🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Taurus

Year:

2008

Chassis Code:

UNSPECIFIED

Engine Code:

UNSPECIFIED (Likely Vulcan 3.0L or Duratec 3.5L)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2008 Ford Taurus represented Ford's continued effort to offer a reliable and spacious sedan in a competitive market segment, aiming to attract families and commuters with its practical features and comfortable ride.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against mainstream sedans such as the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Chevrolet Impala, and Dodge Charger, often differentiating itself with its roomier interior and distinctive styling.

Key Features:

Spacious interior, comfortable ride, available all-wheel drive on certain trims, intuitive dashboard layout, and a focus on practical transportation.

Manual Value Proposition:

Enables owners to perform repairs and maintenance with confidence, saving money on professional labor costs by providing all necessary information and guidance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

General Information, Engine, Clutch, Gearbox, Propeller Shafts, Rear Axles, Front Axle, Front and Rear Suspensions, Wheels and Tyres, Steering System, Brakes, Bodywork and Chassis Frame, Maintenance, Electric/Electronic System

Page Count:

UNSPECIFIED (PDF manuals typically vary, but comprehensive service manuals are often 1000+ pages)

Manual Type:

Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Ease Of Use:

Easy to run, use, nothing to install simple PDF format.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanicals, ignition, fuel, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, clutch operation and repair, manual and automatic transmission systems, driveshafts, front and rear axle components, suspension (front and rear), steering system components and adjustments, brake system hydraulics and mechanics, body panel repair, chassis frame diagnostics, routine maintenance procedures, electrical system diagnostics, wiring schematics, HVAC system troubleshooting, body electrical.

Electrical System Coverage:

Comprehensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including wiring diagrams, component locations, and diagnostic procedures for lighting, ignition, charging, starting, and accessories.

Bodywork Chassis Coverage:

Detailed information on bodywork repair, panel replacement, chassis frame inspection and repair, and structural components.

Steering System Coverage:

Includes power steering system diagnosis, steering column adjustments, and wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes Coverage:

Detailed procedures for front and rear brake inspections, pad replacement, rotor resurfacing or replacement, brake fluid bleeding, and ABS system troubleshooting.

HVAC Coverage:

Information on the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including component testing, refrigerant handling (with appropriate safety precautions), and diagnostic procedures.

Procedures Included:

Step-by-step illustrated repair procedures, complete walk-throughs of procedures, mechanical instructions for maintenance and repair, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures for electrical systems, component removal and installation, adjustment procedures, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, brake pad and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, steering linkage adjustment, basic electrical diagnostics.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Includes diagnostic procedures for troubleshooting various systems, from engine performance to electrical faults.

Technical Depth:

Covers everything needed to repair/maintain, suitable for dealer-level instructional guides, enabling basic repairs and upkeep for owners, useful for professional mechanics and amateurs seeking in-depth knowledge.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF, compatible with all Windows Operating Systems, smartphones, and tablets that can open PDF files.

Print Quality:

Printable pages, recommended use of Adobe PDF Reader for optimal image and graphic display.

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF download), not applicable to physical binding.

Paper Type:

Digital (PDF download), not applicable to physical paper type.

Operating System Compatibility:

Fully compatible with all Windows Operating Systems.

Smartphone Tablet Compatibility:

Any smartphone or tablet that can open a PDF file.

Print Functionality:

Easy to print any page that you want or more.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

3.5L Duratec 35 V6 DOHC 24-valve (standard on SEL, Limited; optional on SE)

Horsepower 3.5L:

263 hp @ 6250 rpm

Torque 3.5L:

249 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Horsepower 3.0L:

163 hp @ 5250 rpm

Torque 3.0L:

174 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel System 3.5L:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel System 3.0L:

Sequential Multi-Port Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Alternative Engine:

3.0L Vulcan V6 OHV 12-valve (standard on SE)

Engine Layout:

V6 (90-degree bank angle for both 3.0L and 3.5L)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-speed automatic with SelectShift (AX4N for 3.0L, 6F50 for 3.5L)

Optional Transmission:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) paired with the 3.5L engine.

Transmission Features:

Torque converter lock-up, electronic control, overdrive gear ratios for fuel efficiency.

Gear Ratios 6F50:

Specific gear ratios are detailed within the manual for precise diagnosis and repair of the 6-speed automatic.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

199.0 in (5055 mm)

Width:

73.0 in (1854 mm)

Height:

58.0 in (1473 mm)

Wheelbase:

112.9 in (2868 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 104.3 cu ft (2953 L)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 16.0 cu ft (453 L)

Curb Weight Starting:

Approx. 3500 - 3800 lbs (1588 - 1724 kg) depending on configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver:

5-Star

NHTSA Frontal Passenger:

5-Star

IIHS Front Crash:

Good

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) (optional on some trims), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) (optional on some trims).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, available rear side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Ford's Audiophile sound system with AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, optional Sirius Satellite Radio, and auxiliary audio input. Some models may feature basic navigation systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, optional rear parking sensors, optional automatic climate control.

Connectivity Features:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free calling (SYNC system not widely available on this specific model year as standard).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement 3.5L:

Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped spark plugs.

Spark Plug Replacement 3.0L:

Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum-tipped spark plugs.

Engine Oil Type 3.5L:

SAE 5W-20, API Certified.

Engine Oil Capacity 3.5L:

Approx. 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change.

Engine Oil Type 3.0L:

SAE 5W-30, API Certified.

Engine Oil Capacity 3.0L:

Approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter change.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MERCON V (for AX4N and 6F50 transmissions)

Coolant Type:

Ford Premium Gold Coolant or equivalent (Nitrite-free, Ethylene Glycol based)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Ford Power Steering Fluid or MERCON ATF

Known Issues Common:

Transmission solenoid issues (especially in earlier models of this generation), front suspension components wear (struts, ball joints), minor electrical gremlins, potential for AC compressor issues, intake manifold runner issues on some Duratec engines.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Ford, an American automotive giant, has a long history dating back to 1903, known for mass-producing vehicles and innovations like the assembly line. The Taurus nameplate itself was a significant model for Ford, credited with revitalizing the company in the late 1980s.

Model Evolution:

The 2008 model is part of the fifth generation of the Ford Taurus (introduced in 2000 as the Five Hundred and renamed Taurus for 2008). This generation saw significant updates and the introduction of the more powerful Duratec 3.5L V6 engine.

Production Location:

Chicago Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While the 2008 Taurus itself may not have specific widely publicized awards, its predecessors were instrumental in Ford's resurgence. The Taurus nameplate generally received positive marks for safety and comfort in its segment during its production run.