A Ford Mechanic's Guide to Ignition Coils for the 2013-2019 Ford Taurus
If your Taurus is running rough, hesitating, or the check engine light is on, a bad ignition coil is a likely culprit.
- The rear three ignition coils on the 3.5L V6 are difficult to access and require removing the upper intake manifold, significantly increasing labor time and cost.
- A recurring ignition coil failure on the same cylinder may indicate a problem with the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), a known issue for this engine family.
- Always replace the spark plugs when you replace the ignition coils to ensure a complete repair and prevent premature failure of the new coils.
- Use the correct coil for your engine: the naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 and the 3.5L EcoBoost (SHO) use different, non-interchangeable parts.
Is Your Taurus Stuttering? Understanding Ignition Coil Failure
When an ignition coil starts to fail on your 2013-2019 Taurus, the signs are usually noticeable. Because each cylinder has its own coil, a single failure means one cylinder isn't firing correctly. This leads to classic symptoms like a rough idle, engine shaking, hesitation when you accelerate, and a noticeable loss of power. You'll also see the check engine light come on, often flashing, which signals a potentially damaging engine misfire.
A Known Issue: Failing Coils and the PCM
A noteworthy issue on the 3.5L and 3.7L engines used in the Taurus and other Ford models is the potential for the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to cause coil failure. A faulty ignition coil driver within the PCM can fail, sending a continuous signal that burns out the coil. If you replace a coil and it fails again quickly, or if you have a persistent misfire code (like P0351-P0356) even after swapping coils, the PCM itself is the likely culprit. In these cases, the PCM must be repaired or replaced along with the bad coil to fix the problem permanently.
🎬 Learn how a faulty PCM causes persistent ignition coil failure.OEM vs. Aftermarket Coils: What's the Best Choice?
When it's time to replace a coil, you have a choice between Original Equipment (OEM) and aftermarket parts. For the Ford Taurus, the decision can impact long-term reliability.
- Tier 1 (OEM): Motorcraft
Motorcraft is Ford's own parts brand, and it's what your Taurus came with from the factory. Mechanics almost universally recommend sticking with Motorcraft coils for Ford vehicles. They are built to the exact specifications for durability and performance, and while they cost more, they are the most reliable option to prevent future headaches. The OEM part for the naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 is generally Motorcraft DG-520 (Ford part # 7T4Z-12029-E). For the high-performance 3.5L EcoBoost V6 in the SHO model, the correct part is Motorcraft DG-549 (Ford part # BL3Z-12029-C). - Tier 2 (Reputable Aftermarket): Delphi, NGK, Denso
Brands like Delphi, NGK, and Denso have a strong reputation for producing quality ignition components. Denso is often the original manufacturer for many Motorcraft parts. These brands offer a good balance of quality and price, often performing nearly as well as OEM for less money. They are a solid choice if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option than the dealer part without sacrificing too much reliability. - Tier 3 (Budget Brands): DriveWire, Spectra, Standard, etc.
There are many budget-friendly brands available. While the low price is tempting, be aware that their long-term durability can be a gamble. Some owners report these coils failing much sooner than OEM or Tier 2 options. If you're on a tight budget they can get you back on the road, but it might not be a long-term solution.
Always Replace Spark Plugs with Coils
It's a golden rule for a reason. Old or worn spark plugs put extra strain on the ignition coils, which can cause them to fail prematurely. If you're going through the labor of replacing a coil, especially one on the difficult-to-access rear bank, always replace the spark plugs at the same time. This ensures the entire ignition system is healthy and prevents you from having to do the same job twice.
Cost to Replace a Ford Taurus Ignition Coil
The cost depends heavily on whether you're replacing an easily accessible front coil or a difficult rear coil.
| Part / Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Motorcraft Coil (1) | $75 - $115 |
| New Aftermarket Coil (1) | $30 - $80 |
| Shop Labor (Front 3 Coils) | $65 - $100 |
| Shop Labor (Rear 3 Coils) | $300 - $450+ |
Note: Labor for the rear coils is much higher because the upper intake manifold must be removed for access. Prices are estimates and will vary by location and repair shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace all six coils at once?
If one coil fails, the others may not be far behind, as they've all been subjected to the same conditions. While you can replace just the failed coil, it's a good preventative measure to replace them in sets. If a rear coil fails (cylinders 1, 2, or 3 on the 3.5L V6), it is highly recommended to replace all three rear coils and all six spark plugs at the same time to avoid paying for the extensive labor of removing the intake manifold again.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide on replacing your Taurus ignition coils.Is there a recall on the ignition coils for my Taurus?
No, there are no active NHTSA safety recalls specifically for ignition coil failure on the 2013-2019 Ford Taurus. Recalls for this vehicle generation typically involve other components like fuel modules or suspension parts.
What's the difference between coils for the SHO and the regular Taurus?
The 3.5L EcoBoost engine in the Taurus SHO uses a different ignition coil (Motorcraft DG-549) than the naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 (Motorcraft DG-520). These parts are not interchangeable. Always verify you are ordering the correct part for your specific engine to avoid fitment issues.
How do I know which cylinder has the bad coil?
A diagnostic trouble code (DTC) will point you to the right cylinder. The codes P0351 through P0356 correspond to a specific cylinder's ignition coil circuit. For example, P0351 points to cylinder 1, P0352 to cylinder 2, and so on. On the transverse 3.5L V6, the rear bank (near the firewall) contains cylinders 1, 2, and 3, while the front bank (near the radiator) has cylinders 4, 5, and 6.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 7T4Z-12029-E DG-520 BL3Z-12029-C DG-549
The 2013-2019 Ford Taurus with the 3.5L V6 engine uses a coil-on-plug ignition system. There are six individual coils, one for each spark plug. The naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 typically uses Motorcraft part DG-520. The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (Taurus SHO) uses Motorcraft part DG-549. Both are 12V electronic coils with a 3-pin blade-style connector.
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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.
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