The 1999 Ford Taurus represents the final year of the fourth generation (1996-1999) of Ford's popular mid-size sedan. Known for its distinctive "oval" styling, it was offered primarily as a four-door sedan, with a wagon variant also available. Key trims included the LX, SE, and the sportier SES. New pricing ranged from approximately $18,000 to $22,000. It stood out as an affordable, spacious, and practical family car, making it a common sight on American roads and a popular fleet vehicle due to its value proposition.
The Good
The 1999 Ford Taurus offered a comfortable, spacious interior and a smooth ride, appealing to families seeking practicality. Its V6 engines provided adequate performance for daily driving, and fuel efficiency was average for its class. As a used car, it represents excellent value, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Its familiar presence and parts availability also contribute to a sense of dependability for many owners.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 1999 Ford Taurus primarily include common automatic transmission failures, particularly with the AX4N/AX4S units. The 3.0L "Vulcan" V6 engine is susceptible to head gasket issues, and power steering pump leaks are frequent. Owners also report electrical gremlins and premature wear of suspension components, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection crucial.
1999 Ford Taurus: Quick Overview
Here is a summary of key specifications for the 1999 Ford Taurus:
- Engine Options:
- 3.0-liter OHV "Vulcan" V6: The standard engine, known for its robustness but also prone to head gasket issues.
- 3.0-liter DOHC "Duratec" V6: An optional, more powerful engine, typically found in higher trims like the SES.
- Horsepower:
- Vulcan V6: Approximately 155 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque.
- Duratec V6: Approximately 200 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque.
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- Vulcan V6: Roughly 19 MPG city / 27 MPG highway.
- Duratec V6: Roughly 18 MPG city / 25 MPG highway.
- 0-60 MPH Times:
- Vulcan V6: Approximately 9.0-10.0 seconds.
- Duratec V6: Approximately 7.5-8.5 seconds, offering a noticeably quicker acceleration.
- Towing Capacity:
- Generally not designed for heavy towing. With proper equipment and engine, it could manage about 1,000 to 2,000 pounds, but it's rarely recommended as a primary tow vehicle.
- Transmission:
- All models came with a 4-speed automatic transmission (AX4S or AX4N), a common point of concern for reliability.
- Trim-Level Features:
- LX: The base model, featuring air conditioning, AM/FM stereo, power steering, and dual front airbags. It often had manual windows and locks as standard, with power options available.
- SE: A step up, adding power windows and door locks, cruise control, a cassette player, and often better interior materials. Alloy wheels were an option.
- SES: The sportier trim, typically including the Duratec V6 engine, unique exterior styling cues (like fog lights and a rear spoiler), bucket seats with a floor-mounted shifter, and upgraded audio. It often included a sport-tuned suspension.
- SEL: (Less common for 1999, more so for later years but can be found) A more luxurious trim, often with leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and other comfort features.
- Body Style: 4-door Sedan, 4-door Wagon (less common for 1999 model year).
- Seating Capacity: 5-6 passengers (depending on front bench/bucket seats).
1999 Ford Taurus Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1999 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Taurus |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | CHICAGO |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3480 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.0 6 |
| Engine Size | 3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1999 Ford Taurus Have?
The 1999 Ford Taurus, while a popular and affordable vehicle, is plagued by several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns, particularly centered around its powertrain. The most notorious issue is the automatic transmission (AX4N/AX4S) failure. Owners commonly experience rough shifting, slipping gears, delayed engagement, or complete transmission failure, often requiring costly rebuilds or replacements. This issue was prevalent across the fourth generation and significantly impacts the vehicle's long-term durability.
Another major concern, especially for the 3.0-liter OHV "Vulcan" V6 engine, is head gasket failure. This can lead to coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and oil contamination, demanding expensive repairs that often exceed the car's market value. While the 3.0L DOHC "Duratec" V6 is generally more robust, it's not entirely immune to issues.
Power steering system leaks are also very common, with fluid often escaping from the pump, hoses, or rack and pinion. Owners frequently report having to top up power steering fluid. The cooling system is another area of concern, with radiator leaks, water pump failures, and thermostat malfunctions contributing to overheating problems.
Electrical gremlins are not uncommon, including issues with instrument cluster illumination, power window motors, door lock actuators, and stereo functionalities. Suspension components like control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and strut mounts tend to wear out over time, leading to clunks, rattles, and compromised handling.
