🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Taurus

Generation:

Fourth Generation (2000-2007)

Internal Model Codes:

VN104 (primarily)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size sedan, a mainstay in Ford's lineup known for comfort and practicality.

Key Competitors:

Chevrolet Impala, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Chrysler Concorde/300M.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive, workshop-level repair and maintenance information, empowering owners and independent mechanics to service the vehicle accurately and efficiently, saving time and money compared to dealership service.

Vehicle Appeal:

The Ford Taurus was a popular choice for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and available V8 engine options in some earlier iterations (though this generation primarily focused on V6s).

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service and repair for Ford Taurus models from 2000 to 2007.

Specific Systems:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Emission Control, Fuel System, Clutch, Manual Transaxle, Automatic Transaxle, Driveshaft and Axle, Suspension, Steering, Restraint, Brake, Body (Interior/Exterior), Body Electrical, HVAC.

Additional Sections:

Owner's Manuals

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive; specific count not provided, but described as 'complete' and 'loaded with illustrations'.

Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Digital Features:

Printable pages, copy entire manual to hard drive, searchable text (inherent to PDF).

Operating Systems:

Compatible with all Windows and Mac computers (Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000). Also compatible with Tablets and Phones (32/64 bit).

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Comprehensive coverage of engine mechanical and electrical systems, fuel system, emission control systems, clutch, manual transaxle, and automatic transaxle.

Chassis:

Detailed information on driveshaft and axle, suspension system, steering system, and brake system.

Body And Interior:

Covers body (interior and exterior), body electrical system, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).

Safety And Restraint:

Includes the restraint system, likely covering airbags, seatbelts, and related components.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Implied to include troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures, common in workshop manuals.

Repair And Maintenance:

Step-by-step instructions for routine maintenance, component replacement, and major repair operations.

Component Disassembly And Assembly:

Detailed instructions for disassembling and reassembling all major vehicle components.

Depth:

Workshop-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes diagnostic information and repair procedures equivalent to those used by authorized Ford service centers.

Visual Aids:

Richly illustrated with diagrams, photos, and schematics to aid comprehension and execution of repair tasks.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Print Quality:

Designed for clear printing of text, diagrams, and images. Quality is dependent on the user's printer and PDF viewer settings.

Binding:

Digital (PDF format) - no physical binding.

Paper:

Not applicable for digital format. However, the original printed manuals would typically be on durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Primarily 3.0L Vulcan OHV V6 and 3.0L Duratec 30 DOHC V6. Some earlier models might have retained the 24-valve Vulcan V6.

3.0L Vulcan V6:

Approximately 150-155 horsepower, 170-175 lb-ft torque.

3.0L Duratec 30 V6:

Approximately 200-203 horsepower, 205-210 lb-ft torque.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).

ECU:

PCM (Powertrain Control Module) controlling ignition timing, fuel delivery, idle speed, and emissions.

Coolant Type:

Likely Ford Premium Gold Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent meeting WSS-M97B51-A1 specification).

Oil Type Vulcan:

SAE 5W-30 API Service SG or higher.

Oil Type Duratec:

SAE 5W-20 API Service SN or ILSAC GF-5.

Oil Capacity Vulcan:

Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter.

Oil Capacity Duratec:

Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic transaxle (4F50N).

Optional Transmission:

5-speed manual transaxle (MTX-75) available on some models, particularly with the Duratec engine.

Automatic Features:

Electronic control, overdrive, possibly SelectShift functionality depending on trim.

Automatic Transaxle Fluid:

MERCON V (or compatible).

Automatic Transaxle Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 9.6 quarts (9.1 liters) for a dry fill.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 112.9 inches (2868 mm).

Overall Length:

Approximately 201.7 inches (5123 mm).

Overall Width:

Approximately 73.5 inches (1867 mm).

Overall Height:

Approximately 56.8 inches (1443 mm).

Curb Weight:

Ranges from approximately 3,500 to 3,800 lbs (1588 to 1724 kg) depending on engine and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Generally received 4-star ratings for driver and passenger in front impacts in some configurations.

IIHS Offset Frontal:

Ratings varied; some years and configurations received 'Acceptable' or 'Good' ratings.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Traction Control:

Optional traction control system, particularly on higher trims or with certain engines.

Airbags:

Standard front airbags for driver and passenger. Optional side airbags available on some trims.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear three-point seatbelts; driver's seatbelt pretensioner.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player. Optional premium audio systems (e.g., Mach audio) and in-dash CD changers were available.

Navigation:

Optional factory-installed navigation system was available on higher trims during this generation.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Keyless Entry:

Available keyless entry system with remote.

Phone Integration:

Limited connectivity; some models may have offered early Bluetooth integration or provisions for hands-free calling via aftermarket kits.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for precise intervals.

Engine Coolant Flush:

Recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years for standard coolant, or follow specific extended-life coolant recommendations.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) under normal driving conditions. Towing or severe use requires more frequent changes.

Spark Plugs:

Duratec engines often use platinum or iridium spark plugs with longer service intervals (e.g., 100,000 miles). Vulcan engines may have shorter intervals.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3.

Power Steering Fluid:

Likely Ford specified power steering fluid or a Dexron II/III ATF.

Common Repair Items:

Transaxle solenoid failures, coolant leaks (especially intake manifold gaskets on some engines), PCM failures, O2 sensor issues, CV axle wear, and occasional suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends).

Troubleshooting Focus:

The manual would cover diagnosing these common problems using diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and specific test procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford Sedan Legacy:

The Taurus was a pivotal model for Ford, representing a significant shift in design and engineering in the late 1980s and continuing as a bestseller for many years.

Fourth Generation Design:

This generation (2000-2007) was a refinement of the previous 'DURATEC' platform, featuring a more rounded and aerodynamic styling. It was available in sedan and wagon body styles. The grille and front fascia were updated in 2003.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured at Ford's assembly plants in Chicago, Illinois, and Atlanta, Georgia.

Production Span:

The Taurus nameplate was produced from 1986 to 2006 in North America (this manual covers the tail end of its run and slight overlap with the reintroduction of the Taurus in North America).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Taurus model line, in its earlier generations, was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list, highlighting its competitive status during its prime.

Sales Volume:

Consistently one of the best-selling cars in North America for many years, including the early part of this generation.