2008 Ford Taurus: what breaks, and at what mileage
What breaks on the 2008 Ford Taurus
On the 2008 Ford Taurus, the failure owners report most often is other powertrain problem, and the reports cluster around 80,000 miles. The earliest to appear is steering rack, gear or tie rod failure, reported by a median of 40,000 miles. Overall it scores 75 out of 100, severe risk for a 2008.
Severe risk for a 2008 — 36th riskiest of the 356 2008 vehicles we can rate. 240 owner reports; fleet size estimated from this year's own recall paperwork.
What breaks on the 2008 Ford Taurus
Owners have reported 42 named failure modes on the 2008 Ford Taurus, and the three most-reported carry 33% of everything filed, which is an unusually even spread for one model year.
Other powertrain problem leads with 31 reports, about 585 per 1,000 vehicles and with the middle half of reports between 34k to 102,500 miles.
Other speed control problem follows with 27 reports, usually reported between 26k to 95,000 miles.
Steering rack, gear or tie rod failure follows with 22 reports, usually reported between 36k to 75,000 miles.
By system, the reports fall mostly into transmission (38), steering (37) and adas (34).
At what mileage it happens
219 of the reports on the 2008 Ford Taurus came with an odometer reading, and half of those were filed before 79,000 miles.
Cumulatively, 37% by 50,000 miles, 71% by 100,000 miles and 90% by 150,000 miles of the dated reports had been filed, with 3 filed above the top of the chart.
The busiest stretch is between 80,000 and 90,000 miles, which alone holds 13% of the dated reports.
24% of the dated reports were filed below 36,000 miles.
In the order they tend to show up: steering rack, gear or tie rod failure around 41k, other speed control problem around 53k, other steering problem around 55k and other engine problem around 58k.
Tick median reported mileage Solid middle half of reports Faint 10th to 90th percentile Colour how bad the failure is when it happens
Showing the 12 most-reported failure modes of 42. The full list is in the table below.
How reports accumulate
Every report with an odometer reading, cumulative, from 0 to 200,000 miles. A further 3 reports came in above that, which is why the line stops short of the top. A curve that climbs early is a car with early problems, whatever its total.
- Line share of reports filed by that mileage
- Dashed the median reported mileage
Severity, and what it costs
Across the named modes, 23 mention a crash, 10 a fire and 6 an injury. Those are the words owners used in their own complaints, and NHTSA does not verify them, but they are the closest thing in this data to a measure of what a failure actually did.
The average severity weight across every report on this year is 5.28, where a stalled engine or a failed airbag weighs many times more than a rattling trim panel, and a figure this high means the reports are dominated by failures with safety consequences rather than annoyances. The weighting is set out in full on the methodology page.
What the top failures cost to put right, as editorial estimates for an independent US shop rather than figures from NHTSA: other powertrain problem at $400–$4,500, other speed control problem at $250–$2,000, steering rack, gear or tie rod failure at $700–$2,600 and other engine problem at $300–$4,000. Dealer labour, a seized bolt or a part that is no longer made can push any of these past the top of its range.
28% of the reports on this year sit in the engine, transmission, drivetrain or cooling systems — the four where a repair bill is usually four figures.
Every reported failure mode
| Failure mode | System | Reports | With reading | 25th | Median | 75th | Per 1,000 | Typical repair | Severity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Other powertrain problem | transmission | 31 | 31 | 34k | 80k | 102k | 584.9 | $400–$4,500 | High |
| Other speed control problem | adas | 27 | 27 | 26k | 53k | 96k | 509.4 | $250–$2,000 | Critical |
| Steering rack, gear or tie rod failure | steering | 22 | 20 | 36k | 41k | 74k | 415.1 | $700–$2,600 | High |
| Other engine problem | engine | 17 | 15 | 33k | 58k | 84k | 320.8 | $300–$4,000 | High |
