2008 Ford Taurus X Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2008 Ford Taurus X, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Steering4221.0%
- Powertrain (other)3417.0%
- Driver assistance2914.5%
- Body & structure157.5%
- Brakes147.0%
- Engine126.0%
- Electrical105.0%
- Suspension94.5%
- Fuel system73.5%
- Transmission73.5%
- Interior & seats52.5%
- Tires & wheels52.5%
- Visibility42.0%
- Seat belts21.0%
- Other / unspecified21.0%
- Airbags21.0%
- Heating & air conditioning10.5%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD STRAIGHT, OUR CAR MADE A POP SOUND AND SUDDENLY LURCHED AND STEERING WAS IMPAIRED. CAR WAS TAKEN TO THE NEAREST DEALERSHIP WHERE THEY FOUND THE ENGINE CRADLE/FRONT SUB FRAME HAD RUSTED THROUGH INTERNALLY CAUSING THE SWAY BAR TO BREAK AWAY AND IT HAD PERFORATED AROUND THE MOUNT FOR THE CONTROL ARM. WE WERE EXTREMELY FORTUNATE THE CONTROL ARM DIDN'T COMPLETELY DROP OUT CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. FAILURE IS ALMOST IDENTICAL TO THE FORD ESCAPE SUBFRAME RECALL. DEALER TECHNICIAN SAID HE HAS REPLACED A LOT OF THESE ENGINE CRADLES IN THE TAURUS X'S FOR THE SAME FAILURE (SOME WORSE THAN OURS, COMPLETELY RUSTED IN HALF ETC.). LACK OF SUFFICIENT PAINT INSIDE OF THE CRADLES CAUSING PREMATURE FAILURE IS A MAJOR SAFETY CONCERN. I WOULD NOT BE SURPRISED IF THERE ARE ACCIDENTS REPORTED FOR THIS CONCERN. I HAVE REQUESTED THE ENGINE CRADLE FROM THE DEALERSHIP AFTER IT IS REMOVED FOR PHOTOGRAPHIC EVIDENCE.
I WAS DRIVING HOME ON CITY STREETS WHEN THE POWER STEERING WENT OUT. CAR BECAME ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO TURN, EVEN USING ALL MY STRENGTH. I COULD NOT HAVE REACTED TO ANY OBSTACLE THAT SUDDENLY PRESENTED ITSELF, AND I COULD HARDLY MAKE TURNS, EVEN AT VERY LOW SPEEDS. IT WAS A DANGEROUS SITUATION.
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
I bought this vehicle used from a lot. It had 2 previous owners and came with all the service history. I first noticed the vehicle seemed like it didn’t want to go into overdrive . It would get to about 70 mph which would have the rpm’s at 3k! The 2nd time or so that we got it to these speeds (on interstate) the vehicle suddenly clunked , steering wheel jerked , vehicle lost power - I had my 2 children in the vehicle and I was pregnant. We had to pull over immediately . After sitting side the road for a few , it crunk up and we rode out . Only for it to happen 2 more times. And this is not the only thing effected by this . Not long after I got it , I started noticing a hard shift / clunk / slam when going into gear and especially when the vehicle has just tried to downshift and I pressed the gas again . Due to this , I’m unable to tell when and if we can pull out into traffic and such. I must time it good in order to not risk getting T boned etc. Also, with 3 kids in tow , a vehicle slamming their necks and heads is dangerous and scary. So , I’ve had some work done on . Trying to help my issue. Apparently my issue is the same as a lot of others . Which is an intermittent issue . And apparently no matter if all the passed recalls were addressed. Or if the owners of the vehicle serviced it often and currant . Or if the pcm was reflashed , replaced etc - the Ford Taurus X will continue to have these issues . And these issues seem to be the same issues that were addressed in the ford recall in 2020 ( which didn’t include the Taurus X) and previous recalls . This drivertrain transmission has been an issue for the Taurus X since forever . Please check into this. Last thing we need is whiplash or life flights from this .
