FORD Taurus Reliability by Year
Best & Worst Years, Problems & Recalls β NHTSA Data
Comparing used FORD Taurus options? We analyzed 10 model years (2010β2019) using real NHTSA complaint and recall data so you can spot stronger years, avoid riskier ones, and know what to inspect before buying.
Model-year trends show patterns. Run a VIN check for the exact FORD Taurus you plan to buy.
FORD TAURUS 2010-2019 has 1698 NHTSA complaints, with steering accounting for 505. The 2013 model year is the worst with 584 complaints. 46 recalls exist. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
- Make
- FORD
- Model
- Taurus
- Model years analyzed
- 2010β2019 (10 years)
- Total NHTSA complaints
- 1,698
- Safety recall campaigns
- 46
- Crash-related complaints
- 84
- Fire-related complaints
- 20
- Worst model year (by complaints)
- 2013 (584 complaints)
- Best model year (fewest complaints)
- 2019 (10 complaints)
- Top reported issue area
- STEERING
- Reliability signal
- Below Average
FORD Taurus: Which Years to Avoid & Which to Buy
Based on total NHTSA owner complaints per model year. Higher complaint counts indicate a riskier year to buy used β lower counts suggest a cleaner reliability record.
These years have the most owner complaints. Inspect carefully and always run a VIN check.
These years have the fewest owner complaints on record β lower risk starting points.
β NHTSA NCAP Crash Test Ratings
New Car Assessment ProgramNCAP crash tests measure how well a vehicle protects occupants in controlled frontal crash, side crash, and rollover scenarios. Stars are awarded per category (5 = safest). These laboratory results are independent of owner complaints and are performed by NHTSA engineers on new production vehicles.
What the Complaint Data Suggests
Below AverageBased on NHTSA complaint data, the 2010-2019 Ford Taurus has 1698 complaints and 46 recalls. Steering problems dominate with 505 complaints, followed by fuel/propulsion system (225) and engine (223). The 2013 model year is the worst with 584 complaints. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
- Steering has 505 complaints, the most of any component.
- The 2013 model year accounts for 584 complaints, the highest of any year.
- Crash-related complaints total 84, indicating safety concerns.
- Steering system failure or loss of control.
- Fuel/propulsion system leaks or stalling.
- Engine problems including stalling and loss of power.
2013 has 584 complaints, driven heavily by steering issues, making it the riskiest year.
2017-2019 have fewer than 50 complaints each, indicating potentially better reliability, though data is limited.
- Inspect steering system for any issues.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for steering, fuel, and engine.
- Have a mechanic inspect before purchase.
π NHTSA Safety Recalls
46 recalls foundSafety recalls are mandatory repair campaigns ordered by NHTSA when a vehicle defect poses an unreasonable risk to safety. Manufacturers are required to fix recalled vehicles free of charge. Always verify open recalls before buying a used car.
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Source: NHTSA Recalls Database. Data covers model years 2010β2019. Always run a VIN-specific check below for the most up-to-date open recall status.
π§ Most-Reported Problem Areas
Based on component keywords extracted from all 1,698 NHTSA complaints.
π NHTSA Complaint Reports
1,698 totalThese are consumer-submitted safety complaints filed directly with NHTSA. Each complaint describes a real owner's experience. Complaints flagged as crash-related or fire-related are highlighted.
The contact owns a 2019 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormally loud sound. Additionally, the message "Key Not Detected" was displayed while the fob key was inside the vehicle, and the rearview camera displayed a blank image while reversing. The contact stated that the dealer had previously replaced the manifold, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, who determined that the manifold needed to be replaced for a second time, and an unknown module software update was needed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 69,000.
The windshield wiper system has malfunctioned and appears to have an electrical issue. The wipers only activate on the highest speed setting and cannot be reduced to lower speeds unless the system is completely turned off. At times, the wipers also fail to activate entirely when the control switch is engaged. This malfunction creates a safety hazard because the windshield wipers may not operate when needed during rain or snow, significantly reducing driver visibility. Limited visibility increases the risk of a crash and poses a danger to myself and other drivers on the road. There are no dashboard warning lights or indicators related to the malfunction. The vehicle has not yet been taken to the manufacturer or a dealership for inspection due to financial constraints.
