Vehicle Segment:
Full-size Sedan and Station Wagon
Target Audience:
Family vehicles, fleet vehicles
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Lumina, Buick LeSabre, Chrysler Concorde/Intrepid, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord (larger variants)
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on comfort, spaciousness, and a smooth ride. Introduction of a more aerodynamic and rounded exterior design compared to previous generations.
Trim Levels:
GL, LX, SE, SEL, Ghia (Canada), SHO (performance variant)
Professional Use:
Provides the same detailed information used by professional mechanics.
Diy Support:
Empowers DIY enthusiasts with the knowledge to perform complex repairs and maintenance.
Engine Service:
Overhaul, Rebuilding, Performance Tuning, Diagnostics, Firing Orders, Serpentine Belt Routings
Engine Types:
3.0L Vulcan V6 OHV, 3.0L Duratec V6 DOHC (GL/LX/SE/SEL/Ghia trims), 3.4L DOHC SHO V8
Transmission Service:
Automatic Transmissions (AX4N, AX4S), Manual Transmissions (for SHO variants), Service Procedures, Specifications
Brake Systems:
Disc and Drum Brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Service, Diagnostics
Suspension Steering:
Front and Rear Suspension, Steering System Components, Alignment Specifications
Electrical Systems:
Complete Wiring Diagrams, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Accessories
HVAC:
Air Conditioning Service and Capacities, Heating System, Climate Control
Body And Chassis:
Exterior Components, Interior Trim, Sunroof Service, Structural Information
Maintenance:
Factory Maintenance Schedules and Charts, Fluid Specifications, Routine Service
Diagnostics:
Trouble Codes (OBD-I and OBD-II), Troubleshooting Procedures, Diagnostic Strategies
Repair Rebuild:
Engine Overhaul and Rebuilding, Transmission Repair, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement
Specific Repairs:
Timing Belt Replacement (for applicable engines), U-Joint and CV-Joint Service
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilding, including advanced diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information pertaining to the use of diagnostic scan tools and interpretation of computer diagnostic codes.
Illustrations:
Hundreds of Illustrations, Diagrams, and Schematics
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Printability:
Printable pages for direct use in a workshop environment.
Zoom Capability:
Allows for zooming to view detailed parts and diagrams.
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Operating Systems:
Works on all computers - PC & MAC
File Delivery:
Delivered as a ZIP file requiring extraction. User guidance provided for extraction on PC and MAC.
Base Engine 1996-1999:
3.0L (182 cu in) Vulcan OHV V6
Optional Engine 1996-1999:
3.0L (182 cu in) Duratec DOHC V6
Performance Variant Engine
Sho Engine:
3.4L (207 cu in) DOHC V8
3.0L Vulcan Hp:
145 hp @ 4800 rpm
3.0L Vulcan Torque:
180 lb-ft @ 3700 rpm
3.0L Duratec Hp:
200 hp @ 5650 rpm
3.0L Duratec Torque:
200 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
3.4L Sho V8 Hp:
235 hp @ 6100 rpm
3.4L Sho V8 Torque:
232 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
3.0L Vulcan Timing:
Belt-driven SOHC (Single Overhead Cam)
3.0L Duratec Timing:
Chain-driven DOHC (Double Overhead Cam)
3.4L Sho Timing:
Belt-driven DOHC (Double Overhead Cam)
Standard Trans All Models:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle (AX4S for early models, AX4N for later models)
Optional Trans Sho:
5-speed Manual Transaxle (Getrag GFT 235) - SHO models only
Automatic Features:
Electronic Control, Overdrive
Atf Type:
Mercon V Automatic Transmission Fluid (or equivalent)
Atf Capacity Approx:
11-13 quarts (10.4-12.3 liters) depending on specific model and procedure
Wheelbase:
112.9 inches (2868 mm)
Length:
200.7 inches (5098 mm)
Width:
74.0 inches (1880 mm)
Height Sedan:
55.2 inches (1402 mm)
Height Wagon:
57.6 inches (1463 mm)
Curb Weight Approx:
3400-3900 lbs (1542-1769 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Approx:
4600-5000 lbs (2087-2268 kg) depending on configuration
Trunk Volume Sedan Approx:
16.7 cubic feet (473 liters)
Cargo Volume Wagon Approx:
36.5 cubic feet (1034 liters) behind rear seats, 74.0 cubic feet (2095 liters) with rear seats folded
NHTSA Driver Front Impact Rating:
Good (as per available data for the generation)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact Rating:
Good (as per available data for the generation)
ABS:
Standard on most models, Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Optional on some models
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags (Standard)
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point height-adjustable seatbelts, Rear 3-point seatbelts
Child Safety:
LATCH system not standard; child seat anchor points provided.
Audio Systems:
AM/FM stereo with cassette, optional CD player, available premium audio systems.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control, optional automatic climate control (ACC) with digital display.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Keyless Entry:
Optional keyless entry system.
OBD:
Transition from OBD-I to OBD-II diagnostics during this generation's lifespan.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, using synthetic oil recommended for longer intervals (refer to manual for specifics).
Tire Rotation:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2-3 years
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for Duratec/SHO, 60,000 miles (97,000 km) for Vulcan (refer to manual for exact type and interval)
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (preferred for modern usage, check manual for original spec and viscosity index improver requirements)
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or compatible ethylene glycol based coolant
Power Steering Fluid:
Mercon ATF or Ford Power Steering Fluid
Transmission Reliability:
Early AX4S transmissions could be prone to torque converter issues and solenoid failures; AX4N generally considered more robust.
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
Plastic intake manifold gaskets on some Duratec engines could develop leaks.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion and loose connections in engine bay and door harness connectors can lead to various electrical gremlins.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators can fail over time.
Suspension Components:
Struts, ball joints, and control arm bushings can wear out, leading to noise and poor handling.
Ford Legacy:
Ford's history of producing popular and accessible family vehicles in North America.
Taurus Generation 3:
Redesigned for 1996 with a more rounded, aerodynamic 'oval' styling. This generation moved to the front-wheel-drive DN101 platform, shared with the Mercury Sable.
Key Updates 1996-1999:
Introduction of the Duratec V6 engine, improvements to transmission reliability, minor styling updates, and feature additions over the model run.
Manufacturing Location:
Chicago Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Sales Performance:
The Taurus was consistently one of the best-selling cars in North America during this period, though sales began to decline as the market shifted towards SUVs and smaller sedans.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Ford Taurus was a multiple-time recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list in previous generations, establishing its reputation for value and competence.
Automotive Press Reviews:
Generally well-received by automotive press for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and competitive pricing, though criticized for its polarizing styling by some.
