Market Position:
The Ford Taurus, in its final generation for the North American market, occupied the mid-size to full-size sedan segment, targeting families and fleet buyers. It was positioned as a comfortable, spacious, and well-equipped sedan with a focus on ride quality and available performance.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against established rivals such as the Chevrolet Impala, Dodge Charger, Toyota Avalon, and Nissan Maxima. Its strengths included its refined interior, optional powerful V6 engines, and all-wheel-drive capability, while facing challenges from the increasing popularity of SUVs and Crossovers.
Key Features:
Comfortable ride, spacious interior, advanced infotainment options, robust chassis, available all-wheel drive, powerful engine options (EcoBoost), focus on driver assistance technologies.
Systems Covered:
Engine (mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions), Transmission (automatic), Drivetrain (AWD), Suspension (front & rear), Steering, Brakes (hydraulic, ABS, EPB), HVAC, Body & Chassis, Electrical System (wiring diagrams, charging, starting, lighting, instruments, comfort systems), Powertrain Control, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Body Control Module (BCM), Restraint Systems (Airbags), Infotainment System, Wheels & Tires.
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, routine inspections, disassembly and reassembly of all major components, diagnostic procedures for all systems, component testing, repair and replacement of parts, troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnostics, body panel repairs, wheel alignment, brake bleeding, fluid changes, torque specifications, wiring harness repair, programming and calibration procedures.
Procedures Included Specifics:
Detailed steps for clutch replacement (if applicable to specific transmission variant), turbocharger diagnosis and replacement, differential service (for AWD models), ABS module testing, PCM reprogramming, airbag system diagnostics, body control module (BCM) configuration.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance tasks to advanced diagnostics and complete unit overhauls. Includes detailed wiring schematics, component location diagrams, and exploded views for precise repair instructions.
File Format:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.
Binding Type:
N/A (Downloadable)
Paper Type:
N/A (Downloadable)
Searchability:
Fully searchable PDF content, allowing users to quickly find specific information using keywords.
Primary Engine:
2.0L EcoBoost I4 (GDI, Turbocharged)
2.0L Ecoboost Horsepower:
240 hp @ 5500 rpm
2.0L Ecoboost Torque:
270 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
3.5L Ecoboost Horsepower:
365 hp @ 5500 rpm
3.5L Ecoboost Torque:
350 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Optional Engine:
3.5L EcoBoost V6 (GDI, Twin-Turbocharged)
Fuel System:
Direct Injection (GDI) with Electronic Throttle Control (ETC)
Engine Code Examples:
2.0L EcoBoost: PT20, 3.5L EcoBoost: PT35
Engine Code Lookup:
Manual includes procedures for identifying and verifying specific engine codes for correct part sourcing and repair procedures.
Standard Transmission:
6F50 6-speed SelectShift Automatic
Optional Transmission:
6F55 6-speed SelectShift Automatic (typically with AWD and 3.5L EcoBoost)
Transmission Features:
Electronic control, Sequential Sport Shift (manual mode), adaptive shift logic.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mercon LV Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (2018 model year typical)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The 2018 Taurus typically earned 'Good' ratings in most IIHS crashworthiness tests, but its overall 'Top Safety Pick' status varied by year and specific equipment.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, Electric Parking Brake (EPB), available Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Lane-Keeping System, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking.
Passive Features:
Front airbags (driver & passenger), front side impact airbags, Safety Canopy® side-curtain airbags, Rear inflatable seat belts (optional), LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Infotainment System:
SYNC 3 with 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
Infotainment Features:
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Navigation system (optional), Bluetooth connectivity, voice recognition.
Driver Assistance Features:
Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane-Keeping System, Forward Collision Warning, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Rear View Camera, Active Park Assist.
Connectivity:
FordPass Connect with Wi-Fi hotspot capability (optional).
Lighting Options:
Standard Halogen Projector Headlamps, optional Bi-Xenon HID Headlamps, LED Taillamps.
Usb Ports:
Multiple USB ports available for charging and media connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (consult owner's manual for specific recommendations based on engine and oil grade).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Typically every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Typically every 10,000 to 15,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Refer to manual; typically around 60,000 to 100,000 miles for severe use or as indicated by vehicle diagnostics.
Engine Oil Spec 2.0L Ecoboost:
SAE 5W-30, API SN, ILSAC GF-5 certified synthetic blend or full synthetic.
Engine Oil Spec 3.5L Ecoboost:
SAE 5W-30, API SN, ILSAC GF-5 certified synthetic blend or full synthetic.
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (VC-3DIL-12) or equivalent, a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and deionized water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Power Steering Fluid (refer to specific manual for PS-1 or equivalent).
Known Issues Common:
Potential issues can include water pump leaks (especially on EcoBoost engines), occasional transmission shifting problems (requiring software updates), and electronic system glitches. Some models have reported issues with door handle sensors or keyless entry systems.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes Examples:
P0300 (Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire), P0420 (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold), P0171 (System Too Lean), U0100 (Lost Communication With ECM/PCM).
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L Ecoboost:
Approximately 5.7 quarts (with filter change)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.5L Ecoboost:
Approximately 6.0 quarts (with filter change)
Oil Filter Part Number Examples:
Motorcraft FL-500S, Wix 57502, K&N HP-2010.
Brand Heritage:
Ford, established in 1903, is one of the world's largest automotive manufacturers, known for innovation and accessible vehicles. The Taurus has a significant place in Ford's history, representing a pivotal moment in American automotive design and engineering in the 1980s.
Model Evolution:
The 2018 model represents the fifth generation of the modern Taurus (introduced in 2010) and the seventh generation overall. This generation was based on the Ford D3 platform and saw continuous updates in styling, technology, and powertrain options. The 2018 model year was the final year for the Taurus in the North American market.
Production Location:
Chicago Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Production Years Current Generation:
2010-2019
Recognitions Examples:
While specific major awards for the 2018 model year might be limited due to its position as a veteran model, previous iterations of the Taurus have received accolades for safety, design, and powertrain. The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine has been a consistent performer, often praised in automotive reviews.
Fuel Economy Ratings 2.0L AWD:
EPA Estimated: ~20 MPG City / ~29 MPG Highway
Fuel Economy Ratings 3.5L AWD:
EPA Estimated: ~16 MPG City / ~24 MPG Highway
