The Good
The 2012 Ford Taurus offers a blend of advantages. Practically, it boasts a spacious interior, a large trunk, and available all-wheel drive for enhanced safety. The SHO model delivers impressive performance for driving enthusiasts. Comfort is a strong suit, with a smooth ride and quiet cabin. The design is relatively modern, and while not the most efficient, it offers decent fuel economy for its size. Ultimately, it provides good value for a large sedan.
The Bad
The 2012 Ford Taurus has some known weaknesses. The large size can make it challenging to maneuver and park in tight spaces. The rear visibility is limited. Some owners have reported issues with the MyFord Touch infotainment system (if equipped). The fuel economy, while decent, isn't class-leading, and some find the interior design somewhat dated. Early models may exhibit water pump issues, so inspect thoroughly.
2012 Ford Taurus: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.5L V6 (Standard): 263 hp
- 2.0L EcoBoost I4 (Optional): 240 hp
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (SHO): 365 hp
- Horsepower: Ranging from 240 hp to 365 hp depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 3.5L V6: 19 city / 29 highway mpg
- 2.0L EcoBoost I4: 22 city / 32 highway mpg
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (SHO): 17 city / 25 highway mpg
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 3.5L V6: Around 7.5 seconds
- 2.0L EcoBoost I4: Around 8 seconds
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (SHO): Around 5.2 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
- Trim Level Features:
- SE: Cloth seats, keyless entry, basic audio system, automatic headlights.
- SEL: Upgraded cloth seats, dual-zone climate control, parking sensors, MyFord Touch system (optional).
- Limited: Leather seats, heated and cooled front seats, premium audio system, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert.
- SHO: Upgraded suspension, sport seats, unique styling cues, performance-tuned engine and transmission, all-wheel drive.
2012 Ford Taurus Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Taurus |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | - |
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
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Ford Taurus Have?
Transmission issues, such as harsh shifting or slipping, have also been reported, though less frequently. Suspension components, like struts and control arms, may require replacement over time due to wear and tear. Premature brake wear is another common concern. Recalls for the 2012 Taurus have included issues related to the fuel pump and potential fuel leakage, as well as concerns about the side airbags. Long-term reliability can be affected by these issues, and preventative maintenance, especially regarding the cooling system and transmission, is crucial. It's wise to check the vehicle history for any prior repairs or recalls before purchasing a used 2012 Taurus. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
How long will the 2012 Ford Taurus last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features, available on higher trims, included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Safety features encompassed antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags. Optional features included a rearview camera and parking sensors. The 2012 Ford Taurus received generally positive crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). It's important to note that the MyFord Touch system was often criticized for its usability and responsiveness, a potential drawback for some buyers. The availability of these features varied depending on the trim level and optional packages selected.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2012 Ford Taurus Prices and Market Value
2012 Ford Taurus Cost of Ownership
2012 Ford Taurus Fuel Efficiency
2012 Ford Taurus Safety Rating
NHTSA
2012 Ford Taurus Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Ford Taurus Compare to Other Sedan?
Regarding price, the Taurus falls in the middle of the pack. The Avalon holds its value better, while the Impala tends to be more affordable. If reliability is a top priority, the Toyota Avalon is a better alternative. If style and luxury are desired, the Chrysler 300 is a strong contender. If budget is the main concern, the Chevrolet Impala might be a better fit. The Buick LaCrosse offers a balance of comfort and features. For those seeking performance on a budget, the Taurus SHO remains a compelling choice, though reliability should be a key consideration.
Ranks #653 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 | (5.0★) |
| 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★) |
| 653 | 2012 Ford Taurus | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Ford Taurus a Good Sedan?
David Miller on March 18, 2025
Reliable Family CarThe 2012 Taurus has been a great family car for us. Plenty of space and comfortable for long road trips. The gas mileage could be better, but overall a solid vehicle.
Sarah Johnson on March 18, 2025
Spacious and SafeI appreciate the safety features in this car. It feels very sturdy and reliable. The trunk space is amazing, perfect for hauling groceries or luggage.
Michael Brown on March 18, 2025
Good Value for the MoneyBought this car used a few years ago and it's been a good value. Not the most exciting car, but it's dependable and gets the job done.
Jessica Davis on March 18, 2025
Some Issues with TransmissionI've had some issues with the transmission slipping occasionally. Otherwise, it's a decent car. Just be sure to get it checked out thoroughly before buying.
Christopher Wilson on March 18, 2025
Comfortable RideThe ride is very smooth and comfortable, especially on the highway. I like the interior design and the seats are supportive.
Ashley Garcia on March 18, 2025
Fuel Economy Could Be BetterMy biggest complaint is the fuel economy. It's not terrible, but I was expecting better for a sedan. Otherwise, it's a solid car.
Matthew Rodriguez on March 18, 2025
Great for Long CommutesI drive a lot for work, and this car is perfect for long commutes. Comfortable, quiet, and reliable.
Brittany Williams on March 18, 2025
Good Car, but Dated TechnologyThe car itself is good, but the technology is definitely showing its age. The infotainment system is clunky and outdated.
Joshua Jones on March 18, 2025
Reliable and SpaciousHas been a reliable car and has plenty of space for passengers and cargo. It has met all of our expectations.
Amanda Moore on March 18, 2025
Average CarThis car is pretty average. It's not bad, but it's not great either. Gets me from point A to point B.
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.