How to Fix a Ford Taurus That Is Overheating

Ford Taurus vehicles should be maintained with a 50% coolant and 50% distilled water mix to avoid overheating. If the coolant level drops below 40% or rises above 60% engine, damage could occur. If the coolant level drops too far, the engine will overheat. Late model overheated Taurus vehicles can be driven a short distance, then fixed by adding liquids. Fixing a Ford Taurus that is overheating can be accomplished at home.

Instructions

1

Monitor the dashboard engine temperature gauge and service engine indicator. If the engine begins to overheat, the temperature gauge will go into the red area, and the service engine light will illuminate.

2

Drive to a safe, shady area, off the road. The engine will have switched to an alternating cylinder functionality, where the disabled cylinders act as an air pump to cool the engine. The engine power will be limited, and the air conditioning will turn off.

3

Turn the engine off, open the hood, and wait for the Ford Taurus to cool down. Do not poor cold water on the engine; let the engine cool, naturally.

4

Wrap a thick cloth around the pressure relief cap on the coolant bottle in the engine compartment. Slowly, turn the cap counterclockwise, until pressure begins to release. Step away from the car, as all the pressure releases. When all the pressure is gone, remove the cap.

5

Fill the coolant reservoir to the "Max" line with a 50/50 mix of distilled water and coolant, sometimes called "Anti-freeze." Even in a very hot climate, maintain coolant concentration of between 40% and 60%. Close the cap, tightly; close the hood, and restart the engine.