2006 Ford Taurus Review: Well Made Large Sedan Buyers Can Count On

Apr 26, 2022

The 2006 Taurus lasts around 200,000 miles with some engine and heater system problems. At $3,575 – $3,825 it’s very affordable and is a good budget-friendly option.

The Good

Passenger room is great throughout the cabin, there’s a lot of cargo space in the trunk and the stereo controls are easy to use.

The Bad

Braking distances are long, the engine is weak for the size of the car and the suspension is loose and floaty.

Is the 2006 Ford Taurus a Good Used Car?

Yes, 2006 is a good year. Owners praise the Taurus for its interior quality, low ownership costs, and ease of repairs.
Reliability ratings are above average. There are a lot of improvements from the 2005 model, with the 2006 and newer being good choices.
Performance is weak from the only V6 engine offered.
The Taurus is a safe vehicle, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
Fuel economy is good at up to 20 MPG combined.

Positive Owner Reviews

Susan W

A great, long lasting vehicle that I am grateful for.

My car has 146,000 miles on it. Only recently, I started having problems. Had wheel bearing and battery problems. It's great on gas on the highway but not in town. I have power seats and windows and the still work. However, every once in awhile, the driver side window gets stuck and I have to help it. Sometimes, in the winter, the doors will not latch. That's kind of pain when you're trying to drive and the door won't stay shut.

joel j

That it save you money at the pump helps you to put things in trunk more room

I like all good gas mileage easy to drive good make and no trouble with the car great features and color

Lori B

One important thing is its gonna break and parts can be costly.

On my Ford I love that it gets great gas mileage and is very economic also its great for long trips as it's a very smooth ride I have no dislikes as of now on my Ford.

Ernie Q

Taurus, bullish on safety. My vehicle has its own personality: outgoing.

My beloved car has been with me for 12 years. Besides the usual wear and tear along with car maintenance through the years she has been very reliable. She is very comfortable, easy to drive and a lot of fun. If you are looking for a vehicle that is practically maintenance-free, fun to drive and safe, I endorse ford.

Beverley S

Reliable Transportation Daily

It gets me wherever I want to go, safely.

Jay C

Proper maintenance results in higher trouble-free mileage.

Originally purchased the vehicle with 94, 000 original miles. Since it's purchase the vehicle has run flawlessly and has developed no issues or problems. With continued proper maintenance, I anticipate the vehicle to achieve upward of 300, 000 trouble-free miles.

Linda E

Getting hard to find parts.

It is a great and reliable car. My only concern is that it is now 12 years old and some parts are no longer made by Ford and have to be purchased "off market" when I need them.

Pamela S

The Ford Taurus is a great vehicle that should still be in demand.

My vehicle is a Ford Taurus. It has great mileage to a gallon. My vehicle seats six people. It has great air conditioning and heat. It is equipped with a radio and speakers. My vehicle is dependable and easy to drive. It does not have a keyless entry like newer model cars.

Negative Owner Reviews

maria v

I is old. It needs a lot of work. It is not worth fixing.

It's 12 years old. Needs a lot of fixing. Can only get $500 for it at pick a parts.

Jessie B

I will never buy a Ford again!

Well my car basically drives by itself, my foot can be on brakes and the car rpm will go sky high if I was to take my foot off brake it would slam the car in front of me. It cuts off while driving.

Heather M

Don't buy a Ford Taurus. They are junk.

There has been all kinds of problems electrical problems motor problem starter problems just everything's gone wrong with that we finally had to trade it in for a vehicle that was not on the list. Ford Tauruses are the worst car to owns.

Gloria D

It gets me where I am going.

My drivers side window wont roll up at times its off its track also need new tires also my sons girlfriend hit it when she was drunk 3 years ago so it has a dent on the front of the car.

Stephanie C

Had a long life but is constantly costing us lately!

We have a lot of mileage on this vehicle and it has lasted a long time for us. However, we are constantly having mechanical issues. Some are just wear and tear and others are things we've had fixed previously.

Jim R

Prematurely rusts in the same spots.

