Market Position:
The 2004 Ford Taurus represented a significant iteration of Ford's flagship sedan, competing in the highly contested mid-size segment against vehicles like the Chevrolet Impala, Toyota Camry, and Honda Accord. It aimed to offer a blend of comfort, space, and V6 power.
Competitive Analysis:
While the Taurus was a volume seller, by 2004 it faced increasing pressure from more refined and fuel-efficient Japanese competitors. Its strengths lay in its spacious interior and availability of powerful V6 engines, often at a competitive price point.
Key Features:
This manual provides direct access to OE-derived repair data, offering unparalleled accuracy and detail for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians alike. Its digital format ensures instant availability and ease of navigation compared to outdated printed manuals.
Value Proposition:
This licensed digital manual offers a cost-effective and convenient alternative to expensive dealership repairs, empowering owners to perform maintenance and repairs confidently and accurately.
Coverage Areas:
Complete service, repair, diagnostic, and maintenance information for the 2004 Ford Taurus.
Applicable Models:
All 2004 Ford Taurus models, including SE, SES, and SEL trims.
Format:
Digital PDF Download
Manual Type:
Factory-Licensed Service and Repair Manual
Systems Covered:
Engine (3.0L Vulcan V6, 3.0L Duratec V6), Transmission (4-speed AX4N/AX4S Automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS, Standard), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), HVAC, Body & Interior, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
Body And Chassis:
Body structure, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, frame/unibody repairs, collision repair information.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor), climate control module operation.
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, routine inspections, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, component removal and installation, torque specifications, electrical system testing, component replacement, fluid services, air conditioning service, brake bleeding, wheel alignment procedures, powertrain diagnostics, emissions system diagnosis.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Includes detailed wiring diagrams for all major systems, component testing procedures, and troubleshooting of common electrical faults.
Wheel Alignment:
Front and rear alignment specifications, adjustment procedures.
Wheel And Tire:
Tire pressure monitoring, wheel bearing replacement, wheel installation torque specifications.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic fluid checks and filter changes to advanced engine diagnostics, transmission overhaul, and complete electrical system troubleshooting. Includes factory-level technical service bulletins (TSBs) and diagnostic flowcharts.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information relevant to using OBD-II scanners, digital multimeters, and specialized Ford diagnostic equipment (e.g., NGS or WDS).
Engine Options:
3.0L Vulcan OHV V6 (SPI), 3.0L Duratec DOHC V6
Vulcan Performance:
Approx. 150 hp @ 5000 rpm, 185 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Duratec Performance:
Approx. 200 hp @ 5750 rpm, 200 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Emission Control Systems:
Catalytic converter, EGR system, oxygen sensors
Vulcan Engine Code:
3.0L Vulcan V6 (2V OHV)
Duratec Engine Code:
3.0L Duratec V6 (4V DOHC)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (AX4N for Duratec, AX4S for Vulcan)
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Automatic transmission standard across all trims)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mercon V Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 9.8 - 10.8 quarts (9.3 - 10.2 liters) (Check manual for exact capacity based on model)
Wheelbase:
112.9 inches (2868 mm)
Length:
199.7 inches (5072 mm)
Width:
72.2 inches (1834 mm)
Height:
55.1 inches (1400 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3300 - 3600 lbs (1497 - 1633 kg), varies by trim and engine
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 4,350 lbs (1973 kg) depending on configuration.
Trunk Volume:
16.0 cubic feet (453 liters)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
★★★★★ (5/5 stars)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
★★★★★ (5/5 stars)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
★★★★☆ (4/5 stars)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
★★★★☆ (4/5 stars)
Active Safety Features:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (optional on some trims).
Passive Safety Features:
Dual front airbags, available side-impact airbags, front and rear crumple zones, safety-designed interior.
Seat Belts:
Three-point active belts in front and rear, pretensioners for front seats.
Infotainment Features:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio system, steering wheel audio controls available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, optional ABS, optional traction control.
Connectivity Features:
Not equipped with modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity as standard. Analog auxiliary inputs may be present on some premium audio systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months (refer to manual for specific severe/normal driving conditions)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), or as needed based on inspection
Spark Plug Replacement:
30,000-100,000 miles (48,000-160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum/iridium)
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified, meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C153-H or equivalent)
Coolant Specification:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Yellow) or equivalent meeting WSS-M97B51-A1
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid:
Mercon ATF (Type II or III) or Ford Specification WSS-M2C195-A
Transmission Fluid Type Detail:
Mercon V for AX4N and AX4S transmissions
Common Issues:
Transmission solenoid issues (especially on AX4N), rear main seal leaks on Vulcan engines, ABS sensor failures, alternator failures, occasional coolant leaks from intake manifold gaskets or heater hoses, power steering pump whine.
Troubleshooting Tips:
The manual provides detailed diagnostic trees for common issues like rough idling, transmission shifting problems, and electrical faults.
Brand Heritage:
Ford has a long-standing history of producing popular and reliable American sedans, with the Taurus being a cornerstone of its lineup for many years. It was instrumental in establishing Ford's front-wheel-drive platform dominance in the late 1980s and 1990s.
Model Evolution:
The 2004 model year represented the final iteration of the fourth generation of the Ford Taurus, which underwent significant styling and engineering updates throughout its lifespan. This generation featured more rounded styling and improved safety features.
Production Years:
1986-2006 (US Market)
Manufacturing Location:
Chicago, Illinois, USA
