2015 Ford Taurus Reliability ReportC grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2015 Ford Taurus
- The system most likely to surface first: engine cooling system (major severity).
- Has 6 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pump.
- Scores 3 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2017 Ford Taurus earns a 78.
Is the 2015 Ford Taurus Worth Buying?
The 2015 Ford Taurus offers a comfortable, spacious ride at an attractive used price, but buyers must be prepared for a few significant, well-documented reliability challenges. Primarily, the internal water pump on the 3.5L V6 engine and potential transmission lead frame failures present substantial repair costs, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection absolutely non-negotiable.
The 2015 Ford Taurus can be a fantastic value for a comfortable, full-size sedan, but only for buyers who are aware of and prepared for its well-known reliability Achilles' heels. The internal water pump on the 3.5L V6 and the transmission lead frame are significant concerns that demand proactive inspection and pote…
Best Model Years
For the 6th generation, the 2017-2019 models are marginally better, as some minor refinements were made, though the core engine/transmission issues largely remained. The 2.0L EcoBoost, while having carbon buildup potential, avoids the worst of the water pump issues.
Years to Avoid
Earlier 6th generation models (2010-2014) had a higher prevalence of these issues, but the 2015 is still squarely in the problematic zone for the 3.5L V6 water pump and transmission lead frame.
Biggest Strengths
- Spacious and comfortable interior
- Robust overall chassis and structure
- Generally powerful V6 engine options
What Tends to Fail First on the 2015 Ford Taurus
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2015 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 water pump on the 3.5L Duratec V6 (and to a lesser extent, the EcoBoost) is internally mounted, meaning a failure can leak coolant directly into the engine oil, leading to catastrophic engine damage if not caught immediately. This is…
The 6F50/6F55 automatic transmission can suffer from a failed lead frame, which is an internal circuit board controlling solenoids. This leads to erratic shifting, sudden downshifts, loss of gears, or being stuck in 'limp mode', often ac…
The MyFord Touch (MFT) system, driven by the APIM module, is notorious for freezing, lagging, non-responsiveness, or complete failure. This affects navigation, climate control, and audio, often requiring module replacement or software up…
2015 Ford Taurus Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2015 Ford Taurus most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Early Warning Zone
At this mileage, you might start to see early signs of MyFord Touch glitches or minor electrical gremlins. It's a good time to check tire wear and brake health.
Maintenance & Inspection Zone
This mileage often aligns with major service intervals. It's crucial to inspect the 3.5L V6 for any early water pump symptoms (coolant consumption, milky oil) and consider a transmission fluid flush. Suspension components might start sho…
Elevated Risk Zone
The risk for both the water pump and transmission lead frame significantly increases here. Be extra vigilant for engine noises, coolant leaks, and any abnormal transmission behavior. Carbon cleaning may be needed for EcoBoost engines.
High Risk Zone
At this point, many of the major component failures are highly probable if not already addressed. Expect to budget for potential engine water pump, transmission, and major suspension overhauls. A detailed service history is paramount.
2015 Ford Taurus Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2015 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., suspension, electrical modules)
How Long Does the 2015 Ford Taurus Last?
Focus on purchasing a 2015 Taurus with comprehensive service records. If considering a 3.5L V6, assume the water pump will need replacement if it hasn't been done, or prioritize lower mileage examples to buy time. For any mileage, a pre-purchase inspection is paramount.
What 2015 Ford Taurus Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Spacious interior, especially for rear passengers and trunk capacity.
- Comfortable and quiet ride, excellent for highway cruising.
- Strong V6 engine performance, particularly the EcoBoost.
- Solid, reassuring feel on the road with good stability.
Common Frustrations
- Poor rear visibility due to high beltline and thick pillars.
- Frustrating and glitchy MyFord Touch infotainment system.
- Larger turning radius makes maneuvering in tight spaces difficult.
- Fuel economy for V6 models is not competitive.
Who Should Buy the 2015 Ford Taurus?
Best For
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking a large, comfortable sedan.
- Drivers with long highway commutes who value a quiet, stable ride.
- Someone comfortable with routine maintenance and potential medium-to-large repair costs.
Not Ideal For
- First-time car owners or those with strict, limited repair budgets.
- Drivers living in congested urban areas (due to its size and poor visibility).
How the 2015 Ford Taurus Compares to Rivals
The Taurus offers a commanding road presence and comfortable ride, often for less money than its Asian rivals, but those savings often come with the potential for higher repair costs for specific known issues not as prevalent in competitors like the Avalon.
More Reliable Than
- Nissan Maxima (due to persistent CVT reliability issues)
- Chrysler 300 (earlier generations, often plagued with electrical and build quality issues)
- Volkswagen Passat (earlier models with DSG transmission concerns)
Comparable To
- Chevrolet Impala (similar full-size comfort and common component wear points)
- Hyundai Azera (offers similar luxury feel with its own specific electrical/engine issues)
2015 Ford Taurus Recall History
6 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.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:MOUNTING
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Taurus, Lincoln MKS, and 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured on July 24, 2015. During vehicle production, the fuel tank attachment bolts may not have been properly tightened. As a result, the fuel tank straps may fracture and the fuel tank could separate from the vehicle.
What breaks on the 2015 Ford Taurus?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Other Ford Taurus Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Ford Taurus. Click any year for its full report.
2015 Ford Taurus Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2015 Ford Taurus
Parts and accessories matched to your 2015 Ford Taurus
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Frequently Asked Questions
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