The contact owns a 2019 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that while in reverse(R); the rear-view camera displayed a blank or distorted image. The contact later received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V611000 (Structure) and 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repairs were not yet available. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer have been made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.
UNKNOWN
2019 Ford Taurus Limited rearview back up camera is, distorted, or blank with a blue screen, sometimes it flickers on and off when in reverse. It is available for inspection upon request. This is a potential hazard and could cause an accident. It has not been confirmed by a dealership; the camera randomly works and is obviously an issue when a blue screen appears in reverse vs a visual of what is behind the vehicle. When going from reverse to drive a message appears that the camera is not working with a yellow triangle containing an exclamation point.
The contact owns a 2019 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that on several occasions while in reverse(R), the back over prevention screen was black. Additionally, the Blind Spot Warning indicators on both mirrors became inoperable. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the rear camera needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure reoccurred approximately a year later. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was determined that the system needed to be updated. The system was updated but the failure reoccurred 2-3 days later. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 45,866.
The contact owns a 2019 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that the heater and air conditioning system failed to operate as needed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the water pump was leaking coolant. The dealer replaced the water pump. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and reimbursed the customer for half of the repair costs. The failure mileage was approximately 93,000.
Worn out rear suspension toe links at low mileage. Taurus SHO model years 2013-2018 were recalled for the same issue. The problem persists in Model Year 2019.
I had started breaking for impact of a dog on the freeway (had started tapping my breaks as I was slowing down, as there was no way to avoid the dog)β¦I was hit from the back by a F350 (pulling a full-size horse trailer w/ living quarters & 3 to 4 horses), which was traveling 70 to 75 MPH. Then I spun 2 to 3 times and was then hit in the front by a Tundra w/ a flatbed trailer on it. My car came to a complete stop as the engine stopped. I was facing the opposite direction. No air bags deployed! Luckily I was wearing my seatbelt!! The perfect vehicle was a TOTAL LOSS.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2019 FORD TAURUS. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT OR IN LOW LIGHT CONDITIONS, THE ILLUMINATION OF THE HEADLIGHTS WERE INADEQUATE AND CREATED A VISIBILITY HAZARD. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE LOCAL DEALER FRED BEANS FORD OF LANGHORNE (1939 LINCOLN HWY, LANGHORNE, PA 19047) WHO INSPECTED THE VEHICLE BUT FOUND NO FAILURE WITH THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER OFFERED TO REPLACE THE HEADLIGHT BULBS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURE WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 35,600.
The contact owns a Ford Taurus. The contact received a recall notification, NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V611000 (Structure). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, the contact was informed that the B stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed that the driver's and passenger's side B-Pillar Applique trim was fractured. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, however the contact was informed that the parts were unavailable. In addition, the contact was informed that the parts were on back order. The dontact received a recall notification, NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V611000 (Structure) however the parts were unavailable. The manufacturer was made awareof the failure and a case was filed. The ocntact was informed that the parts were unavailable. In addition, the contact was informed that there was not an attentative date available for the parts. The failure ileage was approximately 32,000.
I have been attempting to get recall 25S91 resolved at Cavender Ford of OKC in [XXX] since early March 2026. On March 3, 2026, my contact at the dealership [XXX] ) told me the repair would be completed within a few weeks. The recall exists because 'a B-pillar trim applique that detaches while driving can create a road hazard for other road users, increasing the risk of a crash.' This is exactly what occurred. On April 24, 2026 at 7:01am CDT, 52 days after bringing my car in for inspection on March 3, 2026, the B-pillar trim detached, struck my window, and a piece hit the windshield of the vehicle behind me. I sent photographic evidence of this incident to my dealership contact that same morning. Despite this documented safety incident, the recall remains unresolved and communication from the dealership has been consistently poor. I frequently receive no response when I reach out and have had to re-paste prior messages just to get a reply. After I escalated my concerns in writing, my contact committed to providing weekly Friday updates. He has not followed through on that commitment. I have also sent a message requesting reimbursement related to this issue that has gone unanswered for more than 24 hours. I have received no clear timeline for when the recall work will be completed INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Without any Waring Lights the car goes into " Limp Mode " .ON turnpike roads with Speed Limits at 70 MPH and with some sections with no shoulder to get off the highway this is very dangerous .
