2013 Ford Taurus Sho Reliability – A Long-Term Ownership

The 2013 Ford Taurus SHO is a high-performance sleeper that offers impressive twin-turbo power, but its long-term dependability hinges on proactive maintenance of the PTU and water pump. By understanding these specific mechanical vulnerabilities and following a rigorous service schedule, owners can enjoy this 365-horsepower sedan well past the 150,000-mile mark.

You want a sedan that blends executive comfort with the raw punch of a twin-turbocharged V6. The 2013 Ford Taurus SHO delivers that experience, but you might be worried about the horror stories involving expensive drivetrain repairs. If you are looking for a clear-eyed look at 2013 ford taurus sho reliability, you have come to the right place.

In this guide, I will break down the exact mechanical systems that require your attention. We will look at the 3.5L EcoBoost engine, the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, and the common electronic gremlins that pop up over time. My goal is to give you the technical confidence to maintain this car yourself or know exactly what to tell your mechanic.

We will explore the specific “weak links” like the Power Transfer Unit and the internal water pump design. By the end of this article, you will know if this high-performance Ford is a smart investment for your garage or a potential money pit. Let’s dive into the details of what makes these cars tick and how to keep them on the road.

A Deep Dive into 2013 ford taurus sho reliability

When assessing the 2013 ford taurus sho reliability, we have to start with the heart of the machine: the 3.5L EcoBoost V6. This engine was a flagship for Ford, utilizing twin turbochargers and Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) to produce V8-level power with V6 efficiency. For the most part, the block and internals are incredibly stout.

However, being an early iteration of the high-output EcoBoost, the 2013 model year has specific quirks. Most owners find that the engine itself can easily last 200,000 miles if the oil is changed religiously. The issues usually arise from the peripheral components rather than the rotating assembly of the engine itself.

Reliability in this context is a spectrum. If you follow the “Normal” service intervals in the owner’s manual, you might run into trouble. If you follow a “Severe” or enthusiast-grade maintenance schedule, these cars are surprisingly resilient. Let’s break down the specific areas where you need to focus your DIY energy.

The Reality of Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)

Because the SHO uses direct injection, fuel is sprayed directly into the combustion chamber rather than over the intake valves. This means there is no fuel “washing” the valves to keep them clean of oil mist and carbon. Over time, carbon deposits can build up on the intake valves, leading to rough idles and lost performance.

To combat this, many enthusiasts install an oil catch can. This device intercepts oil vapors from the PCV system before they reach the intake manifold. It is a relatively simple DIY install that can significantly improve long-term engine health and throttle response.

Spark Plug Gapping and Ignition Coils

Turbocharged engines are very sensitive to spark plug gaps. The high cylinder pressures can actually “blow out” the spark if the gap is too wide. For the 2013 SHO, I recommend checking your plugs every 20,000 to 30,000 miles, especially if you have a performance tune.

Using a gap gauge, ensure your plugs are set to approximately 0.030 inches. This tighter gap ensures a consistent spark under boost. If you notice a stumble under heavy acceleration, it is likely a cracked porcelain insulator on a plug or a failing ignition coil pack.

The PTU (Power Transfer Unit) Problem: A “Lifetime” Fluid Myth

If there is one single factor that defines 2013 ford taurus sho reliability, it is the Power Transfer Unit (PTU). This is the gearbox that sends power from the front-mounted transaxle to the rear wheels. Ford originally claimed the fluid in this unit was “filled for life,” which proved to be a major oversight.

The PTU sits very close to the hot exhaust manifold. Because it only holds about 18 ounces of 75W-140 gear oil, the fluid gets cooked. It eventually turns into a thick, black sludge that looks like molasses. Once the fluid degrades, the internal seals fail, and the gears can eventually seize or strip.

To keep your AWD system alive, you must change this fluid. Since the 2013 model often lacks a drain plug, you will need a fluid extraction pump to suck the old oil out through the fill hole. It is a messy job, but doing it every 30,000 miles can save you from a $2,000 replacement bill.