TRANSMISSION STUCK IN HIGH GEAR WHILE IN MOTION. CAN'T ACCELERATE FROM STOP TO MAINTAIN SPEED. POWER CYCLE FIXED. INTERMITTENT ISSUE.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
I bought this vehicle used from a lot. It had 2 previous owners and came with all the service history. I first noticed the vehicle seemed like it didn’t want to go into overdrive . It would get to about 70 mph which would have the rpm’s at 3k! The 2nd time or so that we got it to these speeds (on interstate) the vehicle suddenly clunked , steering wheel jerked , vehicle lost power - I had my 2 children in the vehicle and I was pregnant. We had to pull over immediately . After sitting side the road for a few , it crunk up and we rode out . Only for it to happen 2 more times. And this is not the only thing effected by this . Not long after I got it , I started noticing a hard shift / clunk / slam when going into gear and especially when the vehicle has just tried to downshift and I pressed the gas again . Due to this , I’m unable to tell when and if we can pull out into traffic and such. I must time it good in order to not risk getting T boned etc. Also, with 3 kids in tow , a vehicle slamming their necks and heads is dangerous and scary. So , I’ve had some work done on . Trying to help my issue. Apparently my issue is the same as a lot of others . Which is an intermittent issue . And apparently no matter if all the passed recalls were addressed. Or if the owners of the vehicle serviced it often and currant . Or if the pcm was reflashed , replaced etc - the Ford Taurus X will continue to have these issues . And these issues seem to be the same issues that were addressed in the ford recall in 2020 ( which didn’t include the Taurus X) and previous recalls . This drivertrain transmission has been an issue for the Taurus X since forever . Please check into this. Last thing we need is whiplash or life flights from this .
TRANSMISSION STUCK IN HIGH GEAR WHILE IN MOTION. CAN'T ACCELERATE FROM STOP TO MAINTAIN SPEED. POWER CYCLE FIXED. INTERMITTENT ISSUE.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
WHEN DRIVING MY CAR I HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN 2 WRECKS BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM WHEN TRYING TO STOP QUICKLY THE CAR DOES NOT STOP THE TRACTION LIGHT COMES ON AND THE CAR CONTINUES TO ROLL. I HAD A FRONT END COLLISION AND MY AIR BAGS NEVER DEPLOYED I WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 35-40 MPH. I BOUGHT THE CAR FROM JD BYRIDER.THIS IS NOT THE FIRST TIME THIS CAR HAS DONE THIS MEANING STOPPING BUT THE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT THIS IS THE FIRST TIME. I HAD MY KIDS AND GRANDKIDS IN THE CAR ON EACH TIME THIS HAPPENED AND I FILL IF I CONTINUE DRIVING THIS CAR WITH THESE PROBLEMS SOMETHING SERIOUS IS GOING TO HAPPPEN NEXT TIME.
PROBLEM 1, PAINT PEELING OFF HOOD AND ROUGH METAL UNDER PROBLEM 2, TRANSMISSION BEGAN FAILING WHILE UNDER WARRENTY, DEALERSHIP COULD NOT GET ANY CODES TO SHOW PROBLEM THIS, HAS CONTINUED TO PRESENT. WAS NOTIFED THIS WEEK BY DEALER THAT TRANSMISSION NEEDS REPLACED, BUT BECAUSE EVERY TIME YOU TURN OFF THE CAR THE CODES RESET. FORD MOTOR COMPANY AND THE DEALER DO NOT WANT TO ASSIST IN THE REPAIRS OF OVER $4500.00. BOUGHT EXTENDED WARRANTY TO 75,000 MILES AND PROBLEM FIRST DOCUMENTED ON THERE FORMS WAS AT 60,000 MILES. WHILE DRIVING THE CAR WOULD DOWN SHIFT AND JERK. HAPPENED SEVERAL TIME AND EACH TIME TOOK TO DEALER THEY COULD NOT FIND A PROBLEM. ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS THE CAR WOULD NOT GO IN REVERSE BUT AFTER TURNING CAR OFF AND RESTARTING IT WOULD.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 FORD TAURUS X. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH IN TRAFFIC, THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO SLOW THE VEHICLE DOWN, BUT THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD WHEN IT WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE WAS FINALLY ABLE TO STOP. THE FAILURE BEGAN ON APPROXIMATELY JULY 3, 2019 AND WAS OCCURRING DAILY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC OR A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 202,000.
