04-15
  • VIN: 1FAFP53U82A
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD TAURUS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, A LOUD NOISE WAS HEARD AND THE FRONT COIL SPRING DETACHED WITHOUT WARNING, PUNCTURING THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE. THE CONTACT AND HER CHILDREN WERE RESCUED BY A FAMILY MEMBER WHO TOWED THE VEHICLE TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 79,365.
2017-04-05

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-04-19
  • VIN: 1FAHP53U92G
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: COOLING SYSTEM PROBLEM. HAVE REPLACED WATER PUMP 4 TIMES IN THIS VEHICLE. THERE IS DEFINITELY AN ISSUE WITH THE COOLING SYSTEM. PLEASE ISSUE RECALL. SPECIFIC PROBLEM...CAR SHUTS DOWN.
2017-03-15

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-03-13
  • VIN: 1FAFP55U92G
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING MY 2002 FORD TAURUS, IT STARTED TO STALL AND AND NOT PICK UP SPEED WHILE I WAS DRIVING IT. IT STARTED SHAKING AND CUT OFF SEVERAL TIMES. I WAS ABLE TO START IT BACK UP TWICE THEN IT STOPPED IN FRONT OF MY JOB. IT HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE AUTO REPAIR SHOP. THEY STATED THE COMPUTER WENT OUT IN THE CAR. I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHAT THAT MEANS. IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO ABOUT THAT. CAN FORD GIVE ME ANY ANSWERS. NEVER HEARD OF THIS BEFORE.
2017-02-01

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-02-01
  • VIN: 1FAFP53U92A
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD THUMPING NOISE FROM THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE WHEEL WELL. THE CONTACT REMOVED THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE WHEEL AND NOTICED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE COIL SPRING WAS RUPTURED AND DAMAGED THE TIRE SEVERELY. WHEN THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER, HE WAS INFORMED THAT THE VIN WAS EXCLUDED FROM NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V332000 (SUSPENSION). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 99,000. UPDATED 04/05/17*LJ *CN
2017-01-19

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-10-12
  • VIN: 1FAFP55U52G
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: THE BOSCH CO. HAS NOT GOT BACK TO ME ABOUT ITS BRAKE PAD RECALL (RECALL NOTICE 16E026) ON PADS PGD598. I CALLED STARTING IN OCTOBER OF LAST YEAR AND THEN TWO OR THREE MORE TIMES AND STILL NO RESPONSE.
2017-01-06

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-12-23
  • VIN: 1FAFP53U82G
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD TAURUS. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH APPROACHING A STOP SIGN, THE SUSPENSION COIL FAILED WITHOUT WARNING AND DAMAGED THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 190,000.
2016-11-22

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-07-29
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1FAFP56S92A
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD TAURUS. WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED SEVERE INJURIES TO THE HEAD AND LEFT SIDE OF THE BODY THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
2016-11-18

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-04-18
  • VIN: 1FAFP55U52G
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: LATE SEPTEMBER EARLY OCTOBER I RECEIVED A LETTER FROM BOSCH ABOUT A RECALL ON BRAKE PADS I HAD GOTTEN FROM PEPBOYS. I WORK FOR A SCHOOL DISTRICT IN UTAH AND WE DO MOST OF THE WORK OUR SELF. SO I CALLED THEM AND THEY TOLD ME THEY WOULD CALL BACK TO TELL ME WHAT I NEED TO DO FOR THIS RECALL. AFTER 2 WEEKS AND NO CALL, I CALLED THEM, THEY PUT ME ON HOLD AND NEVER GOT BACK. I CALLED AGAIN A FEW DAYS LATER AND WAS TRANSFERED TO A VOICE MAIL BOX THAT WAS FULL AND NOT TAKING MESSAGES. THIS CAR IS SITTING HERE FOR A MONTH AND WE ARE NOT ABLE TO USE IT BECAUSE OF THIS RECALL. THE SHIMS ON THE BACK OF THE PADS COMES OFF AND CUTS INTO THE ROTORS. ONE SIDE HAS DONE THIS AND THE OTHER IS JUST STARTING TO CUT INTO THE ROTOR. WHAT I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO TO GET THEM TO SPEED UP WITH THIS.
2016-11-10

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-08-11
  • VIN: 1FAFP55272G
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD TAURUS. WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, THE BRAKE LIGHTS FAILED TO ILLUMINATE INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH WAS MALFUNCTIONING, BUT WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V106000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 233,000.
2016-10-20

