FORD Taurus Reliability by YearBest & 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.
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- Accident & damage history
- Odometer rollback records
- Open recalls & title brands
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the FORD Taurus has 1,744 owner complaints and 46 safety recalls across model years 2010β2019. The most reported issue area is STEERING. 2013 drew the most complaints; 2019 drew the fewest.
- Make
- FORD
- Model
- Taurus
- Model years analyzed
- 2010β2019 (10 years)
- Total NHTSA complaints
- 1,744
- Safety recall campaigns
- 46
- Crash-related complaints
- 86
- Fire-related complaints
- 20
- Worst model year (by complaints)
- 2013 (589 complaints)
- Best model year (fewest complaints)
- 2019 (13 complaints)
- Top reported issue area
- STEERING
- Reliability signal
- Poor
By model year
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.
Crash test ratings
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.
Source: nhtsa.gov/ratings
What the complaint data suggests
PoorThe FORD TAURUS has 1,744 NHTSA complaints and 46 recalls on record. 86 complaints involve crash-related incidents. This data reflects owner-reported issues submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- 1,744 total complaints filed with NHTSA
- 46 federal recall campaigns
- 86 crash-related complaints on record
- Review NHTSA complaint history for the most-reported components
- Check recall completion status at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Verify service records for frequently complained components
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with elevated complaint rates.
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with fewer reported issues.
- Run a VIN check on the specific vehicle you are considering
- Verify all open recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Request service records for the most-reported complaint components
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase
Problems by model year (best vs. worst)
Source: NHTSA public complaints database. Updated: Aug 2026
Safety recalls
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.
STRUCTURE:EXTERIOR TRIM
STRUCTURE:EXTERIOR TRIM
STRUCTURE:EXTERIOR TRIM
STRUCTURE:EXTERIOR TRIM
SUSPENSION:REAR
SUSPENSION:REAR
SUSPENSION:REAR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
STEERING
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
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.
Common problems
What goes wrong most often
The vehicle systems owners complain about most, ranked from all 1,744 NHTSA complaints β these are the areas to inspect first on a used car.
Owner complaints
NHTSA complaint reports
1,744 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 reversing at an undisclosed speed, the rearview camera was inoperative. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 119,000.
See attached document for complaint.
When I put my car in reverse the cameras either wonβt come on or they get stuck on when I put my car in drive. I have had my car to the local Ford dealership and they are aware of the problem but they continue to state they do not have the parts to replace on my car. I received the recall notice in October of 2025 so I felt I have given them more than enough time to order the parts and fix my back up camera. I believe they are ignoring the recall and my request for them to repair it.
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.
Read 14 more owner reports
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 2017 Ford Taurus. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V611000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the B-pillar trims were slightly detaching from the vehicle. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000.
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.
Showing 20 of 1,744 total NHTSA complaints. Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Check the exact car
Before you buy, check the exact FORD Taurus
These pages show model-year patterns across 10 years. Enter a VIN to verify the exact vehicle's accident history, title brands, odometer records, and open recall status before purchase.
The basics
How to read this data
Complaints, recalls, investigations β hereβs what each number actually tells you about a used FORD Taurus, in plain English.
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 1,744 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. 86 of the FORD Taurus's 1,744 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 (Poor) 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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FORD Taurus reliability β frequently asked questions
Is the FORD Taurus reliable?
Poor. The FORD Taurus has 1,744 NHTSA owner complaints and 46 recall campaigns across model years. A commonly reported issue area is STEERING. Use year-level data as a pattern guide, then verify the exact car with a VIN check before purchase.
Which FORD Taurus years to avoid?
Years with the most NHTSA complaints: 2013 (589 complaints), 2015 (269 complaints), 2014 (234 complaints). Use these years as a shortlist for deeper inspection, and always run a VIN check on the exact vehicle before purchase.
What are the most common FORD Taurus problems?
Top reported issues: STEERING (509 complaints); FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (227 complaints); ENGINE (225 complaints).
Does the FORD Taurus have recalls?
Yes β 46 NHTSA recall campaigns have been issued for the FORD Taurus. Check nhtsa.gov/recalls or run a VIN check to see if your specific vehicle has open recalls.