Description:
The Ford Taurus was a staple in the American mid-size sedan market for decades, known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and accessible pricing. The 2003 model represented a mature iteration of the popular platform.
Competitors:
Chevrolet Impala, Pontiac Grand Prix, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima.
Vehicle Features:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, available V6 power, often equipped with advanced safety features for its era.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, saving time and money, and ensuring proper vehicle upkeep.
Coverage Statement:
This manual is the definitive resource for anyone needing to service or repair a 2003 Ford Taurus, providing detailed, step-by-step instructions.
Engine:
3.0L Vulcan V6 (OHV), 3.0L Duratec V6 (DOHC)
Transmission:
AX4N/AX4S Automatic Transmission
Brakes:
Front Disc, Rear Disc (ABS and Non-ABS variations)
Suspension:
Front Independent McPherson Strut, Rear Independent Multi-link
Steering:
Power Rack and Pinion
Electrical System:
Battery, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Instrument Cluster, Audio System, Climate Control Electronics
Body And Chassis:
Frame, Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Interior Trim
HVAC:
Air Conditioning, Heater Core, Blower Motor, Controls, Refrigerant System
Fuel System:
Fuel Pump, Fuel Filter, Fuel Injectors, Fuel Lines, Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) System
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Manifolds, Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Pipes
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Hoses, Cooling Fan
General Maintenance:
Oil and Filter Changes, Air Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks and Replenishment, Tire Rotation, Brake Pad Replacement
Engine Repair:
Engine Assembly/Disassembly, Cylinder Head Service, Piston and Connecting Rod Installation, Crankshaft Service, Timing Component Replacement
Transmission Repair:
Transmission Fluid and Filter Change, Torque Converter Replacement, Valve Body Service, Gear Set Repair, Seal Replacements
Brake System Repair:
Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement, Caliper Service, Brake Line Flushes, ABS System Diagnostics and Repair
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Strut and Shock Absorber Replacement, Ball Joint and Tie Rod End Replacement, Wheel Bearing Replacement, Power Steering Pump and Steering Rack Service
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Electrical Faults, Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing, PCM/BCM Programming and Diagnostics
HVAC System Repair:
Refrigerant System Servicing, Compressor Replacement, Evaporator and Heater Core Replacement, Blower Motor and Resistor Replacement
Bodywork And Interior:
Panel Replacement, Door Mechanism Repair, Glass Replacement, Interior Trim Installation and Repair
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptoms-based Troubleshooting Charts
Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including PCM data stream interpretation and component-level testing.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all major systems.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Precise torque values, clearances, and material specifications for all components.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Vulcan V6: Platinum plugs, 100,000 miles (160,000 km). Duratec V6: Platinum/Iridium plugs, 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Filter Change:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher certified) for both engines.
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.0L Vulcan V6: 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter. 3.0L Duratec V6: 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Gold Color) or equivalent ethylene glycol based with de-ionized water (50/50 mix).
Common Issues Vulcan V6:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, occasional head gasket leaks (though less common than earlier models), valve cover gasket leaks.
Common Issues Duratec V6:
Timing chain tensioner and guide wear (can lead to rattling noise), occasional coolant leaks from hoses or thermostat housing, front engine seal leaks.
Common Issues Transmission:
AX4N/AX4S transmission can be prone to solenoid failure or hard shifting if not properly maintained. Leaks from seals or gaskets.
Common Issues Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, intermittent HVAC blower motor problems, PCM module failure in some cases.
