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Ford Taurus Sho Problems

The Ford Taurus SHO (Super High Output) was Ford's performance sedan variant, produced from 1989 to 1999 in its first two generations. With 338 NHTSA complaints and no reported deaths in this dataset, the Taurus SHO offered enthusiast-oriented driving dynamics in a family sedan package. Known for its Yamaha-designed V6 and later V8 engines, the SHO provided a unique blend of performance and practicality that earned it a devoted following among automotive enthusiasts.

338
Total Complaints
5
Total Recalls
10
Model Years
0
Reported Deaths
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1990 1991 1992

Common Problem Categories

Engine And Engine Cooling 128
Vehicle Speed Control 38
Electrical System 30
Service Brakes, Hydraulic 28
Power Train 24

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
1999 44 1 4 4 Average
1998 28 1 10 0 Average
1997 80 1 6 14 Below Average
1996 62 1 2 0 Below Average
1995 18 1 2 2 Average
1994 26 0 4 10 Average
1993 58 0 6 8 Below Average
1992 12 0 0 0 Good
1991 2 0 0 0 Good
1990 8 0 0 0 Good

Ford Taurus Sho Years to Avoid

The 1997 model year shows the highest complaint volume with 80 complaints. The 1996 and 1993 model years also have elevated concerns with 62 and 58 complaints respectively. These years experienced more issues with engine components and speed control systems. Additional scrutiny is advisable for these model years.

Best Ford Taurus Sho Years

The 1991 model year demonstrates the lowest complaint volume with only 2 complaints, followed by 1990 with 8 complaints and 1992 with 12 complaints. These early production years appear to offer relatively better reliability within the first-generation SHO lineup.

What Owners Are Reporting

Engine and cooling issues dominate the complaints with 128 reports, including concerns with the high-output engines, cooling system capacity, and the performance engine's maintenance requirements.

Speed control concerns total 38 complaints, covering cruise control malfunctions and throttle response issues in these performance-oriented sedans.

Electrical system issues account for 30 complaints, with owners reporting various electrical problems affecting sensors, displays, and vehicle systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common problems with the Ford Taurus SHO?

The most frequently reported issues involve the engine and cooling system (128 complaints), followed by speed control problems (38 complaints), and electrical concerns (30 complaints). The high-output engines require diligent maintenance.

Is the Ford Taurus SHO reliable?

The SHO presents some reliability considerations due to its performance-oriented nature. The specialized Yamaha engines require careful maintenance, and finding qualified service can be challenging. No deaths are reported in this data.

Which Taurus SHO years should I avoid?

The 1997 model year has the highest complaint volume at 80 complaints. The 1996 and 1993 model years also show elevated concerns compared to other years in the lineup.

What is the best year for a Ford Taurus SHO?

The 1990, 1991, and 1992 model years show the lowest complaint rates with 2-12 complaints each. These early first-generation SHOs with the 3.0L Yamaha V6 appear to offer better reliability.

How many complaints does the Ford Taurus SHO have?

The Ford Taurus SHO has 338 NHTSA complaints for the 1990-1999 model years, with engine and cooling issues being the most commonly reported concern at 128 complaints.