Chicago, Illinois; Atlanta, Georgia; Kansas City, Missouri
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Market Position:
The 1999 Ford Taurus represented Ford's continued commitment to the mid-size sedan market, competing against established rivals like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. It was positioned as a comfortable, spacious, and feature-rich option for American families.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
The Taurus was a strong seller in its segment, known for its aerodynamic styling and spacious interior. Its main competitors offered similar levels of comfort and reliability. This manual provides the necessary technical data to maintain and repair the Taurus to factory standards, ensuring it can continue to compete effectively in the used car market.
Key Features
Key Features:
User-friendly interface, licensed OE (Original Equipment) information, accessible across multiple devices (PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet), year-long access with renewal options, detailed diagnostic and repair procedures.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Areas:
All aspects of vehicle service, repair, and maintenance.
Page Count
Page Count:
Extensive (specific number not provided, but implied to be comprehensive).
Comprehensive: from basic fluid checks and filter replacements to advanced engine diagnostics, transmission overhauls, and electrical system troubleshooting.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for printing.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Primary Engine:
3.0L Vulcan OHV V6
Optional Engine
Optional Engine:
3.0L Duratec DOHC V6
Performance
3.0L Vulcan Horsepower:
145 hp @ 4800 rpm
3.0L Vulcan Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 3700 rpm
3.0L Duratec Horsepower:
200 hp @ 6000 rpm
3.0L Duratec Torque:
200 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel System:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Ignition System
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)
Cooling System
Cooling System Type:
Pressurized, liquid-cooled
Emissions Control
Emissions Control Systems:
Catalytic Converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (AX4N)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
N/A (4-speed automatic was standard on all models for 1999).
Features
Transmission Features:
Electronic Control, Lock-up Torque Converter
Fluid Type
Transmission Fluid Type:
MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Fluid Capacity
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 10.5 quarts (9.9 liters) for a dry fill.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Overall Length:
199.7 inches (5072 mm)
Overall Width:
72.7 inches (1847 mm)
Overall Height:
54.7 inches (1390 mm)
Wheelbase:
107.5 inches (2730 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3400-3600 lbs (1542-1633 kg), depending on engine and trim.
Cargo
Trunk Capacity:
16.0 cubic feet (453 liters)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
★★★★☆ (4 stars)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
★★★★☆ (4 stars)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) (optional on some models).
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags, Side Impact Door Beams, Crumple Zones.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, and basic digital clock. Speaker configuration varied by trim level.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on mechanical systems and safety features like ABS.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
N/A (No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Vulcan:
Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Duratec:
Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or SAE 10W-30, API Service Category SG, SH, or SJ.
Coolant Type:
Motorcraft® Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent, 50/50 mixture with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Known Issues:
Transmission issues (particularly with the AX4N), intake manifold gasket leaks (Duratec engine), power steering pump noise, potential for coolant leaks, AC system refrigerant leaks.
Part Numbers
Oil Filter Part Number:
Motorcraft FL-820-S (or equivalent)
Air Filter Part Number:
Motorcraft FA-1561 (or equivalent)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Ford has a long-standing history in the automotive industry, dating back to 1903. The brand is known for its innovation and mass production, including the revolutionary Model T.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution 1999:
The 1999 model year marked the second year of the fourth generation Taurus (1996-1999), which featured a significant redesign with a rounded, aerodynamic body style. Minor updates for 1999 included standard front-seat side airbags on all models and revised options packages.
Production
Production Period:
The Ford Taurus was in production from 1986 to 2019, with the fourth generation running from 1996 to 1999. The 1999 model was one of the final vehicles of this highly successful generation.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The Ford Taurus (all generations) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best awards in its early years, highlighting its innovative design and market impact.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
The Taurus was named Motor Trend Car of the Year in 1986, marking its initial success and innovation.
Certifications
Certifications:
This manual is officially licensed and derived from OE materials, ensuring factory-level accuracy and adherence to industry standards.