Mercury 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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Mercury Mountaineer model years
Common Mercury Mountaineer problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Mercury Mountaineer, common problems with these cars include:
These problems highlight various mechanical and system-related issues that Mercury Mountaineer owners have encountered, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance and prompt repairs to ensure the vehicle's optimal performance and safety.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Mercury Mountaineer years
We have researched Mercury problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mercury Mountaineer cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Mercury Mountaineer model years:
- Mercury Mountaineer 2002
- Mercury Mountaineer 1997
- Mercury Mountaineer 1998
- Mercury Mountaineer 2004
- Mercury Mountaineer 1999
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mercury Mountaineer model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Mercury Mountaineer years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Mercury Mountaineer car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Mercury Mountaineer , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Tires problems
- Structure problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Mercury Mountaineer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Mountaineer model years
A total of 150 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Mountaineer model years
There were a total of 68 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Mountaineer model years
There were a total of 162 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Mountaineer model years
There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2095 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mercury Mountaineer . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mercury Mountaineer vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Mercury Mountaineer 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-03
- VIN: 4M2EU48E07U
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: My husband had purchased 4 brand new COOPER TIRES EVOLUTION H/T M+S size P235 / 65 R 18 a number of years ago. My husband has since passed away. I cannot find my sales receipt due to the fact my husband had paid for the tires in question. I do not know what he did with the sales receipt. I have a few good-faith efforts and attempts to bring this matter to COOPER TIRES but each and every time I got the same reply from them "NO we cannot help you. We will not be able to warranty your tires for you......we need a sales receipt......" I had my good friend take my vehicle to a local tire dealer and installer recommended by COOPER TIRES and this tire dealer found that: (1) all 4 COOPER TIRES on my vehicle look and are brand new (2) tire tread depth on all 4 COOPER TIRES on my vehicle are 8/32 " (3) three COOPER TIRES on my vehicle show a DOT date code of 2017 and one COOPER TIRE on my car shows a DOT date code of 3817 (4) all four COOPER TIRES on my vehicle have numerous cracks on the sidewall of the tires which is a manufacture defective and COOPER TIRES should replace all 4 tires on my car (5) the right-rear COOPER tire on my vehicle is leaking air from the sidewall due to the cracks. (6) COOPER TIRES should under the law include my tires under their national recall list because the COOPER TIRES on my vehicle have the same (1) make and model tire (2) the exact same size tire (3) all 4 COOPER TIRES on vehicle were made in the same factory as the rest of the recall tires (4) three of the COOPER TIRES on my vehicle have an issue with the date code (see recall NHTSA Campaign Number: 21T014000 for more info). I could go on and on but I think you get the idea. Also, I will hold COOPER TIRES legally liable if I get into a car accident due to its manufacture defective COOPER tires. The exact dates my good friend has contacted COOPER TIRES are: (1) May 01, 2024 (four times); (2) May 02, 2024 (three times). I asked for a call back but nobody returned my call.
Mercury Mountaineer 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-02
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-27
- VIN: 4M2ZU66W62Z
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Aftermarket rack and pinion system re-manufactured by Detroit Axel began leaking fluid and caused a loss of power steering within 3 months of purchase. A second unit was installed and after about a year had the exact same failure as the first unit. Also resulting in the loss of power steering. It is my contention that Detroit Axel is not capable of re-manufacturing to a satisfactory safety standard. I believe they should be investigated and perhaps subject to a product recall. I pray nobody has yet been killed by their ineptitude!
Mercury Mountaineer 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-11
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-13
- VIN: 4M2DU66P1YU
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I unlocked my vehicle, put the key in the ignition and it made a noise, then immediately after that failure to start, everything stopped working. No lights, will not lock doors, no clicking sound as if it were a dead battery.
Mercury Mountaineer 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-16
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-17
- VIN: 4M2ZU86KX5U
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Back rear windshield keeps exploding on its own I’m not the only person to complain about this
Mercury Mountaineer 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-26
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-03
- VIN: 4M2ZU86K45Z
- Components: POWER TRAIN,WHEELS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The truck bearing keep going out the spark plugs overloaded and I can’t accelerate at times when I’m driving it slows down then starts back up
Mercury Mountaineer 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-04
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-04
- VIN: 4M2EU48877U
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: If you set cruise control while driving under 45 mph the engine shuts off.
Mercury Mountaineer 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-02
- Date Complaint: 2023-02-02
- VIN: 4M2ZU86K55U
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The Transmission won't shift into 3rd and 4th gear, hitting hard into gears at starting, slipping begins after 35 mph..replaced torque converter.