WHEN DRIVING MY CAR I HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN 2 WRECKS BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM WHEN TRYING TO STOP QUICKLY THE CAR DOES NOT STOP THE TRACTION LIGHT COMES ON AND THE CAR CONTINUES TO ROLL. I HAD A FRONT END COLLISION AND MY AIR BAGS NEVER DEPLOYED I WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 35-40 MPH. I BOUGHT THE CAR FROM JD BYRIDER.THIS IS NOT THE FIRST TIME THIS CAR HAS DONE THIS MEANING STOPPING BUT THE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT THIS IS THE FIRST TIME. I HAD MY KIDS AND GRANDKIDS IN THE CAR ON EACH TIME THIS HAPPENED AND I FILL IF I CONTINUE DRIVING THIS CAR WITH THESE PROBLEMS SOMETHING SERIOUS IS GOING TO HAPPPEN NEXT TIME.
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
CAR SHUT OFF 3 MINUTES AFTER STARTING IT. I RESTART IT THEN IT SHUT OFF AGAIN AFTER 5 MINUTES. DROVE THE ABOUT HOUR AND HALF NO PROBLEM. 2 HOURS LATER DROVE CAR A FEW BLOCKS SHUT OFF AGAIN LUCKILY I WAS PULLING BACK UP TO MY HOUSE. NOW I'M SCARED TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE. PLEASE HELP.
WE HAVE BEEN COMPLAINING SINCE 2016 TO TED BRITT FORD AND TO FORD ABOUT THE TRANSMISSION AND THE JERKING, POPPING, SLIPPING, ESPECIALLY WHILE TURNING, AND THEY TOLD US THAT THEY COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. THIS IS NOT THE FIRST TIME WE COMPLAINED. AT ONE POINT THE SERVICE TECH TOLD US THAT SLIPPING, JERKING, AND POPPING FROM THE TRANSMISSION WAS NORMAL FOR THE TAURUS X. ON 10/20/2017, WE BROKE DOWN ON A VERY BUSY ROAD. WE WERE DRIVING THE CAR WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN THE CAR STARTED TO BUCKLE AND CHOKE. THEN WE HAD SMOKE BILLOWING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. WE TURNED OFF THE ENGINE AND TURNED ON THE FLASHERS. WE FOUND OUT THAT THE ANTIFREEZE RESERVOIR WAS EMPTY. SOMETHING IS CLEARLY WRONG WITH THIS VEHICLE AND FORD DOES NOT WANT TO CORRECT IT. WE WERE FORCED TO BUY THIS CAR BECAUSE WE BELIEVE THAT TED BRITT SABOTAGED OUR 2003 FORD WINDSTAR LX. TED BRITT SABOTAGED OUR WINDSTAR THROUGH DISCONNECTING THE VACUUM LINE THAT FED THE HEATING AND AC. WE WENT FOR THREE YEARS FREEZING IN THE WINTER AND BOILING HOT IN THE SUMMER. THEY DID NOT WANT TO RECONNECT THAT LINE FOR OUR HEAT AND AC. THEY DISASSEMBLED A LOT OF OUR WINDSTAR AND THREW EVERYTHING IN THE BACK OF OUR VAN ONTO THE CLOTH SEATS. DASHBOARD, COWL, GRILL, HOOD WAS OFF THE VAN, TIRES, BRAKE LINES, ENGINE PARTS, AND OTHER PARTS WERE THROWN ONTO OUR CLOTH BACK SEATS. THEY MADE OUR TAN SEATS BLACK WITH THE ROAD GRIME AND GREASE. THEN THEY DECIDED TO ASK US IF WE WANTED OUR VAN BACK. THAT WAS VERY RUDE. WE HAD JUST CLEANED THOSE SEATS. NOW WE ARE HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE 2008 FORD TAURUS X. WE HAD TO CALL THE POLICE AND OUR AUTO INSURANCE TO HELP US OUT. WE FILED AN INSURANCE CLAIM TO GET THE VEHICLE TOWED AND WE HAD TO TAKE A TAXI TO WORK.
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Taurus X. While the contact’s daughter was driving approximately 40 MPH, several unknown warning lights illuminated, the steering wheel became difficult to turn, and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact's daughter was able unable to pull over but was able to restart the vehicle and the vehicle returned to normal functionality. The vehicle was taken to a local mechanic where it was diagnosed with needing spark plugs, coolant, and radiator replaced. The failure persisted. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The contact was informed that the vehicle was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 109,000.