It rusts. Every Taurus I've own prematurely rusts in the same places. Not my favorite auto. The features are fine. Although the door panel fell off. It is a car that is not made to last. I live in pa with rough roads and it gets beat up quickly. My last one the transmission blew.

HELEN M

Takes awhile to warm up the tranny before you can go. It has a leak in the power steering. Air doesn't work other than that it runs ok

I have had trouble with the starter for years. It is old and would like to buy a new one. The air conditioner doesn't work. It was a pretty good car until I started putting starters in it every yr. Would be nice to get a small suv soon.

Lucia G

It still runs and is clean and quiet but needs minor work.

I like the color but everything else, not good at all, way too many problems

What Do Critics Say About the Taurus?

Consumer Reports says the Taurus is roomy and comfortable, with average owner satisfaction.
Edmunds gives the Taurus a 4.1/5 liking the affordability, and disliking the weak engine.
Kelley Blue Book users rate the Taurus 4.1/5 and enjoy the long lasting engine, but dislike the cloth interior.

What Common Problems Does the 2006 Ford Taurus Have?

Problems with the 2060 Taurus include the engine stalling while driving, accelerator pedal issues, and heater failures.

Stalling engines are the most common complaint at around 100,000 miles. There’s a problem with the drive selector which causes the engine to turn off. Replacing the part costs about $350.

Stuck accelerator pedals are mentioned by some owners at nearly 60,000 miles. The source of the problem is the cruise control cable, and adding a cotter pin to the cable fixes the problem for around $120.

Heater system failures show up on some vehicles with over 125,000 miles. The heater core and thermostat both wear out over time, and replacing the parts is about $1,500.

There are 3 recalls which are all fairly minor including wiper motor grease, hands-free phone system, and brake pads.

How Long Will the 2006 Ford Taurus Last?

A properly maintained 2006 Taurus should last over 200,000 miles, similar to other large sedans like the Nissan Maxima. Regular annual maintenance costs are average at $400 per year, according to Repair Pal.

Most 2006 Taurus models will have over 100,000 miles so buyers should prepare to replace steering knuckles for $550, transmission mounts costing $300, and the mass air pressure sensor which costs $125.

Thomas A

It has an intermittent electrical problem. The dashboard lights are extremely dim so I have no idea how many miles I have on it because the display is digital and cannot be read.

Brianna W

Yes, it is very reliable. Problems only arise after prolonged use, as expected. The car I have only breaks down because it is old.

Rhonda I

I think it is very reliable. The early Taurus had problems with brakes and they seemed to get rid of that problem with the later models. The headlights are starting to cloud over but I guess that happens with a lot of older cars.

Mary R

Yes it has a wiring issue. But it can be fixed with minimal effort and money. It has an oil leak but my son can fix that.

Tiffiney S

It is very reliable. I have had very little problems with it as well as it is resale value is also good.

Lillian C

The ac went out a few times which made driving pretty hard but the car drives smoothly and is a quiet vehicle.

Dakota S

Power steering pump went out quickly as well as the starters. I've replaced 2 so far. Other than that it's been great.

Joshua K

The car has no problems other than those brought on by wear and tear. It has proven itself to be very durable.

How Much Is the 2006 Ford Taurus Worth?

Blue book values range from $3,575 – $3,825, making the Taurus about $2,000 cheaper than other sedans like the Chrysler 300 or Buick LaCrosse. When new, the price range was $20,830 to $22,980. Depreciation is worse than rivals, losing about 15% of its value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Taurus?

There are two models of the Taurus available. The technology is very outdated with the last update in 2004, and it was discontinued after the 2007 model due to declining sales.

SE is the entry-level model which comes with:

16-Inch Steel Wheels
Cloth Bench Seating
Remote Keyless Entry
4-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo System
Cruise Control

SEL is the flagship model which adds:

16-Inch Alloy Wheels
Keyless Entry Keypad
Wood Trim Accents
Front Bucket Seats
Optional Leather Seating

153 HP 23-23 MPG

View Details

SEL

153 HP 23-23 MPG

View Details

What Engines Come In the Taurus?

