Basic Information Identification Make: Ford Model: Taurus Year: 2003 Codes Platform: D3 (Fourth Generation) Introduction Market Position Segment: Mid-size Sedan Target Audience: Primary family sedan, popular in North America. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Chevrolet Impala, Dodge Intrepid, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Maxima. Key Features Vehicle Attributes: Spacious interior, comfortable ride, available V6 engines, competitive pricing for its segment. Manual Attributes: Specifically designed for 2003 Ford Taurus, offers technician-level detail, covers all repairs, not generic. Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: All Models & All Repairs A-Z Page Count Estimated Page Count: 2000+ Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: 3.0L Vulcan V6 (OHV), 3.0L Duratec V6 (DOHC) Transmission: AX4N/AX4S (4-speed Automatic) Brakes: Front Disc, Rear Drum (ABS optional) Electrical: Complete Wiring Diagrams, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Ignition, Charging, Starting, Audio System Suspension: Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Independent Multi-link Steering: Rack and Pinion, Power Assist HVAC: Air Conditioning, Heating, Ventilation Systems Body And Trim: Exterior Panels, Interior Components, Upholstery, Glass Emissions Control: Catalytic Converter, EGR System, EVAP System Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Tire Rotation, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Level Checks Troubleshooting: Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Diagnostics Repair: Engine Overhaul, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair Installation: Component Replacement Procedures, Accessory Installation Specifications: Torque Specifications, Gap Specifications, Fluid Capacities, Alignment Specifications Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics. Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Portable Document Format (PDF) Print Quality Quality: High-resolution scans, clear text and diagrams. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Download) Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1: 3.0L Vulcan V6 (OHV) Engine 1 Displacement: 2986 cc Engine 1 Bore X Stroke: 88.9 mm x 80.0 mm Engine 1 Compression Ratio: 9.4:1 Engine 1 Horsepower: 155 hp @ 4900 RPM Engine 1 Torque: 180 lb-ft @ 3400 RPM Optional Engine Engine 2: 3.0L Duratec V6 (DOHC) Engine 2 Displacement: 2967 cc Engine 2 Bore X Stroke: 89.0 mm x 79.5 mm Engine 2 Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Engine 2 Horsepower: 200 hp @ 6000 RPM Engine 2 Torque: 200 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Ignition System: Electronic Ignition, Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on Duratec Transmission Standard Type: 4-speed Automatic Model Designation: AX4N (for Duratec), AX4S (for Vulcan) Optional Type: N/A (Manual transmission not offered for 2003 Taurus) Features Overdrive: Yes (4th Gear) Torque Converter Lockup: Yes Fluid Type: MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 110.5 inches (2807 mm) Length: 197.7 inches (5022 mm) Width: 73.5 inches (1867 mm) Height: 56.2 inches (1427 mm) Interior Passenger Volume: 103.1 cubic feet (2920 L) Cargo Trunk Volume: 16.0 cubic feet (453 L) Weights Curb Weight: 3,400 - 3,600 lbs (1542 - 1633 kg) approx. Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Front Impact: ★★★★ (4 Stars) NHTSA Passenger Front Impact: ★★★★ (4 Stars) IIHS Moderate Overlap Front: Good Active Features ABS: Standard on most trims, optional on others Traction Control: Optional on some models Passive Features Airbags Front: Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags Airbags Side: Optional Side Impact Airbags Seatbelts: 3-point Inertia Reel Seat Belts Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM Stereo with CD player and/or Cassette Player. Optional premium sound systems. Climate Control: Manual HVAC controls, optional Automatic Climate Control (ACC). Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims. Keyless Entry: Optional Connectivity Auxiliary Input: Not standard, later models/aftermarket may have it. Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to specific oil recommendation). Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection. Spark Plug Replacement: Vulcan V6: ~100,000 miles; Duratec V6: ~100,000 miles (uses long-life iridium plugs). Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: SAE 5W-20 (preferred for Duratec) or 5W-30. Refer to owner's manual for precise specifications and API service category. Transmission Fluid: MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid Coolant: Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Yellow) or equivalent meeting specification WSS-M97B51-A1 (50/50 mix with distilled water) Brake Fluid: DOT 3 Power Steering Fluid: Ford Power Steering Fluid (Type F) or equivalent Known Issues Common Issues: Front suspension components (struts, ball joints, tie rod ends), ignition coil packs (Duratec), PCM failure, transmission solenoid issues, coolant leaks from intake manifold gaskets or thermostat housing. Vehicle History Brand Heritage Ford History: Founded by Henry Ford, revolutionized automotive manufacturing with the assembly line. Known for iconic models like the Model T and Mustang. Model Evolution Taurus Generations: First introduced in 1986, the 2003 model represents the fourth generation (2000-2007), featuring a significant redesign with the new...