Signs of PTU Failure

You should be on the lookout for a distinct “propane” or “burnt oil” smell inside the cabin after driving. This is often the first sign that the PTU fluid is venting due to overheating. Another red flag is a “clunking” sound when turning or a “wrench” light appearing on the dashboard.

If you see a thick, black puddle under the middle of the engine bay, your PTU seals have likely already given up. At this stage, a simple fluid change may not be enough. Catching it early is the secret to maintaining the 2013 ford taurus sho reliability levels you expect.

The Drain Plug Modification

Some hardcore DIYers choose to drill and tap a drain plug into the bottom of the PTU casing. This allows for much easier fluid changes in the future. While this requires precision and a steady hand with a tap and die set, it is the ultimate “pro” move for long-term SHO ownership.

The Internal Water Pump: A High-Stakes Maintenance Item

The 3.5L EcoBoost engine in the 2013 Taurus SHO uses a water pump that is driven by the timing chain. This means the pump is located inside the engine’s timing cover. If the pump’s internal seal fails, it can leak coolant directly into the engine oil pan.

Mixing coolant with oil is a recipe for disaster. The “milkshake” consistency of the contaminated oil will quickly destroy the engine bearings. This design makes the water pump a “critical failure” point that owners must monitor closely.

While the pump is designed to last a long time, many experts recommend replacing it as a preventative measure around the 120,000 to 150,000-mile mark. This is a labor-intensive job that involves timing chain removal, so it is best to replace the timing chain and tensioners at the same time.

How to Spot a Leaking Water Pump Early

Ford did include a “weep hole” that is supposed to channel leaking coolant to the outside of the engine block, behind the alternator. Periodically check this area for signs of crusty orange or green residue. If you see any coolant there, do not wait—replace the pump immediately.

Check your oil dipstick frequently. If the oil looks frothy or light brown, stop driving the car. A failure of this component is the most common reason for a total engine loss in the Taurus SHO community. Monitoring your coolant levels is a simple way to protect 2013 ford taurus sho reliability.

Turbocharger Health and Maintenance

The twin turbochargers on the 2013 SHO are relatively small and spool up quickly. They are water-cooled and oil-lubricated, which helps with longevity. Under normal driving conditions, these turbos can last the life of the car, but they require clean oil to survive.

I recommend using a high-quality full synthetic 5W-30 oil and changing it every 5,000 miles. Turbochargers generate immense heat, and synthetic oil is much better at resisting “coking,” which is when oil bakes onto the turbo’s internal bearings.

Always let the car idle for 30 to 60 seconds after a spirited drive before shutting the engine off. This allows the oil to circulate and cool the turbocharger center sections. This small habit can add years to the life of your turbos.

Common Turbo Issues

Watch for blue smoke coming from the exhaust, especially after idling for a long time. This usually indicates that the turbo seals are starting to leak. You might also hear a high-pitched “siren” noise, which suggests the compressor wheel is contacting the housing or the bearings are failing.

Wastegate rattle is another common occurrence. While it sounds annoying, it doesn’t always mean the turbo is dead. However, it can eventually lead to underboost codes and a loss of power. Replacing the turbos is a “cab-off” or “engine-out” style job in many cases, so preventative care is vital.

Suspension, Braking, and the Heavyweight Challenge

The 2013 Ford Taurus SHO is a heavy car, weighing in at over 4,300 pounds. This mass puts a significant strain on the suspension and braking systems. When discussing 2013 ford taurus sho reliability, we have to acknowledge that wearable items will wear out faster than on a lighter car.

The front strut mounts and rear shocks are common failure points. You might hear a “popping” sound when turning the wheel at low speeds, which usually points to a binding strut bearing. Replacing these with high-quality aftermarket units can actually improve the car’s handling over the stock setup.

