Two problems related to transmission noise have been reported for the 1996 Ford Taurus. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
While driving about 15 mph heard noise like a garbage disposal, then vehicle lost power. After stopping saw a lot of transmission pieces on ground. Took it to dealer for repairs. The manufacturer agreed to replace the transmission at a cost of $1000 since it failed prematurely. However, the consumer found out that there were 3 recalls on transmission for the 1996 model and was seeking refund of the repair cost. Owner was not notified of the recall.
While driving, consumer heard a clanking noise and noticed smoke from rear of vehicle, consumer checked transmission fluid and found it empty, after inspection, it was found that a hole was blown in the transmission and the gears ripped apart, consumer is requesting reimbursement and states that this was a defective transmisison. Transmission suffered an internal mechanical breakdown, a failure of the drive gears that revolve at a high rate of speed inside the transmission housing, the result of this failure caused these parts to be propelled through the side of the transmission case.