Faults:

Front rotors shot at 38,000 miles.

Engine knock when any grade less than 93 octane is used (dealer could not find problem).

Erratic shifting and loud wining noise from the torque convertor. Dealer stated there was no problem.

Cloth on center console separated at 22,000 miles exposing the foam backing.

Decorative cover where the windshield wipers rest is falling off.

Remote release for the trunk occasionally fails for no apparent reason.

Car stopped running in the middle of a busy street at 21,000 miles for no apparent reason. Dealer could not find any problems.

"Check engine" light, in this case for the emission control system, illuminates periodically for no apparent reason. Dealer stated that it is probably "poor fuel" causing the light to come on.

Car makes a "whistling" noise on the driver's side at speeds over 40mph. No apparent cause.

General Comments:

The overall quality is poor and is a big disappointment.

Handling is sloppy and the car sways when making sudden moves.

The actual gas mileage is no where near the manufacturer's stated mileage.

One plus is the size of the trunk and the back seat. Perfect for long trips.

Faults:

- Car has been recalled twice. The first was for a sticker that had an incorrect number related to load. The second was something equally trivial.

- Reflector inside door panel fell off two days after purchase.

- Coolant tank had to be replaced after about 20,000 miles.

- Gear shift broke at 35000 miles.

- Seat belts are designed in a way that causes the buckle to scrape badly against the inside of the car.

General Comments:

A lot of people talk about the roominess of the Taurus, and I agree. The back seat is enormous, and there's plenty of trunk space. But something about the way the top curves down on the sides causes me to whack the ceiling when I have sunglasses or a hat on top of my head.

It handles pretty well, although after only a few thousand miles, it started shaking badly when braking.

The CD changer and stereo that came with it work very well. The speakers are exceedingly sufficient, unless you're the sort of person who must always install the biggest and best stereos in your car.