Market Position:
The 2006 Ford Taurus represented the final iteration of a long-standing nameplate, aiming to provide a comfortable and competent family sedan and wagon. This manual caters to owners and independent repair shops seeking reliable, factory-derived information for maintaining and repairing this generation.
Competitive Analysis:
In 2006, the Taurus competed against a wide range of mid-size sedans including the Chevrolet Impala, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and Chrysler Sebring. While older in design compared to some rivals, the Taurus offered spacious interiors and a comfortable ride, making a comprehensive repair manual essential for its continued operation.
Key Features:
Officially licensed OE materials, digital format for convenience and instant access, comprehensive coverage of all major vehicle systems, detailed troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures, inclusion of wiring diagrams, focus on DIYers and independent mechanics.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (Vulcan & Duratec), engine electrical, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine performance diagnostics, ignition system, emissions controls, transmission (AX4N, 4F50N) operation, repair, and diagnostics.
Chassis:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (independent multi-link), steering system (rack and pinion, power assist), brake system (front disc, rear disc, ABS, RABS), wheel bearings, hubs, and drive axles.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting (headlamps, taillamps, interior), instrument cluster, gauges, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, sunroof, wipers, horn, body control module (BCM), fuse box locations, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, diagnosis, refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control modules, and diagnostic procedures.
Body & Interior:
Exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, mirrors, interior trim, seats, airbags, seatbelts, and body repair procedures.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacement, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush and replacement, transmission fluid service, brake fluid flush and replacement, power steering fluid service, differential fluid change (if applicable), belt replacement, tire rotation and balancing.
Repair Procedures:
Engine component replacement (e.g., head gasket, water pump, starter, alternator), transmission overhaul/replacement, brake caliper/rotor/pad replacement, suspension component replacement (e.g., struts, ball joints, control arms), steering rack replacement, exhaust system repair/replacement, cooling fan replacement, radiator replacement, HVAC component replacement, power window/lock motor replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, reading and interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using OBD-II scanners, circuit testing, component testing, fuel pressure testing, compression testing, vacuum testing.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, component connections, and circuit tracing.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications, diagnostic procedures, torque values, and special tool requirements.
NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating:
5 Stars (2006)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating:
5 Stars (2006)
NHTSA Side Driver Rating:
5 Stars (2006)
NHTSA Side Passenger Rating:
5 Stars (2006)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 Stars (2006)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (optional on some models), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), front side-impact airbags (optional), LATCH child seat anchors, crumple zones, side-impact door beams, seatbelt pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend or synthetic oil.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Vulcan: ~100,000 miles (160,000 km) with specific spark plugs. Duratec: ~100,000 miles (160,000 km) with specified platinum or iridium plugs.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years for the first change, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C153-H or equivalent).
Coolant Specification:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Gold Color), or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSS-M97B44-D (a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
MERCON V ATF or a suitable power steering fluid meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C204-A.
Common Issues Vulcan V6:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, head gasket failures (especially earlier models), spark plug blow-out (less common on later production), EGR valve issues, transmission solenoid failures.
Common Issues Duratec V6:
Coolant leaks from intake manifold or housing, occasional transmission issues (specifically the 4F50N), PCV valve issues, ignition coil failures.
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Worn control arm bushings, failing ball joints, worn tie rod ends, occasional power steering pump whine.
Common Issues Electrical:
Faulty window regulators, issues with the Body Control Module (BCM), intermittent power door lock problems, HVAC blower motor resistor failures.