Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (headlights, tail lights, turn signals, interior lights).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 1996 Ford Taurus owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
Consumer stated headlight lenses produced a thick film. As a result, the of the visibility of the driver becomes impaired. Dealer stated that it was normal procedure. Head light lens are no longer clear.
This failure is a safety hazard. While driving the power steering stops working at random, the electric windows quit working, and the seat belt light comes on! They all appear to be related to this mlp/tr switch. I searched the internet and found 4 other occurrences that were reported. When I call the local Ford service garage, the service manager knew exactly what my problem was and sold me the sensor switch. He was aware that the power steering stops working when these symptoms occur. I experienced the power steering failing on a turn and had much trouble controlling the car. I'm worried that my daughter would not have been able to control the car.
Seal on both headlight lens have failed resulting in cloudy lenses . Lens are not removable requireing replacing each unit at a price of $214. Per unit. In discussing with service people at Ford garage they say this is occuring quite frequently. This is ridiculous having to replace the whole unit to enable cleaning of a headlight lens. This restricts the visibility due to diminished lumens available . This is a serious saftey hazard.
The headlights stay on when everything is off, bright light indicator stays on. This is the second time this has happened. The previous time the lights would go off when the emergency brake was applied, emergeny brake unaffective this time. It appears to be the daytime running lights even though the bright light indicator is on.
When driving consumer noticed vehicle overheated due to a leak within the engine compartment. Also, a problem with battery draining out, and headlights come off and on. Consumer have contacted the dealer. The thermostat failed.
When ever the vehicle runs through a puddle of water, the dashboard lights fail and engine completely shuts / cuts off. The vehicle can be instantly started back up by turning the ignition again. Dealer can't find solution.
Consumer called complaining about having problems with headlights. Also stated that when she will turn on her lights only the day lights will go on. Dealer was contacted and told the consumer to contact us. Ts
On problem one: I have observed several 1996 through 1999 Ford Taurus wagons with defective center mounted stop light. Problem two: both rear outer seat belts stopped retracting at about the same time.
The scratches on the front headlight lens were causing a distraction to the consumer's view. Dealership was notified, but did not resolve the problem.
Right rear shoulder belts does not retract, belt remains loose, does not adjust to occupant. Replaced by dealership; also, road side emergency flashing light does not work when pressed switch.
Headlight complaints in other Taurus years
Frequently asked questions
How common are headlight problems on the 1996 Ford Taurus?
NHTSA has 30 complaints about the lights of the 1996 Ford Taurus, 4% of the model year's 825 complaints. The component named most often is headlights (12 mentions).
Is there a recall for 1996 Ford Taurus headlight problems?
No. NHTSA lists no lights recall for the 1996 Ford Taurus, though it has 6 recalls for other components. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 1996 Ford Taurus headlight problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 75,000 miles, and 50% before 25,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 1 crash, 1 fire and 0 injuries to lights problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.