2018 Ford Taurus Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2018 Ford Taurus
- The system most likely to surface first: engine (3.5l v6 - water pump) (critical severity).
- Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the electrical system:ignition.
- Outscores the 2016 Ford Taurus by 6 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
Is the 2018 Ford Taurus Worth Buying?
The 2018 Ford Taurus offers a comfortable, spacious, and generally robust platform, but potential buyers must be aware of a few significant known issues that can lead to costly repairs. While the final model years benefited from numerous refinements, critical engine and AWD system weaknesses mean a thorough pre-purchase inspection is non-negotiable to avoid future headaches.
While offering a spacious and comfortable ride, the 2018 Ford Taurus carries significant reliability risks, primarily from its internal water pump and AWD PTU. If you're considering this vehicle, a meticulous pre-purchase inspection and a clear understanding of its common failure points are absolutely essential to a…
Best Model Years
2016-2019 (later years of the final generation, benefited from minor refinements, but core issues remained).
Years to Avoid
2010-2012 (earlier models of this generation had more initial teething issues with various systems).
Biggest Strengths
- Robust overall chassis and body structure
- Spacious interior and large trunk capacity
- Comfortable highway cruiser with solid ride quality
What Tends to Fail First on the 2018 Ford Taurus
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2018 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 internal, timing-chain driven water pump in the standard 3.5L 'Duratec' V6 is a notorious design flaw. When it fails, coolant leaks internally, mixing with engine oil. If not caught immediately, this can lead to catastrophic engine d…
On AWD models, especially the SHO, the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) is a significant weak point. It is prone to overheating due to poor fluid circulation and inadequate cooling, leading to premature breakdown of the lubricant and subsequent…
While not catastrophic, owners report various electrical gremlins including SYNC 3 infotainment system glitches (freezing, slow response), random sensor failures (wheel speed sensors, ABS sensors), and occasional battery drain issues, wh…
2018 Ford Taurus Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2018 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 still feel like a new car, with minimal wear and tear. Focus on routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations. No major issues are typically expected.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage often triggers more significant maintenance items. Spark plugs, transmission fluid, and especially PTU fluid (AWD models) should be checked or replaced. Suspension components may start showing initial signs of wear.
Elevated Risk Zone
The specter of the internal water pump issue looms large for 3.5L V6 models. Suspension components are likely due for replacement, and various sensors may begin to fail. This is where diligent maintenance history and pre-purchase inspect…
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, the Taurus enters a higher-risk category where major component failures become more likely, especially if previous critical maintenance was ignored. Engine, transmission, and PTU issues could lead to very costly rep…
2018 Ford Taurus Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2018 Ford Taurus on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-700
Moderate Repairs
$600-2,000 occasionally (e.g., suspension refresh, electrical diagnosis)
How Long Does the 2018 Ford Taurus Last?
Given its known issues, a lower mileage 2018 Taurus with comprehensive service records is highly preferable. Be exceptionally wary of examples over 80,000 miles without verifiable evidence of water pump or PTU service.
What 2018 Ford Taurus Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Excellent highway cruising comfort and quiet cabin.
- Vast interior space, especially in the rear seats.
- Enormous trunk capacity, perfect for families or road trips.
- Solid, reassuring feel on the road, feels 'planted'.
Common Frustrations
- Poor outward visibility due to thick pillars and high beltline.
- Disappointing fuel economy, especially with the 3.5L V6.
- Large turning radius makes city driving and parking a chore.
- Dated interior design compared to contemporary rivals.
Who Should Buy the 2018 Ford Taurus?
Best For
- Families needing a spacious, affordable sedan
- Highway commuters prioritizing comfort over fuel economy
- Buyers seeking a large, comfortable car on a budget
Not Ideal For
- City dwellers needing nimble handling and easy parking
- Buyers prioritizing absolute top-tier reliability (e.g., Toyota Avalon)
How the 2018 Ford Taurus Compares to Rivals
The Taurus holds its own in terms of comfort and space but falls short on powertrain reliability compared to Japanese rivals, primarily due to specific engineering flaws in its V6 engine and AWD system. It offers a more solid, 'American car' feel than many competitors.
More Reliable Than
- Nissan Maxima (CVT reliability concerns)
- Chrysler 300 (older models had more electrical issues, higher maintenance)
Comparable To
- Chevrolet Impala (similar comfort and size, but often with better long-term engine reliability)
2018 Ford Taurus Recall History
4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Ford Taurus vehicles equipped with mechanical key ignition systems. The keys for these vehicles may be able to be removed from the ignition when transmission is not in the PARK position. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection."
SUSPENSION:REAR
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Lincoln MKT and Ford Flex and Taurus vehicles with the Police Interceptor or SHO Performance Pack. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
What breaks on the 2018 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.
2018 Ford Taurus Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2018 Ford Taurus
Parts and accessories matched to your 2018 Ford Taurus
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Frequently Asked Questions
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