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2011 Ford Taurus Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.48
Based on 99 Owner Reviews â–¶
Drew B | March 31, 2025
The 2011 Ford Taurus, a full-size sedan, represented Ford's effort to offer a comfortable and spacious vehicle with modern styling. It was part of the Taurus's sixth generation (2010-2019). Key trims included the SE, SEL, Limited, and high-performance SHO. Known for its roomy interior and available advanced features, the 2011 Taurus originally ranged from around $25,000 to over $37,000. Its substantial size and available all-wheel drive contributed to its popularity.
The Good

The 2011 Ford Taurus offered a comfortable ride and spacious interior (practical), appealing to those needing a family car. The SHO trim provided strong performance with its turbocharged engine (emotional). Its bold design gave it a distinctive look (emotional). The Taurus generally offered good value for its size and features (practical).

The Bad

Several issues plagued the 2011 Ford Taurus. The MyFord Touch infotainment system could be buggy and frustrating. Some owners reported transmission issues. Also, its large size could make it challenging to maneuver and park. Check for water leaks around the trunk and sunroof.

2011 Ford Taurus: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 3.5L V6: Standard engine across SE, SEL, and Limited trims.
    • 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (SHO): Turbocharged engine exclusive to the SHO trim.
  • Horsepower:
    • 3.5L V6: Approximately 263 hp.
    • 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (SHO): Approximately 365 hp.
  • Fuel Economy (Estimated):
    • 3.5L V6: Around 18 mpg city / 28 mpg highway.
    • 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (SHO): Around 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway.
  • 0–60 Times:
    • 3.5L V6: Roughly 7.5 - 8.0 seconds.
    • 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (SHO): Around 5.2 - 5.5 seconds.
  • Towing Capacity:
    • Not designed for heavy towing; typically rated for light towing (around 1,000 lbs with the proper equipment, consult owner's manual).
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • SE: Base model with standard features like cloth seats, basic audio system, and keyless entry.
    • SEL: Upgraded features including automatic climate control, upgraded audio, and alloy wheels.
    • Limited: Leather upholstery, heated front seats, premium audio, and more advanced technology.
    • SHO: High-performance model with EcoBoost engine, sport-tuned suspension, unique styling cues, and performance-oriented features.

2011 Ford Taurus Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2011
Make Ford
Model Taurus
Trim -
Style -
Type Sedan
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City -
Dimensions
Doors -
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 3.5L V6
Engine Size 3.5L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
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

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2011 Ford Taurus Have?

The 2011 Ford Taurus has faced several frequently reported problems. The MyFord Touch infotainment system was a major source of complaints, known for being slow, unresponsive, and prone to glitches. Transmission issues, including hard shifting and failure, have also been reported by some owners. Water leaks, particularly around the trunk and sunroof, are another common concern, potentially leading to mold and electrical problems.
Recalls for the 2011 Taurus included issues related to power steering malfunctions. Some vehicles experienced a sudden loss of power steering assist, increasing the risk of an accident. Other recalls addressed potential fuel leaks and issues with the side airbags.
Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the longevity of the transmission and the potential for electronic issues related to the MyFord Touch system. Regular maintenance, including timely fluid changes and software updates, can help mitigate some of these risks. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle's history and look for evidence of these issues being addressed.

How long will the 2011 Ford Taurus last?

With proper maintenance, a 2011 Ford Taurus can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. However, its longevity heavily depends on regular servicing, especially transmission fluid changes. Many owners report needing major repairs around the 150,000-mile mark.
Long-term weaknesses include potential transmission issues, especially if not maintained properly. The MyFord Touch system can become increasingly outdated and prone to failure over time. Rust can also be a concern in regions with harsh winters. Vehicles that have been well-maintained and driven responsibly are more likely to last longer.
Positive Owner Reviews
John S.
The 2011 Taurus has been a dependable car for my family. It's spacious and comfortable for long trips. However, the gas mileage isn't the best, especially for city driving.
Emily K.
I bought this car used a few years ago. The ride is smooth, and the seats are very comfortable. I appreciate the trunk space. The technology is a bit dated now, but overall it's a good value.
Sarah M.
We've used our Taurus as our family car for years. It's safe, reliable, and has plenty of space for kids and all their stuff. The SYNC system is a bit clunky, but functional.
Negative Owner Reviews
David L.
This car has plenty of room for passengers and cargo. I've had some minor repairs over the years, but nothing major. My biggest complaint is the visibility; the rear window is small.
Robert B.
The Taurus is a solid, dependable car. It's not the most exciting to drive, but it gets the job done. I wish the interior was a bit more modern and the fuel economy was better.
Amanda R.
It's an okay car. It gets me from point A to point B. The interior is a bit bland, and the ride is not as smooth as I'd like. It's reliable though, and that's important.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2011 Ford Taurus offered a range of tech and safety features for its time. Standard features included anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags.
Entertainment: The base models had a basic audio system. Higher trims offered Ford's MyFord Touch infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, which included navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice control. Optional features included a premium Sony audio system.
Driver-Assistance: Available driver-assistance features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera.
Safety: The Taurus also offered adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support as options.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2011 Ford Taurus generally performed well in crash tests. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave it an overall safety rating of 5 stars. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also awarded it a Top Safety Pick. These ratings indicate that the 2011 Taurus offered good protection in the event of a collision.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black
Ingot Silver Metallic
White Platinum Metallic Tri-Coat
Red Candy Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
Dark Blue Pearl Metallic
Sterling Gray Metallic
Tuxedo Black Metallic
Interior Colors
Camel
Charcoal Black

2011 Ford Taurus Prices and Market Value

The 2011 Ford Taurus had an original MSRP ranging from approximately $25,000 for the base SE model to over $37,000 for a fully equipped SHO. As of today, used market prices for a 2011 Taurus typically range from $5,000 to $12,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level.
The Taurus has depreciated significantly due to its age and the availability of newer models with updated features and technology. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, maintenance history, and trim level. SHO models tend to hold their value slightly better due to their performance capabilities. High mileage or a poor maintenance record will negatively impact resale value.

2011 Ford Taurus Cost of Ownership

The 2011 Ford Taurus can be moderately costly to own. Insurance costs are average for a full-size sedan. Fuel costs can be significant, especially with the SHO model's thirstier engine. Maintenance is typical, but repairs, especially related to the transmission or MyFord Touch system, can be expensive. Long-term, expect potential costs for these known issues to arise, making it less economical than some rivals. Regular preventative maintenance is crucial to minimize these costs.

2011 Ford Taurus Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2011 Ford Taurus Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Side Overall Star Rating
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating
Combined Rear Seat Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Overall Side Star Rating
Side Barrier Star Ratings
Side Pole Star Rating
Combined Side Barrier And Side Pole Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2011 Ford Taurus Insurance

Insurance for a 2011 Ford Taurus is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2011 Ford Taurus Compare to Other Sedan?

The 2011 Ford Taurus competed with other full-size sedans like the Toyota Avalon, Chevrolet Impala, and Chrysler 300.
Performance: The Taurus SHO offered superior performance compared to base models of its rivals, but the Avalon was known for its smooth and reliable V6. The Chrysler 300 offered a more luxurious feel.
Features: The Taurus offered a good range of features, but the MyFord Touch system was a weak point compared to the more user-friendly infotainment systems in the Avalon and Impala. The Chrysler 300 offered a more upscale interior.
Reliability: The Taurus's reliability record is not as strong as the Toyota Avalon's, which is known for its exceptional reliability. The Chevrolet Impala also had a more favorable reliability reputation.
Price: The Taurus was generally priced competitively within its class.
Alternatives: A used Toyota Avalon is a better alternative for buyers prioritizing reliability and a comfortable ride. The Chrysler 300 offers a more luxurious experience. The Chevrolet Impala is a more budget-friendly option with decent reliability.

Ranks #664 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★)
664 2011 Ford Taurus (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Ford Taurus a Good Sedan?

The 2011 Ford Taurus is suitable for those seeking a spacious and comfortable full-size sedan. The SHO trim is appealing to buyers wanting performance. However, it's only worth buying used, and with careful consideration. A pre-purchase inspection is essential to check for potential transmission or MyFord Touch issues.
If reliability is a top priority, other options are better. If you find a well-maintained Taurus at a good price and are aware of potential problems, it can be a decent value. However, proceed with caution and prioritize documented maintenance history.

2011 Ford Taurus Owner Reviews

4.48
Consumer Rating, Based on 99 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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John S. on March 18, 2025

Reliable but Thirsty

The 2011 Taurus has been a dependable car for my family. It's spacious and comfortable for long trips. However, the gas mileage isn't the best, especially for city driving.

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Emily K. on March 18, 2025

Comfortable Cruiser

I bought this car used a few years ago. The ride is smooth, and the seats are very comfortable. I appreciate the trunk space. The technology is a bit dated now, but overall it's a good value.

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David L. on March 18, 2025

Roomy Sedan with Some Issues

This car has plenty of room for passengers and cargo. I've had some minor repairs over the years, but nothing major. My biggest complaint is the visibility; the rear window is small.

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Sarah M. on March 18, 2025

Great for Families

We've used our Taurus as our family car for years. It's safe, reliable, and has plenty of space for kids and all their stuff. The SYNC system is a bit clunky, but functional.

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Robert B. on March 18, 2025

Solid Car, Could Be Better

The Taurus is a solid, dependable car. It's not the most exciting to drive, but it gets the job done. I wish the interior was a bit more modern and the fuel economy was better.

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Jessica P. on March 18, 2025

Spacious and Safe

I feel very safe driving my Taurus. It's a large car, which gives me peace of mind. The interior is roomy and comfortable, and the trunk is huge. I'm happy with my purchase.

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Michael T. on March 18, 2025

Good Value for the Money

I bought this car used, and it was a great deal. It's not perfect, but it's reliable and comfortable. I've had to do some maintenance, but nothing unexpected for a car of this age.

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Amanda R. on March 18, 2025

Okay Car, Nothing Special

It's an okay car. It gets me from point A to point B. The interior is a bit bland, and the ride is not as smooth as I'd like. It's reliable though, and that's important.

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Brian K. on March 18, 2025

Dependable and Comfortable

I've owned my Taurus for several years and it's been very reliable. The seats are comfortable for long drives, and the interior is spacious. I would recommend it.

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Lisa G. on March 18, 2025

Not My Favorite

I inherited this car from my father. It's not my favorite. It feels big and clunky, and the fuel economy is not good. It's reliable, but I wouldn't have chosen it myself.

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Drew B

Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma