2002 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 2002 Ford Mountaineer problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2002 Ford Mountaineer, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:
- Cracked Lift-Gate: A prevalent problem reported by owners is the cracking of the lift-gate, affecting the rear panel of the vehicle. This issue has been a significant concern among Mountaineer, Explorer, and Aviator owners, leading to water seepage and potential damage to components like the rear wiper motor and rear windows.
- Transmission Failure: Another common complaint is transmission failure, particularly in the 2002 Mountaineer. This issue can lead to significant drivability issues and costly repairs if not addressed promptly.
- Cracked Panel Below the Rear Window: Owners have reported cracks in the panel below the rear window, affecting both the 2002 and 2005 Mountaineer models. These cracks can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle and may lead to water leaks and further damage.
- Radiator Leak: In the 2006 Mountaineer, a notable issue reported is radiator leaks. This can result in coolant loss, overheating, and potential engine damage if not resolved in a timely manner.
- Body Concerns: Owners have raised complaints related to various body issues, indicating potential quality or durability problems in the construction of the vehicle.
- Transmission Problems: Apart from specific failures, general transmission issues have been reported, impacting the overall performance and reliability of the vehicle.
- Interior Troubles: Complaints regarding the interior of the 2002 Mountaineer have been noted, suggesting issues with components or features inside the vehicle.
- Engine Challenges: Some owners have reported engine-related problems, which can range from performance issues to more severe mechanical failures.
These common problems with the 2002 Ford Mountaineer highlight a range of issues that owners have faced. Addressing these concerns promptly through proper maintenance and repairs is crucial to ensure the longevity and safety of the vehicle.
How many miles does a 2002 Mercury Mountaineer last?
Best Answer. Well maintained they could be good for 200,000+ miles.
Do Mercury Mountaineers have transmission problems?
Some of the more common Mercury Mountaineer transmission problems are unusually hard shifts, erratic shifting, and transmission fault codes. Many times, these issues are caused by excessive wear on the bushings, clutch drum, and clutches.
What kind of engine does a 2002 Mercury Mountaineer have?
Gas V6
Engine
| Engine Type | Gas V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4.0L/245 |
| SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM | 210 @ 5100 |
| SAE Net Torque @ RPM | 254 @ 3700 |
Why won't my 2002 Mercury Mountaineer start?
The most common reasons a Mercury Mountaineer won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
How many miles does a 2002 Mercury Mountaineer last?
Best Answer. Well maintained they could be good for 200,000+ miles.
What kind of engine does a 2002 Mercury Mountaineer have?
Gas V6
Engine
| Engine Type | Gas V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4.0L/245 |
| SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM | 210 @ 5100 |
| SAE Net Torque @ RPM | 254 @ 3700 |
Do Mercury Mountaineers have transmission problems?
Some of the more common Mercury Mountaineer transmission problems are unusually hard shifts, erratic shifting, and transmission fault codes. Many times, these issues are caused by excessive wear on the bushings, clutch drum, and clutches.
Why won't my 2002 Mercury Mountaineer start?
The most common reasons a Mercury Mountaineer won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
2002 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:
- Power train problems
- Visibility problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Suspension problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Ford Mountaineer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2002 Ford Mountaineer complaints
The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Ford Mountaineer.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-11
- VIN: 4M2ZU86W72U
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD MOUNTAINEER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION GEAR SHIFT LEVER ON THE COLUMN WAS FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 183,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-20
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I HAVE A 2002 FORD EXPLORER AND HAVE HAD TO REPLACE WHEEL BEARINGS AND HAVE SEEN WHERE MANY OTHERS ON THE INTERNET AS WELL AS PEOPLE I HAVE TALKED TO WITH THE EXACT SAME MODEL SUV HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THEIR BEARINGS AS WELL. TO ME IT SEEMS IF EVERYONE HAS HAD TO REPLACE THESE BEARING THAT THERE WOULD BE A RECALL. FORD MOTOR COMPANY SHOULD BE FORCED TO REPLACE THESE PARTS. IT IS NOT ONLY A EXPENSIVE PART IT IS ALSO A SAFETY RISK. I AMONG OTHERS DO NOT HAVE THE MONEY TO REPLACE ALL THOSE PARTS. MY WIFE DRIVES THIS TRUCK EVERYDAY AND I FEEL THAT IT IS A RISK TO DRIVE IT. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-10-17
- VIN: 4M2DU66E92U
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD MOUNTAINEER. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND HAS REMAINED LIT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ONCE THE RESET BUTTON WAS PRESSED, IT TRIGGERED THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE. THE DEALER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND WAS UNABLE TO FIND ANY FAILURES. THE VIN WAS INVALID AND THE ENGINE SIZE WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 140,708 AND THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-22
- VIN: 4M2ZU86W42Z
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION STARTED TO SHUDDER WHEN SHIFTING, HAD DEALER POWER FLUSH AND FILL TRANSMISSION AND REPROGRAM PCM THIS FIXED PROBLEM FOR 3 DAYS, THEN PROBLEM RETURNED. HAVE NOW BEEN TOLD THAT TRANSMISSION NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. TRANSMISSION CAN GO OUT ANYTIME SO REPAIRS HAVE TO BE DONE AT A COST OF $3600.00 AT DEALER. *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-02
- VIN: 4M2ZU86E52U
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I HAD TO HAVE THE TRANSMISSION IN MY 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER REBUILT THE GEARS IN THE TRANSMISSION WENT BAD IT COST ME $1400 FOR PARTS AND LABOR TO HAVE IT REBUILT I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE IN MARCH 2003 I CONTACTED FORD MOTOR COMPANY ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS TO SEE IF THERE IS SOME KIND OF DEFECT IN THEIR TRANSMISSIONS.I KEEP GETTING THE SAME OLD SOUND AND DANCE FROM THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT. THE MECHANIC WHO REBUILD MY TRANSMISSION TOLD ME THAT THIS IS NOT AN ISLOTED INCIDENT. HE SAID THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEN WITH FORD CARS AND TRUCKS ESPECIALY MOUNTAINEERS AND THE FORD EXPLORER.SO I TOLD THIS TO MERCURY DO THEY HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THEIR TRANSMISSIONS THEY SAID IT WAS THE FIRST TTHEY HEARD OF THIS. THIS TRUCK IS ONLY 5 YEARS OLD TRANSMISSIONS JUST DONT GO BAD IN 5 YEARS I HAVE 2 OYTHER VEHICLES I ONLY USE THIS VEHICLE TO AND FROM WORK THERE IS NO REASON FOR MY TRANSMISSION TO GO BAD IN 5 YEARS. I TRIED TO BE COMPANSATED FOR THE RRRPEPAIRS THEY JUST IGNORE ME. WHAT CAN I DO. THANK YOU: ROBERT JOHN 3-16-2007
VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-11-20
- VIN: 4M2ZU66W224
- Components: VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: I AM THE OWNER OF A 2002 FORD/MERCURY MOUNTAINEER I HAD TO HAVE MY RIGHT FRONT WINDOW FIXED. I LET IT DOWN AND IT WOULD NOT COME BACK UP SO I TOOK IT TO MY LOCAL BODY SHOP AND HE SAID THIS IT THE 6TH ONE HE HAS HAD TO FIX IN THE LAST FEW MONTHS. IS THERE A RECALL ON THIS PART. IT COST ME OVER $200.00 TO HAVE A GASKET/SEAL PUT ON THE WINDOW. IT WAS NOT THE MOTOR BUT A PART THAT ATTACHES TO THE WINDOW. *NM