Regarding recalls, the 1999 Ford Taurus was part of broader Ford recalls. A significant recall (NHTSA Campaign ID: 05V396000 and subsequent actions) involved the cruise control deactivation switch, which could short circuit and potentially lead to an under-hood fire, even when the vehicle was turned off. Owners were advised to have this switch inspected and, if necessary, disconnected or replaced. Other minor recalls might have addressed specific component issues, but the cruise control switch remains the most critical safety recall to verify.
In summary, while many 1999 Tauruses provided reliable transportation for years, potential buyers must be aware of the high risk of transmission and head gasket failures, which can turn an otherwise affordable car into a significant financial burden.
Another major concern, especially for the 3.0-liter OHV "Vulcan" V6 engine, is head gasket failure. This can lead to coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and oil contamination, demanding expensive repairs that often exceed the car's market value. While the 3.0L DOHC "Duratec" V6 is generally more robust, it's not entirely immune to issues.
Power steering system leaks are also very common, with fluid often escaping from the pump, hoses, or rack and pinion. Owners frequently report having to top up power steering fluid. The cooling system is another area of concern, with radiator leaks, water pump failures, and thermostat malfunctions contributing to overheating problems.
Electrical gremlins are not uncommon, including issues with instrument cluster illumination, power window motors, door lock actuators, and stereo functionalities. Suspension components like control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and strut mounts tend to wear out over time, leading to clunks, rattles, and compromised handling.
Regarding recalls, the 1999 Ford Taurus was part of broader Ford recalls. A significant recall (NHTSA Campaign ID: 05V396000 and subsequent actions) involved the cruise control deactivation switch, which could short circuit and potentially lead to an under-hood fire, even when the vehicle was turned off. Owners were advised to have this switch inspected and, if necessary, disconnected or replaced. Other minor recalls might have addressed specific component issues, but the cruise control switch remains the most critical safety recall to verify.
In summary, while many 1999 Tauruses provided reliable transportation for years, potential buyers must be aware of the high risk of transmission and head gasket failures, which can turn an otherwise affordable car into a significant financial burden.
How long will the 1999 Ford Taurus last?
With diligent maintenance, a 1999 Ford Taurus can reasonably achieve 150,000 to 200,000 miles, and some well-cared-for examples may even surpass 250,000 miles, though often requiring significant repairs along the way. The core engine, particularly the Vulcan V6 if its head gasket issues are addressed proactively, demonstrates decent long-term durability. However, the Achilles' heel is undeniably the automatic transmission; failure is a common event between 100,000 and 150,000 miles, and often costs more than the car's value to repair.
Over time, owners should anticipate replacing worn suspension components, addressing power steering leaks, and battling various electrical issues. Rust can also become a concern in areas exposed to road salt, particularly on subframes and suspension mounting points. While the body panels generally hold up well, interior plastics and fabrics may show considerable wear and tear. Long-term durability is a mixed bag, with inexpensive routine upkeep but a high risk of costly "big ticket" repairs.
Over time, owners should anticipate replacing worn suspension components, addressing power steering leaks, and battling various electrical issues. Rust can also become a concern in areas exposed to road salt, particularly on subframes and suspension mounting points. While the body panels generally hold up well, interior plastics and fabrics may show considerable wear and tear. Long-term durability is a mixed bag, with inexpensive routine upkeep but a high risk of costly "big ticket" repairs.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1999 Ford Taurus, being a late 90s vehicle, features relatively basic built-in technology compared to modern cars. The dashboard primarily consists of analog gauges for speed, RPM, fuel, and temperature. Higher trim levels might include a basic trip computer with rudimentary information. Climate control was typically manual, with automatic climate control being an available option on premium trims.
For entertainment, the standard offering was an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player. An optional single-disc CD player or a multi-disc CD changer could be specified. Connectivity was non-existent by today's standards; there was no Bluetooth, USB, or auxiliary inputs. The sound system was functional but not high-fidelity, aiming for mass-market appeal.
Driver-assistance features were minimal. Cruise control was an optional or standard feature on most trims. Power steering was standard, and anti-lock brakes (ABS) were an available option, often bundled with traction control on higher-end models. There were no advanced systems like stability control, blind-spot monitoring, parking sensors, or integrated navigation, which were either not yet developed or reserved for much more luxurious vehicles.
In terms of safety, the 1999 Taurus came standard with dual front airbags for the driver and passenger. Front seatbelt pretensioners were also included to help secure occupants during a collision. Child safety seat anchors (LATCH system) began to appear in vehicles around this time, offering better security for child restraints. Optional anti-lock brakes provided enhanced stopping power and control in emergency braking situations.
