Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, diagnostics, internal components, cooling system, lubrication system
Engine Control System:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, powertrain control module (PCM) diagnostics, sensors, actuators
Transmission Automatic:
AX4N / 4F50N automatic transmission disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, torque converter, valve body, internal components
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), traction control, brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, linkage, alignment specifications
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, bushings, ball joints, wheel bearing replacement
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), comfort and convenience features
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, glass replacement, frame straightening data
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system diagnostics, seat belt service, SRS module
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, tire rotation
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical schematics interpretation
Engine Repair:
Head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, valve seal replacement, timing belt/chain service
Transmission Repair:
Transmission fluid flush, solenoid replacement, clutch pack replacement, rebuilding procedures
Brake System Repair:
Rotor and pad replacement, caliper rebuilding, ABS component replacement, brake line replacement
Electrical Component Replacement:
Alternator, starter motor, ignition coils, fuel injectors, sensors, modules
Bodywork And Trim Repair:
Panel alignment, trim piece replacement, door handle repair, mirror replacement
HVAC System Repair:
Recharging AC system, blower motor replacement, heater core replacement, blend door actuator replacement
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls)
Diagnostic Tools Required:
OBD-II scanner, multimeter, pressure gauges, specialized Ford diagnostic software (e.g., WDS/IDS) mentioned implicitly for advanced diagnostics
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners
Schematics And Diagrams:
Extensive electrical schematics, mechanical diagrams, and exploded views
NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:
Generally good for its time; refer to specific year NHTSA reports for exact ratings (e.g., 4-star driver, 5-star passenger for some configurations)
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:
Acceptable to Good (Varies by year and specific test configurations)
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Optional or standard on certain trims/years
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags (optional on some models)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners and load limiters for front seats
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection
Spark Plug Replacement 3.0L:
Approximately every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with recommended iridium-tip spark plugs
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or based on severe service schedule
Engine Oil Type 3.0L:
SAE 5W-20 (preferred) or 5W-30 synthetic blend/full synthetic (check oil cap/manual)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.0L:
5.7 US quarts (5.4 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Antifreeze/Coolant (Orange)
Common Problems Engine:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, occasional coolant crossover pipe leaks, variable intake manifold (VIM) actuator issues (3.0L)
Common Problems Transmission:
Torque converter shudder, solenoid failures, potential for internal wear on higher mileage units.
Common Problems Electrical:
Window regulator failures, climate control panel issues, PCM capacitor failures (older units), alternator failures.
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn front control arm bushings, worn sway bar links, premature strut/shock absorber wear.
Ford Brand Legacy:
Ford has a long history of producing reliable and popular sedans, with the Taurus being a flagship model for many years.
Taurus Evolution Overview:
The 2000-2007 models represent the fourth generation, an evolution of the earlier oval-styled Taurus, featuring more conventional styling and updated platforms.
Significant Changes 2000-2007:
Styling updates, introduction of the 3.9L V6 engine, improved interior appointments, platform refinements.
Production Plant:
Typically manufactured in Chicago, Illinois, USA
Production Years For This Generation:
2000-2007 model years