I bought this vehicle used from a lot. It had 2 previous owners and came with all the service history. I first noticed the vehicle seemed like it didn’t want to go into overdrive . It would get to about 70 mph which would have the rpm’s at 3k! The 2nd time or so that we got it to these speeds (on interstate) the vehicle suddenly clunked , steering wheel jerked , vehicle lost power - I had my 2 children in the vehicle and I was pregnant. We had to pull over immediately . After sitting side the road for a few , it crunk up and we rode out . Only for it to happen 2 more times. And this is not the only thing effected by this . Not long after I got it , I started noticing a hard shift / clunk / slam when going into gear and especially when the vehicle has just tried to downshift and I pressed the gas again . Due to this , I’m unable to tell when and if we can pull out into traffic and such. I must time it good in order to not risk getting T boned etc. Also, with 3 kids in tow , a vehicle slamming their necks and heads is dangerous and scary. So , I’ve had some work done on . Trying to help my issue. Apparently my issue is the same as a lot of others . Which is an intermittent issue . And apparently no matter if all the passed recalls were addressed. Or if the owners of the vehicle serviced it often and currant . Or if the pcm was reflashed , replaced etc - the Ford Taurus X will continue to have these issues . And these issues seem to be the same issues that were addressed in the ford recall in 2020 ( which didn’t include the Taurus X) and previous recalls . This drivertrain transmission has been an issue for the Taurus X since forever . Please check into this. Last thing we need is whiplash or life flights from this .
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD STRAIGHT, OUR CAR MADE A POP SOUND AND SUDDENLY LURCHED AND STEERING WAS IMPAIRED. CAR WAS TAKEN TO THE NEAREST DEALERSHIP WHERE THEY FOUND THE ENGINE CRADLE/FRONT SUB FRAME HAD RUSTED THROUGH INTERNALLY CAUSING THE SWAY BAR TO BREAK AWAY AND IT HAD PERFORATED AROUND THE MOUNT FOR THE CONTROL ARM. WE WERE EXTREMELY FORTUNATE THE CONTROL ARM DIDN'T COMPLETELY DROP OUT CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. FAILURE IS ALMOST IDENTICAL TO THE FORD ESCAPE SUBFRAME RECALL. DEALER TECHNICIAN SAID HE HAS REPLACED A LOT OF THESE ENGINE CRADLES IN THE TAURUS X'S FOR THE SAME FAILURE (SOME WORSE THAN OURS, COMPLETELY RUSTED IN HALF ETC.). LACK OF SUFFICIENT PAINT INSIDE OF THE CRADLES CAUSING PREMATURE FAILURE IS A MAJOR SAFETY CONCERN. I WOULD NOT BE SURPRISED IF THERE ARE ACCIDENTS REPORTED FOR THIS CONCERN. I HAVE REQUESTED THE ENGINE CRADLE FROM THE DEALERSHIP AFTER IT IS REMOVED FOR PHOTOGRAPHIC EVIDENCE.
HOOD RELEASED WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH A TOTAL OF 3 TIMES. COMPUTER REPORTED A TIRE SENSOR INFLATION ISSUES WHILE DRIVING. AIR PRESSURE WAS FINE. POPPING, LOUD GRINDING NOISE WHILE DRIVING HAS RETURNED EVEN AFTER IT WAS SERVICED DUE TO THE DRIVETRAIN AND TRANSMISSION. SOUNDS AND FEELS LIKE SOMETHING IS LOOSE WHILE DRIVING AT 45 MPH IN THE SUSPENSION, EVEN THOUGH WE WERE TOLD THAT IS NORMAL FOR THAT VEHICLE. WHILE TURNING OUT FROM A PARKING LOT, THE VEHICLE SOUNDED AND FELT LIKE THE ENTIRE UNDERCARRIAGE HAD FALLEN ON THE GROUND WHILE WE WERE DRIVING FORWARD. IT WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO DRIVE THE CAR FORWARD. WE WERE FORCED TO DRIVE THE BACK ROADS BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP. THE DRIVER SIDE POWER WINDOW GOES DOWN WHILE ATTEMPTING TO RAISE THE WINDOW. THE PASSENGER SIDE POWER MIRROR GRINDS AND POPS WHILE MOVING IT. *TR
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
WITHIN 24 HOURS, TWICE THE CAR SUDDENLY DISPLAYED "EMPY" FUEL GUAGE AND HAVING ZERO MILES ON THE RANGE ESTIMATOR DESPITE HAVING ROUGHLY HALF A TANK OF GAS. ONE TIME, SHORTLY AFTER DISPLAYING "EMPTY" DESPITE HAVING HALF A TANK, THE CAR CUT OFF AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS.
