I have a 2004 ford Taurus SE 3.0L V6 OHV. My car first began to have a hard idle as if it would cut off then it finally did die. I replaced the battery checked the alternator which was good and replac

Remove the plug completely and check the internal pin and socket contacts. Spray the outside of the male socket with WD40 and offer the two connectors squarely together until it locks.

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Steering column?

You may find a local ford dealer that is on line but other than that check out on line speed shops for what you want Type in genuine ford parts and see what comes up

What engine? 3.0 OHV or 3.0 DOHC

I’m happy to assist further over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/jeremy_d728a59f986299fa

Remove head and replace the gasket

wiring

You normally can find the diagram on a sticker on the underside of the hood directly above the alternator on a 3.0 OHV motor 2002 Ford Taurus. I copied one from the Internet and taped it above the headlight on my car so it was easier to view and use. If you send me an email address I can post an image to you that shows the routing diagram or you can use this:

http://www.daycoproducts.com/daycoweb.nsf/DaycoSerpentineBeltGuide.pdf

V6 182 3.0L FI (VIN S)
Multiple Accessory, w/A.C. illust. 5-7 (page 86)

V6 182 3.0L FI (VIN U) (OHV 3.0)
Multiple Accessory illust. 7-12 (page 87)

V6 182 3.0L FI Flex (VIN 2)
Multiple Accessory illust. 7-12

It's an electrical element, so it can go out. Shouldn't be hard to replace. In my 1999 Taurus SE OHV the inertia switch is lining of the trunk on the passenger's side well.

Sounds like a bad idler pulley,or belt tensioner. Most likely not water pump since the check engine light is not on. Altho it couold be the water pump and for some reason (bad sensor, burnt out light) the check engine isnt coming on. Either way it would be best to have it looked at.

yes on both accounts. you can by pass the compressor by getting a serpentine belt for a non air conditioned car.Why do you feel that the a/c compressor is the problem?