Vehicle Segment:
Full-size performance sedan
Target Audience:
Performance enthusiasts, owners seeking advanced DIY repair capabilities
Key Competitors:
Dodge Charger SRT8/R/T, Cadillac CTS V-Sport, BMW 5 Series (performance variants), Mercedes-Benz E-Class (performance variants).
Vehicle Unique Selling Points:
Standard All-Wheel Drive, powerful EcoBoost V6 engine, refined interior, discreet performance styling compared to some rivals.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides detailed technical information to maintain and repair the SHO's complex powertrain and performance systems, saving significant costs compared to dealership service.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery system, emission control system.
Engine Performance:
Turbocharger system, intercooler, direct injection, variable intake and exhaust cam timing.
Transmission:
6-speed SelectShift Automatic Transmission (6F55), transmission removal/installation, internal components, torque converter, valve body, electronic controls.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, power transfer unit (PTU), rear drive unit (RDU), driveshafts, CV joints.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), traction control, brake calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link independent suspension, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS) system, steering column, rack and pinion, power steering fluid (if applicable to earlier EPAS).
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, ignition system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), horn, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, structural components.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater, climate control unit, refrigerant types, procedures.
Infotainment And Electronics:
SYNC infotainment system, audio system, navigation, instrument cluster, sensors.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, battery inspection, spark plug replacement.
Repair:
Component replacement, system diagnosis and repair, major engine and transmission overhauls.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical diagnostics, drivability issues.
Diagnostics:
Scan tool usage, data stream interpretation, component testing, wiring harness checks.
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic data.
Diagnostic Tools:
Details on using Ford's integrated diagnostic systems and recommended aftermarket scan tools.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all major systems.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilding.
Factory Procedures:
Covers procedures as outlined by Ford Motor Company's engineering department.
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (for most years in this generation)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for select years)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (AdvanceTrac with ESC)
Traction Control:
Standard
Anti Lock Braking System:
Standard (ABS)
All Wheel Drive:
Standard AWD system enhances traction and stability.
Airbags:
Frontal, front side-impact, side-curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable with pretensioners.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Infotainment System:
Ford SYNC system (various iterations: SYNC, SYNC with MyFord Touch).
Display Type:
Touchscreen (e.g., 8-inch MyFord Touch display on higher trims).
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Available on select trims/packages.
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Available (Blind Spot Information System - BLIS).
Lane Keeping System:
Available (Lane Keeping Aid).
Parking Assist:
Available (e.g., Active Park Assist).
Bluetooth:
Standard for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Usb Ports:
Available for media playback and device charging.
Voice Control:
SYNC voice command capabilities.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months with synthetic oil, or as indicated by the Intelligent Oil Life Monitor (IOLM).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically at 100,000 miles (long-life iridium plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Consult manual; often recommended around 100,000 miles or under severe service conditions.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil (meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C946-A).
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Motorcraft® Premium Engine Coolant (Gold color, meeting Ford specification WSS-M97B51-A1).
Brake Fluid Type:
Motorcraft® DOT 3 Premium Brake Fluid (or equivalent).
Powertrain Control Module Software:
Potential for ECU reflash to address drivability or turbocharger control issues.
Power Transfer Unit (Ptu) Leaks:
Some early models experienced PTU seal failures and fluid leaks, requiring repair or replacement.
Turbocharger Actuators:
Reported issues with wastegate actuators or solenoids, affecting boost pressure.
Direct Injection System:
Carbon buildup on intake valves can occur over time, requiring intake manifold cleaning/decarbonization.
Transmission Shifting:
Occasional reports of harsh shifting or delayed engagement, often resolved by software updates or fluid service.
Ford Performance Division:
The SHO (Super High Output) nameplate has a legacy within Ford, representing performance-oriented versions of their flagship sedans.
Fifth Generation Introduction:
The 5th generation Taurus, including the SHO, debuted for the 2010 model year, marking a significant redesign from its predecessor.
Sho Powertrain Development:
This generation reintroduced the SHO with a powerful twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6, a departure from the Yamaha V8 of the previous generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Chicago Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA.
Production End Date:
The Taurus, including the SHO, ceased production in late 2018.