A FUEL SENSOR FAILED RECENTLY FOR THE THIRD TIME IN 3 YEARS. EACH TIME THERE WAS MORE THAN HALF A TANK OF GASOLINE ONBOARD. THE MOST RECENT OCCURRENCE CAUSED THE ENGINE TO STOP COMPLETELY WHILE ON A FREEWAY TRAVELING AT 55 MPH.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Transmission
Reports naming the automatic or manual transmission, including shifting behaviour, shudder, slipping and transmission control modules.
From owner reports, verbatim
I WAS PULLING OUT OF A PARKING LOT ONTO A STREET, WHEN I PUSHED ON THE ACCELERATOR THE CAR CREPT FORWARD WITH RESISTANCE, AS IF TRYING TO ACCELERATE WITH THE PARKING BRAKE ON. THE CAR MOVED INTO THE ROAD AT NO MORE THAN 2 MILES PER HOUR. I IMMEDIATELY TOOK MY FOOT OFF THE ACCELERATOR, THEN BACK ON TO TRY TO MOVE FORWARD AND OUT OF THE WAY OF COMING TRAFFIC. THE CAR THEN MOVED FORWARD AND ACCELERATED AS IT NORMALLY SHOULD. I WAS VERY FORTUNATE THAT THERE WAS NO IMMEDIATE ONCOMING TRAFFIC, HOWEVER, IF THE CAR HAD FAILED TO ACCELERATE NORMALLY AFTER I RELEASED IT AND REENGAGED I PROBABLY WOULD HAVE BEEN HIT. AFTER GETTING HOME I NOTICED A SPOT ON THE DRIVEWAY WHERE SOMETHING WAS LEAKING FROM THE CAR. MY HUSBAND INVESTIGATED AND THOUGHT POWER STEERING FLUID WAS LEAKING. I TOOK THE CAR IN FOR A DIAGNOSTIC CHECK AND THE REPORT WAS THAT IT WAS ACTUALLY A LEAK FROM THE TRANSMISSION COOLER. BECAUSE THE TRANSMISSION COOLANT IS THE SAME COIL AS THE AIR CONDITIONING IT WILL COST AROUND $600 TO REPLACE. I'M CURRENTLY WAITING FOR A SECOND QUOTE FOR THE REPAIRS. *KB
2008 FORD TAURUS X TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS. WHILE SHIFTING INTO DRIVE AND GIVING IT GAS THERE IS LITTLE TO NO ACCELERATION. I HAVE TO PULLOVER TURN OFF ENGINE AND RESTART SOMETIMES ITS TAKES AN HOUR OR SO TO RETURN TO NORMAL. I HAVE HAD IT TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP WHEN IT WOULDN'T DRIVE, IT SAT OVER NIGHT AND THE NEXT MORNING IT WAS DRIVING FINE. THEWRENCH LIGHT HAS COME ON ONCE DURING HE INCIDENT BUT THEN WENT OFF. *TR
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 FORD TAURUS X. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MIDDLE ROW SEATS COULD NOT BE FOLDED DOWN IN ORDER TO LET THE THIRD ROW OCCUPANTS OUT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO HINES FORD (12610 FORD DR, FISHERS, IN) TO BE DIAGNOSED, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000. *TT CONSUMER STATED SIMILAR INCIDENT REPORTED ON THE INTERNET.*JB
LEFT REAR PASSENGER SEAT BACK(2/3RDS BENCH) WILL NOT RELEASE. THE RESULT OF THIS IS LOSS OF ABILITY TO EXIT THE VEHICLE FROM 3RD ROW SEATING. CAN ONLY EXIT FROM THE SMALLER 1/3RD BENCH SEAT ON THE RIGHT SIDE. I CONSIDER THIS A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE OF REDUCED ABILITY TO EXIT THE VEHICLE OR TO BE RESCUED FROM 3RD ROW SEATING AREA.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 FORD TAURUS X WITH CONTINENTAL CONTITOURING TIRES, SIZE: P215/55R17, DOT D1976825. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE TIRE PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT ACTIVATED THE HAZARD LIGHTS AND STOPPED THE VEHICLE ON THE SHOULDER. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE WAS BEGINNING TO LOSE PRESSURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTICS WHERE THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE TIRE EXHIBITED CRACKS ON THE SIDEWALL AND ADVISED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE WITHOUT REPLACING THE TIRE. THE MECHANIC REPLACED THE TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE TECHNICIAN NOTICED THAT THE REAR DRIVER SIDE TIRE ALSO EXHIBITED CRACKS ON THE SIDEWALL. THE TECHNICIAN REPLACED BOTH THE FRONT AND REAR DRIVER SIDE TIRES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 13,600.
