1997 Ford Taurus Electrical Issues

Avatar
STOLI
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I own a '97 Ford Taurus 6cyl. wagon w/135,000mi., which has been a great car for me for some time now. However, recently i've had some crazy electrical problems all at once, leading me to believe that my vehicle may be... POSESSED! It all started somewhat minor with the speakers cutting out while in, or passing through reverse. Now, after started, it sounds like the starter is still engaged while in P or N; even then it's a random event. The speakers now stop working as soon as I shift into any gear. meanwhile, the coreography between the power steering, automatic door locks and numerous indicator lights in the dash, all flickering off and on with the radio antenna that can't decide weither to extend or retract is a sight to behold! I'm about ready to move to "Amityville" and call it a day...Is there hope? Or should stock up on Holy water and contact the local Excorcist?...
Jan 16, 2007 at 7:53 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
TAURUSWHEEL
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 718 POSTS
I would check the transmission range sensor, trs... It's been known to cause weird electricak issues seemingly totally unrelated to it's operation.. basically it's a neutral safety switch, sits on top of the transmission,,, usually pretty easy to r & r, some require a special tool to set them up correctly after install, you may be able toget aroung that though.. start with this unit first
Jan 17, 2007 at 12:57 AM

Suggested Repair

Check and, if needed, replace the transmission range sensor (neutral safety switch) on top of the transmission. Some replacements require a special tool for correct adjustment after installation.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1997 Ford Taurus reported multiple electrical problems, including speakers cutting out when shifting, a starter that sometimes sounded engaged in Park or Neutral, flickering dash lights, erratic power steering and door locks, and a radio antenna that extended and retracted unpredictably. The expert advised starting by checking the transmission range sensor, which can cause seemingly unrelated electrical issues.

Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle