One problem related to engine grinding noise has been reported for the 2008 Ford Taurus. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2008 Ford Taurus based on all problems reported for the 2008 Taurus.
Vehicle lost all power, including brakes and steering twice. Once at approx. 8,000 miles and again at approx. 8,660 miles (may 2009). Vehicle made loud grinding noise and became very sluggish while driving approx. 15 mph. At approx. 15,900 miles twice within 1/4 mile (Nov. 2009). Dealership says they cannot duplicate any of these events or find a reason that they may have occurred. Obviously, I am not comfortable driving this vehicle as I'm not sure what it's going to do (or not do) next. There has to be a reason for these events and I'm afraid that I may be in a situation when the next one happens that may cause a very serious accident. I have been lucky so far in that I have been able to steer the car off the road when these events have happened as each time I have been pointed in a direction that allowed me to stop the car out of traffic. The incident date refers to the first incident. There have been three to date (12/1/09).