Braking performance is another area where the SHO can struggle. The stock rotors are prone to warping under heavy use, leading to a vibrating steering wheel during deceleration. Many owners upgrade to slotted rotors and high-performance ceramic pads to better handle the heat and weight.

The Rear Drive Unit (RDU) and Half-Shafts

While the PTU gets all the attention, the Rear Drive Unit (RDU) also needs love. It is much more reliable than the PTU, but it still benefits from a fluid change every 60,000 miles. Use a high-quality 80W-90 gear oil to keep the rear differential spinning smoothly.

Check the CV boots on your front and rear half-shafts during every oil change. A torn boot will let grease out and dirt in, leading to a clicking sound and eventual axle failure. Catching a torn boot early can save you the cost of a full axle replacement.

Electrical Systems and MyFord Touch

The 2013 model year was right in the middle of Ford’s transition to the MyFord Touch infotainment system. While it was cutting-edge at the time, it is known for being laggy and occasionally crashing. Software updates have fixed many of the early bugs, but it remains a point of frustration for some owners.

Beyond the screen, the SHO is packed with sensors. The MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensor can get coated in oil and carbon, leading to poor fuel economy and stumbling. Cleaning this sensor with specialized electronic cleaner is a 10-minute DIY job that can restore lost smoothness.

Battery health is also critical. These cars have a high electrical load, and a weak battery can cause a cascade of “phantom” warning lights on the dash. If you see “Blind Spot System Fault” or “Cross Traffic Alert Fault” on startup, your battery is likely on its way out.

The Backup Camera Glitch

A very common issue on the 2013 Taurus is the backup camera failing or showing a distorted image. Often, this is caused by a wiring harness in the trunk lid that gets pinched or frayed over time. Repairing the wires or replacing the camera module is a common weekend project for SHO owners.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2013 ford taurus sho reliability

Is the 2013 Ford Taurus SHO a reliable daily driver?

Yes, it can be a very reliable daily driver if you stay ahead of the PTU fluid changes and monitor the water pump. Most owners find them to be comfortable, fast, and capable in all weather conditions, provided they don’t skip scheduled maintenance.

How much does it cost to replace the PTU?

If the PTU fails completely, a dealership will often charge between $1,800 and $2,500 for parts and labor. You can save money by purchasing a remanufactured unit and installing it yourself, though it is a tight fit in the subframe.

What are the signs of a failing turbo on the SHO?

The most common signs include blue exhaust smoke, a loud whining or “siren” noise from the engine bay, and a noticeable loss of acceleration. You may also see a “Check Engine” light with codes like P0299 (Underboost).

Can I use regular gas in my 2013 Taurus SHO?

While the car will run on 87 octane, the ECU will pull timing to prevent knock, resulting in lower power and fuel economy. For the best 2013 ford taurus sho reliability and performance, 91 or 93 octane premium fuel is highly recommended.

How long do the brakes typically last?

Due to the car’s weight, front brake pads usually last between 30,000 and 45,000 miles depending on driving style. If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving, expect to replace rotors and pads more frequently than you would on a smaller sedan.

Conclusion: Is the 2013 SHO Worth the Effort?

Owning a high-performance machine like the 2013 Ford Taurus SHO requires a shift in mindset. You cannot treat it like a standard commuter car and expect it to last forever without intervention. However, if you are willing to get your hands dirty—or find a mechanic who knows the EcoBoost platform—the rewards are significant.

The 2013 ford taurus sho reliability is actually quite good when you look at the “big bones” of the car. The transmission is strong, the engine block is durable, and the interior holds up well over time. The “scary” issues like the PTU and water pump are manageable as long as you treat them as maintenance items rather than “fix-it-when-it-breaks” items.

For the DIY mechanic, the SHO offers a rewarding experience. It is a complex but logical car to work on. By following the tips in this guide—changing your PTU fluid, gapping your plugs, and watching your weep holes—you can keep this twin-turbo sleeper on the road for years to come. Stay proactive, stay safe, and enjoy the boost!