Since the model year is not mentioned in the question, this becomes a real challenge to offer specific information.
The one Taurus/Sable design "quirk" that could cause much confusion would be the models that had the heating/cooling controls in the same dash panel as the radio controls. This integrated approach isn't really "intuitive", but easily dealt with.
The integrated design started with the 1996 redesign, and goes to at least until 2005 (not sure beyond that).
See "Related Questions" below for very detailed instructions on popping the panel off. With the $4 radio tools it will truly take you only seconds to release it from the dash. (at least once you get the hang of it!)
How yo take a heater core out of 2002 lincoln navigator with 5.8 engine and can you do it without removing inside dashboard?
Accessing the dashboard heater controls on 1996-2005 Taurus/Sables requires the integrated radio/heater control dash panel to be removed. Not hard at all - it's the same as removing a traditional Ford radio. See "Related Questions" below for detailed instructions.
air conditioning and heater control
It is located behind the passenger side dashboard. The dashboard has to be removed to replace.
The Taurus does not have a heater control valve. Coolant flows through the core at all times. Be sure to review the "Related Question" below for much more about Taurus temperature controls
remove radio, heater control, glove box, dashboard trim & bezels. once you do this you can see a tublar bar which the dashboard secured to. remove the dashboard and the heater core is there in the center
The heater matrix can be replaced by removing the heater core and temperature control cables. Replace the heater core and the control cables.
remove the entire dashboard.
I believe the heater core in that vehicle is located behind the dashboard.
LOTS - it is virtually inaccessible .
it is located inside the heater control box up in behind the centre of the dashboard,to remove and replace the dash has to be completely removed.
do you need to remove dashboard in 2003 chevy impala to replace heater core