Complete Guide to Ford Taurus Rear Suspension Parts

The Ford Taurus has been a staple on American roads for decades. Whether you own a fourth-generation model from the early 2000s or a later version, the rear suspension plays a key role in ride comfort, handling, and tire wear. Replacing worn rear suspension parts is a common DIY job, but it helps to know what you're looking for. This guide covers the main components, signs of trouble, and how to choose between OEM and aftermarket parts.

Understanding the Ford Taurus Rear Suspension Setup

Most Ford Taurus models (from the 1990s through the 2010s) use a fully independent rear suspension with a multi-link design. This setup includes several control arms, a stabilizer bar, coil springs, and shock absorbers. The rear suspension is mounted to a subframe that isolates road noise and vibration.

Key Components

• Rear Shocks (or Struts on some models): The primary dampers that control spring oscillation. On many Taurus models, the rear uses separate shocks and springs, not a strut assembly.
• Coil Springs: Support the vehicle's weight and absorb bumps. They sit between the lower control arm and the frame.
• Control Arms: Usually multiple arms per side (upper and lower) that locate the wheel and allow vertical movement while controlling camber and toe.
• Stabilizer Bar (Sway Bar): A torsion bar that connects left and right sides to reduce body roll during cornering. End links connect it to the control arms.
• Subframe Bushings: Rubber or urethane mounts that attach the rear suspension subframe to the car's body. Worn bushings cause clunking noises and vague handling.
• Toe Links and Camber Arms: Adjustable links that let you set alignment angles. On some models, these are part of the control arm assembly.

Signs Your Ford Taurus Needs Rear Suspension Parts

Over time, suspension components wear out. Common symptoms include:

• Clunking or rattling noises from the rear when going over bumps – often worn control arm bushings or stabilizer bar end links.
• Excessive bounce or rear-end sag – weak coil springs or failing shocks.
• Uneven tire wear (inside or outside edges) – usually misalignment caused by bent control arms or worn bushings.
• Poor handling – the rear feels loose or wanders on the highway; could be bad subframe bushings or worn toe links.
• The car sits lower on one side – broken or collapsed spring.

If you notice any of these, inspect the rear suspension components. A simple visual check can reveal torn rubber bushings, leaking shocks, or cracked springs.

OEM vs Aftermarket Ford Taurus Rear Suspension Parts

When replacing parts, you have two main choices: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts from Ford or aftermarket alternatives. Each has pros and cons.

OEM Parts

• Pros: Exact fit, same materials and design as the original, backed by Ford warranty (typically 1-2 years).
• Cons: Higher price, less performance-oriented, may still have design weaknesses that caused premature wear.
• Best for: Owners who want a factory ride quality and plan to keep the car long-term without modifications.

Aftermarket Parts

• Pros: Often cheaper, sometimes upgraded materials (polyurethane bushings, thicker sway bars), wider selection of brands.
• Cons: Variable quality – cheap parts can wear faster or fit poorly. Not all aftermarket brands match OEM durability.
• Best for: Budget-conscious repairs or performance upgrades (e.g., stiffer springs for towing or sportier handling).

Recommended Aftermarket Brands

• Moog: Known for heavy-duty rubber bushings and greaseable components. Good balance of cost and quality.
• Duralast (AutoZone): Offer rock-bottom prices but may have shorter lifespan.
• KYB: Excellent shock absorbers – Excel-G (gas) or Monomax (heavy-duty) are popular Taurus upgrades.
• Energy Suspension: Polyurethane bushing kits that last longer than rubber but transmit more noise/vibration.
• ACDelco: GM's brand, but they make many suspension parts that fit the Taurus. Good OEM-like quality.
• Ford Motorcraft (OEM Equivalent): Basically the same as genuine Ford parts but sold under Motorcraft at lower price – a safe OEM-level choice.

Practical Replacement Tips

Replacing rear suspension parts on a Ford Taurus is doable with basic hand tools and a jack. Here are some pointers:

• Safety first: Always support the vehicle on jack stands. Never rely solely on a jack.
• Penetrating oil: Spray bolts (especially control arm bolts) with WD-40 or PB Blaster the day before. They often rust.
• Alignment needed: After replacing any control arms, toe links, or camber arms, you must get a four-wheel alignment. Skipping this will cause tire wear.
• Replace in pairs: Always replace shocks, springs, and stabilizer end links on both sides at the same time. For control arms, you can replace just one if the other is fine, but many do both while you're in there.
• Torque to spec: Use a torque wrench. Suspension bolts need specific tightening – too loose and they'll clunk; too tight and bushings bind, causing premature wear.
• Consider complete kits: Some brands sell rear suspension kits that include all arms, bushings, and stabilizer links. These can simplify ordering and ensure compatibility.

Common Part Numbers (for reference)

• Rear shock absorber: KYB 344385 (Excel-G) / 344386
• Rear coil spring: Moog CC247 (for 2004-2006 Taurus) – always verify by year and weight.
• Stabilizer bar end link: Moog K80092
• Rear upper control arm: Moog RK80505
• Rear lower control arm: Moog RK80506
• Subframe bushings: Powerflex PFR5-810B (polyurethane) or OEM style Moog K200197

These numbers vary by model year, so double-check compatibility using a parts look-up tool.

Final Recommendation

For most Ford Taurus owners, a mix of OEM-quality aftermarket parts provides the best value. Stick with brands like Moog for control arms and end links, and KYB for shocks. If your car has over 100,000 miles, consider replacing all four shocks and the rear springs – the springs often sag unnoticed. Inspect the subframe bushings; if they are cracked or loose, replace them with new rubber ones (not poly if you want a quiet ride). Always pair suspension work with a fresh alignment.

Avoid the cheapest no-name parts from discount retailers – they often fail within a year. If you plan to drive the car for many more miles, spending a little more on quality parts will save you from doing the job twice.

By understanding your Ford Taurus rear suspension parts and choosing wisely, you can restore your car's ride and handling to like-new condition without overspending.