Positioning:
The Ford Taurus SHO (Super High Output) represents a high-performance variant of Ford's flagship sedan, targeting enthusiasts seeking a blend of luxury, comfort, and potent V6 power.
Competitors:
Competed against performance sedans such as the Dodge Charger R/T, Chevrolet SS, Cadillac CTS-V (early models), and import rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class in certain performance metrics.
Performance Focus:
Standard all-wheel drive, powerful twin-turbocharged V6 engine, sport-tuned suspension, and performance-oriented styling cues.
Manual Value:
This manual provides comprehensive factory-level information crucial for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the sophisticated systems of the Taurus SHO.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder heads, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing components, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system, sensors, actuators, engine control module (ECM) diagnosis and repair
Transmission Drivetrain:
6F55 SelectShift Automatic Transmission (operation, diagnosis, overhaul), Power Transfer Unit (PTU), Constant Velocity (CV) joints, axle shafts
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars, power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic components, ABS, Traction Control (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), brake pad and rotor replacement, brake fluid specifications
Electrical Body:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), door locks, windows, mirrors, wipers, horns, exterior and interior lighting
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant, diagnosis, and repair
Safety Restraints:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, pre-tensioners, diagnosis, and repair
Chassis Control:
Ride control systems, electronic power steering (EPS) diagnosis and repair.
Maintenance Routine:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotations
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, component testing
Repair Overhaul:
Component removal, installation, adjustment, and complete overhaul procedures for all major systems
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic strategies, scan tool usage, electrical circuit testing, pressure testing, leak detection
Wiring Diagrams:
Includes detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, essential for electrical troubleshooting.
Torque Specifications:
Provides precise torque values for all fasteners, critical for engine, chassis, and component assembly.
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications and procedures for front and rear wheel alignment.
Tire Specifications:
Recommended tire sizes and pressures, wheel bolt patterns (5x114.3mm).
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level repair and diagnostic information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Code:
EcoBoost VN (3.5L Twin-Turbocharged V6)
Horsepower:
365 hp @ 5,500 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly by model year)
Torque:
350 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly by model year)
Injection Type:
Direct Injection (DI) with Port Fuel Injection (PFI) secondary system
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Bore X Stroke:
3.62 in x 3.15 in (92.0 mm x 80.2 mm)
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
NHTSA Overall:
Typically rated 5-star overall by NHTSA for models in this range, check specific year for exact ratings.
IIHS Ratings:
Generally received Good ratings in IIHS crashworthiness tests for models in this era; specific ratings vary by year.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Adaptive Cruise Control (optional), Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) (optional), Lane Departure Warning (optional)
Passive Safety:
Front airbags, front side airbags, Safety Canopy® side curtain airbags, AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™
Infotainment System:
SYNC® infotainment system (versions may vary by model year), including touch screen interface, navigation (optional), Bluetooth connectivity, and voice commands.
Screen Size:
8-inch touchscreen (depending on trim/options)
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Lane Departure Warning, and Forward Collision Warning.
Connectivity Options:
USB ports, auxiliary input, Bluetooth audio streaming, optional SiriusXM® Satellite Radio.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid:
Recommended replacement every 60,000-100,000 miles, with specific fluid type (e.g., MERCON LV) and procedure detailed in the manual.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C946-A or equivalent synthetic oil recommended.
Coolant:
Ford Premium Gold Coolant (VC-13-G) or equivalent HOAT coolant.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Powertrain Reliability:
Potential issues can include the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) overheating, intake manifold runner control issues, and turbocharger wear if not properly maintained. The manual will provide diagnostic steps for these common concerns.
Electrical Systems:
Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system or sensors; the manual is critical for diagnosing these.
HVAC System:
Potential for HVAC blend door actuator failures or refrigerant leaks; manual provides diagnostic procedures.
