Faults:

New rear struts and strut mounts were installed.

The tie-rod ends were replaced.

The A/C motor froze, resulting in re-routing of the serpentine belt.

The shift-tube cracked, resulting in a tedious, but inexpensive repair.

The previous owner had the transmission replaced.

General Comments:

I purchased my Taurus for $2500 which was a little high by the blue book, but the previous owner had just put a mint into replacements the year before. As far as my research told me, this car was rather undervalued, and my experiences had tended to agree with this opinion.

Generally, this car is reliable. I've had several problems with it, but many are just the result of my not being able to afford repairs on a timely basis. I've only had three problems that weren't routine (A/C motor, shift-tube, and the keys locking themselves in the ignition for a few days). On the plus side, this car is rather easy to repair.

The interior is exceptionally roomy and comfortable. At every gig I play, I am amazed how much equipment I can fit into the car. The only minor drawback is relative lack of rear-passenger foot room (as I drive with the seat all the way back).

One final gripe is that the windshield seems to always have a reflection of the dash panel. This reflection is plainly visible from the driver's seat, and is more of an annoyance than anything.

Overall, the 1991 Taurus is a great car, especially for the money.

Faults:

Check engine light comes on for no reason.

Radio had to be replaced.

Trans blew at 123k miles.

Many other minor repairs.

General Comments:

This car is an excellent deal- bought it new for only 13k.

Faults:

Had to replace the Vehicle Speed Sensor when it began to exhibit "transmission-like problems";

Replaced front hood struts when they both failed and wouldn't keep the hood open;

Air conditioner has a leak somewhere. Replacing condensor and recharging only got it working for a week.

General Comments:

I bought this car from its first owner. Typical "granny car" situation, just used around town. Very clean, few miles.

Knowing that this was the worst possible model for a Taurus, a '91 with the 3.8l AND the infamous imploding OD transmission, I was prepared for the worst. But I bought if for so cheap and wasn't planning to use it for major trips, I hoped for the best.

Using common sense, I had the transmission serviced and flushed right away, replaced plugs, wires, caps and filters too. Keep the speed on the freeway just below 65mph, and try to avoid situations where heat may build up and cause the overheating problems others have complained about.

Faults:

The CV boots ripped at 68,000 miles.

The transmission went out at 72,000 miles.

General Comments:

There shouldn't be any reason the transmission went out. I bought it from a Grandma who only put 8,000 miles on it in the 6 years she owned it.

The car is somewhat doggy for a V6.

Faults:

Well, when I first got the car it needed new hood supports.

Sometime down the road I needed a new water pump and right axle, the total for all of it came out to be around 500 dollars.

The only thing that is wrong with it now is I need tires!

General Comments:

When I bought this car, the previous owner said it wasn't good for long trips and at the time I didn't know why, but I found out when my car started overheating and it was only the water pump. Since I have had it changed I have been around Pennsylvania and a lot of trips to and from Maryland, so it is working wonderfully.

The paint job on the car is in good condition. This is going to sound silly, but I just named the car and her name is Tara!