Mercury Mountaineer 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-04
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-19
- VIN: 4M2EU48847U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS
- Summary: It happens every time I drive this vehicle. The ignition is lose, so the key jiggles and if their is too much bumping or shaking the key slightly moves and the seat and interior lights come on now I’ve tried Combat the issue with keeping the lights off on the interior and thought maybe I could turn off the seat function still haven’t figured that out yet
Mercury Mountaineer 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-12-27
- VIN: 4M2EU47E76U
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Mercury Mountaineer. The contact stated that her husband informed her that the vehicle had experienced an unknown radiator failure. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the radiator was replaced; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was repaired for a second time by an independent mechanic; however, the failure persisted. The local dealer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 143,869.
Mercury Mountaineer 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-11-17
- VIN: 4M2EU38829U
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Mercury Mountaineer. The contact stated while making a left or right turn, she heard an abnormal noise, and the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The contact stated that the Roll Stability Control (RSC) warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the Roll Stability Control (RSC) to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but continued to experience the failure. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.
Mercury Mountaineer 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-06
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-18
- VIN: 4M2EU47E17U
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I was driving on the expressway and my truck just shut off. The car panel Illuminati to a check engine light and a wrench. I had to put on my caution light and make it to the shoulder. That was scary. I sat for 10 minutes before it started back up. I've taken it to the dealership and all they did was guess what the problem could be. They said it might be the fuel pump or something electric or the computer. That's not doing me any good, because I'm still having this problem.
Mercury Mountaineer 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-04
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-10
- VIN: 4M2ZU86K65U
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: started losing power ,did not want to go pas 30 miles per hr ,then it ramed up and came to a stop with no acceleration ,i shut it off then start it again and was able to get home at a low rate of speed while continuing to have these problems, another day while far away from home the engine rammed up again minimizing my speed as the transmission was slipping and not go fast then my O/D over drive went on flashing a light ,while the engine kept steady at 20-30 miles per hour while accelerating increasing no speed ,now my SUV will not run wright, it will kick into gear at times constantly and cause problems driving safely ,this is a common problem I'm hearing and reading in the internet with the ford/ mercury mountaineer the manufactory does not want to accept responsibility with this problem ..... this is clear a RECALL ISSUE that needs to be addressed before someone gets killed on the highway by getting rammed by a semi-truck which it almost happened to me !!!! a multi-million dollar law suit is in order if they do not acknowledge and fix this problem
Mercury Mountaineer 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-18
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-18
- VIN: 4M2ZU86E92U
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: Body : to much rust, corrosion, on rear of truck other failure or detachment of exterior body like rear gate frame components, and other structural components that may present a safety hazard. Electrical : electrical systems and items such asa wiring and cable on or inside the door, ignition switch cover detach ,instrument panel and gauges blinking that causes motors and actuators that power mechanical devices like (windows, sunroofs, seats, etc.) Generate some kind of electrical problem that may present a safety hazard. Power train :transmissions, transfer cases fluid hard to check ,electronic control units and shift lever inacurated, drive axles, hubs, shafts, differentials, CV joints star vibration that may present a safety hazard.
Mercury Mountaineer 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-08
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-07
- VIN: 4M2EN4JE5AU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Mercury Mountaineer. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the computer had provided an incorrect error code. The vehicle was also diagnosed by an authorized Ford tech who confirmed the failure with the computer. The manufacturer was contacted and informed of the failure. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA to file a complaint. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 109,000.
Mercury Mountaineer 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-10
- Date Complaint: 2022-05-10
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4M2DU86W72U
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Heard a pop noise under hood. Engine shut off battery light came on. Went to open hood and there was a fire.
Latest 5 recalls Mercury Mountaineer
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 49 recalls for different components of the Mercury Mountaineer.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Mercury Mountaineer 2010
- Report Received Date: 2010-04-20
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
- Summary: FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 FUSION, EXPLORER, EXPLORER SPORT TRAC, AND MERCURY MILAN AND MOUNTAINEER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN DECEMBER 15, 2009 THROUGH FEBRUARY 3, 2010 EQUIPPED WITH FRONT SEAT MANUAL RECLINERS. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 202, "HEAD RESTRAINT." THE RECLINER GEAR PLATE TEETH MAY BE OUT OF DIMENSION SPECIFICATION WHICH COULD RESULT IN LIMITED PAWL TO GEAR PLATE TOOTH ENGAGEMENT.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEATBACK AND HEAD RESTRAINT MAY MOVE REARWARD, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE MANUAL RECLINERS FOR BOTH POWER AND MANUAL SEATS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE APRIL 30, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.
