2013 Ford Taurus

Above average

Owners filed 585 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the steering. It has been recalled 9 times.

Not among the Ford Taurus years to avoid. Which Ford Taurus years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
84,000 milesMedian miles at failure

424 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.

Most common 2013 Ford Taurus problems

266 of the 585 complaints (45%) are about the steering.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Steering256
504
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system69
010
Engine56
122
Electrical System44
131
Power Train · transmission28
004
Unknown or Other23
000
Electronic Stability Control (esc) · stability control16
100
Suspension14
200
Air Bags · airbags11
608
Steering › Electric Power Assist System9
000

2013 Ford Taurus steering problems

45% of all complaints

266 of the 585 complaints are about the steering. This is what owners describe:

  • loses steering assist or the wheel locks33% · 88
  • sets off warning lights on the dash30% · 80
  • loses power18% · 47
  • knocks, grinds or clunks3% · 8

Share of the 266 steering complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
96,500 mi
median of 194 reports
Peak year of filing
2019
49 steering complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
5 · 0 · 4
in these complaints
Recalls on the steering
“The contact owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that while driving under normal conditions, the vehicle became extremely difficult to steer, and significant physical strength was needed to turn the steering wheel. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (STEERING); and associated the failure with the recall; however, the VIN was not included in the recall.”
Owner complaint, filed Mar 18, 2026 at 90,000 miles
“loss of steering likely to wreck because of no power steering. My safety and my family was put at risk during this process. The problem has been reproduced at the car repair shop. Warning light activated and message on dash. 15S18 is the recall number for make and model. I was told Ford will not fix by a customer representative.”
Owner complaint, filed Jan 8, 2026

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2012: 3 complaints, 1 about the steering'122013: 11 complaints, 0 about the steering2014: 13 complaints, 2 about the steering'142015: 26 complaints, 2 about the steering2016: 46 complaints, 8 about the steering'162017: 61 complaints, 20 about the steering2018: 73 complaints, 31 about the steering'182019: 89 complaints, 49 about the steering2020: 65 complaints, 32 about the steering'202021: 45 complaints, 27 about the steering2022: 31 complaints, 20 about the steering'222023: 34 complaints, 24 about the steering2024: 46 complaints, 29 about the steering'242025: 29 complaints, 15 about the steering2026: 13 complaints, 6 about the steering'26Recall 13V227000 (fuel system)Recall 13V270000 (door locks and latches)Recall 14V285000 (headlights)Recall 14V393000 (transmission)Recall 15V040000 (body and frame)Recall 15V340000 (steering)Recall 16V621000 (fuel system)Recall 20V072000 (suspension)
All complaintsAbout the steeringRecall (red: the steering)

Complaints about the 2013 Taurus peaked in 2019, with 89 filed that year. Owners had filed 3 complaints about the steering before the first recall that covers it, 15V340000 in June 2015; 263 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 13 so far.

9 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Suspension › Rear20V072000
Filed Feb 10, 2020211,207 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Lincoln MKT and Ford Flex and Taurus vehicles with the Police Interceptor or SHO Performance Pack. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.

Risk. A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. Remedy parts are not currently available. Owners were notified about the recall on March 3, 2020. A second notice will be mailed when remedy parts become available, which is currently expected to be the end of September 2020. The recall began October 28, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or Lincoln customer service at 1-800-521-4140. Ford's number for this recall is 20S04.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump16V621000
Filed Aug 25, 201677,502 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS and Lincoln MKT vehicles equipped with 3.5L GTDI Ecoboost engines and 2013-2015 Ford Taurus Police Interceptor vehicles. A component within the fuel pump electric module (PEM) may overheat causing a loss of electrical power to the fuel pump.

Risk. A loss of power to the fuel pump will cause the engine to stall or prevent the vehicle from starting, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fuel PEM part number and replace the fuel PEM, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on December 1, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S31.

Fuel System, Gasoline15V812000
Filed Dec 2, 2015868 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Explorer, Explorer Police Utility, Taurus, Taurus Police Interceptor, Flex, Lincoln MKS, and Lincoln MKT vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the fuel delivery module may crack, allowing fuel to leak.

Risk. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel delivery module, free of charge. The recall began on December 21, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 13S04-S1.

Steering › Electric Power Assist System15V340000
Filed Jun 2, 2015393,623 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Ford Fusion vehicles without a 3.5L engine and Lincoln MKZ hybrid electric vehicles, 2011 Mercury Milan vehicles, 2011-2012 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS, and Lincoln MKT vehicles equipped with a 3.5L GTDI engine and 2013 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS, and Lincoln MKT vehicles equipped with any available engine. The affected vehicles have electric power steering assist systems that may shut down as a result of a steering motor sensor fault.

Risk. If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will check the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC). If dealers find any loss of steering assist DTCs, the steering gear will be replaced, free of charge. If, no codes are found during the PSCM inspection, the PSCM software will be updated, free of charge. The recall began on July 21, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S18.

Structure › Body › Door15V040000
Filed Jan 28, 2015194,889 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Ford Taurus vehicles manufactured December 1, 2009, to July 31, 2010, and 2011-2013 Lincoln MKS vehicles manufactured June 1, 2011, to October 31, 2011. In the affected vehicles, the interior door handle return spring may unseat, resulting in interior door handle that does not return to the fully stowed position after actuation.

Risk. If the interior door handle return spring is unseated, the door may unlatch in the event of a side impact crash, increasing the risk of personal injury.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect all four of the interior door handles and either repair or replace them, free of charge. The recall began March 23, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S02.

Power Train › Axle Assembly › Axle Shaft14V393000
Filed Jul 2, 201483,250 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX vehicles manufactured September 2, 2010, to November 30, 2013; 2013-2014 Ford Taurus and Lincoln MKS vehicles manufactured August 25, 2011, to November 30, 2013; and 2013-2014 Ford Flex and Lincoln MKT vehicles manufactured September 12, 2011, to November 30, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the halfshaft retention circlip may not have been properly installed, and as a result, the halfshaft may move outward and disengage from the linkshaft while driving and without prior warning.

Risk. If the halfshaft and linkshaft become disengaged while driving, power will no longer be transmitted to the wheels, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash. Additionally, if the parking brake is not applied before exiting the vehicle, the vehicle may roll away despite the transmission being placed in 'Park', increasing the risk of injury to exiting occupants and bystanders.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles to make sure that the halfshaft is properly retained. If it is not, dealers will replace the linkshaft and also replace the halfshaft if it shows evidence of spline damage, free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S10.

Exterior Lighting14V285000
Filed May 29, 2014183,425 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Taurus vehicles manufactured November 24, 2008, through February 28, 2014, originally sold in, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. When used in areas that use road salt, the license plate lamp assembly may experience an electro-chemical reaction and corrosion as a result of water intrusion.

Risk. This corrosion may result in a short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the license plate lamp assemblies, free of charge. The recall began on July 26, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S08. Note: Under program 14R01, Ford will notify owners in non-corrosion states, and, at the customer's request, dealers will replace the license plate lamp assembly.

Latches/Locks/Linkages13V270000
Filed Jun 26, 201312,569 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Ford Explorer, Taurus, and Lincoln MKS vehicles manufactured November 29, 2012, through December 12, 2012. In the affected vehicles, with sufficient door openings and closings, the child safety locks may change from an activated position to a deactivated position without notice.

Risk. If the child lock is deactivated, the door could be unlocked and opened from the inside which could lead to personal injury to an unrestrained child.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will test the safety locks. If necessary, the locks will be replaced free of charge. The recall began on August 2, 2013. Ford's recall number is 13S07. Owners may contact the Ford customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332.

Fuel System, Gasoline13V227000
Filed May 31, 2013390,783 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Explorer, Taurus, Flex, Fusion, Police Interceptor Sedan and Police Interceptor Utility vehicles; and certain model year 2013 Lincoln MKS, MKT, and MKZ vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the fuel delivery module may develop a crack, allowing fuel to leak.

Risk. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel delivery module, free of charge. The recall began on July 20, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall campaign number is 13S04.

All 9 campaigns on file, newest first.

