Ford Taurus Ignition Coil Guide: 2007-2012
Everything a Taurus owner needs to know about replacing failing ignition coils.
- If you have a 2008 model with multiple coil failures, investigate the PCM as per TSB 13-4-17.
- It is highly recommended to replace all six coils and spark plugs at the same time.
- The rear three coils are difficult to access, requiring removal of the intake manifold, which significantly increases labor time and cost.
- Top-tier aftermarket brands like Delphi and NGK are considered reliable alternatives to the more expensive OEM Motorcraft coils.
Is Your Taurus Running Rough? It Could Be an Ignition Coil.
A failing ignition coil on your 2007-2012 Taurus will cause noticeable engine problems. Because each cylinder has its own coil, the symptoms can start small with a single failing unit but will get worse. The most common signs include a rough idle, engine hesitation when you accelerate, and a noticeable loss of power. You may also see a drop in fuel economy or even hear the engine backfire. Eventually, the check engine light will come on.
A Known Issue: PCM Failure in 2008 Models
For the 2008 Taurus specifically, Ford issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 13-4-17) for a serious issue where a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) can damage the ignition coils. If you have a 2008 model with multiple ignition coil failures (DTCs P0351-P0356), the PCM itself is likely the root cause. 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose and fix PCM-related ignition coil codes. In this case, simply replacing the coils is not enough; the PCM must be replaced as well to prevent the new coils from being destroyed.
Choosing a Replacement Aftermarket Coil
When it comes to ignition parts for your Ford, you have options. While the original Motorcraft coils are a reliable choice, several aftermarket brands offer a good balance of quality and price. Here’s a breakdown of your choices:
- OEM & Premium Aftermarket (Motorcraft, Delphi, NGK): Motorcraft is the original part and a guaranteed fit. Delphi and NGK are highly respected OEM suppliers for many brands and are considered top-tier aftermarket choices, often providing similar performance to the original parts. Many owners and mechanics trust these brands for their reliability.
- Quality Mid-Range (Standard Ignition, Hitachi, Spectra): Brands like Standard Ignition (SMP) offer a solid combination of performance and value. They are a well-known name in the aftermarket and a reliable choice for a daily driver.
- Performance Brands (MSD, Granatelli): If you're looking for higher spark output, brands like MSD specialize in performance ignition systems. While not necessary for a stock engine, they are an option for enthusiasts seeking maximum performance.
- Budget-Friendly (DriveWire, Global Parts, URO Parts, etc.): These brands offer a low-cost alternative. While the initial savings are appealing, their long-term durability may not match that of premium brands. They can be a viable option for a quick repair on a limited budget.
Pro Tip: Replace Coils and Plugs Together
If you're replacing ignition coils, it's the perfect time to replace your spark plugs too. A worn spark plug makes the coil work harder, which can shorten its lifespan. Since accessing the rear three coils on the 3.5L V6 requires removing the upper intake manifold, doing both jobs at once saves you from having to 🎬 See this walkthrough for replacing both spark plugs and coils. do the labor-intensive part of the job twice.
How Much Does an Ignition Coil Replacement Cost?
The cost can vary significantly based on whether you replace one coil or all six, and whether you do the work yourself. The rear three coils are much harder to access, which increases shop labor time.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Single Aftermarket Ignition Coil | $32 - $108 |
| Set of 6 Aftermarket Ignition Coils | $150 - $450+ |
| Single OEM (Motorcraft) Ignition Coil | $70 - $120 |
| Shop Labor (Front Coils Only) | $60 - $120 |
| Shop Labor (All Six Coils) | $250 - $450+ |
Note: Costs are estimates and will vary by location and specific part brand. Labor costs are higher for replacing all six coils due to the need to remove the intake manifold to access the rear bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which ignition coil is bad?
When the check engine light comes on, a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) will be stored in the computer. A code like P0304 indicates a misfire on cylinder 4. Codes P0351 through P0356 point to a fault in the coil circuit for a specific cylinder (P0351 for cylinder 1, etc.). You can swap the suspected bad coil with a known good one from another cylinder. If the misfire code follows the coil to the new cylinder, you've confirmed the coil is faulty.
🎬 Watch: Understanding P0351 codes and how to test the circuit.Should I replace all six ignition coils at once?
It's highly recommended. Ignition coils are wear-and-tear items. When one fails, the others are often near the end of their service life. Given the significant labor involved in accessing the rear coils on the 3.5L V6 engine, replacing all six at the same time is more cost-effective in the long run.
Is replacing the ignition coils on a 2007-2012 Taurus a DIY job?
It depends on your skill level. The front three coils (cylinders 4, 5, and 6) are very easy to access and replace. However, the rear three coils (cylinders 1, 2, and 3) are located under the upper intake manifold. Replacing them requires removing the manifold, which is a more complex and time-consuming job. A beginner should probably leave the rear coils to a professional, but an experienced DIYer can tackle it.
Are there any recalls for the 2007-2012 Taurus ignition coils?
No, there are no specific NHTSA safety recalls for ignition coils on the 2007-2012 Ford Taurus. However, Ford did issue a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 13-4-17) for 2008 models, acknowledging that a faulty PCM could cause coil damage. This is not a recall, but a document to help technicians diagnose the problem.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 7T4Z-12029-E CY01-18-100A 7T4Z-12029-F BA5Z-12259-A
Coil-on-Plug (COP), V6 Engine Application
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ford Taurus:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Taurus Running Rough? It Could Be an Ignition Coil.
- A Known Issue: PCM Failure in 2008 Models
- Choosing a Replacement Aftermarket Coil
- Pro Tip: Replace Coils and Plugs Together
- How Much Does an Ignition Coil Replacement Cost?
- Frequently Asked Questions
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