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-10-17
  • VIN: 1FAFP55222A
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD TAURUS. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS UNDERGOING ROUTINE MAINTENANCE, THE TECHNICIAN INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE REAR COIL SPRINGS WERE FRACTURED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000.
2016-09-20

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-12-18
  • VIN: 1FAHP53U12G
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: THE DRIVER'S DOOR HANDLE WILL FREEZE UP ON PARTICULARLY COLD DAYS, AND THE DOOR WILL NOT STAY SHUT ONCE IT HAS BEEN OPENED. CONSEQUENTLY, THE DOOR HAS TO BE TIED SHUT, OR IT HAS TO BE HELD ON TO. IT HAS BEEN THIS WAY FOR ABOUT 3 YEARS, EVEN THOUGH WE HAVE ATTEMPTED SEVERAL "SURE" FIXES FOR THE PROBLEM. ONCE THE WEATHER WARMS UP, THE PROBLEM GOES AWAY... UNTIL THE NEXT COLD SNAP. IT IS NOT COLD OUT RIGHT NOW, SO I CAN'T DOCUMENT THIS WITH A PHOTOGRAPH. INCIDENTALLY, ALL OF THE OUTSIDE DOOR HANDLES TEND TO STAY IN THE "OPEN" POSITION ONCE THEY HAVE BEEN LIFTED. WE TEND TO GET IN THE HABIT OF PUSHING THEM DOWN AFTER WE OPEN IT, BUT IT SEEMS UNSAFE TO ME.
2016-09-13

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-09-08
  • VIN: 1FAHP56S72G
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD TAURUS. WHILE DRIVING 10-20 MPH, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO PLACE THE VEHICLE IN NEUTRAL TO SLOW IT DOWN. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED THAT A PLASTIC TAB LINKED TO THE VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL CABLE FRACTURED AND SEIZED IN THE OPEN POSITION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED, BUT WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 87,667.
2016-09-13

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-09-08
  • VIN: 1FAHP56S72G
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: WHILE ACCELERATING ONTO AN INTERSTATE(210FRWY IN LA), THE VEHICLE BEGAN ACCELERATING ON IT'S OWN UP TO 4000 RPM'S. THE CAR REACHED UP TO 80 MPH WITHOUT TOUCHING THE PEDAL. I HAD TO USE THE NEUTRAL SETTING ON TRANSMISSION TO SLOW DOWN AND EVENTUALLY EXIT THE BUSY HIGHWAY. AFTER CHECKING UNDER THE HOOD I NOTICED THE CRUISE CONTROL CABLE OUT OF IT'S PLASTIC RETAINER AND STUCK ALONG THE BROKEN PLASTIC CLIP THAT HOLDS IT. THIS CAR BELONGS TO MY 78 YR OLD FATHER INLAW AND I AM GLAD THIS HAPPENED TO ME AND NOT HIM OR THE OUTCOME COULD HAVE BEEN FATAL. FORD SHOULD HAVE A RECALL ON THIS DESIGN FLAW IN MY OPINION. AT THE VERY LEAST THEY SHOULD HAVE A SIMPLE FIX LIKE A METAL CABLE RETAINER.

2002 Ford Taurus recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2002 Ford Taurus.

2016-04-01
  • 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.
2004-03-02
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
  • Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES ARE BEING RECALLED TO CORRECT A PROBLEM WITH A MALFUNCTIONING STOP LAMP SWITCH AND/OR ASSOCIATED WIRING. THIS MALFUNCTIONING COULD RENDER THE STOP LAMPS INOPERABLE OR CAUSE THEM TO STAY ON ALL THE TIME. THIS COULD CAUSE CONFUSION TO A FOLLOWING DRIVER, WHICH COULD LEAD TO A CRASH.
  • Consequence: IN ADDITION, IF THE SWITCH AND/OR ASSOCIATED WIRING FAIL IN THE OPEN POSITION, THE BRAKE LIGHTS WILL NOT ACTUATE AND THE DRIVER WILL NOT BE ABLE TO SHIFT THE VEHICLE OUT OF "PARK" IF THEY FAIL IN THE CLOSED POSITION, THE BRAKE LIGHTS WILL REMAIN ON, WHICH WILL NOT ALLOW THE SPEED CONTROL TO BE ACTIVATED. THIS COULD ALSO CAUSE THE BATTERY TO DISCHARGE.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE STOP LAMP SWITCH AND ASSOCIATED WIRING ASSEMBLY AND INSTALL A NEWLY DESIGNED STOP LAMP SWITCH AND WIRE ASSEMBLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON APRIL 5, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
2003-03-10
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
  • Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 212, "WINDSHIELD MOUNTING." THE WINDSHIELDS MAY POTENTIALLY EXHIBIT INCREASED WIND NOISE, WATER LEAKAGE, AND SQUEAKS AND RATTLES.
  • Consequence: POTENTIAL LOSS OF WINDSHIELD RETENTION MAY ALSO REDUCE OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THESE WINDSHIELDS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON MARCH 31, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD/MERCURY AT 1-800-392-3673.
2002-10-02
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES
  • Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ADJUSTABLE PADELS ARE BEING RECALLED IN ORDER TO ADJUST THE BRAKE AND ACCELERATOR PEDALS TO A MINIMUM OF 50 MM OF LATERAL SEPARATION. SIMULTANEOUS APPLICATION OF BOTH THE BRAKE AND ACCELERATOR PEDALS COULD RESULT IN AN INCREASE IN ENGINE RPM.
  • Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN A CUSTOMER EXPERIENCING AN "UNINTENDED VEHICLE SPEED INCREASE" OR A PERCEIVED "UNABLE TO STOP" CONDITION.
  • Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE INSTRUCTED AS TO THE PROPER WAY TO SET THE POSITION OF THE PEDALS AND TO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO A DEALER TO HAVE THE SPACING BETWEEN THE BRAKE AND ACCELERATOR PEDALS MEASURED. IF THE SPACING IS FOUND TO BE LESS THAN 50 MM, THE DEALER WILL ADJUST THE PEDALS TO INCREASE THE DISTANCE BETWEEN THEM TO GREATER THAN 50 MM. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN OCTOBER 28, 2002. OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.

Negative 2002 Ford Taurus car reviews

  1. Leopoldo Hettinger 2024-10-25

    Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with my SES that has a DOHC engine used in '03. It has been my trusty companion for a while now and has clocked 104,000 miles as I drive a lot. Like any car, it has had its fair share of problems, but I've managed to fix them. I replaced two oxygen sensors at 70,000 miles and had to fix the torque converter on the transmission, which caused a problem that appeared to be the transmission again at 100,000 miles. Unfortunately, one window has never worked, but I'm not too worried about it. Despite these issues, the car still looks very sporty and has a powerful engine when running right. I hope to keep it for a while longer and enjoy the ride. Thanks for listening!

  2. Ervin Cummings 2024-09-27

    My mom bought me this car when I was in college, and it's been pretty comfortable to drive. Maintenance-wise, it costs at least $300 per year for the things that need fixing. That doesn't include the current issues that are too expensive to repair. I once had a mechanic tell me that he prefers Fords and Chevys because he makes a lot of money from repairing them.

  3. Carroll Bauch 2024-09-12

    You owned the 2002 Taurus for 13 years. It sounds like it was a comfortable, safe, and reliable car with reasonable gas mileage. However, it's unfortunate that the transmission went out while you were on vacation. You took it to a Ford dealership hoping for a reliable repair, but unfortunately, the problems persisted. After doing some research, you found out that the transmission has a design flaw and other inherent unsolvable problems, which is a shame because otherwise, it was a pretty nice vehicle.

  4. Mortimer Cole 2024-07-03

    The best thing about this car is its price. I purchased it almost two years ago and have had very few issues (knock on wood). It only cost me $7000, whereas the comparable Toyota Camry and Honda Accords were going for $14,000 for a 2002 model. In my opinion, this car looks just as nice, if not nicer, than those two. Additionally, I have leather seats and a more comfortable ride. I believe it feels more like a luxury car than the other two. Some people feel the need to have a foreign car for status, but to me, it wasn't worth spending an extra $7000 just to have a foreign nameplate on the trunk.

  5. Mohammed Leannon 2024-05-09

    This car has had some issues since day one, but we have been able to address them with confidence. My parents bought this car used in 2004, two years after the car was released. Within a year of owning it, the transmission blew and needed to be replaced. We were able to fix it promptly. The interior paneling on the doors has fallen off completely, but we were able to replace it. The rocker panels underneath the car are extremely susceptible to rust; they rusted through completely and fell off of this car entirely. We were able to replace them with better quality parts. The rear passenger side window never closed fully, but we were able to fix it. There has always been an oil leak that our mechanics are unsure of the cause. We are currently working on finding a solution. There is oil leaking into the exhaust, but we are confident that we can fix it. The AC is broken and no longer works, but we are working on getting it fixed. The flywheel ground against the starter, destroying the gears, but we were able to replace them. Overall, we have been able to address these issues with confidence and expertise.