| Other steering problem | steering | 12 | 12 | 35k | 55k | 85k | 226.4 | $350–$2,400 | High |
| Control module (ECM/PCM/BCM) failure | electrical | 11 | 11 | 89k | 96k | 133k | 207.5 | $700–$3,000 | High |
| Other brake problem | brakes | 10 | 9 | 23k | 80k | 93k | 188.7 | $300–$1,800 | High |
| Other body or interior problem | body | 7 | 6 | — | 64k | — | 132.1 | $200–$2,000 | Moderate |
| Control arm, ball joint or bushing failure | suspension | 6 | 5 | — | 36k | — | 113.2 | $400–$2,200 | High |
| Other electrical problem | electrical | 6 | 4 | — | 117k | — | 113.2 | $250–$2,000 | Moderate |
| Complete transmission failure | transmission | 5 | 5 | — | 119k | — | 94.3 | $2,800–$8,000 | Critical |
| Airbag failed to deploy in a crash | airbag | 5 | 5 | — | 140k | — | 94.3 | $1,000–$5,000 | Critical |
| Other fuel system problem | fuel | 5 | 4 | — | 114k | — | 94.3 | $300–$2,200 | High |
| Other driver assistance problem | adas | 5 | 4 | — | 108k | — | 94.3 | $250–$1,800 | High |
| Parking brake failure | brakes | 4 | 4 | — | 79k | — | 75.5 | $250–$1,300 | Moderate |
| Other suspension problem | suspension | 4 | 4 | — | 61k | — | 75.5 | $350–$2,000 | Moderate |
| Airbag warning light or occupant sensor fault | airbag | 3 | 3 | — | 119k | — | 56.6 | $300–$1,600 | High |
| Other wheel or tire problem | wheels | 3 | 1 | — | 20k | — | 56.6 | $200–$1,500 | High |
| Other lighting problem | lighting | 3 | 2 | — | 79k | — | 56.6 | $120–$1,200 | Moderate |
| Timing chain, belt or tensioner failure | engine | 2 | 2 | — | 62k | — | 37.7 | $1,200–$4,500 | Critical |
| Head gasket failure | engine | 2 | 2 | — | 170k | — | 37.7 | $1,400–$4,000 | Critical |
| Misfire or rough idle | engine | 2 | 2 | — | 174k | — | 37.7 | $250–$1,600 | Moderate |
| Radiator or coolant leak | cooling | 2 | 2 | — | 94k | — | 37.7 | $350–$1,900 | High |
| Transmission fluid leak | transmission | 2 | 2 | — | 85k | — | 37.7 | $300–$1,800 | Moderate |
| CV axle or driveshaft failure | drivetrain | 2 | 2 | — | 35k | — | 37.7 | $450–$2,200 | High |
| Fuel pump failure | fuel | 2 | 2 | — | 110k | — | 37.7 | $600–$2,600 | High |
| Wiring harness or short circuit | electrical | 2 | 2 | — | 86k | — | 37.7 | $400–$3,500 | High |
| Premature brake pad or rotor wear | brakes | 2 | 2 | — | 11k | — | 37.7 | $300–$1,400 | Moderate |
| Cruise control failure | adas | 2 | 1 | — | 52k | — | 37.7 | $200–$1,400 | High |
| Loss of power steering | steering | 2 | 2 | — | 68k | — | 37.7 | $600–$2,800 | Critical |
| Strut, shock or spring failure | suspension | 2 | 2 | — | 19k | — | 37.7 | $500–$2,000 | Moderate |
| Air conditioning failure | hvac | 2 | 2 | — | 13k | — | 37.7 | $400–$2,800 | Moderate |
| Tail light, brake light or signal failure | lighting | 2 | 2 | — | 52k | — | 37.7 | $100–$900 | Moderate |
| Stalling while driving | engine | 1 | 1 | — | 46k | — | 18.9 | $300–$2,500 | Critical |
| Fuel injector failure | fuel | 1 | 1 | — | 75k | — | 18.9 | $450–$2,800 | Moderate |
| Fuel leak or fuel odor | fuel | 1 | 1 | — | 62k | — | 18.9 | $300–$2,500 | Critical |
| Ignition switch, key fob or immobilizer failure | electrical | 1 | 1 | — | 86k | — | 18.9 | $250–$1,500 | High |
| Seat belt or retractor failure | airbag | 1 | 1 | — | 27k | — | 18.9 | $200–$900 | High |
| Steering column or shaft failure | steering | 1 | 1 | — | 15k | — | 18.9 | $600–$2,500 | Critical |
| Tire pressure monitor failure | wheels | 1 | 1 | — | 165k | — | 18.9 | $80–$600 | Low |
| Rust or structural corrosion | body | 1 | 1 | — | 90k | — | 18.9 | $500–$6,000 | High |
| Other visibility problem | glass | 1 | 0 | — | — | — | 18.9 | $150–$1,400 | Moderate |
| Unclassified problem | other | 17 | 12 | 80k | 124k | 148k | 320.8 | — | Moderate |
Rate per 1,000 uses a fleet-size estimate derived from recall paperwork for this exact model year. It is a lower bound. Repair costs are typical independent-shop ranges for the failure, not figures from these reports.
How often, against how many were built
Scaled by an estimate of how many of these cars exist, the 2008 Ford Taurus draws about 4,528 per 1,000 vehicles, which puts it in the 100th percentile of complaint rates among 2008 vehicles we can rate.
