2014 Ford Taurus Reliability ReportKeepScore 72/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2014 Ford Taurus
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2012 Ford Taurus earns a 78.
- The system most likely to surface first: transmission (6f50/6f55) (major severity).
- Has 5 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pump.
2014 Ford Taurus: Buy or Avoid?
The 2014 Ford Taurus presents a roomy, comfortable ride, but it's crucial to understand its specific weak points, primarily the transmission and certain engine variants. While it offers good value for its size, neglect of known issues can lead to expensive repairs, making it a vehicle for the informed buyer only.
The 2014 Ford Taurus is not a vehicle to buy blindly. While comfortable and spacious, its Achilles' heels in the transmission and certain engine variants (3.5L Duratec V6 water pump) represent significant financial risks. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and a clear understanding of its common failure points are a…
Best Model Years
2015-2019 (later models had fewer MyFord Touch issues and some refinements, though core mechanical risks remained for the 3.5L NA and transmission).
Years to Avoid
2010-2014 (more prevalent MyFord Touch issues, early iterations of transmission problems, and water pump risk for 3.5L NA models).
Biggest Strengths
- Spacious interior and trunk capacity
- Solid, quiet highway cruising comfort
- Robust body structure and crash safety ratings
2014 Ford Taurus — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2014 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 automatic transmission is prone to lead frame failures (a module containing sensors and solenoids), causing erratic shifting, loss of gear selection, or sudden downshifts while driving. Torque converter shudder and rough shifts are a…
On the non-EcoBoost 3.5L V6, the water pump is internally mounted within the engine's timing cover. When it fails, coolant leaks internally, mixing with engine oil and leading to catastrophic engine damage if not caught immediately. Repa…
The MyFord Touch infotainment system is notoriously buggy, prone to freezing, slow response, and blank screens. Beyond the head unit, battery drain issues are not uncommon, often traced to various modules or older accessory draw.
2014 Ford Taurus Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2014 Ford Taurus most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the Taurus should be relatively trouble-free, with basic maintenance items like oil changes and tire rotations being the primary focus. Any issues at this stage are likely isolated manufacturing defects or MyFord Touch q…
Maintenance Zone
This mileage often marks the start of more significant wear items. Transmission fluid changes are recommended, and early signs of suspension bushing wear or minor electrical gremlins might appear. Inspection for control arm wear is crucial.
Elevated Risk Zone
Critical component failures become more likely here. The transmission lead frame is a significant concern, as is the 3.5L Duratec's water pump. Thorough pre-purchase inspection or proactive maintenance is strongly advised for these compo…
High Risk Zone
Beyond this point, expect typical high-mileage issues. Engine mounts, alternator, starter, and potential major transmission work become more probable. A vehicle well-maintained to this point might still be viable, but be prepared for age…
2014 Ford Taurus Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2014 Ford Taurus on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$500-700
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., control arms, minor electrical, EcoBoost carbon cleaning)
How Long Does the 2014 Ford Taurus Last?
If considering a 2014 Taurus, aim for models with documented transmission service and, if it's the 3.5L NA engine, proof of recent water pump replacement, ideally before hitting 80,000 miles. Otherwise, assume these major services are looming.
What 2014 Ford Taurus Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Spacious and comfortable interior, especially for rear passengers
- Quiet and smooth ride, excellent for highway cruising
- Large trunk capacity, very practical for families or luggage
- Commanding road presence and solid feel
Common Frustrations
- MyFord Touch system is universally disliked for its lag and glitches
- Poor outward visibility due to thick pillars and high beltline
- Significant repair costs for known transmission and engine issues
- Fuel economy is not competitive for its class, especially with V6 engines
Who Should Buy the 2014 Ford Taurus?
Best For
- Buyers seeking a large, comfortable used sedan on a budget
- Individuals who prioritize highway cruising comfort and a quiet cabin
- Owners who are mechanically inclined or have access to a trusted, affordable independent mechanic
Not Ideal For
- Buyers prioritizing absolute long-term reliability and low cost of ownership
- Anyone who hates dealing with finicky infotainment systems
How the 2014 Ford Taurus Compares to Rivals
The Taurus offers a commanding road presence and comfortable ride, often for less money than Japanese competitors, but at the cost of higher potential repair frequency and severity, especially when compared to segment reliability leaders like the Avalon.
More Reliable Than
- Chrysler 300 (earlier generations, pre-ZF transmission)
- Volkswagen Passat (earlier DSG transmissions)
- Nissan Maxima (earlier CVT generations)
Comparable To
- Chevrolet Impala (previous generation)
- Dodge Charger
- Hyundai Azera
Safety Recalls on the 2014 Ford Taurus
5 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS and Lincoln MKT vehicles equipped with 3.5L GTDI Ecoboost engines and 2013-2015 Ford Taurus Police Interceptor vehicles. A component within the fuel pump electric module (PEM) may overheat causing a loss of electrical power to the fuel pump.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Taurus vehicles manufactured November 24, 2008, through February 28, 2014, originally sold in, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. When used in areas that use road salt, the license plate lamp assembly may experience an electro-chemical reaction and corrosion as a result of water intrusion.
What breaks on the 2014 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 2014s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2014 Ford Taurus
Parts and accessories matched to your 2014 Ford Taurus
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Frequently Asked Questions
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