Technical service bulletins

94 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2013 Taurus. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 23transmission 17engine 14electrical system 10equipment adaptive/mobility 7brakes 5body and frame 3steering 3
CSP-14N02Warranty extensionAug 26, 2014transmission

FORD/LINCOLN: THERE IS AN EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERAGE FOR THE LOSS OF ABS SPEED SIGNAL RELATED COMMUNICATION THAT DISABLE OBDII SYSTEM MONITORS FOR PCM REPROGRAMMING. MODEL 2011-14 F-SUPER DUTY, ESCAPE, TAURUS, FUSION, MKT, MKZ. *PE

CSP-12M02Warranty extensionJan 14, 2013equipment

FORD/LINCOLN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. INFORMATION REGARDING EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR COVERING ACCESSORY PROTOCOL INTERFACE MODULE REGARDLESS OF MILEAGE. MODELS 2011-2013 EDGE, EXPLORER, MKX, FOCUS, ESCAPE, FLEX, FUSION, TAURUS, MKS, MKT, MKZ, F-150, F-SUPER DUTY. *PE

SSM 46210Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 17, 2016steering

SOME 2010-2016 EPAS EQUIPPED VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT STEERING RELATED NOISES. THE WORKSHOP MANUAL (WSM) DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES HAVE BEEN UPDATED IN SECTION 211-02. WHEN DIAGNOSING AND REPAIRING EPAS STEERING NOISES USE THE UPDATED PROCEDURES.

ASI-45211Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJul 1, 2015steering

LINCOLN/FORD: ONCE PROCEDURE FOR HEATED STEERING WHEEL MODULE PROGRAM COMPLETED, HEATED STEERING WHEEL FAILS TO OPERATE PROPERLY AND PASSES NETWORK TEST BUT FAILS ON DEMAND SELF TEST. MODEL 2011-15 FUSION F-150, EXPLORER, TAURUS, SUPER DUTY, MKZ, MKC, MKS, MKT, MKX. *PE

ASI-45212Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJul 1, 2015steering

FORD: SOME VEHICLES AND TRUCKS ARE EXPERIENCING A MALFUNCTION WITH THE HEATED STEERING WHEEL BECOMING INOPERATIVE AND ON DEMAND TEST FAILURE. MODEL 2014-15 FUSION, 2011-15 MKX, 2013-15 SUPER DUTY, EXPLORER, TAURUS, MKS, MKT, 2015 F-150, MKZ, MKC, 2011-15 MKX. *PE

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2013 Ford Taurus 4 DR AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★11.3%
2013 Ford Taurus 4 DR FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★11.3%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Electrical System
Filed Oct 12, 2026WA

Vehicle warranty consda domla Vehicle was left new Battery salf failure Washer pump soco failure ranso 2503 miles and it diplo isvrecancy

Electrical System
Filed Sep 23, 2026MO

Malicious use of AI. Vehicle was shut down in the middle of nowhere, in the middle of the road, right on the crest of a hill, just around a curve in the middle of the night, at approximately 12:00 AM. I had to wait for about 5.5 hrs for a tow truck.

Steering
Filed Aug 20, 2026MO

The power steering system is continually giving Power Steering Assist Failure and Service Advance Trac. The code U3000 was identified by Ford technician. This code is found in a Ford recall 15S18, my VIN is not included in this recall. The power steering quits working while the car is driving. The problem was confirmed through codes U3000 and Coo51 by Ed Morse Ford in Lebanon, MO. There was no accident to involve police or insurance representatives. Warning messages are mentioned above.

Steering
Filed Aug 19, 2026TX

Mechanic told us while replacing the suspension that the steering rack has to be replaced.

Electrical System
Filed Jul 10, 2026VA

The car regularly starts without pressing the brake down first. The car has they key but says no key detected and drives with or without it. This is a push start ignition car.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 10, 2026VA

Back up camera goes upside down or unavailable.

Steering
Filed Jul 6, 2026137,000 milesAL

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the electric power steering suddenly failed without prior warning. The steering pulled sharply to the right, but the driver managed to maintain control and steered the vehicle safely into a soft dirt field on the side of the road. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was towed back to the residence. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 137,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 9, 2026UT

The backup Camera goes upside down. The car hesitates when accelerated when needing a boost like getting on freeway Parking brake won’t catch. This is 2nd time and needs to be fixed again

Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 31, 2026MO

The car wouldn't start or even turn over. The vehicle is available for inspection. My safety was put at risk as the car broke down in the middle of nowhere, on a curve and a hill, smack dab in the middle of the road, cellphone, internet service and 911 was spotty at best, it was around midnight. I finally got through to call my Mother's insurance company for a tow truck, waited 3 hours, tow truck did not show, so I called the number given to me. The man that answered, was highly intoxicated and slurring his words. I finally got through to 911 and they called my preference of towing company, that arrived in 1.5 hours. I had to wait nearly 6 hours for a tow truck to arrive, not 1 vehicle passed by the entire time. Thankfully I arrived at my destination a little after daylight, unharmed. Yes, there were a plethora of lights that came on, to include, tire pressure, starting system failure, engine coolant. We had the vehicle at Baldwin Ford in [XXX] and most recently at Bud Shell Fors in [XXX] . This all started after someone tried to starve my Father in law to death on or about March 2024. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Steering
Filed Mar 18, 202690,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that while driving under normal conditions, the vehicle became extremely difficult to steer, and significant physical strength was needed to turn the steering wheel. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (STEERING); and associated the failure with the recall; however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the failure was associated with the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 90,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jan 14, 2026SC

