AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2002 Ford Taurus
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Below average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $4,000–$7,000
The 2002 Ford Taurus has frequent suspension issues and various recall alerts on critical systems like brakes and visibility. With numerous complaints and safety recalls, cost-of-ownership can increase due to unexpected repairs, leading to a below-average reliability rating.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| suspension | 50,000–80,000 miles | $400–$700 | very common |
| brake lights switch | 30,000–60,000 miles | $100–$200 | common |
| windshield mounting | 40,000–70,000 miles | $200–$350 | common |
| vehicle speed control | 60,000–100,000 miles | $300–$600 | occasional |
| electrical system | 70,000–90,000 miles | $200–$500 | occasional |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil and filter change every 5,000 miles
- Brake inspection every 10,000 miles
- Tire rotation every 5,000 miles
- Transmission fluid replacement every 50,000 miles
- Air filter replacement every 15,000 miles
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Uneven tire wear
- Unresponsive brakes
- Difficulty steering
- Engine overheating
- Erratic vehicle speed control
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/24/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.