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Taurus. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V611000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving in rainy weather at various speeds, there was water leaking into the vehicle from the front passengerβs side B-pillar trims. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 55,000.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the front passenger's side B-pillar trim detached. The contact became aware that the front driver's side B-Pillar trim was loose. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact received notification NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V611000 (Structure); however, the parts for the recall repair was not available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
My back up camera flips the picture upside down and may have lines in the picture. Works correctly sometimes. Also other times, may not will not show pictures at all. Just a blue screen.
When backing, the rear cameras are intermittently showing objects upside down and fuzzy making it difficult to decipher and recognize objects at the rear of the car, and frequently does not display anything on the in-dash screen, but instead saying the system isn't available. Sometimes the weather conditions seem to be sunny and sometimes raining and at other times it seems like it could be night lighting in the immediate vicinity, but mostly it seems like it's happening during what would be considered just normal weather conditions.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that the rearview camera was inoperable. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed there were no recalls on the VIN related to the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention). The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that there were no recalls on the VIN related to the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the air bag warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the steering wheel clock spring was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 99,000.
There is a recall on moldings also possible accordinng to recalls by ford the steering could cause a crash which i am having a problem with it hanging up i called ford motor and was told we do not have anything about it I am concerned because i sometimes have to snap the wheel back myself I understand there is a recall on the steering wheel mech.
Showing 20 of 1,698 total NHTSA complaints. Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Before You Buy, Check the Exact FORD Taurus
These pages show model-year patterns across 10years. Enter a VIN to verify the exact vehicle's accident history, title brands, odometer records, and open recall status before purchase.
π Understanding This Data
What is an NHTSA Complaint?
An NHTSA safety complaint is a report filed directly by a vehicle owner or driver describing a safety-related issue. Anyone can submit a complaint at NHTSA.gov. The number of complaints is a signal of how common a problem is β but complaints per model-year matter more than raw totals, since popular vehicles naturally receive more reports. The FORD Taurus has 1,698 complaints on record across 10 model years.
What is a Safety Recall?
A safety recall is a mandatory campaign issued by NHTSA when a vehicle component poses an unreasonable risk to safety or does not comply with federal motor vehicle safety standards. Unlike complaints (which are owner-reported), recalls are formally investigated and confirmed by regulators. Manufacturers must fix recalled vehicles free of charge. The FORD Taurus has 46 recall campaigns in the NHTSA database.
What Are Crash Complaints?
Crash complaints are NHTSA filings where the owner indicates a crash occurred as part of the incident. 84 of the FORD Taurus's 1,698 complaints involved a crash. This metric is particularly important because it indicates how often defects resulted in actual collisions β a key safety signal beyond general reliability.
How Is the Reliability Verdict Calculated?
The reliability verdict (Below Average) is generated by analyzing the vehicle's total complaints, recall history, crash complaint ratio, fire complaint ratio, and top component failures relative to class averages. This verdict gives buyers a quick interpretation before they review year-level details and VIN-level history. It should be treated as one decision input, not a substitute for a VIN-specific report.
Why Do Newer Years Have Fewer Complaints?
Newer model years appear to have fewer complaints because there has been less time for owners to file them. Complaints accumulate over years of ownership. A 2020 model year vehicle will typically show fewer complaints than a 2015 model year even if it is less reliable β simply because fewer owners have had time to report issues. Focus on complaints per year of market presence when comparing across model years.
Fleet Data vs. Individual VIN
Everything on this page reflects aggregated data across all FORD Taurus vehicles on the road β not any specific car. Two FORD Taurus vehicles of the same year can have very different histories: one may have been in three accidents and have an open recall; another may be clean. A VIN check gives you the individual car's history: accidents, title brands, odometer records, service history, and real-time recall status.
What Are NHTSA Investigations?
When NHTSA receives a pattern of related safety complaints, it opens a formal investigation. A Preliminary Evaluation (PE) is the first stage β NHTSA determines if a safety defect may exist. If evidence is strong, it escalates to an Engineering Analysis (EA), which can result in a mandatory recall. The FORD Taurus has 0 investigations on record (0 active). Investigations listed above may have already led to the recalls shown on this page.
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