EVAP CONTROL SYSTEM FAULT UNABLE TO BLEED UP FUEL TANK VACUUM. POOR QUALITY PAINT AND INTERIOR.

Steering
Filed Jan 8, 2026SC

Loss of steering likely to wreck because of no power steering. My safety and my family was put at risk during this process. The problem has been reproduced at the car repair shop. Warning light activated and message on dash. 15S18 is the recall number for make and model. I was told Ford will not fix by a customer representative.

Steering
Filed Jan 8, 2026100,000 milesUT

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact used force to steer to the right or left. The message "Steering Assist Fault" was displayed. The contact stated that while driving at high speeds, there were no issues with the operation of the power steering functionality. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with power steering failure. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer in Orem, where it was confirmed that the power steering had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering). However, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 22, 20255,000 milesMO

The contact's mother owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, several unknown warning lights illuminated when turning off the vehicle. The contact stated that there was an abnormal clicking sound coming from the dashboard. In addition, the gear shifter had seized in park(P). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle had several previous ongoing failures. The contact stated that the failure started shortly after the vehicle was purchased in 2013. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 5,000.

Electrical System
Filed Nov 12, 2025NY

The backup camera has failed. Sometimes it works, sometimes it does not. I have seen other reports on NHTSA here specifying the same problem. Visibility in this car is poor and is augmented by the backup camera. Car serviced by ford dealerships only. If left unrepaired, other drivers of this make and model 2013-2019 Taurus have an increased susceptibility to collisions.

Back Over Prevention › Warnings
Filed Nov 3, 2025WY

The reverse camera is integrated into the rear view mirror of my ‘13 POLICE INTERCEPTOR SEDAN and the camera has lighted up blue and then disappears leaving a dark tint to my rear view mirror when I’m in reverse making it ineligible to use either features to ensure backing up.

Electrical System
Filed Oct 26, 2025MO

No heat gauge, oil pressure gauge on vehicle. Blend door issue, one side blows hot, other cold. Radio not working. Weird noise in dash by ignition. Ignition sticks when trying to start car, keeps turning over. Dimmer switch doesn't work. Car can be tracked by unknown people, without permission.

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 22, 2025OH

My reverse screen camera doesn't work. The warning beeps do intermittently, but the view does not and hasn't for years. I just get a message. Sometimes if I turn the camera off and then on it resets it. I got this tip from someone at Ford. This year and make should be part of the recall.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 19, 2025WI

In March of 2025 my vehicles driver assist lights started blinking coming out of my apt complex and within 15 seconds I couldn't even turn the wheels at all. Ive had several mechanics run their computer to diagnose the issue and was told that this make model and year has a recall for loss of steering which is an electrical issue. I called Ford themselves and they refused to even look at my car. I cannot find a mechanic who will even repair this electrical issue. Car is in perfect condition. Just replaced all 4 tires in January 2025 and oil change.

Steering
Filed Sep 11, 2025NC

My electric power steering quit in August 2024 my car is not one of the recalls, but my steering went out automatically out and I could not steer the car. I had it replaced at a Ford company. I bought the part for O’Reillys had it put on in 2024 in August and turn around and had to have one put on in March 20 25 and then it has gone out again and I just got my car back last week so I’m just wondering if the very first time it went out was it a recall because I had to pay a lot of money I have it done at Wynn Odom Ford in Lagrange nc

Steering
Filed Aug 18, 2025153,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the residence. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 153,000.

Steering
Filed Aug 11, 2025MN

While driving to work in my 2013 Ford Taurus I went to take a left and the power steering was suddenly gone and the steering wheel was hard to turn. I nearly hit another car and had to brake hard to miss it. I parked at work and after work I started the car and it was fine until about a mile before I got home. Then it happened again and I could hear a scraping like sound when I turned. The steering became very jerky and resistant at lower speeds but I never got a warning light or message. I brought the vehicle in to an independent mechanic, where it was discovered that the power steering control module (PSCM) had failed and needed to be replaced as well as the rack and pinion. I looked into recalls for the 2013 steering issue and found one but was told my VIN wasn't included. WHY NOT?? I have seen over 600 complaints in regard to this! When are you going to do something about this? AFTER SOMEONE DIES???? How many complaints need to be made before something gets done????

