1997 Ford Mountaineer problems
The Mercury Mountaineer is a mid-size luxury sport utility vehicle (SUV) that was sold by Mercury from 1996 until 2010. Sharing many of its features with the Ford Explorer, the vehicles were virtually identical in terms of hardware. Externally, they were styled somewhat differently, and the Mountaineer was positioned with a more upscale interior, with the Mountaineer's MSRP coming in at $1,000–$6,000 more than the Explorer. It was last redesigned for the 2006 model year with a new frame, looking very similar to its previous model.
Some controversy resulted after the media highlighted a number of rollovers involving Explorers and Mountaineers fitted with Firestone tires. The Mountaineer has been praised for its excellent handling and stability. The Mountaineer was never sold in Canada. As part of the discontinuation of the Mercury brand, production of the Mountaineer ended in late 2010.
Background
In 1990, General Motors introduced the Oldsmobile Bravada sport-utility vehicle, derived from the four-door Chevrolet S-10 Blazer. Though far lower in price, the Bravada was marketed as a competitor to the Range Rover (and the later Land Rover Discovery) and Toyota Land Cruiser. While sharing its body with the Blazer, Oldsmobile differentiated the Bravada with the use of model-specific trim and a dedicated all-wheel drive powertrain (in place of part-time four-wheel drive). For 1993, Jeep briefly revived the long-running Grand Wagoneer nameplate as part of the Jeep Grand Cherokee model line, using woodgrain exterior trim and a leather interior; limited sales led to its cancellation after a single model year.
As a response to the Bravada and the Grand Wagoneer, Ford introduced the 1993 Ford Explorer Limited in 1992. In contrast to the outdoors-themed Explorer Eddie Bauer, the Limited was geared towards on-road driving; it was fitted with all-wheel drive in place of traditional four-wheel drive. The Limited was also distinguished by monochromatic body trim, body-color bumpers, and chrome wheels.
As part of the redesign of the Explorer for 1995, the Limited remained part of the Explorer lineup, with the segment gaining additional competitors through the use of badge engineering. For 1996, the Acura SLX (Isuzu Trooper), Infiniti QX4 (Nissan Pathfinder), and the larger Lexus LX450 (Toyota Land Cruiser) were introduced together.
As these brands, along with Oldsmobile, competed more directly with luxury brands than the Ford model line, Ford Motor Company sought to develop SUVs for its Lincoln-Mercury division. To minimize model overlap, Mercury was chosen to sell a version of the mid-size Ford Explorer, while Lincoln would sell a version of the then-upcoming full-size Ford Expedition.
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Common 1997 Ford Mountaineer problems
Based on the information gathered from various sources, here is a list of common problems reported by owners of the 1997 Mercury Mountaineer:
- Transmission Failure: Owners have reported transmission failures in the 2002 Mountaineer, with 41 complaints.
- Cracked Panel Below the Rear Window: This issue has been reported in both the 2002 and 2005 Mountaineer models, with 21 and 18 complaints respectively.
- Radiator Leak: In the 2006 Mountaineer, there have been reports of radiator leaks, with 17 complaints.
- Body Issues: A total of 143 complaints related to body problems have been documented, indicating a common area of concern among owners.
- Transmission Problems: Owners have reported 94 complaints related to transmission issues, highlighting a significant problem area.
- Interior Concerns: There have been 80 complaints regarding interior problems in the Mountaineer.
- Engine Troubles: Owners have reported 35 complaints related to engine issues in the 1997 Mercury Mountaineer.
These common problems can significantly impact the performance and reliability of the 1997 Mercury Mountaineer. It is essential for potential buyers or current owners to be aware of these issues to make informed decisions regarding maintenance and repairs. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to these common problems can help in ensuring the longevity and performance of the vehicle.
What year did they stop making the Mercury Mountaineer?
2010
Following the June 2010 announcement by Ford Motor Company to shelve the Mercury brand, 2010 would be the end of Mountaineer production; the final vehicle was produced on October 1, 2010. Unlike the Milan, Mariner, and Grand Marquis, the Mountaineer was not produced for a short 2011 model year.
How much horsepower does a 1997 Mercury Mountaineer have?
211 hp1997 Mercury Mountaineer / Horsepower
The 1997 Mountaineer boasts 210 horsepower.
How big is the gas tank on a 1997 Mercury Mountaineer?
21.0 gal
Fuel Tank
| Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx | 21.0 gal |
|---|---|
| Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx | N/A gal |
What is the Ford equivalent to the Mercury Mountaineer?
The Mercury Mountaineer, twin to the Ford Explorer, is roomy inside. The four-door version easily seats five and offers a large load area.
How many miles will a Mercury Mountaineer last?
Well maintained they could be good for 200,000+ miles. It all depends on how it was taken care of. There is a bit of luck involved also. Also it is probable that the transmission will need rebuilt during this 200,000 miles.
What happened to the Mercury Mountaineer?
