1996 Taurus Trouble

[DaBearz85]

I have a 96 Ford Taurus GL, and recently have been having a few issues with it. Sometimes while driving I lose power steering. At the same time that this occurs, the control for my power windows goes out and the seat belt warning light comes on. This only happens for a few moments and then everything returns to normal. I have no clue where to start. Any help or pointers would be greatly appreciated.

[tripletdaddy]

Since these things happen simultaneously and are seemingly unrelated, I'd be suspicious of an electrical source of your problem. It could be a weak battery, weak alternator, both or the neutral safety switch(aka transmission range sensor and manual lever switch). Simply the battery should be load tested and the alternator be tested at the same time for its voltage output. Testing it for its rated amperage commonly can only be done outside the car, all of which at your typical auto parts store. The transmission switch/sensor can be tested for continuity in the gear positions, but a wiring diagram would be needed. It is common for brake fluid that has dripped on the switch to cause it to not work correctly. So, look for that first, then check the electrical connector(s) for a good fit and connection. Windstars have this problem with the brake fluid leaking at the brake/speed control pressure switch, which is connected to the underside of the master cylinder, causing strange symptoms and sometimes the fluid messes up the trans switch, but I didn't think it is as common for the Taurus.

[shorod]

Welcome to the forum!

Your symptoms sound very similar to ones listed numerous times by others on the forum. Typically, a new Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) fixes the issue just as tripletdaddy suggests.

Try using the "Search this forum" feature from the Taurus forum main page for "range sensor" keywords and see how your symptoms compare.

Many of the issues these cars have have been addressed at one time or another. Like the AF Guidelines suggest, please try the search feature before starting a new thread as multiple threads on the same topic clutter up the forum and ultimately make the search feature less effective.

-Rod