Crash-test ratings for the 1999 Ford Taurus revealed mixed results. From the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Taurus sedan received 4 out of 5 stars for both driver and passenger frontal crash protection. For side-impact protection, it earned 3 out of 5 stars for both front and rear seat occupants. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducted a moderate overlap front test on the 1999 Taurus and rated it as "Poor," which was a concerning outcome. This rating indicated significant structural deformation and a higher risk of injury to the driver's left lower leg and foot in that specific type of frontal collision, highlighting a notable weakness in its passive safety design for certain impacts.
For entertainment, the standard offering was an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player. An optional single-disc CD player or a multi-disc CD changer could be specified. Connectivity was non-existent by today's standards; there was no Bluetooth, USB, or auxiliary inputs. The sound system was functional but not high-fidelity, aiming for mass-market appeal.
Driver-assistance features were minimal. Cruise control was an optional or standard feature on most trims. Power steering was standard, and anti-lock brakes (ABS) were an available option, often bundled with traction control on higher-end models. There were no advanced systems like stability control, blind-spot monitoring, parking sensors, or integrated navigation, which were either not yet developed or reserved for much more luxurious vehicles.
In terms of safety, the 1999 Taurus came standard with dual front airbags for the driver and passenger. Front seatbelt pretensioners were also included to help secure occupants during a collision. Child safety seat anchors (LATCH system) began to appear in vehicles around this time, offering better security for child restraints. Optional anti-lock brakes provided enhanced stopping power and control in emergency braking situations.
Crash-test ratings for the 1999 Ford Taurus revealed mixed results. From the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Taurus sedan received 4 out of 5 stars for both driver and passenger frontal crash protection. For side-impact protection, it earned 3 out of 5 stars for both front and rear seat occupants. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducted a moderate overlap front test on the 1999 Taurus and rated it as "Poor," which was a concerning outcome. This rating indicated significant structural deformation and a higher risk of injury to the driver's left lower leg and foot in that specific type of frontal collision, highlighting a notable weakness in its passive safety design for certain impacts.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1999 Ford Taurus Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1999 Ford Taurus LX typically started around $18,000, with the SE trim closer to $20,000, and the sportier SES reaching up to $22,000, before options. Fast forward to today, and the current used market prices are extremely low, often ranging from approximately $1,000 to $3,000, largely dependent on condition, mileage, and geographical location. This represents a massive depreciation, which is characteristic of high-volume, mass-market sedans of its era, especially those with known long-term reliability concerns like the Taurus's transmission.
Factors severely affecting its resale value now include high mileage, the presence of common mechanical issues (especially transmission or head gasket problems), overall cosmetic condition (rust, interior wear), and a lack of documented maintenance history. While a very well-preserved or recently serviced example might fetch slightly more, the Taurus has largely reached the bottom of its depreciation curve, making it a very cheap purchase for basic transportation.
Factors severely affecting its resale value now include high mileage, the presence of common mechanical issues (especially transmission or head gasket problems), overall cosmetic condition (rust, interior wear), and a lack of documented maintenance history. While a very well-preserved or recently serviced example might fetch slightly more, the Taurus has largely reached the bottom of its depreciation curve, making it a very cheap purchase for basic transportation.
1999 Ford Taurus Cost of Ownership
Overall, the 1999 Ford Taurus presents a mixed bag regarding long-term ownership costs. Insurance is generally very economical due to its age, low value, and common parts availability. Fuel costs are average for a V6 sedan of its era, using regular unleaded fuel, making it neither particularly efficient nor a gas guzzler by today's standards. Routine maintenance (oil changes, filters) is quite affordable thanks to widespread parts and simple mechanics. However, repair costs can be a significant gamble. While many common parts are inexpensive, major issues like transmission failure or head gasket replacement can quickly exceed the vehicle's market value, making it uneconomical to repair. Therefore, it can be economical if you avoid major failures, but potentially costly if you encounter them, making it a "budget roulette" ownership experience.
1999 Ford Taurus Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
16 gallons
City Mileage
16 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
24 miles/gallon
1999 Ford Taurus Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1999 Ford Taurus Insurance
Insurance for a 1999 Ford Taurus is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1999 Ford Taurus Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1999 Ford Taurus competed in a crowded mid-size sedan segment against formidable rivals such as the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Chevrolet Malibu, and Dodge Intrepid.
In terms of performance, the Taurus with its optional 3.0L Duratec V6 was competitive, offering similar acceleration to V6 variants of the Accord and Camry. The standard 3.0L Vulcan V6 was adequate but less spirited, aligning more with the Chevrolet Malibu's V6 options. None were true performance cars, but offered sufficient power for daily driving and highway cruising.
