Ford Taurus Police Interceptor 2017 – The Ultimate Maintenance
The 2017 Ford Police Interceptor Sedan is a heavy-duty, pursuit-rated machine that offers significant upgrades over the standard civilian Taurus. This guide breaks down the essential maintenance, common mechanical pitfalls like the PTU, and why these former fleet vehicles remain a top choice for performance enthusiasts and DIYers.
You probably know that the ford taurus police interceptor 2017 is more than just a sedan with a spotlight. It represents the final years of Ford’s dedicated sedan-based pursuit vehicles, built to handle extreme idling and high-speed maneuvers.
If you have recently purchased one at auction or are looking to keep yours in peak condition, you might feel overwhelmed by the specialized parts. This article provides a clear roadmap for maintaining the heavy-duty systems that make this car a legend on the road.
We will cover everything from the critical Power Transfer Unit (PTU) fluid changes to the specific cooling system requirements. By the end of this guide, you will have the confidence to tackle DIY repairs and keep your Interceptor running like a professional fleet vehicle.
Understanding the ford taurus police interceptor 2017 Foundation
The ford taurus police interceptor 2017 was engineered for durability under the most demanding conditions imaginable. Unlike the civilian Taurus, this vehicle features a reinforced subframe, heavy-duty suspension components, and a cooling system designed for 24/7 operation.
One of the most notable differences is the absence of a center console, replaced by a column shifter to make room for police equipment. The seats often feature “anti-stab” plates in the backrests, and the flooring is typically easy-to-clean vinyl rather than carpet.
Under the hood, you usually find one of two powerplants: the naturally aspirated 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 or the powerhouse 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6. Both engines are mated to a heavy-duty six-speed automatic transmission and a standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system.
Heavy-Duty Cooling and Electrical Systems
Police work involves hours of stationary idling followed by immediate high-speed pursuit, which is brutal on a standard cooling system. The Interceptor features a larger radiator, higher-output cooling fans, and an external oil-to-coolant heat exchanger.
The electrical system is also beefed up with a 220-amp alternator to power lights, sirens, and computers. If you are a DIYer adding aftermarket accessories, this extra amperage provides a massive advantage over civilian models.
Suspension and Braking Upgrades
You will notice the ride is significantly stiffer than a standard Taurus, thanks to heavy-duty springs and monotube shocks. The braking system uses larger rotors and specialized brake pads designed to resist fade during repeated high-speed stops.
When replacing these parts, always ensure you are buying the “Police” or “Heavy Duty” variants. Standard Taurus parts may fit the bolts but will not handle the heat and stress this chassis is capable of producing.
Maximizing the ford taurus police interceptor 2017 Performance
To get the most out of your ford taurus police interceptor 2017, you must focus on the All-Wheel Drive system. The AWD in these vehicles is proactive, meaning it shifts power to the wheels with the most grip before slip even occurs.
However, this system relies heavily on the health of the Power Transfer Unit (PTU). In the 2017 model year, Ford included a drain plug on some units, but many still require a vacuum pump to change the fluid.
Regularly changing the gear oil in the PTU is the single most important maintenance task you can perform. Neglecting this leads to the fluid “cooking” into a thick sludge, eventually causing bearing failure and a very expensive repair bill.
The 3.5L EcoBoost Advantage
If your Interceptor is equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost, you are driving a sleeper that can keep up with many modern sports cars. These twin-turbocharged engines respond exceptionally well to routine maintenance and high-quality synthetic oils.
Keep a close eye on the spark plug gaps, as turbocharged engines are sensitive to “spark blow-out” under boost. Many owners find that changing plugs every 30,000 miles keeps the acceleration crisp and prevents misfires under load.
Optimizing the Air Intake
While the stock airbox is efficient, ensuring you use a high-quality dry-flow filter can help the turbos breathe better. Avoid “oiled” filters, as the oil can coat the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor and cause erratic idling or poor fuel economy.
Check the plastic intake pipes for any cracks or loose clamps, especially near the intercooler. A small boost leak can make the car feel sluggish and force the turbos to overwork to compensate for the lost pressure.
Critical Maintenance: The PTU and Water Pump
The ford taurus police interceptor 2017 has two “Achilles heels” that every owner must monitor closely. These are the internal water pump and the aforementioned Power Transfer Unit (PTU) located near the exhaust.
Because the PTU sits so close to the hot exhaust manifold, the lubricant inside breaks down much faster than in a rear differential. If you smell a “propane-like” or “burnt gear oil” scent after a long drive, your PTU fluid is likely spent.
I recommend changing this fluid every 20,000 to 30,000 miles using a high-quality 75W-140 synthetic gear oil. This small investment of time and a few quarts of oil can save you thousands of dollars in drivetrain replacement costs.
The Internal Water Pump Warning
Both the 3.7L and 3.5L engines use a water pump that is driven by the timing chain inside the engine. If the pump seal fails, it can leak coolant directly into the oil pan, which will destroy the engine bearings in minutes.
Inspect the “weep hole” located on the side of the engine block behind the alternator regularly. If you see coolant crust or dampness there, the water pump is failing and needs immediate replacement by a professional.
