2014 Ford Taurus used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Fuel pump failure57 owner complaints, usually around 82,000 miles

  Watch for fuel smells, hard starting and the check engine light, and make sure the fuel gauge works.

• Engine stalls while driving28 owner complaints, usually around 83,577 miles

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Loss of power steering26 owner complaints, usually around 73,000 miles, owners paid about $1,822

  Turn the wheel from lock to lock while parked and on the road: it should be smooth, with no clunks, stiffness or warning lights.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Power trainRecall number 20V692000, Nov 10, 2020
• SuspensionRecall number 20V072000, Feb 10, 2020
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 16V621000, Aug 25, 2016
• Power trainRecall number 14V393000, Jul 2, 2014
• Exterior lightingRecall number 14V285000, May 29, 2014

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Oil leak from the turbocharger oil supply or return tubes, O-rings or 6.7L pedestal gasketSep 25, 2020
• Ssm 48619Mar 9, 2020
• For Ford and Lincoln vehicles that require positive or negative battery terminal replacement, it is not...Aug 7, 2019
• Inoperative or intermittent HVAC blower motor function at various fan speed settingsJul 2, 2019
• Ssm 47948 - 2010-2019Apr 26, 2019
• For 2010-2019 vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines, when diagnosing and/or replacing turbo related...Nov 14, 2018

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.