Steering
Filed Aug 1, 2025IN

Just recently, my power steering started to fail when it’s in ‘S’ gear (I just started using it a few weeks ago). The steering wheel gets catchy and can be difficult to control, especially going around corners. It’s intermittent and it didn’t start until I started to use the ‘S’ gear. I had the power steering checked by a mechanic and they said it’s functioning properly. I do believe my car should be included in this recall before the steering goes out and something catastrophic happens. By the way, now that I’ve stopped using the ‘S’ gear, the glitchy steering issue has subsided.

Steering
Filed Jul 23, 2025117,000 milesWA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that the steering wheel was significantly difficult to steer and made an abnormal rubbing sound while turning. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the power steering control module (PSCM) had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 117,000.

Steering
Filed Jul 14, 2025101,820 milesMI

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated while driving at approximately 55 MPH and turning to the left following the road, the steering wheel was very hard to return to center. The contact stated that the steering wheel was pulling to the right. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred while turning left onto another road. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and transferred the contact the NHTSA Hotline to file a complaint. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was 101,820.

Steering
Filed Jul 11, 2025TN

Had gone shopping and the car suddenly had no steering. Managed to get it parked without causing a wreak, but without any warning a message appeared on the dash "Power Steering Fault". The car no longer has any steering, power steering fluid was good, no codes where shown. I have researched this before sending this message, seems there are a lot of Ford cars of various models having the same issue. The recall on the Ford Taurus shows that only certain months for the same year of car as mine 2013, are going to be covered in the recall. My car was made after the cut off month but with the SAME issues. Just wondering why only certain months were on the recall instead of the whole year?

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch
Filed Jul 11, 2025225,000 milesMD

The contact rented a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that the driver's side door failed to close as needed. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the rental company regarding the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 225,000.

Back Over Prevention
Filed Jul 7, 202599,000 milesKY

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that while shifted into reverse(R), the back over prevention camera image was upside down. The contact stated that the message to contact a dealer was displayed. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent however, recently the camera failed and there was no image displayed. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 99,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 28, 2025KY

I purchased this car April 1 2025 the car drove fine up until this past week I got in the car it had a very long crank but started and it acted as if it wasn't getting fuel. So I shut it off waited and started it back it seemed OK I went and purchased some fuel cleaner and gas it straightened out then today it done the exact same thing except it stalled on me 3 times and the last stall almost caused a wreck I was able to get it started and drove back home too scared to drove it so I started looking up problems online and seen several issues like mine that other people had and they were related to previous recalls.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 27, 2025IN

The backup camera in my car randomly stops working. The screen will appear black when I put it in reverse and a note pops up saying “rear camera unavailable please contact dealership.” Then the next day it will work again, then go out again. It’s random but happens too frequently.

Steering
Filed Jun 24, 2025VA

Today the first incident happened when my car was parked. I started it and the light came on that said power steering assist fault and the steering wheel was locked so I was unable to drive my car at all. I cut the car off and cut it back on and it fixed the issue. Later, I drove the car and it locked up on me as I was driving. I was going about 25 miles an hour and almost ran into a guard rail thankfully, I was able to park and have it towed to a mechanic shop I called the Ford dealership. They said that there’s no recall on my car, but I do see that there was a recall for other vehicles for the same issue for the power steering motor, which is electric, it is a harm to me my daughter and others. I could potentially wreck my car, but others have had theirs repaired because it is a recall.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 21, 2025WV

I was driving, with absolutely no warning the steering wheel tightened up and wouldn’t turn. I had to take evasive actions to avoid a crash and park. My vehicle has a recall in the system but was apparently not apart of it. I am unsure exactly what part is causing the issue whether it is the electronic power steering motor or the power steering rack itself. Upon request I can provide the item for inspection. The vehicle and parts have not been assessed by any outside source.

