1987 Ford Taurus Reliability ReportKeepScore 68/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 1987 Ford Taurus
- Outscores the 1989 Ford Taurus by 23 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: axod automatic transmission (major severity).
- Has 9 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the suspension:front:shock absorber.
1987 Ford Taurus: Buy or Avoid?
The 1987 Ford Taurus was a revolutionary design, ushering in a new era for American sedans, but it's crucial to acknowledge its significant age and inherent weaknesses. While offering comfortable, distinctive motoring at an affordable price, prospective buyers must proactively address the notorious AXOD transmission issues and persistent rust concerns to ensure a tolerable ownership experience.
The 1987 Ford Taurus is a landmark vehicle, but its age and well-documented reliability challenges, especially the AXOD transmission, mean it's not for the faint of heart. If you're a dedicated enthusiast willing to invest in its known weak points or can find a meticulously maintained survivor, it can be a rewarding…
Best Model Years
For the first generation, the later years (1990-1991) generally had some improvements, including slightly more durable transmissions, making them marginally better picks.
Years to Avoid
Avoid early 1986 models with the very first iteration of the AXOD transmission, as these were most prone to initial failures.
Biggest Strengths
- Smooth ride quality for its era
- Distinctive, aerodynamic styling
- V6 engine options offer adequate power
1987 Ford Taurus — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 1987 Ford Taurus, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The 4-speed automatic transmission is notoriously prone to slipping, harsh shifts, and premature failure, often due to internal clutch pack wear and valve body issues. These problems can lead to complete transmission breakdown.
Rust and corrosion are significant concerns, especially in regions exposed to road salt. Common areas affected include floor pans, rocker panels, rear wheel arches, subframe components, and door bottoms.
Aging wiring, faulty switches, and weak components lead to issues with power windows, instrument cluster illumination, blower motors, and intermittent charging system problems (alternator/voltage regulator).
1987 Ford Taurus Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 1987 Ford Taurus most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Early Wear Zone
At this mileage, the car would likely be relatively new or lightly used. Issues would be primarily minor electrical gremlins or early signs of rust if exposed to harsh conditions.
Maintenance Checkpoint
Around this mileage, routine maintenance like spark plugs, belts, and hoses would be due. This is also when the AXOD transmission might begin to show subtle signs of trouble, though full failure is less common.
Elevated Risk Zone
This is where the AXOD transmission is most prone to significant issues or outright failure. Major suspension components (struts, control arms) will likely need replacement, and rust can become visually apparent and problematic.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, the Taurus enters a critical zone where virtually all major systems are at high risk of failure due to age and cumulative wear. Expect significant investment in repairs if maintenance has been neglected, particularl…
1987 Ford Taurus Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 1987 Ford Taurus on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-800
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., suspension, major electrical)
How Long Does the 1987 Ford Taurus Last?
For a 1987 Taurus, prioritize examples with robust service records, especially for transmission maintenance and rust prevention. Lower mileage is generally preferable due to the AXOD transmission's lifespan, but a higher-mileage example with a documented transmission rebuild is often a safer bet than a lower-mileage…
What 1987 Ford Taurus Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Smooth and comfortable ride quality, even on longer journeys.
- Distinctive, aerodynamic styling that still turns heads.
- Spacious interior for its class, with good passenger room.
- V6 engine options provide decent power for highway driving.
Common Frustrations
- The AXOD transmission is a constant source of anxiety and potential major expense.
- Significant rust accumulation is a common and unsightly problem in many climates.
- Aging interior plastics are prone to cracking and feeling brittle.
- Fuel economy is only average, especially with the V6 engines.
Who Should Buy the 1987 Ford Taurus?
Best For
- Collectors or enthusiasts of 1980s American automotive history.
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking a distinctive classic for light, occasional use.
- DIY mechanics willing to tackle age-related repairs.
Not Ideal For
- Daily commuters requiring absolute, fuss-free reliability.
- Anyone unwilling or unable to invest in potentially significant repairs.
How the 1987 Ford Taurus Compares to Rivals
The 1987 Taurus was a bold, class-leading design for domestic manufacturers, offering significantly more refinement and style than its American competitors. However, it falls short of the legendary reliability of its contemporary Japanese rivals, primarily due to its transmiss…
More Reliable Than
- Chevrolet Cavalier (in terms of ride comfort and refinement)
- Chrysler K-Car derivatives (for overall design and perceived quality)
- Pontiac Grand Am (in terms of space and V6 power)
Comparable To
- Chevrolet Celebrity
- Buick Century
- Plymouth Reliant
Safety Recalls on the 1987 Ford Taurus
9 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SHOCK ABSORBER
THE ARC WELDS ON THE SWAY BAR BRACKET, WHERE IT ATTACHES TO THE STRUT RESERVE TUBE, DID NOT FUSE PROPERLY.
WHEELS
CHILDREN CAN ACCIDENTALLY LOCK THEMSELVES IN THE FOOTWELL AREA OF THE REAR-FACING THIRD SEAT, OR IN THE STORAGE COMPARTMENT IN STATION WAGONS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AN OPTIONAL THIRD SEAT. ONCE THE COMPARTMENT IS CLOSED IT CANNOT BE OPENED FROM THE INSIDE.
What breaks on the 1987 Ford Taurus?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Ford Taurus — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Ford Taurus. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 1987s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 1987 Ford Taurus
Parts and accessories matched to your 1987 Ford Taurus
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Frequently Asked Questions
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