The Good
The 2000 Ford Taurus offered a comfortable ride and spacious interior, appealing to practical buyers seeking family transportation. Its affordability and good fuel economy provided excellent value. While not thrilling, the engine was adequate for everyday use. Emotionally, it represented reliable, no-frills transportation, a safe and familiar choice for many.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2000 Ford Taurus included potential transmission issues, particularly with the AX4S automatic. Premature rust, especially in colder climates, was also a concern. The Duratec engine, while more powerful, could experience issues with the timing chain tensioners. Interior plastics were prone to wear and tear. Ensure regular maintenance to mitigate these issues.
2000 Ford Taurus: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.0L Vulcan V6: Most common engine.
- 3.0L Duratec 24V V6: Optional, more powerful engine.
- Horsepower:
- 3.0L Vulcan V6: 155 hp
- 3.0L Duratec 24V V6: 200 hp
- Fuel Economy: (estimated)
- 3.0L Vulcan V6: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- 3.0L Duratec 24V V6: 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 3.0L Vulcan V6: Approximately 10 seconds
- 3.0L Duratec 24V V6: Approximately 8.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing. Very limited if any.
- Trim Level Features:
- LX: Base model. Included standard features like power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio.
- SE: Mid-level trim. Added features such as upgraded cloth upholstery, cruise control, and a cassette player.
- SES: Top-level trim. Included features like alloy wheels, fog lights, a premium sound system, and available leather upholstery.
- Common across trims: Automatic transmission was standard. Front-wheel drive. Safety features included airbags.
2000 Ford Taurus Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2000 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Taurus |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Large Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | CHICAGO |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3328 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 | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2000 Ford Taurus Have?
Engine issues, especially with the Duratec V6, included problems with the timing chain tensioners, leading to engine noise and potential failure if not addressed. Some owners reported issues with the climate control system, specifically the blend door actuator.
Recalls for the 2000 Ford Taurus included issues related to the fuel system and airbag deployment. Long-term reliability concerns centered around the aforementioned transmission and rust issues. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes and rust prevention measures, could help mitigate some of these problems. Checking the vehicle's history for performed recall repairs is highly advisable.
How long will the 2000 Ford Taurus last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included dual front airbags. Side airbags were not widely available. Crash test ratings from the NHTSA generally showed acceptable performance for frontal impacts. Optional features might have included remote keyless entry and power adjustable driver's seat. The technological landscape was significantly different then, so features now considered commonplace were either unavailable or high-end options.
Built-in tech was limited mostly to power windows and locks. There were no built-in navigation or advanced infotainment systems. The entertainment was provided through a basic radio system and possibly cassette or CD player. Driver assistance was basic; and focused on conventional mechanical features instead of advanced electronic assist systems.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2000 Ford Taurus Prices and Market Value
The Taurus experienced significant depreciation due to its mass-market appeal and known reliability issues. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, maintenance records, and the presence of rust. Models with the Duratec engine and fewer reported problems tend to command slightly higher prices. High mileage and cosmetic damage severely impact resale value.
2000 Ford Taurus Cost of Ownership
2000 Ford Taurus Fuel Efficiency
2000 Ford Taurus Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2000 Ford Taurus Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2000 Ford Taurus Compare to Other Sedan?
In terms of price, the Taurus was often more affordable than the Camry and Accord, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. If reliability is a top priority, the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord would be better alternatives, albeit at a higher price point. If looking for a similar alternative at a comparable price, the Chevrolet Malibu or Pontiac Grand Am could be considered, but careful inspection is recommended due to potential reliability issues. The Nissan Altima was another competitor, offering a sportier driving experience than the Taurus but with potentially higher maintenance costs.
Ranks #789 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 789 | 2000 Ford Taurus | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2000 Ford Taurus a Good Sedan?
Focus on finding a well-maintained example, preferably one with the Duratec engine if performance is desired. Pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended. Don't expect luxury or cutting-edge technology; instead, appreciate its simplicity and affordability. It's a decent option if the price is right, and the vehicle is in good condition.
Mike S. on March 18, 2025
Reliable but BasicThis car got me through college. It wasn't fancy, but it was dependable. The gas mileage was decent, and repairs were generally affordable. The interior is pretty spartan, but it served its purpose.
Jessica S. on March 18, 2025
Good Value for the MoneyI bought this car used several years ago. It's been a good, solid vehicle for the price. It's not exciting, but it's practical and gets the job done. I would recommend it for someone on a budget.
David L. on March 18, 2025
Nothing Special, but Gets You ThereIt's a car. It drives. That's about it. The performance is adequate, and the features are basic. I haven't had any major problems with it, but it's not a car I'm particularly attached to.
Karen M. on March 18, 2025
Roomy and ComfortableI appreciate the spacious interior of the Taurus. It's comfortable for long drives, and there's plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The fuel economy could be better, but overall, it's a good family car.
Robert P. on March 18, 2025
Showing Its AgeMy Taurus is starting to show its age. I've had to replace several parts recently, and the ride is not as smooth as it used to be. However, it's still a reliable car, and I plan to keep it running as long as possible.
Susan K. on March 18, 2025
Great First CarThis was my first car, and it was perfect for learning to drive. It's easy to handle, and the visibility is good. I felt safe driving it, and it was very affordable to maintain.
William B. on March 18, 2025
Okay, But Not GreatIt's an okay car, but nothing special. The engine is a bit sluggish, and the handling is not the best. It's reliable enough, but I wouldn't buy another one.
Elizabeth H. on March 18, 2025
Practical and Affordable TransportationIf you need a car to get from point A to point B without breaking the bank, the Taurus is a decent option. It's not luxurious or sporty, but it's a practical and affordable mode of transportation.
Christopher W. on March 18, 2025
Transmission IssuesI've had some issues with the transmission on my Taurus. It seems to be a common problem with this model. Other than that, it's been a fairly reliable car.
Ashley D. on March 18, 2025
Still Running Strong!I can't believe my Taurus is still running after all these years! It's a testament to its durability. I've kept up with the maintenance, and it's been a loyal companion.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.