🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Taurus

Year:

1996

Generation Code:

Third Generation (1996-1999)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Sedan

Key Competitors 1996:

Chevrolet Lumina, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Chrysler Concorde

Platform Introduction:

Ford DEW98 platform, a rear-wheel-drive derived platform adapted for front-wheel-drive applications.

📋 Manual Details

Specific Procedure:

Camshaft Position Sensor Removal

Estimated Pages:

N/A (Digital Format)

Type:

Technical Service Bulletin/Procedure Manual Excerpt

Specific Focus:

Component repair and diagnostic procedure

Language:

English

Format:

PDF on CD

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Engine Control Module (ECM) related components and diagnostics

Sensors:

Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) function, testing, and replacement

Ignition System:

Ignition system components related to CMP sensor operation

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams and troubleshooting for the CMP sensor circuit

Emission Control:

Components and systems related to emissions control, as sensor faults can impact emissions.

Diagnostic Steps:

Troubleshooting steps for CMP sensor circuit faults

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step removal and installation instructions for the CMP sensor

Component Testing:

Testing the CMP sensor's output signal and resistance values

Troubleshooting Charts:

Flowcharts for diagnosing CMP sensor related issues

Depth Level:

Intermediate to Advanced (specific component repair)

Diagnostic Tools:

Guidance on using OBD-II scan tools for retrieving diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and live data.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF

Cd Rom Type:

CD-ROM containing digital manual files

Printability:

Printable pages

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

SEA (3.0L Vulcan OHV V6)

Displacement:

3.0 Liters (182 cu in)

Configuration:

Overhead Valve (OHV), V6

Horsepower 3.0L:

145 hp @ 4900 rpm

Torque 3.0L:

180 lb-ft @ 3700 rpm

Injection Type:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Optional Engine Code:

ZNA (3.4L DOHC V8 - SHO model)

Optional Engine Displacement:

3.4 Liters (207 cu in)

Optional Engine Configuration:

Double Overhead Cam (DOHC), V8

Optional Engine Horsepower:

235 hp @ 6000 rpm (SHO)

Optional Engine Torque:

230 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (SHO)

ECU Identification:

PCM (Powertrain Control Module) managing fuel and ignition timing based on sensor inputs, including CMP.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (AX4N)

Transmission Type Sho:

5-Speed Manual (T5/T45)

Overdrive:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive (4th gear)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

111.5 inches

Length:

199.7 inches

Width:

73.1 inches

Height:

56.1 inches

Curb Weight Min:

3,436 lbs (Approx.)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

4,440 lbs (Approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:

4 Stars (1996 Model Year)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:

4 Stars (1996 Model Year)

ABS:

Standard on some trims, optional on others

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

Frontal and rear seatbelts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player, premium sound systems available.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims

Connectivity Options:

Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on vehicle diagnostics and basic electronic systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to owner's manual for specific recommendation based on usage)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type)

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for exact viscosity and approval)

Transmission Fluid Specification:

Mercon V (check manual for specific type for AX4N)

Coolant Type:

Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent; 50/50 mix with distilled water

Power Steering Fluid:

Mercon ATF or Ford Power Steering Fluid (check owner's manual)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 brake fluid

Common Issues:

Head gasket leaks (especially on 3.0L Vulcan engine), transmission solenoid issues (AX4N), ignition coil failures, power steering pump leaks, HVAC blend door actuator failures.

Camshaft Position Sensor Failure Symptoms:

Poor engine performance, rough idling, stalling, increased emissions, check engine light illumination (P0340 code).

📚 Vehicle History

Ford History:

Ford Motor Company, a long-standing American automotive manufacturer with a rich history of innovation and volume production.

Taurus History:

The Taurus was a highly successful model for Ford, often leading sales charts in the 1980s and early 1990s. The 1996 model represented a significant redesign, moving to a more aerodynamic and rounded 'New Edge' styling, and introducing the DEW98 platform.

Production Years:

1986-2007 (North America)

Manufacturing Locations:

Chicago, Illinois; Atlanta, Georgia; and other Ford assembly plants.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Ford Taurus (various models and years, though not specifically 1996) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list, highlighting its market appeal and engineering.