Market Position:
The 2011 Ford Taurus SHO represented a resurgence of Ford's performance sedan line, targeting enthusiasts who desired potent V6 power, advanced all-wheel-drive, and a sophisticated driving experience in a comfortable, full-size sedan package. It competed with other performance sedans of the era like the Dodge Charger R/T, Pontiac G8 GT, and entry-level luxury performance sedans.
Competitive Analysis:
The SHO's primary competitive advantage was its powerful twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine and standard intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD), offering a compelling blend of performance and all-weather capability. Its spacious interior and refined ride also positioned it well against more sport-oriented, but often less practical, competitors.
Key Features:
3.5L EcoBoost Twin-Turbo V6 engine, Intelligent AWD with unique SHO tuning, available SHO Performance Package (adaptive dampers, stiffer springs, performance brake pads), unique exterior styling cues, sport-tuned interior.
Systems:
Engine mechanical, engine control systems (ECU, sensors, actuators), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (automatic), drivetrain, braking system (ABS, EBD, traction control), steering system, suspension system (front and rear), chassis components, electrical systems (lighting, power accessories, comfort controls), body and interior, HVAC, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and troubleshooting, wiring diagrams.
Procedures:
Routine maintenance, preventative maintenance, diagnostic procedures, component testing, removal and installation of all major and minor components, repair and overhaul procedures, torque specifications, special tool requirements, electrical troubleshooting, body repair, interior trim removal/installation, HVAC system service, driveline service, suspension and steering alignment.
Drivetrain Procedures:
CV joint inspection and replacement, driveshaft balancing and replacement, AWD coupling service, differential fluid checks and changes.
Braking System Procedures:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush, ABS component testing, parking brake adjustment.
Electrical System Procedures:
Battery testing and replacement, starter motor and alternator service, lighting system diagnostics, power window and lock repair, fuse and relay identification and testing, wiring harness repair, module programming and diagnostics.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Detailed troubleshooting charts for specific symptoms, guided diagnostic procedures for DTCs, oscilloscope waveform analysis for sensors and actuators, component resistance and voltage testing.
Engine Repair Procedures:
Complete engine overhaul procedures, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft inspection, timing chain and tensioner replacement, turbocharger removal/installation and diagnosis, fuel injector testing and replacement, exhaust manifold repair.
Suspension Steering Procedures:
Strut and shock absorber replacement, ball joint and control arm replacement, wheel bearing replacement, steering rack and pinion service, power steering pump (if applicable) or EPAS system component testing, alignment procedures and specifications.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive. Designed for professional dealership technicians, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and structural repair.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Extensive list of OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) with descriptions, potential causes, and diagnostic strategies specific to the 2011 Taurus SHO.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, high-quality wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including power distribution, lighting, engine controls, chassis controls, comfort and convenience, and communication networks (e.g., CAN bus).
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque specifications for every fastener on the vehicle, crucial for proper assembly and component longevity.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair and diagnostic procedures (e.g., timing tools, fuel pressure testers, bearing pullers).
Component Testing:
In-depth procedures for testing the functionality and performance of individual automotive components using multimeters, oscilloscopes, scan tools, and specialized diagnostic equipment.
Body Repair:
Information on body panel removal/installation, structural repair guidelines, welding specifications, door and window glass replacement, and interior trim component repair and replacement.
Engine Type:
3.5L Twin-Turbocharged V6 (EcoBoost)
Displacement:
3496 cc (213.3 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
92.5 mm x 86.7 mm (3.64 in. x 3.41 in.)
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder, Variable Cam Timing (VCT)
Horsepower:
365 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Torque:
350 lb-ft (475 Nm) @ 3,500 rpm
0 To 60 Mph Acceleration:
Approximately 5.2 - 5.5 seconds (depending on conditions and driver).
Top Speed Electronically Limited:
Approximately 155 mph (250 km/h)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) with twin turbochargers
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil
Oil Capacity:
6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Motorcraft Yellow Prediluted Antifreeze/Coolant (Melting point -34°F / -37°C)
Coolant Capacity:
14.0 quarts (13.2 liters)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (Overall, Frontal Driver, Frontal Passenger)
NHTSA Side Crash Test:
5-Star (Overall, Side Driver, Side Rear Passenger)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good
IIHS Head Restraints And Seats:
Good
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Curve Control, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC - optional), Forward Collision Warning (FCW - optional with ACC).
Passive Safety Features:
Dual-stage front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, Safety Canopy® side-curtain airbags for front and rear rows, active head restraints, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Infotainment System:
Ford SYNC® (with MyFord Touch™ optional, though MyFord Touch became more prominent in later model years of this generation, the 2011 likely had an earlier iteration or a base SYNC system).
Infotainment Features:
Bluetooth connectivity, voice control, USB port, auxiliary input jack, SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability.
Driver Assistance Features:
Adaptive Cruise Control (optional), Forward Collision Warning (optional), Blind Spot Information System (BLIS® - optional), Cross-Traffic Alert (optional), rearview camera (optional).
Connectivity Options:
SYNC® voice-activated communications and entertainment system, USB connectivity for audio devices, Bluetooth streaming audio.
Performance Technology:
Intelligent AWD, SelectShift® automatic transmission with paddle shifters, sport-tuned suspension with available adaptive dampers.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. Check severe duty schedule.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) at the time of oil change.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or at 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or at 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect at 60,000 miles (96,000 km), replace typically around 100,000-150,000 miles (160,000-240,000 km) or as indicated by fluid condition/service history. Consult manual for specific service interval.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium spark plugs.
Coolant Flush Replacement:
First change at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years, then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 3 years.
Brake Fluid Type:
Motorcraft High-Temperature Brake Fluid (DOT 3)
Power Steering Fluid:
MERCON® LV Automatic Transmission Fluid (for Electric Power Assisted Steering EPAS system with backup hydraulic assist, manual specifies specific procedure and fluid type if applicable, consult manual)
Coolant Specification Number:
WSS-M97B57-A1 (Yellow) or WSS-M97B51-A1 (Orange, if used as replacement)
Known Issues:
Potential for turbocharger issues (wastegate rattle, oil leaks), transmission torque converter shudder, carbon buildup on intake valves (direct injection engines, though the 2011 SHO is port injected, some carbon can still occur), water pump failures, and power steering system concerns. The manual will detail diagnostic and repair procedures for these and other common wear items.