Steering
Filed Jun 9, 2025OH

Steering gear locked up and could not turn steering wheel. happened 3 different times over several months. did this on start up of vehicle not while driving fortunately.warning light came on warning of power assist steering failure. took to Ford dealer to fix and said my vin # not on recall list and would not cover repair though thousands of other 2013 Ford Taurus are . still at dealer now and will cost over $3000 to fix

Steering
Filed Jun 4, 2025126,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and turning the steering wheel to the left or the right, the contact heard an abnormal sound. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the electric power steering assist had started to fail and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that the front suspension was bouncing every time the contact drove or any deformity in the road surface. The contact had taken the vehicle to another independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the driver’s and passenger’s side shock absorbers needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact reported that the failure had reoccurred. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 126,000.

Steering
Filed Apr 30, 2025WA

The electric power assist steering motor has stopped working. there was a recall for other similar models of the same car and same year that a recall was issued, but my car doesnt fall under the recall even though it has the same steering system and it has failed just like all the others.

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 29, 2025WI

The vehicle has remote that cuts off the car and payments are not the issue. People are passing around the remote and putting people lives in danger. The shuts off multiple times comes from a device in the exhaust. They repetitive car getting shut off for extra money to mechanic associated with latest dealership or state of Wisconsin.

Steering
Filed Apr 17, 2025MN

Started my car up then put it in drive, when my traction control light turned on, and my power steering assist light also turned on my dashboard as I was driving out of my on street parking spot. I lost all power to my steering wheel , and was unable to turn it so I could attempt to safely move back over to far right lane, as I was in downtown traffic. This is so scary and terrifying. It's my second car ever which I worked really hard for. I tried to turn car off, and restart it like Google said, but it was the same loss of steering. The car is sitting at my parents house.

Steering
Filed Apr 13, 2025CA

MY POWER STEERING COMPLETELY WENT OUT WITH ALMOST NO STEERING CAPABILITIES, AND IS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION IF NEEDED. WE WERE TRAVELING UPP A HILL AROUND 20-25 MPH AT A SLIGHT CURVE, WHILE IN THE MID CURVE OUT OF NO WHERE MY STEERING WHEEL HARDENED AND JOLTED THE VEHICLE TO THE RIGHT ON ITS OWN WITH NO CONTROL WHATSOEVER. OUR SAFTEY WAS PUT AT RISK BECAUSE WE WERE AT A CLIFFS EDGE AND WERE ONLY FEET CLOSE FROM GOING OVER. MECHANIC CONFIRMED POWER STEERING GEAR OR MODUE ISSUE THERE WERE NO WARNING SIGNS PRIOR

Steering
Filed Apr 10, 2025178,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel failed to turn in the intended direction. The contact stated that the steering wheel was difficult to turn. Additionally, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was unofficially diagnosed with power steering failure. The vehicle was not repaired; however, the contact was advised to contact the dealer for assistance. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 178,000.

Back Over Prevention
Filed Mar 12, 2025124,000 milesSC

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that while reversing, the rear-view camera image was blurry, distorted, and upside down. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 124,000.

Steering › Electric Power Assist System
Filed Jan 7, 2025120,000 milesMI

The contact’s daughter owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that on several occasions while making left or right turns, the steering wheel became stiff. The contact stated that the vehicle was equipped with an electric power steering assist. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 4, 2025MO

My former employer Municipal Utilities/City of Poplar Bluff manager TF, added an air tag or tracking device to my [XXX] Mother's car, who is a retired DOI employee. He also remotely updated the audio system. I spoke to the service Manager at the Poplar Bluff, MO Ford dealership and he said the audio system should not be updated. When he updated the system, my Mother had to replace the battery on the car and now the audio lights on the radio stay on and the Bluetooth and wifi is constantly searching for a connection, which it did not do before TF messed with it. TF done this to my personal Chevy Malibu as well, which led to its decommission, leaving me stranded on the side of [XXX], west of Ellsinore, MO, where there was no cellphone service and in the middle of a very bad thunderstorm. TF was using said device to track me after working hours or when I was using my own personal sick/vacation time, which he and his cousin [XXX] used in my wrongful termination. About 30 minutes before I got ready to leave for lunch or get ready to leave for the day, I would watch him go to the door to make tracking device active/wake up. He was monitoring/redirecting mine and my Mother's phone calls and internet traffic as well. This is illegal as well as an invasion of privacy, that ANY ADULT should not be a part of. In my opinion it looks worse for a government employee doing it, when they know better. TF's supervisors knew what was going on too, as well as all of the girls that I worked with,

Steering
Filed Dec 16, 2024154,000 milesAL

The contact's grandfather owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that the power steering assist had failed to operate with the "Power Steering Assist Fault" message displayed. The contact stated that excessive force was needed to steer the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, and the contact was provided with the cost for the diagnostic test. The contact declined to pay for a diagnostic test. Upon investigation, the contact discovered and linked the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not included in the recall. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 154,000.

