Mercury Marquis problems

Common Mercury Marquis problems

The Mercury Grand Marquis, produced from 1975 to 2011, is known for its reliability and decent price-quality ratio. However, there are some common issues that previous owners have reported. One of the most significant problems is related to the steering system, particularly in the fourth and final generation of the car. This issue was triggered by intermediate shaft cracks and problems with the bearings, which led to a recall in 2013 to address the problem for most affected Grand Marquis and Crown Victoria cars. The earlier models also had steering problems, but these were not as critical as those in the later generations.

Another common issue is related to the visibility of the driver, particularly the windshield situation. Premature cracks and improper windshield retention have been reported, which was caused by a production mistake. A recall was issued in 2006 to fix the issue, but drivers should also pay attention to windshield wiper modules that sometimes cannot operate under heavy load.

The worst model years for the Mercury Grand Marquis are 2003 and 2005, but other model years that should be avoided include 1996, 1997, 2001, 2003, 2005, and 2007. The first generation of the Grand Marquis was quite reliable, but the second-generation models, particularly the 1996 and 1997 ones, had some issues. These models were the worst-rated ones from 1979 to 2001, and serious transmission troubles were reported in the 1996 Grand Marquis. The 2001 model also had coolant leaks and check engine light issues, which were caused by the intake manifold's faulty design.

The most reported problems for the Mercury Grand Marquis are intake manifold failure in the 1997 Grand Marquis, headlights not working properly in the 2005 Grand Marquis, valve dropped through engine in the 2007 Grand Marquis, and headlight failure in the 2004 Grand Marquis. These problems can be quite expensive to fix, with an average cost ranging from $500 to $3,300, depending on the model year and the specific problem.

In summary, while the Mercury Grand Marquis is known for its reliability, there are some common issues that previous owners have reported, particularly related to the steering system and visibility. The worst model years for the Grand Marquis are 2003 and 2005, and other model years that should be avoided include 1996, 1997, 2001, 2003, 2005, and 2007. The most reported problems for the Grand Marquis are intake manifold failure, headlights not working properly, and headlight failure, which can be quite expensive to fix.

Are Mercury Marquis reliable?

The Mercury Grand Marquis is very reliable, mid size and attractive. Fairly good gas mileage. Very comfortable for long trips. Nice leather seats.

What is the life expectancy of a Mercury Grand Marquis?

Grand Marquis drivers typically report a minimum lifespan of around 200,000 miles before the more expensive repairs start to add up. That's not a terrible life expectancy, but these cars frequently hit the market with more than 150,000 miles on the odometer, so shop around for low mileage.

What are common problems with Mercury?

Depending on the type and amount, exposures to mercury can damage the nervous system, kidneys, liver and immune system. Breathing mercury vapors can harm the nervous system, lungs and kidneys. Mercury vapors can pass easily from the lungs to the bloodstream.

Do Grand Marquis have transmission problems?

Transmission problems are common in this model, often as a result of a failed front pump. The pump loses its ability to create hydraulic pressure, which an automatic transmission needs to function. A sign of front pump failure can be a whine type noise.