What are the most common problems with the 2018 Ford Taurus?

Prioritize inspection of the **engine's internal water pump** due to documented failures leading to catastrophic engine damage.

How many recalls does the 2018 Ford Taurus have?

The 2018 Ford Taurus currently has 17 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2018 Ford Taurus a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Prioritize inspection of the **engine's internal water pump** due to documented failures leading to catastrophic engine damage. Verify the completion of all 17 recalls, particularly those concerning the rearview camera and ignition system. Expect average fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 19 MPG combined. The **rearview camera system** is a frequent source of complaints and recalls; test its functionality thoroughly. Suspension components, especially rear toe links, have been noted for failure and warrant careful examination. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2018 Ford Taurus?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2018 Ford Taurus.

2018 Ford Taurus Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Prioritize inspection of the engine's internal water pump due to documented failures leading to catastrophic engine damage.
Verify the completion of all 17 recalls, particularly those concerning the rearview camera and ignition system.
Expect average fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 19 MPG combined.
The rearview camera system is a frequent source of complaints and recalls; test its functionality thoroughly.

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Overview

2018 Ford Taurus

The 2018 Ford Taurus offers a comfortable ride and respectable fuel economy for its class, achieving an EPA-estimated 19 MPG combined. Its all-wheel-drive system provides confident handling in various conditions. However, a high number of recalls (17) and complaints (50) suggest potential ownership challenges. The vehicle boasts a strong NHTSA safety rating with an overall score of 5 out of 5. Be aware of potential repair costs associated with its numerous recalls.

Critical Failure Risk

A critical failure where the internal water pump can lead to complete engine destruction. This is a significant powertrain concern.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns17

Service Bulletins44

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

Power Train5

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing safety ratings and all-wheel-drive capability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Those seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Ford Taurus Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Automatic
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Sedan
EPA Combined MPG: 19

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Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 5 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 5 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

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

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

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

17 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2018 Ford Taurus reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Ford Taurus is 7.9/10. Reliability score is 7.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 17. Owner complaints: 50.

How practical is the 2018 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 2018 Ford Taurus?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Ford Taurus is 6.7/10. Overall score is 6.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.6/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 4.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Ford Taurus?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Oil Filter) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $700 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (Internal Water Pump) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $3,000+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Ford Taurus?

Base MSRP is $27,690.

What engine is in the 2018 Ford Taurus?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2018 Ford Taurus use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ford Taurus, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Ford Taurus?

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Ford Taurus?

8 standard and 5 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2018 Ford Taurus?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ford Taurus, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2018 Ford Taurus?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ford Taurus, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Ford Taurus use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Ford Taurus, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Ford Taurus?

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

Is the 2018 Ford Taurus good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2018 Ford Taurus, while a comfortable and spacious sedan, presents limited opportunities for performance tuning. The available 3.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2018 Ford Taurus?

Top complaint category: power train (5 reports, 10% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Ford Taurus?

This model year has 17 official safety campaigns listed.