Steering
Filed Nov 18, 2024139,000 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was white-colored smoke coming from the engine compartment. The contact replenished the coolant fluid soon after noticing the smoke. The following day, the contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel became firm, and excessive force was needed to turn the steering wheel. The “Power Steering Assist” message was displayed on the instrument panel. Two unknown dealers were notified of the failure and the contact was informed that there were no recalls on the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering); and linked the failure to the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 139,000.

Electrical System
Filed Nov 17, 2024PA

My back up camera is not working for many year even when I got repaired.

Steering
Filed Nov 12, 2024115,000 milesIN

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and making a turn, the steering wheel pulled in the opposite direction. The “Service Stabili-trak” message was displayed. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. Two unknown dealers were notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 115,000.

Steering
Filed Oct 30, 202495,000 milesWV

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the power steering assist failed to operate as needed, and the steering wheel became firm and difficult to maneuver. Upon restart of the vehicle, the “Power Steering Assist Fault” message was displayed on the instrument panel and excessive force was needed to steer the vehicle. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering); which was linked to the failure; however, the VIN was not included. The local dealer was contacted and the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 95,000.

Steering
Filed Oct 29, 2024TX

My 2013 Ford Taurus SHO has been having power steering assist faults at startup for a while, it would not let me turn the wheel even with great force (higher than pre-power steering cars). I would be able to restart the car and have the issue go away immediately like nothing happened. These faults happened randomly and usually weeks or months apart. This past weekend the fault happened while I was driving around a bend at 45mph and I lost steering as it essentially locked the steering wheel in place and felt as if I would break something rather than it being just unassisted, manual steering. And as mentioned this occurred while I was still driving, but I was able to come to a stop safely this time. Had it been just 30 seconds before I would have crashed as I wasn't able to steer at all, no matter the speed as I slowed down. This issue is similar/identical to recall 15V340000 which should cover this vehicle but for some reason doesn't when looking up by VIN.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Oct 25, 2024PA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Taurus. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to coast to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle was able to restart after several attempts. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer nor an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V227000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was included, but the vehicle had already been repaired in 2014. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.

Steering
Filed Sep 30, 2024MS

The electric power steering has gone out. I am experiencing the exact same problem as other ford Taurus of the same year, make and model that have had recalls on the electric power steering.

Complaints 1-50 of 585, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 1993
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
201918200Routine
201852410Routine
201744400Routine
201687410Routine
2015283610Above average
2014229510Above average
2013 — this page585960Above average
201279530Routine
2011187421Fatalities reported
2010204352Fatalities reported
200964010Routine
2008175170Routine
2007149100Routine
2006318341Fatalities reported
20057741102Fatalities reported
20043752132Fatalities reported
20031,2234122Fatalities reported
20021,4264110High concern
20011,03710155Fatalities reported
20001,1958251Fatalities reported
19998747164Fatalities reported
19985454144Fatalities reported
19977705124Fatalities reported
19968258121Fatalities reported
19951,2056542Fatalities reported
19949235233Fatalities reported
19931,5578493Fatalities reported
19926816212Fatalities reported
19916495210High concern
19903818230High concern

Compare every Taurus year →

2013 Ford Taurus: questions buyers ask

Is the 2013 Ford Taurus a good car?

It is not among the Taurus years to avoid. Owners filed 585 complaints, against about 545 for a typical Taurus year. The most common complaint is about the steering (45%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 5 stars overall.

What is the most common problem with the 2013 Ford Taurus?

The steering: 266 of the 585 complaints (45%) are about it. Owners most often say it loses steering assist or the wheel locks (33%), sets off warning lights on the dash (30%) and loses power (18%). The typical report comes at 96,500 miles.

How many recalls does the 2013 Ford Taurus have?

9 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Feb 10, 2020. The largest, 15V340000, covered 393,623 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2013 Ford Taurus problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 84,000 miles. For the steering the midpoint is 96,500 miles.

Are there service bulletins for the 2013 Ford Taurus?

The manufacturer filed 94 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the transmission (17), the engine (14) and the electrical system (10). They include a warranty extension, CSP-14N02, filed Aug 26, 2014. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Feb 10, 2020. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.