The only engine found in the Taurus is the weak 3.0L V6, which makes 153 horsepower and gets up to 20 MPG combined. Performance is poor, taking 9.1 seconds to go from 0 to 60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Taurus Come In?

How Big Is the Taurus?

The 2006 Taurus is an average sized large sedan similar to the Ford Crown Victoria and Toyota Avalon. Passenger space is good throughout the cabin, and the front bench seat allows seating for up to 6 people.

Cargo space is better than a lot of other sedans, with 17 cubic feet of room in the trunk.

How Does the Taurus Compare to the Competition?

The Chevrolet Impala is a close competitor costing about $1,500 more. Where the Impala stands out is with more power, but the Taurus has better reliability ratings. We recommend the Taurus since it will last longer.

The Toyota Avalon is the highest rated large sedan at around $3,000 more expensive. Reliability ratings and interior materials are better in the Avalon, but the Taurus can seat more people. We recommend the Avalon since it’s more powerful and will spend less time in the shop.

Ranks #11 Large Cars by Owners

2006 Toyota Avalon

4.52

2006 Chrysler 300

4.36

2006 Ford Taurus

3.86

Do Owners Recommend the Ford Taurus?

Thomas A

Yes. Reliable. Dependable. This is the third Taurus I have owned. One saved my life in a car accident. How could I not continue to buy?

Brianna W

Yes, it is very reliable. It handles very well and takes you very far on a shorter amount of gas than you'd think. It is very economically friendly and comfortable to use.

Rhonda I

Yes, I have been happy with it. Over the years I have had six Tauruses and they have all been pretty good cars. Some have had problems with transmissions but other than that it is been routine maintenance.

Mary R

Yes it is. We have had very good performance from this car. Has a few bugs but overall a great car. Ty.

Tiffiney S

Yes it is very reliable and drives smooth. It looks sleek and low maintenance has had to be done on it.

Lillian C

The gas mileage is one of the best I have had!! We've had no issues getting to and from and the only repairs we've needed to make was to the ac belt when we first got the car. I love her and her name is blueberry!!

Dakota S

It's been a very reliable car besides a few issues here and there. Its sitting at over 250k miles and still running strong.

Joshua K

It is a good vehicle, particularly for town driving. Would not recommend for mountain passes. It handles well.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Rushann Martin on March 16, 2023

Keep up on the maintenance, it'll give you lots of love back.

I am so impressed with my 2006 Ford Taurus I bought from my granddaughter. Which has been in our family for 8 years before she got it from her parents. (My daughter owned it for the 8 years mentioned). All I had to do is some light Maintenance on it & I've had no problems. Love it!!!!

Marie Y on May 11, 2021

It is inexpensive to repair.

I love my Ford. It is American made. Not too expensive to keep on the road and is a very reliable vehicle.

Jennifer S on April 1, 2021

My review of my ford Taurus review.

Very nice car especially for being like 13 years old! Runs pretty well, but I do have some problems with it. The heat runs weird if the car is in overdrive. Makes a smell in car. Also I do not know if has to do with car or not but my front passenger tire came off recently. Garage said there was only 2 studs holding wheel on.

Jacquie C on April 1, 2021

I love the smooth, comfortable ride of this vehicle. The interior is plush and comfortable and doesn't have bucket seats. The car is larger and has good acceleration.

This car has an Incredibly smooth and comfortable ride.

Lou D on March 30, 2021

Bad start, but beautiful now!!

I bought my car from an independent seller, so there were some minor problems with it at first. My dashboard was broken, so no gauge of speed or gas which meant that I couldn't drive it. My starter broke within a month of me actually driving. After that, I have had no problems at all and she runs a little weird but I know how to work her! I wouldn't want any other car.

HELEN M on March 12, 2021

Takes awhile to warm up the tranny before you can go. It has a leak in the power steering. Air doesn't work other than that it runs ok

Kari B on February 28, 2021

My car is safe with air bags. My kids safety seats fit in well and still have room.

My family fits with extra room but the vehicle is not too big for me to drive. Automatic seats adjust on you turn the key.

Vall S on February 27, 2021

I love it. I would buy a new one if I could.

I like that it gets me around and I dislike that it is not a SUV. I really like to drive a little bit bigger of a vehicle than a car. But, for now the car is fine.

Lori B on February 25, 2021

One important thing is its gonna break and parts can be costly.

On my Ford I love that it gets great gas mileage and is very economic also its great for long trips as it's a very smooth ride I have no dislikes as of now on my Ford.

Destiney H on February 23, 2021

It can travel long distances and is really good on gas.

I love how reliable my car is and how long it has lasted me. I only wish it were a newer model with updated features.

Julia r on February 23, 2021

I it a reliable car and american made. It give me very good gas mileage both city and highway.

Very reliable and comfortable to drive. I have had no major service done to car just routine maintenance and replacing items that have been worn down over the years.

Samantha Y on February 18, 2021

2006 ford Taurus, not the best car but definitely spacey.

It breaks down a lot, I have had to put a lot of money into fixing it and getting new parts, the only thing I love about my car is the color (baby blue) and that it is very spacious on the inside, it seats 5. The trunk has quite a bit of space as well.

Andrew M on February 12, 2021

It is a smooth comfortable ride. It makes taking long trips very enjoyable.

My car is a really comfortable ride on long trips. It has great gas mileage and it runs very well

Gracie W on February 8, 2021

My Ford Taurus is shiny and gold. I definitely recommend buying this car.

The front of my car does have a clicking noise. It is very annoying and unpleasing. I have issues with my belt and my alternate thing. It drives a little funny, not sure why or what it is. I have taken it to a mechanic and they do not know either. It is a very good car besides that. It has very good gas mileage. It has semi nice speakers, nothing you can enhance with bass speakers being installed. The leather seats are great, nice shape.

Karen C on February 1, 2021

The interior has a lot of room.

There is really nothing wrong with my car I am just not in love with it I bought it because my car blew up and I needed another car quick.

Angel M on January 27, 2021

Ford Taurus 2006 most likely to run into these problems.

Battery light comes on quite regular the exhaust is weak and the alternator goes bad also the starter had to b changed and cleaned cause the oil filter sits right above the starter and drips oil in the starter. Good on gas though and if you take care of ur problems the car will last good over 300, 000 miles.

jeff g on January 27, 2021

Change oil every 3000 miles because it runs better to too it burns oil

Tan car body looks grof for year it is good on gas a little slow to pick up speed from stop lots room in the car for four people

Taylor E on January 23, 2021

Reliable and long-running car.

Sturdy and reliable car. Running for 105, 000 miles and still going. Has some electrical problems, like interior lights, and wiring issues, such as cruise control. Medium gas mileage. Decent looking vehicle. Withstood very long road trips without breaking down.

Jim R on January 19, 2021

Prematurely rusts in the same spots.

Barbara H on January 18, 2021

Dependable and large enough to afford protection if in accident.

It is very dependable and rides smoothly. The car is comfortable and fits five very comfortably. The large mirrors seem to make it difficult to always get a good peripheral view. Some of this may be my height but I double check when looking to either side.

Samantha G on January 15, 2021

It has a keypad to unlock/lock the vehicle.

It is a very reliable vehicle and extremely comfortable. The rear view mirror has a dimmer on it so you are not blinded by vehicles. It has child safety locks which benefits those with children, along with electric unlock/lock and windows.

Tracy E on January 4, 2021

Has a terrific motor an low miles.

My car rides really good. My oil gets changed every three 3 months. My car do not have leather seats.

Bobbie S on January 3, 2021

It is a very reliable truck.

My car doesn't use a lot of gas and is very nice running. Also it very small which is nice for me since I am so short.

Doris A on December 28, 2020

Sunroof seats overall great style is great as well sturdy car and runs smooth.

The first thing is the gas mileage is awesome. And I have not has to much trouble out engine or transmission. The only thing is my alarm kept going off without anyone around it. I have only bought 1 battery since I bought my car. Interior is nice leather and the sunroof is awesome you can still be old but feel young in this car.

Aaron O on December 17, 2020

The vehicle came with sync technology as well for easy hands free driving!

It runs great! Never had a problem with the car besides other individuals hitting it when parked on the road! No major repairs and has stayed healthy throughout the years! I take good care of it and purchased it with 50,000 miles! Great car and would highly recommend this car to everyone looking for a cheap but reliable car!

Tracy D on December 14, 2020

My Ford Taurus need to know what else it's a great car.

My Ford has great engine no problems rides terrific. Has 86, 000 miles all anti lock brakes. What else can I say, it is a steal really enjoy long rides. Now this is really a test about my Ford Taurus alright now it is going on and on about my ford no nobody wants to read a book about the car.

Austin H on December 14, 2020

It was a vehicle that brings many memories.

The Ford Taurus is a reliable car. It lasted the person before me for a long time. It lasted me a whole year after that before issues started to occur.

Devon M on December 8, 2020

My car is as much fun to drive as it is to enhance.

The vehicle that I currently own is a 2006 ford taurus and what I like most about my car is the driveable.

Katie W on December 7, 2020

2006 Ford Taurus - a pretty ok car.

For being an older car it drives really well. I mean if you are looking for a used car that is not too costly then it would be a good choice. Also it is American made so that is nice.

JoAnne R on December 4, 2020

It is a great car. It handles great car. The trunk is roomy so it can hold lots of stuff.

I have only owned two cars and both were ford Taurus. I love they way they drive. My car is older so it doesn't have automatic seats but other than that it is great.

Dee D on November 30, 2020

Overall, my car has been trustworthy throughout the years.

Considering the age of the vehicle, it has been very trustworthy. The heat stopped working after 3 years, but no other strange or large repairs.

THEODORE B on November 30, 2020

TO MY KNOWLEDGE THIS OLD FORD HAS NEVER BEEN IN A WRECK, NOT COUNTING A OUTSIDE MIRROR IN THE GARAGE A COUPLE OF YEARS.BACK. WHY TEMPT FATE WITH A NEW CAR?

IT HAS BEEN MY WORK CAR FOR MANY YEARS BEFORE RETIRING IN 2016. THERE ARE NO CAR PAYMENTS. I HAVE PAID TO GET ALMOST EVERYTHING THAT MY GO BAD FIXED IN LAST 5 YEARS SO I DON'T EXPECT IN BIG REPAIRS TO COST ME AT THIS TIME.

Don D on November 28, 2020

That it gets me to and fro and haven't had any major issues with it.

My vehicle is reliable , comfortable and fairly spacious.

Barbara V on November 22, 2020

Smooth ride and comfortable seating it is gray in color and it is a defan

It drives very smoothly but sometimes it starts with a noise

Joshua W on November 18, 2020

It is a very fuel efficient car and gets really good gas mileage.

It's a nice smooth riding car with power windows and fuel efficient. I like the car but it is a 2 door v6.

Karla B on November 18, 2020

It is a very reliable vehicle. Low maintenance and very comfortable riding. Trustworthy for long trips.

What I particularly dislike is that the drivers side front door is the only door that has a keyhole. There is no way to open the passenger side from outside. What I do like is very low maintenance. The only thing we've had to do is a new battery and brakes.

Jean L on November 13, 2020

I love the mileage I get, the reliability and efficiency.

My 2006 Ford Taurus is the perfect family car. With a family of four, it has gotten me all around the place, and did so for many years without any issues or breakdowns. Not to mention, it is not a gas guzzler, which is always a great thing in my opinion. The car is truly timeless and ultra comfortable for all sizes.

Jessie B on November 8, 2020

I will never buy a Ford again!

Well my car basically drives by itself, my foot can be on brakes and the car rpm will go sky high if I was to take my foot off brake it would slam the car in front of me. It cuts off while driving.

Johnny B on November 8, 2020

Air conditioner, and stereo system functions great!

I like my Taurus a lot. I have had very little problems with it, other than routine maintenance. It does not seem to use a lot of gas, and does not leak any fluids. From the factory. . . It has a very sturdy paint job and still looks great and shiny. Good dependable car.

Loretta K on October 29, 2020

It has won various awards for the safety features.

I like the space in my car. I like the truck space. No complaints. Normal wear and tear. Gas mileage is high.

Loretta K on October 29, 2020

My car is great and I love my car. It is dependable, spacious, and reliable.

Dislike high gas mileage. I love my car being spacious. I have a lot of trunk space. My back seat has enough room for my kid car seat and her toys. My car allows me to easily reach everything I need in my car front and back. I love the fact I can charge my phone up when the car is off. I've had my car close to a decade with no real maintenance issues. I consider my car to be quite reliable.

Kerri L on October 27, 2020

Cute powder blue Ford with an engine that doesn't quit

My vehicle has brake problems; the body shakes from the force of braking and turning while pressing on the gas. Other than that, it is reliable and the heating system is nothing like I've experienced before!

Carla M on October 23, 2020

So far the car is pretty reliable. However, I wish it was bigger. I would like an updated vehicle.

Blue, reliable, good car to have and hope that the next car is just as good.

Amanda Y on October 15, 2020

Apparently the Ford Taurus is a very reliable car, mine is 12 years old and drives great.

I bought this car used in 2014. So far only 2 major things have needed fixing. I've been really satisfied with it, it drives great, it has a huge trunk, and it's comfortable.

Michelle A on October 12, 2020

The seatbelt alarm sounds every time if don't buckle up.

I personally have always enjoyed the Ford Taurus because of the space it provides for my family. We travel quite often and the trunk provides more than adequate space. I just love the digital mileage reading down the miles before I need fuel. This vehicle has proven many times over to be very dependable. I have not been disappointed with the performance of this vehicle. I know that when I get behind the wheel, I can fully rely on my car to get me were I need to be.

ALEXANDER P on October 11, 2020

It is reliable and well priced.

The car is nothing fancy and is generally pretty cheap. It also does not look that good or is that smooth to ride. However, the car is very good for the price point and is also very reliable.

Deane A on September 30, 2020

2006 Ford Taurus: dependability.

I am having electrical problems with my car. My dashboard no longer shows vital information and my windows no longer roll down. My ac does not work. However, it drives smooth. My car has a good transmission, it shifts at every point flawlessly. I love the look of the car. I find this car very dependable.

kathleen L on September 12, 2020

The trunk space is great if you travel a lot.

One of my favorite things about my car is the cruise control. I travel a lot back to IL and it not only makes the drive easier, it saves on gas, and helps keep my arthritis from flaring too badly. It also gets decent gas mileage. The trunk space is amazing. We have met, my husband, my teenage daughter, a toddler, and 2 dogs. We need a lot of space to fit it all when we visit family. It has held up pretty well over all the years. What I don't like are the leather seats. Over time they have cracked and stained from skin oil to spilled drinks. They are ridiculously hot in the summer. 3 of my tires had to be replaced because the rims were messed up. Got that fixed and recently, less than 2 years later, found out that the rims need to be replaced again. That might even be an issue with the rims that we got as replacements and not so much the manufacturer's fault. The middle front seat, though I like that it folds from seat to armrest with drink holder, it is kind of a pain to clean since if you spill, which I am sure everyone does at some point, it gets underneath and it is awful to clean.

Anna S on September 12, 2020

If you keep up with regular maintenance the car will last you for a long time.

It's a solid car. I feel safe while driving around it. It's a comfortable ride. There's plenty of room in the trunk and in the back seat. It's a great starter car.

tim b on September 9, 2020

It has been a very reliable car. It has not had any major breakdowns in the time I have had it.

I like it. I've never had any major problems with it. It drives good in the wisconsin winters too.

Cynthia S on September 9, 2020

That it is a very dependable car.

I love the way it drives. I like the interior with the selection that you can see how many miles your trip is, how many miles to empty, etc.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.