Regarding features, the Taurus offered a spacious interior and a good array of standard amenities for its price point, comparable to the Malibu and Intrepid. However, the Accord and Camry often boasted slightly more refined interiors, superior build quality, and a general perception of higher fit and finish, though they might have been slightly pricier when new for equivalent features.
Reliability is where the 1999 Ford Taurus often fell short against its Japanese competitors. Its notorious automatic transmission issues (AX4N/AX4S) and the head gasket concerns of the Vulcan V6 were significant drawbacks. The Honda Accord (5th/6th generation) and Toyota Camry (4th generation) from this era are legendary for their long-term reliability and lower incidence of major mechanical failures, making them far more dependable in the long run. The Chevrolet Malibu and Dodge Intrepid also had their own reliability quirks, but the Taurus's transmission problems were particularly widespread and costly.
When it came to price, the Taurus was generally more affordable than the Accord and Camry when new, and its depreciation has been much steeper. On the used market today, the Taurus is significantly cheaper than comparable Accord or Camry models from the same year, making it a budget-friendly option if one is willing to accept the higher risk of repairs.
Recommended Alternatives:
In terms of performance, the Taurus with its optional 3.0L Duratec V6 was competitive, offering similar acceleration to V6 variants of the Accord and Camry. The standard 3.0L Vulcan V6 was adequate but less spirited, aligning more with the Chevrolet Malibu's V6 options. None were true performance cars, but offered sufficient power for daily driving and highway cruising.
Regarding features, the Taurus offered a spacious interior and a good array of standard amenities for its price point, comparable to the Malibu and Intrepid. However, the Accord and Camry often boasted slightly more refined interiors, superior build quality, and a general perception of higher fit and finish, though they might have been slightly pricier when new for equivalent features.
Reliability is where the 1999 Ford Taurus often fell short against its Japanese competitors. Its notorious automatic transmission issues (AX4N/AX4S) and the head gasket concerns of the Vulcan V6 were significant drawbacks. The Honda Accord (5th/6th generation) and Toyota Camry (4th generation) from this era are legendary for their long-term reliability and lower incidence of major mechanical failures, making them far more dependable in the long run. The Chevrolet Malibu and Dodge Intrepid also had their own reliability quirks, but the Taurus's transmission problems were particularly widespread and costly.
When it came to price, the Taurus was generally more affordable than the Accord and Camry when new, and its depreciation has been much steeper. On the used market today, the Taurus is significantly cheaper than comparable Accord or Camry models from the same year, making it a budget-friendly option if one is willing to accept the higher risk of repairs.
Recommended Alternatives:
- Better (Reliability/Resale): For superior long-term reliability, better build quality, and significantly lower risk of major mechanical issues, the 1998-2002 Honda Accord or the 1997-2001 Toyota Camry are excellent alternatives. They command higher used prices but generally offer a more trouble-free ownership experience.
- Similar (Budget/Class): If budget is paramount and you're open to similar risks, the 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu or the 1998-2004 Dodge Intrepid are comparable in terms of used price and general characteristics. However, they also come with their own sets of common problems, so careful inspection is still advised.
Final Verdict: Is the 1999 Ford Taurus a Good Sedan?
The 1999 Ford Taurus is an ideal vehicle for the extremely budget-conscious buyer, young drivers needing a cheap first car, or anyone requiring basic, spacious transportation without a significant upfront investment. Its exceptionally low used market price makes it an attractive "beater" or secondary vehicle.
Is it worth buying? Yes, but with substantial caveats. It is definitely only worth considering as a used vehicle. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is absolutely critical, with particular attention paid to the automatic transmission, engine (especially the Vulcan V6 for head gaskets), and power steering system. Look for examples with detailed maintenance records and prioritize the SES trim with the Duratec V6 if possible, as it offers better performance and potentially fewer head gasket worries. Be prepared for potential repairs, viewing it as a short-term solution or a car for which you have some mechanical aptitude to address common issues. It offers tremendous value per dollar if you find a well-maintained example, but can quickly become a money pit if neglected.
Is it worth buying? Yes, but with substantial caveats. It is definitely only worth considering as a used vehicle. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is absolutely critical, with particular attention paid to the automatic transmission, engine (especially the Vulcan V6 for head gaskets), and power steering system. Look for examples with detailed maintenance records and prioritize the SES trim with the Duratec V6 if possible, as it offers better performance and potentially fewer head gasket worries. Be prepared for potential repairs, viewing it as a short-term solution or a car for which you have some mechanical aptitude to address common issues. It offers tremendous value per dollar if you find a well-maintained example, but can quickly become a money pit if neglected.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.