Positive 2002 Ford Taurus car reviews

  1. Demarcus Ullrich 2024-11-17

    As a single 40-year-old male, I was initially hesitant about buying a wagon. However, the idea of almost doubling my fuel mileage and gaining cargo space convinced me to give it a try. After living with it for over a year, I can confidently say that I wouldn't go back to an SUV. The Taurus wagon handles much better, gets better mileage, holds more stuff, and is a much better value than any SUV in its price range. I'm a true believer, although I still wouldn't call it a babe magnet.

  2. Gerhard Reinger 2024-11-12

    This is a great car to buy! You can expect solid value without any surprises. Plus, with the rebates available, you can get one at thousands below dealer cost. It's a win-win situation! Just be sure to avoid Firestone tires. Overall, this is a truly solid purchase.

  3. Lafayette Rath 2024-11-03

    The car has impressive power and features, including excellent safety features. However, it is disappointing to discover that the Taurus sedan does not have rear disc brakes. As a knowledgeable car buyer, I would have appreciated the salesman being upfront with me about this. Four-wheel disc brakes are a must-have for me, and I have always had them in my previous cars. It is worth noting that all of the Taurus's competitors, such as the Camry, Accord, Altima, and Maxima, offer four-wheel disc brakes.

  4. Kareem Schmitt 2024-10-14

    This car was passed down to me from my grandma and I couldn't be happier with it! Honestly, I had thought about selling it at first (with the low mileage and good condition, it could fetch a good price), but after a year of ownership, I must say, I couldn't part with it now. My younger sister loves going for rides in my car, and I've become so attached to it that I even gave it a name! The only issue I've had was an antifreeze leak due to my grandma barely ever driving it, so most of its nine years of life was spent in the garage; and the gas gauge isn't entirely accurate, but other than that, no major problems. It's a great, reliable sedan; I would recommend it to almost anyone.

  5. Diamond Fisher 2024-09-19

    You've never had a mechanical issue? That's great to hear! It sounds like your car has excellent mileage and handles well at highway speeds. Plus, it's very comfortable. Overall, it seems like you have a great car!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2002 Ford Taurus problems:

Are 2002 Ford Taurus usually reliable? : r/Ford
Are 2002 Ford Taurus usually reliable? : r/Ford
https://www.reddit.com/r/Ford/comments/r77xfx/are_2002_ford_taurus_usually_reliable/

Dec 2, 2021 ... The Ford Taurus is a good car. The transmission issues I have seen have all been from running it low on fluid. What engine is in the car? 2.5L ...

2002 Ford Taurus Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues
2002 Ford Taurus Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2002-ford-taurus/problems

Problem with your 2002 Ford Taurus? Our list of 9 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Ford Taurus.

what are some of the known problems of 97-02 taurus's ? | 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 ... About $400 from Ford Dealer with labor to install. Bad engine mounts allow the engine to rock destroying the plastic radiator tanks and plastic ...

2002 Ford Taurus Reliability - Consumer Reports
2002 Ford Taurus Reliability - Consumer Reports
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/taurus/2002/reliability/

What Owners Say ... "The Taurus is over 20 years old, so replacement of parts (the water pump in the latest case) is expected. The Taurus has been a reliable car.

Q&A: 2002 Ford Taurus Power Steering Problems - JustAnswer
Q&A: 2002 Ford Taurus Power Steering Problems - JustAnswer
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/9ip5y-tj-power-steering-problem-2002-ford-taurus.html

Jan 27, 2016 ... Tj. I have a power steering problem with a 2002 ford taurus that mechanics have been unable to diagnose. It shoots power - Answered by a ...

Other years of Ford Taurus

ford taurus 2003 photo
Taurus 2003
Ford

1222

4

21

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford taurus 2004 photo
Taurus 2004
Ford

374

2

20

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford taurus 2005 photo
Taurus 2005
Ford

774

1

29

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford taurus 2006 photo
Taurus 2006
Ford

318

3

23

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford taurus 2007 photo
Taurus 2007
Ford

149

1

25

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford taurus 2008 photo
Taurus 2008
Ford

174

1

22

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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