Ford Taurus Police Interceptor 2013 – High-Performance Maintenance
The 2013 Ford Taurus Police Interceptor is a purpose-built pursuit vehicle designed to handle extreme stress and high-speed maneuvers. This guide provides a deep dive into its heavy-duty components, common mechanical pitfalls like the PTU, and actionable maintenance steps to keep this former patrol car in peak condition.
If you have recently acquired a used cruiser or are considering one at an auction, you likely know these vehicles are built differently than their civilian counterparts. While the civilian Taurus focuses on comfort, the ford taurus police interceptor 2013 was engineered for durability, featuring upgraded cooling, braking, and suspension systems. Navigating the unique needs of a police-spec vehicle can be daunting, but with the right technical knowledge, you can maintain a car that is both reliable and incredibly capable.
In this guide, we will break down the specific drivetrain configurations, identify the “ticking time bombs” like the internal water pump, and show you how to perform professional-grade maintenance. Whether you are building a budget track car or a rugged daily driver, our goal is to give you the confidence to turn a retired interceptor into a high-performance machine. Let’s get under the hood and see what makes this pursuit sedan tick.
Understanding the Ford Taurus Police Interceptor 2013 Platform
The 2013 model year was a pivotal one for Ford’s police fleet, as it fully transitioned away from the iconic Crown Victoria. This vehicle, technically known as the Police Interceptor Sedan (PIS), is built on the D4 platform, which it shares with the Explorer and the Flex. However, almost every component has been reinforced to meet the rigorous demands of law enforcement work.
Unlike the standard Taurus, the interceptor came with two primary engine options. The first is the 3.7L Ti-VCT naturally aspirated V6, which provides a balance of power and simplicity. The second is the 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6, which turns the sedan into a 365-horsepower AWD beast. Understanding which engine you have is the first step in creating a maintenance schedule that works.
Beyond the engine, these cars feature heavy-duty cooling systems, including oil coolers and transmission coolers. These are essential because police cars often sit at idle for hours, generating significant heat without the benefit of airflow from driving. If you are buying one of these used, you must look at the idle hour meter, not just the odometer.
The All-Wheel Drive Advantage
Most 2013 interceptors were equipped with an Intelligent AWD system. This system is designed to provide maximum traction during high-speed chases and in adverse weather conditions. It uses a Power Transfer Unit (PTU) to send torque to the rear wheels when needed.
While the AWD system is excellent for performance, it is also the most common failure point. The PTU sits very close to the exhaust manifold, which causes the lubricant inside to cook and turn into a thick sludge. We will discuss how to service this often-overlooked component later in this guide.
Key Differences Between Civilian and Interceptor Models
It is a common mistake to assume that parts for a standard Taurus will always fit the interceptor. While many body panels are identical, the mechanical components are often significantly beefier. You need to be specific when ordering parts to ensure you get the heavy-duty versions designed for police use.
- Braking System: The interceptors feature larger rotors and specialized brake pads designed to resist fade during repeated high-speed stops.
- Electrical System: A 220-amp high-output alternator is standard to power light bars, computers, and sirens.
- Suspension: The springs, struts, and control arms are stiffer and more durable to handle curb hopping and high-speed cornering.
- Interior: You will find heavy-duty cloth front seats with “stab plates” and a vinyl rear seat for easy cleaning.
One of the most noticeable differences is the cooling package. The radiator is thicker, and the fans are programmed to kick in earlier and run at higher speeds. This makes the car an excellent candidate for towing or spirited driving in hot climates, provided the system is kept clean and free of debris.
Maintaining Your ford taurus police interceptor 2013
To keep your ford taurus police interceptor 2013 running at its best, you must move beyond the “standard” maintenance intervals found in a civilian owner’s manual. These cars have lived a hard life, and “lifetime fluids” do not apply here. Proactive fluid changes are the only way to prevent catastrophic failures.
The first priority should be the PTU fluid. Even if the manual says it is a non-serviceable part, experienced mechanics know better. You should drain and refill the PTU every 20,000 to 30,000 miles. Use a high-quality 75W-140 synthetic gear oil to handle the extreme heat generated by the nearby exhaust.
Next, focus on the transmission. The 6F50 or 6F55 (EcoBoost) transmissions are robust but require clean fluid. Perform a drain and fill—not a high-pressure flush—every 30,000 miles. This prevents old debris from getting lodged in the valve body, which can lead to harsh shifting or gear slipping.
The Internal Water Pump Challenge
The 3.5L and 3.7L Duratec engines use an internal water pump driven by the timing chain. This is a critical design feature to be aware of. If the water pump seal fails, it can leak coolant directly into the oil pan, potentially destroying the engine in minutes.
Regularly check your oil for a “milky” appearance and monitor your coolant levels. If you notice a small leak from the weep hole behind the alternator, do not wait. Replacing the water pump is a 10-12 hour job that involves removing the timing cover, but it is much cheaper than a total engine replacement.
Suspension and Chassis Care
Police work is hard on bushings and ball joints. Inspect the rear toe links and front control arms for any signs of cracking or play. A clunking sound when going over bumps is a common sign that the heavy-duty struts are worn out.
When replacing suspension components, always opt for the “Police” or “Heavy Duty” spec parts. Using civilian-grade struts will result in a floaty ride and decreased handling precision. Check the subframe bushings as well, as these can rot over time and cause vague steering feel.
Common Problems and DIY Solutions
Every vehicle has its quirks, and the 2013 interceptor is no exception. Most of these issues can be handled by a determined DIYer with a basic set of metric sockets and a good torque wrench. Knowing what to look for can save you thousands in diagnostic fees.
Turbocharger Health (EcoBoost Models)
If you have the twin-turbo 3.5L engine, keeping the oil clean is non-negotiable. Turbos rely on a thin film of oil for cooling and lubrication. Use only full synthetic oil and change it every 5,000 miles or sooner if you idle the car frequently.
Listen for a high-pitched whistling or grinding noise, which can indicate failing bearings. Also, check the plastic boost hoses for cracks or loose clamps. A small boost leak can cause a significant loss in power and poor fuel economy.
Electrical Gremlins and “Dark Mode”
Many retired police cars are stuck in “Dark Mode,” where the interior lights do not turn on when the doors open. This is a software setting that can be changed using a FORScan adapter and a laptop. It allows you to access the car’s computer and toggle police-specific features on or off.
Check the wiring under the center console and in the trunk. When police departments remove their equipment, they often “snipe” the wires. Ensure there are no exposed leads that could short out and cause a fire. Use heat-shrink tubing and electrical tape to tidy up any leftover harnesses.
Essential Tools for the Interceptor Owner
To work on this car effectively, you need more than just a screwdriver. Because it is a modern, computer-controlled vehicle with heavy-duty hardware, specific tools will make your life much easier and your repairs safer.
- OBD2 Scanner: A high-quality scanner (like an OBDLink MX+) is essential for reading codes and monitoring live data like transmission temperature.
- Fluid Extraction Pump: Since the PTU often lacks a drain plug, a vacuum pump is needed to suck the old oil out through the fill hole.
- Heavy-Duty Jack Stands: This car weighs over 4,000 pounds. Never work under it without 3-ton or higher rated jack stands.
- Torque Wrench: Critical for lug nuts, brake caliper bolts, and suspension components to ensure they don’t vibrate loose.
Having a shop manual or access to an online database like Alldata is also highly recommended. The torque specs for the interceptor are often higher than the civilian model, and guessing can lead to sheared bolts or failed bearings.
Buying Guide: What to Look for at Auction
Buying a ford taurus police interceptor 2013 at auction can be a gamble, but you can tilt the odds in your favor. Look for “Admin” cars, which were typically driven by detectives or supervisors and didn’t see the same abuse as “Patrol” units.
Check the idle hours by toggling through the dash menu. One idle hour is generally considered equivalent to about 33 miles of driving. A car with 80,000 miles but 5,000 idle hours has much more wear on the engine than the odometer suggests.
Look for signs of consistent maintenance. Many departments keep meticulous records. If the oil is clean and the transmission fluid is pink (not brown), it’s a good sign the fleet mechanics took care of it. Avoid cars with frame damage or significant rust on the subframes, as these are difficult and expensive to repair.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Ford Taurus Police Interceptor 2013
Is the Ford Taurus Police Interceptor 2013 faster than the SHO?
In a straight line, the EcoBoost interceptor and the Taurus SHO are very similar, as they share the same 3.5L twin-turbo engine. However, the interceptor is often slightly slower due to the weight of its heavy-duty equipment and a more conservative transmission tune designed for longevity.
Can I use regular 87 octane fuel in the interceptor?
Yes, the 3.7L and 3.5L EcoBoost engines are designed to run on 87 octane. However, for maximum performance and to prevent “knock” in the EcoBoost model, 91 or 93 octane is highly recommended, especially in hot weather or when towing.
Why does my interceptor have a column shifter?
The ford taurus police interceptor 2013 features a column shifter to clear space in the center console for police equipment like radios, computers, and sirens. This is one of the easiest ways to tell a true interceptor from a civilian Taurus with a police package.
How do I know if my PTU is failing?
Common signs of PTU failure include a “propane-like” smell after driving, visible oil leaking from the unit, or a loud growling noise from the center of the car. If you see silver metallic flakes in the PTU fluid during a change, the internal gears are likely wearing down.
Conclusion: Staying Safe and Reliable
The 2013 interceptor is a remarkable piece of engineering that offers incredible value for those willing to put in the work. By focusing on the PTU maintenance, monitoring the internal water pump, and using the correct heavy-duty parts, you can enjoy a vehicle that outperforms almost anything else in its price bracket.
Remember that these cars were built to protect and serve, and they require a higher level of care to stay in peak form. Stay on top of your fluid changes, listen to what the car is telling you, and don’t be afraid to dive into the DIY repairs. With a little sweat equity, your interceptor will be ready for any adventure, whether it’s a cross-country road trip or a weekend at the track. Stay safe and keep those wrenches turning!
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