Six problems related to alternator/generator/regulator have been reported for the 1997 Ford Taurus. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
A/c compressor seized causing drivebelt failure and loss of steering, alternator, and power brakes.
Altenator went bad at only 38,989 miles. Also had to replace battery due to altenator draining it.
While driving through a water puddle, the vehicle and driver experienced an approximate 4-5 second loss of power steering and the alternator light came on.
While driving over puddles vehicle loses power steering. Also alternator malfunctioned. Dealers have no remedy for problem.
Alternator failed, serpentine belt failed.
Within the last 6 mos. When car hit approx. 60000 miles when the ignition is turned on it will not start. Everything is dead. However, power in vehicle will come back if the interior front hood lever is activated. Power will come back and the radio will always be on am and the clock will be at 12:00. I have not contacted the manufacturer because this happens very sporadically. In other words there is no way to predict it will happen and/or make it happen.