probably the heater core is clogged
Low coolant? Thermostat not opening?
Check the coolant in the 96 Taurus. Check to insure that the thermostat is working properly, and that the water pump is working.
the heater core could be pluged or the heater control valve is stuck closed
If the engine is overheating, the thermostat is stuck closed. If the heater is not putting out enough hot air the thermostat is stuck open. Change the thermostat as a normal part of maintenance when changing coolant.
either low coolant or a thermostat stuck openSee "Related Questions" below for much more trouble-shooting and diagnostics for Taurus/Sable "no heat" problems...
The temperature of the coolant entering the heater core is controlled by the engine thermostat. The engine coolant thermostat is generally located at the engine end of the upper radiator hose.
Low coolant, bad coolant, blockage in the coolant line, bad heater core or element, bad thermostat
Yes, A bad thermostat can keep the hot coolant from reaching the heater core... also, low coolant levels or a clogged heater core can make your heat stop working.
The presence of the valves usually restrict the coolant flow into the heater core.
Low coolant? Thermostat not opening? Control cable not working? Plugged heater core? Heater core "airbound"? Low coolant? Thermostat not opening? Control cable not working? Plugged heater core? Heater core "airbound"?
Check the coolant level. My 2000 Ford Taurus has a constant flow cooling system and the heater will not work if the coolant level is too low.
try changing thermostat and a coolant flush if that doesn't work probably blown head gasket or cracked head or block. Could be, low on coolant, a stuck open thermostat, a plugged heater core or faulty temp blend door actuator.