- Model: Mercury Mountaineer 1997
- Report Received Date: 2009-10-13
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: FORD IS RECALLING MODEL YEARS 1995-2003 WINDSTAR, 2000-2003 EXCURSION DIESEL, 1993-1997 AND 1999-2003 F-250 SD THROUGH F-550 SD DIESEL, 1992-2003 E-150 THROUGH E-550, 1995-2002 EXPLORER, 1997 AND 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER, 1995-1997 AND 2001-2003 RANGER, AND 1994 F53 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE TEXAS INSTRUMENTS SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH (SCDS). THE SCDS MAY LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.
- Consequence: A VEHICLE FIRE COULD OCCUR WITH OR WITHOUT THE ENGINE RUNNING.
- Remedy: FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS THAT DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS IN LINE WITH THE SCDS. ON 1999-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES WITH A LEAKING SCDS, DEALERS WILL ALSO INSPECT THE ABS CONTROL MODULE CONNECTOR AND REPAIR AS NECESSARY. REPAIRS WILL BE COMPLETED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 27, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-888-222-2751.
- Model: Mercury Mountaineer 2002
- Report Received Date: 2009-10-13
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: FORD IS RECALLING MODEL YEARS 1995-2003 WINDSTAR, 2000-2003 EXCURSION DIESEL, 1993-1997 AND 1999-2003 F-250 SD THROUGH F-550 SD DIESEL, 1992-2003 E-150 THROUGH E-550, 1995-2002 EXPLORER, 1997 AND 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER, 1995-1997 AND 2001-2003 RANGER, AND 1994 F53 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE TEXAS INSTRUMENTS SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH (SCDS). THE SCDS MAY LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.
- Consequence: A VEHICLE FIRE COULD OCCUR WITH OR WITHOUT THE ENGINE RUNNING.
- Remedy: FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS THAT DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS IN LINE WITH THE SCDS. ON 1999-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES WITH A LEAKING SCDS, DEALERS WILL ALSO INSPECT THE ABS CONTROL MODULE CONNECTOR AND REPAIR AS NECESSARY. REPAIRS WILL BE COMPLETED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 27, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-888-222-2751.
- Model: Mercury Mountaineer 2003
- Report Received Date: 2007-12-11
- Manufacturer: SAFELITE FULFILLMENT, INC.
- Components: VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR
- Summary: CERTAIN CURVED TEMPERED REPLACEMENT GLASS MANUFACTURED BY HANGZHOU SAFETY GLASS LTD AND SUPPLIED TO SAFELITE BY AUTO TEMP INC., IDENTIFIED AS DOT-430, AND SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN VEHICLES MAY NOT BREAK INTO SMALL PIECES AS EXPECTED OF TEMPERED GLASS AND FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, "GLAZING MATERIALS."
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT(S) MAY BE SERIOUSLY INJURED BY SHATTERED GLASS.
- Remedy: SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS RETAIL CUSTOMERS AND REPLACE THE GLASS FREE OF CHARGE. RETAIL CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE TOLL FREE AT 1-888-843-2906. SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS AND REIMBURSE WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS FOR CURRENT INVENTORY AND AT A SPECIFIED RATE FOR REPLACING THEIR CUSTOMER'S GLASS. WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE'S WHOLESALE DIVISION, SERVICE AUTOGLASS TOLL FREE AT 1-888-246-6298. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 15, 2008.
- Model: Mercury Mountaineer 2005
- Report Received Date: 2007-12-11
- Manufacturer: SAFELITE FULFILLMENT, INC.
- Components: VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR
- Summary: CERTAIN CURVED TEMPERED REPLACEMENT GLASS MANUFACTURED BY HANGZHOU SAFETY GLASS LTD AND SUPPLIED TO SAFELITE BY AUTO TEMP INC., IDENTIFIED AS DOT-430, AND SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN VEHICLES MAY NOT BREAK INTO SMALL PIECES AS EXPECTED OF TEMPERED GLASS AND FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, "GLAZING MATERIALS."
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT(S) MAY BE SERIOUSLY INJURED BY SHATTERED GLASS.
- Remedy: SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS RETAIL CUSTOMERS AND REPLACE THE GLASS FREE OF CHARGE. RETAIL CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE TOLL FREE AT 1-888-843-2906. SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS AND REIMBURSE WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS FOR CURRENT INVENTORY AND AT A SPECIFIED RATE FOR REPLACING THEIR CUSTOMER'S GLASS. WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE'S WHOLESALE DIVISION, SERVICE AUTOGLASS TOLL FREE AT 1-888-246-6298. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 15, 2008.
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