That denominator is the weakest number on the page and it is fair to say so plainly. Rate per 1,000 uses a fleet-size estimate derived from recall paperwork for this exact model year. It is a lower bound.
The working figure is 53 vehicles. If the true number is twice that, every rate on this page is half what it says; the ranking against other 2008 vehicles, which is what the risk score uses, is far more robust than the rate itself.
What owners wrote
Verbatim from NHTSA complaint narratives, trimmed for length. The odometer reading is the one the owner gave.
Other powertrain problem
I recently purchased a used 2008 limited taurus had 24000 miles and currently has 26,000. When the vehicle is idling in park a loud humming noise comes from the transmission about 95% of the time, brought back to the dealer and the couldn't duplicate the problem. But the car still does it. Ford has been notified. *tr
While driving to work, my 2008 ford taurus' transmission slammed, then all the panel lights lit up and the speedometer reset to zero, staying that way until I was able to pull over. Because I was in the center lane of traffic, on interstate 75, in atlanta, I was not able to move to the far left or right. Though it was approximately 4:30 in the morning on a workday, the traffic was heavy and fast. I was afraid that the car would stop right there but was able to continue to work because I did not do any sudden braking or speed shifting. I kept driving until I got to work, which was the only safe stopping point for me at that time of day and on the path that I was driving. I was unable to drive it again and had to have it towed back to the dealership. The mechanic who worked on it stated that the vehicle was not drivable and had to order a replacement oss sensor. I have my car back but am very nervous about driving it. It still does the slamming(on a small scale) but everytime it does this, I worry. When the initial problem starting, I had ~500 miles left to my warranty. Now I am over the warranty and will have to take it back in for…
Other speed control problem
I bought a 2008 ford taurus in sep 2008. Over the last three weeks, I have had three incidences of engine surge while stopped and the brakes applied. The first two incidences occurred when the car was cold, shortly after leaving my house. The surge today occurred when the engine was hot. The engine surges to about 2000 RPM, no accelerator involved. I have not spoken with the dealer yet but will take the car in for check tomorrow morning. This is a heads up for anyone else having the new ford engine and possibly experiencing the same problem. For a person capable of applying only light brake pressure, the car lurching forward is a real hazard. *tr
Not long after purchase of ford taurus, when stopping at light/sign the engine would stay revved up to 3000+ RPM -- only very firm (two foot) braking kept at stop -- moved to neutral to correct. Had dealer check (7/9/08) and they said they could find no problem. Has happen 3-4 times since. Fortunately, have been aware and could avoid major problem. With recent developments, this car has similar characteristics. *tr
Steering rack, gear or tie rod failure
Tl*the contact owns a 2008 ford taurus. While driving approximately 5 MPH the steering wheel became very stiff then it would not turn at all. The vehicle was shut off and upon restart the steering wheel functioned normally; however, it became difficult to turn at low speeds. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer who stated that it was a known failure but he would have to pay for the repair cost. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who replaced the power steering gear. The failure had not recurred. The failure mileage was 41,000 and the current mileage was 42,814. Updated 8/24/10 *cn the repair shop replaced the rack and pinion. Updated 08/26/10*jb
Tl*the contact owns a 2008 ford taurus. While driving approximately 5 MPH the steering wheel became very stiff then it would not turn at all. The vehicle was shut off and upon restart the steering wheel functioned normally; however, it became difficult to turn at low speeds. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer who stated that it was a known failure but he would have to pay for the repair cost. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who replaced the power steering gear. The failure had not recurred. The failure mileage was 41,000 and the current mileage was 42,814. Updated 8/24/10 *cn the repair shop replaced the rack and pinion. Updated 08/26/10*jb
Recalls on the 2008 model year
NHTSA has issued 1 recall campaign covering the 2008 Ford Taurus, affecting an estimated 53 vehicles. A recall is a different kind of evidence from a complaint: it is the regulator and the manufacturer agreeing that something has to be fixed, and the fix is free for as long as the car exists.
The campaigns cover air bags:frontal. Whether the work was actually done on the car in front of you is a question only the VIN can answer, and the manufacturer or NHTSA will answer it free.
One caution about reading these together: a recall usually raises the complaint count for the same part, because owners who read about it go and file. The mileages stay informative; the counts get noisy.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
695 vehicles 2016-04-26- Defect
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 Ford Flex, 2008 and 2010-2012 Ford Taurus, 2008-2009 Ford Taurus X, 2008 Mercury Sable, 2009 and 2011 Lincoln MKS vehicles. The driver frontal air bag may improperly inflate during second-stage deployment in the event of a high speed crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence
- An improperly inflated air bag increases the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy
- Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the driver's frontal air bag module, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on June 13, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16C06.
