1988 Ford Taurus Repair Manual

The 1988 Ford Taurus is a mid-size sedan featuring front-wheel drive, available with 2.5L HSC inline-4 or 3.0L Vulcan V6 engines, 4-speed automatic transmission, power steering, front disc/rear drum brakes, and comprehensive electronic systems. This manual covers maintenance, repair procedures, troubleshooting, and specifications for all major components including engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical, and body systems.

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data for the 1988 Ford Taurus models.

Routine Maintenance

Scheduled maintenance intervals and procedures.

1. Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months - Use 5W-30 motor oil
2. Filter Replacement: Air filter every 15,000 miles, fuel filter every 30,000 miles
3. Tire Rotation: Every 6,000 miles - Maintain 30-32 PSI pressure
4. Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
5. Spark Plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles - Gap: 0.044 inches

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before maintenance. Use jack stands when lifting vehicle.

Engine Systems

Repair procedures for engine components and systems.

1. Timing Belt: Replace every 60,000 miles on 2.5L engine
2. Ignition System: Check distributor cap and rotor every 15,000 miles
3. Fuel Injection: Clean injectors every 30,000 miles
4. Cooling System: Check thermostat operation at 195°F opening temperature
5. Exhaust: Inspect catalytic converter and oxygen sensor function

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool before opening cooling system. Relieve fuel pressure before fuel line work.

Transmission & Drivetrain

• Transmission Fluid: Mercon ATF - Check when warm in PARK
• Fluid Capacity: 10.5 quarts total (dry fill)
• Drive Axles: Replace CV boots if torn - Repack with grease
• Differential: Integral with transaxle - Use 80W-90 gear oil
• Shift Linkage: Adjust if shifting issues occur
• Torque Converter: Stall test if slipping suspected
• Filter Service: Replace during fluid change

Brake System

Brake maintenance and repair procedures.

Front Brakes: Disc pads minimum thickness 1/8 inch, rotor minimum thickness 0.810 inch

Rear Brakes: Drum shoes minimum thickness 1/16 inch, drum maximum diameter 9.060 inches

Hydraulic System: Bleed brakes starting from farthest wheel. Master cylinder reservoir fluid level at MAX line. Check brake lines for corrosion and leaks.

Suspension & Steering

Front struts, rear shocks, and power steering system.

1. Strut Replacement: Compress spring before disassembly
2. Ball Joints: Check for play - Replace if exceeds 1/8 inch movement
3. Tie Rod Ends: Inspect for looseness during tire rotation
4. Power Steering: Use Type F automatic transmission fluid
5. Alignment Specs: Camber 0° ± 0.5°, Caster 1.5° ± 0.5°, Toe-in 0° ± 0.2°

Tip: Check suspension with wheels off ground. Replace components in pairs when possible.

Electrical System

Battery, charging, starting, and lighting systems.

1. Battery: 12V, 550 CCA - Clean terminals with baking soda solution
2. Alternator: Output 65-85 amps - Check belt tension regularly
3. Starter: Draw test maximum 180 amps
4. Fuses: Located in interior and engine compartment fuse boxes
5. Lighting: Headlight aim adjustment screws on housing
6. Wiring: Color-coded diagrams in section 10
7. ECU: Located behind glove box - Check for trouble codes

WARNING! Disconnect battery before electrical work. Avoid short circuits.

Body & Interior

Body panel repair, trim, and interior component service.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common problems and diagnostic procedures.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to clear ECU memory.

Service: Ford dealership or qualified repair facility recommended for complex issues.

Wiring Diagrams

Complete electrical schematics for all systems.

Technical Service Bulletins

Manufacturer-released updates and common fixes.

TSB 88-12-05: Revised shift cable adjustment procedure for harsh shifting. TSB 88-15-08: Updated calibration for idle air control motor on 3.0L engines. TSB 88-20-11: Replacement procedure for prone-to-failure fuel pump relays.