Ford Taurus 6th Gen

The sixth-generation Ford Taurus is a big, comfortable American sedan on the D4 platform – roomy, quiet, and a genuine highway cruiser. The crown of the range is the SHO: 365 hp from a twin-turbo 3.5L EcoBoost with all-wheel drive, a surprisingly quick sleeper. In daily use the Taurus is comfortable and anonymous, but it isn't without traps. The biggest warning: the electric power steering (EPAS) on 2011–2013 cars can fail completely – without warning the steering goes leaden. Before buying, confirm the relevant recall has been performed. The second Achilles' heel is the chain-driven water pump in the Duratec/EcoBoost engines: it sits internally, and a failure can wash coolant into the oil and destroy the engine. Repair is expensive because the engine has to come apart. Coolant loss with no visible leak is a serious red flag. Add the usual Takata airbag recall, a slow and clunky MyFord Touch infotainment, and windshields that crack spontaneously. The front shocks wear early, and the 6F55 six-speed automatic is prone to torque-converter shudder. On the AWD SHO the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) is a known weak point – it overheats and fails because the fluid is fill-for-life from the factory (it isn't). Budget for a fluid change. Further points: the electronic throttle body can drop into limp mode, the rear brakes are undersized and wear prematurely, a recall (15S02) covered the interior door handle springs, and the blend door actuators rattle or fail. Buying tip: the EPAS recall and water-pump condition are the deal-breakers. On an SHO, also check PTU fluid history and watch for converter shudder. A cared-for Taurus with recalls closed out is a cheap, comfortable cruiser.