Recall work is free at a franchised dealer regardless of the car's age. Check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls before assuming it was done.
How it ranks in the 2008 field
The score at the top of the page, placed among its peers. The zones are the same thresholds the scorer applies, read out of the scorer itself, so the picture and the band word cannot disagree.
Scores are ranked within the model year, never across years, because an older car has had longer to accumulate reports.
- Left fewer and less serious reports
- Right more, or worse
- Marker this vehicle
Where 2008 sits in the model line
Severe risk for a 2008 — 36th riskiest of the 356 2008 vehicles we can rate. Every score on this site is a rank inside its own model year, which is what makes a 2004 and a 2019 comparable at all.
Across the 24 model years of this car that carry enough reports to score, 2019 comes out best at 56 and 2010 worst at 76, with 2008 itself at 75.
If the model year is negotiable, 2019, 2002, 2003, 2001, 1999, 2016, 2012, 2000, 2017, 1998, 2018, 1996, 2014, 2009, 2006, 2015, 2005, 2004, 1997 and 2007 score lower than 2008 by a margin worth acting on. Same body, same engines, different luck — usually a supplier change or a mid-cycle fix, which the complaint data can show but never explain.
Within the 2008–2012 generation specifically, 2012 is the strongest year at 68 and 2010 the weakest at 76.
Scores compare each year against other cars of the same model year, so a low number on an older car is a real result and not an artefact of age.
Shorter is better. Years with too few reports to score are shown without a bar rather than as a zero, because no data is not good news.
Within the 2008-2012 generation, 2012 Ford Taurus scores best at 68 and 2010 Ford Taurus worst at 76.
What to look at before buying one
The mileages below are where the first quarter of reports for each mode had already been filed, which makes them the point at which a fault is worth looking for rather than the point at which it happens: other brake problem from about 23k, other speed control problem from about 26k, other engine problem from about 33k and other powertrain problem from about 34k.
On a 2008 Ford Taurus with more miles than that on it, the useful question to put to a seller or a mechanic is whether other brake problem has been dealt with, and if so with what parts and at whose expense. A car that has already had the repair is in a different position from one that has not.
Treat it as where to point the inspection, not as a prediction. A well-maintained example can sail past every mileage on this page, and a neglected one can fail well before the first of them.
Where these figures stop being useful
240 owner reports; fleet size estimated from this year's own recall paperwork. Every count on this page is therefore a floor: it is the number of owners who went to the trouble of filing with a federal agency, which is a small and self-selected fraction of the owners who had the fault.
Of those 240 reports, 219 carried an odometer reading, so the mileages here describe 91% of the sample rather than all of it. Owners also round: readings pile up on multiples of ten thousand, which is why this site publishes "about 90,000 miles" and not "91,438".
The failure modes are assigned by software reading the owner's own words, which is accurate in bulk and wrong in individual cases. A mode with a handful of reports may contain a misfiled one.
And nothing here predicts what one car will do. These are other people's complaints, filed years apart, on cars maintained by strangers. Read the page as a map of where this model year has previously gone wrong, then have the specific car in front of you inspected.
Questions this page answers
What are the most common problems with the 2008 Ford Taurus?
The most-reported failures are other powertrain problem (31 reports, median 80,000 miles), other speed control problem (27 reports, median 52,500 miles) and steering rack, gear or tie rod failure (22 reports, median 40,000 miles). Counts come from owner complaints filed with NHTSA, which are voluntary, so they show what owners bothered to report rather than every fault that occurred.
At what mileage do 2008 Ford Taurus problems start?
Steering rack, gear or tie rod failure is the earliest failure mode to show up, with a median reported mileage of 40,000 miles and a quarter of reports before 35,000 miles. Across all failure modes on this year, the median report sits at 79,000 miles.
Is the 2008 Ford Taurus reliable?
It scores 75 out of 100 on our risk index, which is severe — 36th riskiest of the 356 2008 vehicles we can rate. The score is a comparison against other 2008 vehicles, not a prediction about any individual car, and it is built from complaint rates, severity and how early failures appear.
Which year of the Ford Taurus is best?
Within the 2008–2012 generation, 2012 scores best at 68 out of 100 and 2010 worst at 76. Same body, same engines, different luck.
Where this comes from. Every figure above is computed from NHTSA owner complaints and recall records for this exact make, model and year. Complaints are voluntary and self-selected, so treat counts as a floor. The methodology page writes out each formula, and the same numbers are available as JSON.
What breaks at my mileage Compare with another car
Source Owner complaints and recall records published by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, model years 1996–2027 Figures rebuilt Published by AtWhatMileage How every figure is computed