Monitoring Oil Quality
Since coolant can mix with oil during a pump failure, check your oil dipstick weekly for a “chocolate milk” appearance. If the oil looks milky or frothy, do not start the engine; have it towed to a shop to verify the water pump’s integrity.
Using a high-quality oil filter with a silicone anti-drainback valve is also a smart move for these engines. It ensures that the timing chain tensioners receive oil pressure immediately upon startup, reducing wear on the chain guides.
Buyer’s Guide: Inspecting a Used 2017 Interceptor
When shopping for a ford taurus police interceptor 2017, you cannot rely on the odometer alone. Police vehicles spend a massive amount of time stationary with the engine running to power electronics and climate control.
Check the dashboard display for Engine Idle Hours and Total Engine Hours. A general rule of thumb is that one idle hour is equivalent to approximately 33 miles of driving wear on the engine internals.
A car with only 80,000 miles but 5,000 idle hours has effectively “traveled” much further in terms of engine wear. Always prioritize a vehicle with lower idle hours over one with a slightly lower odometer reading.
Checking for “Ghost” Electrical Issues
Police departments often “de-commission” these cars by quickly cutting wires for lights and sirens. This can leave behind parasitic draws or open circuits that cause battery drain or weird dashboard warning lights.
Bring a basic OBD-II scanner when inspecting a car to check for “U-codes” (communication codes) or hidden misfire counts. Ensure all civilian features, like the power windows and door locks, still function correctly from the driver’s master switch.
Inspecting the AWD System
Take the car to a parking lot and perform tight “Figure-8” turns at low speeds. If you feel a binding or hopping sensation, the PTU or the rear viscous coupler may be damaged from mismatched tire sizes or lack of maintenance.
Verify that all four tires are the exact same brand, model, and tread depth. Mismatched tires are the fastest way to kill the AWD system on an Interceptor because they force the center differential to work constantly.
Essential Tools for the Interceptor DIYer
Working on the ford taurus police interceptor 2017 requires a few specific tools to make the job easier and safer. Because the engine bay is cramped, having the right gear saves your knuckles and your patience.
A fluid extraction pump is mandatory if your PTU does not have a drain plug. You will need to suck the old oil out through the fill hole using a thin, flexible tube before pumping in the fresh synthetic gear lube.
A set of “wobble” extensions and swivel sockets is also highly recommended for reaching the spark plugs on the rear bank of the V6. The intake manifold may need to be loosened or removed on some models to access the rear plugs effectively.
- OBD-II Bluetooth Adapter: Pairs with apps like Forscan to read police-specific modules.
- Long-Reach Funnel: Essential for adding transmission fluid without spilling it on the hot exhaust.
- Torque Wrench: Critical for lug nuts and suspension components to ensure safety at high speeds.
- Jack Stands and Floor Jack: The Interceptor is heavy; never work under it supported only by a jack.
Having a multimeter is also helpful for chasing down any leftover electrical gremlins from the car’s service days. It allows you to check battery health and verify that the high-output alternator is charging at the correct voltage.
Frequently Asked Questions About ford taurus police interceptor 2017
Can I use regular 87 octane fuel in the 2017 Interceptor?
Yes, the 3.7L and 3.5L EcoBoost engines are designed to run on 87 octane. However, for the EcoBoost models, using 91 or 93 octane will provide better performance and timing advance, especially in hot weather.
Is the 2017 Interceptor faster than a civilian Taurus SHO?
In a straight line, they are very similar if both have the 3.5L EcoBoost. However, the Interceptor has a higher top speed limiter (usually 148 mph) and better cooling, allowing it to sustain high speeds longer than a SHO.
Why does my Interceptor have a “Certified Calibration” speedometer?
Police vehicles require highly accurate speed readings for legal reasons. The certified calibration means the speedometer is accurate within a very tight margin, which is useful if you are trying to maintain a specific speed on long trips.
Can I add a center console to my Interceptor?
Yes, many owners buy used consoles from civilian Taurus models or Explorer models. Since the shifter is on the column, you have a large open space between the seats that is perfect for custom storage or a factory console swap.
What are the best tires for the 2017 Interceptor?
Look for “V-rated” or “W-rated” tires to maintain the vehicle’s speed rating. Many owners prefer the Goodyear Eagle RS-A or the Firestone Firehawk Pursuit, as they were designed specifically for the weight and handling characteristics of this chassis.
Staying Safe and Reliable on the Road
Owning a ford taurus police interceptor 2017 is a rewarding experience for anyone who appreciates heavy-duty engineering. These cars offer a level of “over-built” quality that you simply cannot find in standard consumer sedans.
By staying on top of the PTU fluid changes and watching the water pump weep hole, you can avoid the most common “engine killers.” Remember that preventative maintenance is always cheaper than a major mechanical failure on the side of the highway.
Whether you are using your Interceptor as a rugged daily driver or a weekend project car, treat it with the respect a pursuit vehicle deserves. Keep your fluids fresh, your tires matched, and your sensors clean to enjoy years of high-performance driving.
Always prioritize safety first when performing DIY repairs. If a job feels beyond your skill level—especially regarding the internal water pump or timing components—do not hesitate to consult a certified mechanic who understands the Ford Panther and D3 platforms.
Stay safe, keep your eyes on the road, and enjoy the power and stability of one of the finest police sedans ever built!
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