Following the June 2010 announcement by Ford Motor Company to shelve the Mercury brand, 2010 would be the end of Mountaineer production; the final vehicle was produced on October 1, 2010.
How big is the gas tank on a 1997 Mercury Mountaineer?
21.0 gal
Fuel Tank
| Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx | 21.0 gal |
|---|---|
| Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx | N/A gal |
Is a Mercury Mountaineer the same as a Ford Explorer?
In comparing the Mercury Mountaineer's and the Ford Explorer's specifications and ratings, The Ford Explorer has the advantage in the area of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars. The Mercury Mountaineer and Ford Explorer have the same fuel efficiency base engine power.
1997 Ford Mountaineer car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Mountaineer problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Air bags problems
- Seats problems
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Ford Mountaineer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1997 Ford Mountaineer complaints
The NHTSA has received 7 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Ford Mountaineer.
AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-06-07
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4M2DU55P9VU
- Components: AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CAR WAS PARKED IN DRIVEWAY GOT IN NEXT MORNING CRUISE CONTROL BUTTONS ON STEERING WHEEL COMPLETELY MELTED.FORD HAS A RECALL ON THIS THEY SAID MY MODEL WAS NOT MANUFACTURED AT THIS PARTICULAR PLANT. ONE SIDE MELTED 2 MONTHS LATER OTHER SIDE MELTED. I DO NOT KNOW IF THIS HAS AFFECTED AIR BAG. I AM 84 YRS OLD AND AFRAID TO DRIVE CAR WORRIED FIRE COULD START WHILE DRIVING. *TR
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4M2DU55P4VU
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: SEATBACK IS LOOSE AND KEEPS FALLING BACKWARDS. CAUSE UNKWOWN.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-03
- VIN: 9999
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE GAS PEDAL STICKS. *JB MOST OF THE TIME WHEN STOPPED, BEGIN TO PUSH ON THE PEDAL, IT WILL NOT MOVE UNTIL THE PRESSURE THEN BREAKS FREE, WHILE GIVING MUCH GAS AND LUNGING FORWARD, AND HAPPENS WHILE DRIVING. SCC
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 9999
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: THE REAR LIFTGATE DOOR, DOOR HANDLES AND LOCKS WERE REPLACED AT 30,000 MILES. CONSUMER STATED NOW AT 90,000 THE HANDLE AND LOCKS NEED TO BE REPLACED AGAIN. *JB THE LIFT GATE WILL NOT OPEN, 1 OR 2 DOOR LOCKS HAVE BEEN BROKEN FOR A LONG TIME. SCC
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-06-07
- VIN: 4N2BU55T5VU
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: MOMENTARY LOSS OF POWER STEERING WHILE TRAVELING IN ONE FOOT OF WATER AT 5 MPH. DEALER WAS NOTIFIED. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE US WITH ANY FURTHER DETAILS ON THIS MATTER. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4M2DU55P6VU
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN APPLYING ABS BRAKES PEDAL BECOMES EXTREMELY HARD AND RESISTS APPLICATION, CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE GIVE FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-01
- VIN: 4M2DU55P1VU
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: FIRESTONE TIRE INCLUDED IN RECALL 00T005 SHREDDED. *SLC
1997 Ford Mountaineer recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1997 Ford Mountaineer.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: TIRES:TREAD/BELT
- Summary: THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: FORD IS REPLACING ALL FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT 15, 16, AND 17 INCH TIRES MOUNTED ON FORD TRUCKS AND SUVS. FORD REPORTS TREAD SEPARATION CAN OCCUR DUE TO A COMBINATION OF THE SENSITIVITY OF THE TIRE DESIGN TO STRESS, AGING, AND MANUFACTURING DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PLANTS. FORD IS REPLACING THESE TIRES TO PREVENT POSSIBLE PREMATURE TIRE FAILURE. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: THE VEHICLES LISTED BELOW MAY HAVE BEEN ORIGINALLY EQUIPPED WITH FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT TIRES OR MAY HAVE HAD WILDERNESS AT TIRES INSTALLED DURING THE FIRESTONE RECALL LAUNCHED IN AUGUST 2000. CERTAIN 1991 THROUGHT 2002 FORD EXPLORER CERTAIN 2001 THROUGHT 2002 EXPLORER SPORT, AND SPORT TRAC CERTAIN 1997 THROUGH 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 2001 RANGER CERTAIN 1999 THROUGH 2001 EXPEDITION CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 1994, AND 1997 MODEL YEAR F-SERIES CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 1994 BRONCO NOTE: BOTH ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT AND REPLACEMENT TIRES ARE AFFECTED.
- Consequence: SHOULD THE TREAD SEPARATE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
- Remedy: THE REPLACEMENT/REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM FOR THIS CAMPAIGN EXPIRED ON MARCH 31, 2002. HOWEVER, CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT FORD AT 1-877-917-3673 OR GO ON-LINE TO WWW.FORD.COM FOR POSSIBLE ASSISTANCE.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Ford Mountaineer problems:
1997 Mercury Mountaineer Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
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