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-21
- VIN: 1FMZU72EX2Z
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE FEUL GAUGE BEGAN MALFUNCTIONING AND I TOOK THE VECHILE TO COUNTRY LINCOLN MERCURY WEST (676 WEST MERRICK ROAD VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580 PHONE: (516) 285-0505 FAX: (516) 285-5565 ). THE PROBLEM WAS FIXED, THERE WAS A SSM ON THE FUEL GAUGE. I THEN NOTICED A STRONG SMELL OF GASOLINE EVERY TIME I CAME OUT OF THE VECHILE. WITHIN A WEEK THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. I RETURNED THE VICHELE TO THE SAME DEALER ON JUNE 21, 2005 ONLY TO FIND OUT THE GAS TANK WAS NOT SEALING PROPERELY. I AM BEING TOLD FORD DON'T HAVE ANY GAS TANK AVAILABLE UNTIL THE THIRD WEEK IN JULY 2005.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-02
- VIN: 4M2DU86W72U
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: RE: 2002 MOUNTAINER , SAFETY RECALL, REAR GLASS BROKEN OUT, REPLACE DEFECTIVE WINDOW MOTOR. *BF CONSUMER SHUT THE BACK WINDOW AND THE GLASS BLEW OUT THROWING GLASS THROUGHOUT THE VEHICLE. TOP PART OF THE BACK DOOR FELL ON THE CONSUMER. *TC
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-04-21
- VIN: 4M2ZU86E02U
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: INTERMITTENTLY STEERING WHEEL DID NOT MOVE. THE GEAR SHIFT DID NOT MOVE FROM PARK, AND BRAKES DID NOT WORK. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND TO THE REPAIR SHOP, AND NEITHER COULD LOCATE THE CAUSES OF THE PROBLEM. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN THE BRAKES WERE DEPRESSED THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE. *NLM
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE DEALERSHIP REPLACED THE TRANSMISSION/MAIN COMPUTER, NOW THE CRUISE CONTROL IS INOPERATIVE. *NLM
2002 Ford Mountaineer recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2002 Ford Mountaineer.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE LIFTGATE GLASS STRUT MAY BECOME DISENGAGED OR THE HINGE MAY FRACTURE ALLOWING THE GLASS TO FALL AND POSSIBLY BREAK.
- Consequence: IF THE HINGE SHOULD FRACTURE, THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR THE GLASS TO FALL AND ULTIMATELY BREAK AND PERSONAL INJURIES COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL HAVE THE LIFTGATE GLASS STRUT BRACKETS AND GLASS HINGES REPLACED. FOR THE VEHICLES BUILT FROM AUGUST 1, 2000 THROUGH MARCH 3, 2002, THE DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HINGES AND LIFTGATE STRUT BRACKET. ON VEHICLES BUILT FROM MARCH 3, 2002 THROUGH JUNE 23, 2003, THE DEALERS WILL ONLY REPLACE THE HINGES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2004. A POSTCARD WAS SENT TO OWNERS ON DECEMBER 27, 2004, ADVISING THEM THAT PARTS ARE NOW AVAILABLE. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
- 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 2002 Ford Mountaineer problems:
2002 Mercury Mountaineer Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
Top 2002 Mercury Mountaineer Problems · Crack on Lift Gate · Heater Stuck on Hottest Setting Due to Broken Heater Blend Door · Problems With 5-speed Automatic ...
2002 Mercury Mountaineer Reviews - Carsurvey.org
The problem was that brake fluid might drip out of the line and into the cruise control wire connector and cause a short circuit, so Ford installed a sealed ...
2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER : r/whatcarshouldIbuy
Jul 24, 2015 ... 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. 2002 Mercury ... Any opinions on this car, common problems. ... I know the Ford Explorers right around that time range ...
2nd Generation (2002-2005) Mountaineer Problems
Oct 13, 2014 ... Worst Issues · cracked rear panel in the 2004 Mountaineer. 58 complaints · transmission failure in the 2002 Mountaineer · cracked panel below the ...
2002 Mountaineer door locks — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Jun 28, 2008 ... Home › Mercury › Mercury Mountaineer. Edmunds ... 2002 Mountaineer door locks ... Hi Kevin, apparently a common problem with this vintage Ford.
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