2008 FORD TAURUS X. CONSUMER WRITES REGARDING A VERY LOUD RUMBLING NOISE INSIDE *TGW THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED BY THE DEALER, THAT THE TIRES WERE WEARING UNEVENLY. THE TIRES WERE ROTATED AS RECOMMENDED BUT THAT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THAT PIRELLI TIRES WERE KNOWN TO WEAR UNEVENLY AND THEY WOULD CHECK THE ALIGNMENT. AFTER THE ALIGNMENT, THE NOISE WAS REDUCED TO ABOUT 50%. THAT LASTED 6 MONTHS AND THEN THE NOISE RETURNED TO ITS ORIGINAL LOUDNESS. THE CONSUMER WAS TOLD TO EITHER LIVE WITH THE NOISE OR REPLACE ALL FOUR TIRES AT HIS EXPENSE. *JB
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 FORD TAURUS X. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DEFROSTER FOR THE WINDOWS MALFUNCTIONED, WHICH IMPAIRED HIS VISIBILITY WHILE DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,000.
THE AIR DOOR POSITION MOTOR MAKES A CLICKING NOISE AND ONLY WORKS ON THE CENTER VENTS. NO WAY TO DEFROST THE WINDOW. COOL NIGHT WINDOW FOGGED UP AND CAN'T GET AIR TO THE WINDSHIELD TO CLEAR OFF. VERY DANGEROUS.!!!!!
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Seat belts
Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.
From owner reports, verbatim
All 5 rear seatbelts have cracked plastic around the metal piece that buckles in.
I'M A LITTLE FAT LADY THAT HAS TO RIDE IN THE BACK SEAT. I CAN JUST GET THE SEAT BELT TO HOOK AND CANT MOVE BECAUSE IT STRETCHES TIGHTER AND TIGHTER. FORD CLAIMS THE DO NOT SUPPLY EXTENDERS FOR THE REAR SEATS, WE DID GET A SET FOR THE FRONT. BUT THAT DON'T HELP IN THE BACK. WHEN WE RIDE HOME AFTER WORK ON I-79 THERE IS A STATE TROOPER ON A MOTOR CYCLE THAT RIDE UP BESIDE YOU LOOKING FOR SEAT BELT VIOLATIONS. I NEED AN EXTENDER. *TR
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
FOR THE PAST 2-3 YEAR, WHEN ATTEMPTING TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL LEFT OR RIGHT, VEHICLE LOOSES POWER STEERING. TOOK THE CAR INTO FORD DEALERSHIP, WHILE UNDER WARRANTY, AND WAS REPEATEDLY TOLD BY SERVICE TECH, MECHANIC DID NOT NOTICE A PROBLEM. VEHICLE SHUDDERS WHEN BACKING UP AND STRUGGLES TO SHIFT GEARS WHEN ACCELERATING ON HIGHWAY. ABS BRAKE SYSTEM KICKS IN FOR NO APPARENT REASON WHEN DRIVING. GRINDING NOISE COMING FROM REAR WHEEL ON DRIVERS SIDE WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE. TOOK CAR TO MECHANIC AND WAS TOLD NO POWER STEERING, NEED BALL BEARING REPLACEMENT AND NEED NEW/ REBUILT TRANSMISSION. COMPLETELY DISGUSTED AS THE CAR IS ONLY 7 YEARS OLD. WHY CANT SIMILARLY SITUATED OWNERS OF THE FORD TAURUS-X SEEM TO GET THE NHTSA TO TAKE ANY REAL ACTION ON OUR BEHALF? I'M CONFUSED. PLEASE HELP!!!
