Ford Taurus Engine Intake Manifold Gasket Guide (2010-2019)
Fixing a rough idle, lean codes, or coolant leaks in your Taurus often starts with these critical engine seals.
- A Check Engine Light with codes P0171 and P0174 is the most common symptom of a failed intake gasket.
- It is critical to replace both the upper (plenum) and lower intake gaskets at the same time.
- High-quality aftermarket brands like Fel-Pro and Victor Reinz are trusted choices for this repair.
- Driving with a significant coolant leak from the gasket can lead to severe engine damage from overheating.
Is Your Taurus Running Rough? It Could Be the Intake Gaskets.
If your 2010-2019 Ford Taurus is idling poorly, hesitating when you accelerate, or has the Check Engine Light on, a failing intake manifold gasket is a common suspect. These gaskets seal the intake manifold to the engine, preventing vacuum leaks and, on many Taurus V6 engines, coolant leaks. Over time, the constant heat cycles can cause the original gaskets to become hard, brittle, and compressed, leading to leaks.
Key Failure Signs
The most common failure is a vacuum leak. This allows extra, unmeasured air into the engine. 🎬 Watch: Learn more about common vacuum leak symptoms and signs. The engine's computer tries to compensate but can't, which leads to lean running conditions, misfires, and poor performance. If your Taurus has coolant running through the intake, you might also experience coolant loss or overheating.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Gasket Set
When replacing intake gaskets, you don't have to go back to the dealer. Quality aftermarket brands offer reliable, and often improved, designs over the original parts. The key is to choose a reputable brand.
- Premium Brands (Fel-Pro, Victor Reinz): These are the top choices for a reason. Fel-Pro is a well-respected name in the aftermarket and is known for producing high-quality gaskets that often meet or exceed OEM specifications. Victor Reinz is another excellent, often OEM-supplier brand that provides reliable, long-lasting seals. You can trust either of these brands for this repair.
- Standard Brands (Apex): Brands like Apex offer a cost-effective solution. While they may not have the same long-standing reputation as Fel-Pro or Victor Reinz, they provide a functional replacement that can be a good option for budget-conscious repairs.
For this job, the lower intake manifold gaskets are individual seals (your V6 needs six). The upper intake manifold, or plenum, also has a gasket. 🎬 See this walkthrough on how to remove the upper manifold. It is highly recommended to replace both the upper and lower gaskets at the same time, as the upper manifold must be removed to access the lower ones. Most aftermarket sets include all necessary gaskets for the job.
Cost of Replacing Ford Taurus Intake Manifold Gaskets
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Gasket Set | $22 - $92 |
| New OEM Gasket Set | $40 - $180 |
| Shop Labor | $190 - $450 |
| Total Professional Repair | $460 - $650 |
Cost estimates are approximate and can vary based on your location, the specific engine in your Taurus, and the repair shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do this repair myself?
If you have experience with engine repair, this is a manageable DIY job. It requires removing the air intake, fuel rail, and upper intake manifold. You'll need a good set of tools, a torque wrench, and about 3-5 hours. For beginners, it might be best left to a professional due to the number of components that need to be disconnected and reassembled correctly.
Should I use sealant on the new gaskets?
Generally, no. Modern rubber or silicone gaskets like those used on the Taurus are designed to be installed dry. The new gasket's raised profile provides the sealing force. Adding sealant can interfere with this and cause leaks. Always follow the specific instructions included with your new gasket set.
Is there a recall for this issue on my Taurus?
No, as of early 2026, there are no active recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Ford specifically for intake manifold gasket failure on the 2010-2019 Taurus. This is considered a normal wear-and-tear repair item.
What's the difference between upper and lower intake gaskets?
The 3.5L V6 engine in the Taurus uses a two-piece intake manifold. The lower gaskets seal the manifold base to the cylinder heads. The upper gasket (plenum gasket) seals the upper and lower halves of the manifold together. You must remove the upper manifold to get to the lower gaskets, so it is standard practice 🎬 Watch: Step-by-step guide for replacing the lower intake manifold gaskets. to replace both at the same time.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 7T4Z-9439-A 7T4Z-9439-E 7T4Z-9439-D
The 3.5L V6 engine requires a set of six individual lower intake manifold gaskets. The upper intake manifold (plenum) gasket is also required for a complete job. Gaskets are typically made of a rubber or silicone material molded onto a carrier.
We Have This Part in Stock
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: