Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

1987 Ford Taurus Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

68/ 100
MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A design icon with a comfortable ride, but the legendary AXOD transmission and susceptibility to rust make it a 'proceed with caution' classic.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 1987 Ford Taurus?

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.

Biggest Strengths

  • Smooth ride quality for its era
  • Distinctive, aerodynamic styling
  • V6 engine options offer adequate power

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 1987 Ford Taurus. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
AXOD Automatic Transmissionmajor
2
Body & Chassis Rustmajor
3
Electrical Systemmoderate
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

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.

OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time

Just bought a 1987 Ford Taurus? Keep it that way.

Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.

Ford Taurus by Year

Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the Ford Taurus. Click any year for its full report.

If You're Considering This, Also Look At

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by reliability score.

Relevant Products for Your 1987 Ford Taurus

Parts and accessories matched to your 1987 Ford Taurus

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Step

Know every issue before you sign.

A free reliability report can catch a $3,000 problem. Full breakdown for the 1987 Ford Taurus — delivered in under 60 seconds.

OwnerKeep Passport

Just bought a 1987 Ford Taurus? Keep it that way.

OwnerKeep Passport turns your Ford Taurus's care history into a luxury digital vault — AI-logged receipts, an OwnerScore that pays at resale, and a buyer-ready dossier in one tap.

  • AI receipt OCR — snap and log
  • Fuel & mileage tracker
  • Tri-Score OwnerScore
  • One-tap resale dossier PDF
$499 · one-time · lifetime access · no subscription