THE DRIVERS SIDE FLOOR MAT ON MY 2008 FORD TAURUS X, SHIFTS/SLIDES TO THE RIGHT, USING THE FLOORMAT LATCH AS A PIVOT POINT. THIS SHIFT IN THE FLOOR MAT CAUSES THE FLOORMAT TO PLACE ITSELF IN THE VICINITY OF THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL IS DEPRESSED TO ACCELERATE, IT GETS LODGED BEHIND/UNDERNEATH THE DRIVERS SIDE FLOOR MAT, PREVENTING THE ACCELERATOR FROM RETURNING TO ITS NORMAL POSITION, AND CAUSES THE CAR TO ACCELERATE OUT OF CONTROL. FORD MOTOR COMPANY HAS BEEN NOTIFIED OF THIS INCIDENT AND PROBLEM VIA BOTH EMAIL AND PHONECON. THE CRC AT FMC INFORMED ME, THE CONSUMER, THAT SINCE THIS WAS AN ISOLATED INCIDENT, NO ACTION OR RECALL INVESTIGATION WOULD BE TAKEN. I FEEL THIS INCIDENT IS A SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERN, HAVING THE ISSUE HAPPEN TO ME ON AT LEAST A HALF A DOZEN OCCASIONS. FORTUNATELY, I HAVE A CALM HEAD AND KNOW THE PROPER SOLUTION TO RESOLVE THE ISSUE WAS TO PLACE THE CAR IN NEUTRAL, WHICH CAUSES THE ENGINE TO REV TO ITS LIMITER, AND SLIDE THE FLOORMAT OUT FROM UNDER THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. I FEEL I AM THE EXCEPTION TO THE NORM OF PEOPLES, IN THAT I DID REACT APPROPRIATELY OTHERS WOULD PROBABLY NOT BE SO CALM AND SMART IN THE SITUATION. FORDS RESPONSE TO MY CLEAR SAFETY CONCERN IS DISTURBING AND APPALLING. I FEEL THE ONLY REASON THIS HAS BEEN AN ISOLATED INCIDENT IS DUE TO THE FACT THAT THERE ARE PROBABLY NOT MANY OF THESE PARTICULAR MODELS OUT THERE THAT HAVE THE USE/MILEAGE ON IT,. BEING THAT IT IS SUCH A NEW VEHICLE... IN MY OPINION, THIS PROBLEM WILL OCCUR IN THE FUTURE, WITH THE RESULTING SERIOUS INJURY OF ANOTHER INDIVIDUAL... I RECOMMEND SOMEONE INVESTIGATE THIS ISSUE.... EMAIL WITH FMC CRC, STATING CASE NUMBER, CAN BE FURNISHED UPON REQUEST. *TR
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
WHEN DRIVING MY CAR I HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN 2 WRECKS BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM WHEN TRYING TO STOP QUICKLY THE CAR DOES NOT STOP THE TRACTION LIGHT COMES ON AND THE CAR CONTINUES TO ROLL. I HAD A FRONT END COLLISION AND MY AIR BAGS NEVER DEPLOYED I WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 35-40 MPH. I BOUGHT THE CAR FROM JD BYRIDER.THIS IS NOT THE FIRST TIME THIS CAR HAS DONE THIS MEANING STOPPING BUT THE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT THIS IS THE FIRST TIME. I HAD MY KIDS AND GRANDKIDS IN THE CAR ON EACH TIME THIS HAPPENED AND I FILL IF I CONTINUE DRIVING THIS CAR WITH THESE PROBLEMS SOMETHING SERIOUS IS GOING TO HAPPPEN NEXT TIME.
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 FORD TAURUS X. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH IN REVERSE, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY AND CRASHED INTO THE NEIGHBORS HOUSE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE DRIVER DID NOT SUSTAIN ANY INJURIES AND NO MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS REQUIRED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 108,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Heating & air conditioning
Reports naming the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 FORD TAURUS X. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FUSE HEAT SENSOR FAILED AND SPONTANEOUSLY CAUSED THE SEAT TO CATCH FIRE. ALL OF THE COMPONENTS THAT OPERATE THE SEAT HEATER FAILED. THERE WAS A HOLE THE SIZE OF A FIST THAT BURNED THROUGH THE SEAT. FORD MOTOR COMPANY STATED THAT THIS WAS A MANUFACTURER DEFECT. THEY FURTHER STATED THAT THEY WOULD REPLACE THE SEAT UNDER WARRANTY AND THAT IF THE CONTACT WANTED ANOTHER VEHICLE, IT WOULD HAVE TO CATCH FIRE TWO MORE TIMES TO QUALIFY FOR THE LEMON LAW. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE HIMSELF. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. HIS WIFE WAS PROTECTED FROM THE FLAMES BY HER COAT AND A SEAT PILLOW. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS LESS THAN 1,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 2,000. UPDATED 01-11-08. *KB
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .