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2017 Ford Taurus Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·1 Critical Recall
2017 Ford Taurus Report

Overall Score

6.6/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The primary mechanical concern for the 2017 Ford Taurus is the potential for engine shutdown, which can lead to a loss of power steering and brakes. This issue warrants thorough inspection.
  • Electrical system issues are the most frequently reported problems, impacting various components and potentially leading to costly repairs.
  • While the Taurus boasts a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, buyers should verify that all 8 recalls, particularly those concerning key removal and steering components, have been addressed.
  • The vehicle's average reliability means that maintenance history and pre-purchase inspection are critical for mitigating ownership risks.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Ford Taurus

The 2017 Ford Taurus offers a spacious interior and a comfortable ride, but used car shoppers should be aware of its average reliability rating. With 8 recalls and 46 complaints logged with NHTSA, potential repair costs could be a factor. Key areas of concern include the electrical system, engine, and steering. Its All-Wheel Drive and Automatic (S6) transmission provide capable performance, and it achieved a strong 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Fuel economy is rated at 19 MPG combined.

Critical Failure Risk

Frequent complaints involve issues with the electrical system, including ignition problems, instrument cluster dimming, and APIM module failures. These can lead to unpredictable behavior and loss of functionality.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls8
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

46
Electrical System9
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
19
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
24
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.9/ 10

Practicality

4.5/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing interior space and a comfortable ride over long-term, trouble-free ownership.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Shoppers seeking a highly reliable vehicle with minimal expected repair costs.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Ford Taurus Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Ford Taurus.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Gasoline or E85
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
19

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 9 reports

2. EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Usage: 4 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter)

Est. shop cost: $60 - $100

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
8 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Ford Taurus reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Ford Taurus is 8.9/10. Reliability score is 8.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 8. Owner complaints: 46.

How practical is the 2017 Ford Taurus for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.5/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Ford Taurus?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Ford Taurus is 6.6/10. Overall score is 6.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 5.0/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 4.5/10.

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Ford Taurus?▾

Base MSRP is $29,775.

What engine is in the 2017 Ford Taurus?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2017 Ford Taurus use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford Taurus, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2017 Taurus require Gasoline or E85 gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Gasoline or E85.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Ford Taurus?▾

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Ford Taurus?▾

8 standard and 4 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Ford Taurus?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford Taurus, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Ford Taurus?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford Taurus, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Ford Taurus use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford Taurus, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Ford Taurus?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2017 Ford Taurus good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. This guide details tuning and modification options for the 2017 Ford Taurus, US market.

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2017 Ford Taurus?▾

Top complaint category: electrical system (9 reports, 19.6% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Ford Taurus?▾

This model year has 8 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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