2003 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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Common 2003 Mercury Mountaineer problems
The 2003 Mercury Mountaineer, a midsize SUV, is known for its powerful V6 and V8 engine options, spacious interior, and towing capabilities. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its common problems.
One of the most frequently reported issues with the 2003 Mercury Mountaineer is transmission failure. This problem affects both the 4-speed automatic and 5-speed automatic transmissions used in this model. Symptoms of transmission failure include slipping, hesitation, and difficulty shifting gears. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn or damaged clutch plates, faulty solenoids, or low transmission fluid levels. The cost of repairing or replacing the transmission can be quite high, often exceeding $2,000.
Another common problem with the 2003 Mercury Mountaineer is a cracked rear panel. This issue affects the lift-gate of the vehicle, which is prone to cracking due to its design and the materials used in its construction. The crack typically starts at the bottom of the lift-gate and can spread upwards, eventually affecting the entire panel. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to the elements, frequent use, and normal wear and tear. The cost of replacing the rear panel can be quite high, often exceeding $500.
The 2003 Mercury Mountaineer is also known for having issues with its electrical system. This problem can manifest in a variety of ways, including malfunctioning power windows, non-functioning interior lights, and problems with the vehicle's audio system. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty wiring, blown fuses, or malfunctioning components. The cost of repairing these issues can vary widely, depending on the specific problem and the parts required to fix it.
In addition to these common problems, the 2003 Mercury Mountaineer is also known for having issues with its suspension and steering systems. These problems can include worn or damaged ball joints, loose steering components, and problems with the vehicle's shocks or struts. These issues can affect the vehicle's handling and ride quality, making it more difficult to drive and potentially compromising safety. The cost of repairing these issues can also vary widely, depending on the specific problem and the parts required to fix it.
While the 2003 Mercury Mountaineer has its share of common problems, it is important to note that many of these issues can be addressed through routine maintenance and repairs. Regular inspections and servicing can help to identify potential problems before they become serious, and prompt attention to any issues that do arise can help to keep the vehicle running smoothly and safely. Additionally, it is worth noting that many of the common problems with the 2003 Mercury Mountaineer are not unique to this model, and can be found in other vehicles as well.
2003 Mercury Mountaineer car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mercury Mountaineer problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Mercury Mountaineer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Mercury Mountaineer
The NHTSA has received 152 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Mercury Mountaineer. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Mercury Mountaineer vehicles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-30
- VIN: 4M2DU86WX3Z
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: After disconnecting the battery for battery replacement original equipment 6 cd in dash player only shows CD Error. no error number. When investigating on the internet I found over 100 complaints with the same issue. I tried all the corrections suggested but nothing works. I own the car since new has very low mileage. I have 6 diskettes in the unit I cannot eject under any circumstance.
POWER TRAIN,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4M2DU86W73Z
- Components: POWER TRAIN,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: BIG O TECHS CONNED WIFE INTO BUYING 2 TIRES AND WE OWN AWD SUV THAT REQUIRES 4 AT THE SAME INTERVALS .I IMMEDIATELY NOTIFY THEM THAT THIS IS NOT SAFE AND WILL DAMAGE MY CAR THEY CONTINUED FOR OVER 2 MONTHS TO LIE TO ME ABOUT HAVING SOMEMONE COMTACT ME . I HAVE ALL THE COMMUNICATIONS I'VE HAD WITH THEM THROUGH MESSAGES. A FEW WEEKS AFTER THEY PUT THE TIRES ON AND REFUSED TO TAKE THEM OFF AND PUT MY OLD O ES BACK ON AND ISSUE A REFUND WELL MY TRANSMISSION AND TRANSFER CASE FAILED I CONTACTED THEM AGAIN AND AGAIN THEY LIED TO ME ABOUT SOMEONE CONTACTING ME . I TOOK MY SUV TO THE TRANSMISSION SHOP WE MEASURED OVER 2 INCH CIRCUMFERENCE DIFFERENCE. I INFORMED BIG O THAT I HAVE A TSB ISSUED BY FORD MY EMPLOYER THAT DATES BACK TO 2011 ON TIRE CIRCUMFERENCE PROCEDURES FOR TIRE DEALERS TO FOLLOW . THE RESPONSE I GOT WAS THAT BIG O REFUSES TO REVIEW OR ACKNOWLEDGE TSBS . THAT'S ALARMING AS TSBS ARE ISSUED MY THE MANUFACTURERS FOR SAFETY . I HAD MY SUV FIXED FOR 3000+ $ OUT OF POCKET AND CONTACTED BIG O THE DAY I PICKED IT UP ABOUT THE TIRES STILL BEING ON THERE . I WARNED THEM THIS IS DANGEROUS AND CAN HURT MY NEW DRIVETRAIN THE VERY NEXT DAY FROM GETTING MY SUV OUT OF THE SHOP THE TIRES AGAIN CAUSED BINDING TO OCCUR BUT THIS TIME IT LED TO WHAT SHOULD'VE BEEN A FATAL ACCIDENT WHERE AS THE AWD SYSTEM DONE IT'S JOB BUT THE TIRES BEING OFF BY SO MUCH MADE THE SUV BIND A THREE IN INTO 3 360 DEGREE SPIN AND SLAMMED THE CONCRETE MEDIAN TOTALING MY VEHICLE AND INJURING MY WIFE. I'VE DOCUMENTED ALL MESSAGES WITH BIG O AND HAVE MUCH MORE EVIDENCE RELATED TO THIS CASE THAT I'M UNABLE TO ADD IN THIS DESCRIPTION BECAUSE I'M RUNNING OUT OF ALLOWED CHARACTERS REMAINING . I DID CONTACT BIG O AGAIN AND SENT PHOTOS OF MY CRASHED SUV AND SUDDENLY THEY NOW WON'T RESPOND BACK AT ALL . I THINK THIS JUSTIFIES A FULL INVESTIGATION INTO THERE REFUSAL TO REVIEW TSBS AND FULL REIMBURSEMENT FOR ALL MY
POWER TRAIN,WHEELS,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-10
- VIN: 4M2ZU86K13U
- Components: POWER TRAIN,WHEELS,ENGINE
- Summary: I HAVE SPENT THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS ON THE TRANSMISSION REPAIR AND NO MATTER WHAT I DO THERE ALWAYS A PROBLEM SHIFTING GEARS
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-22
- VIN: 4M2DU86W33Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I HAVE A MERCURY MOUNTAINEER 2003 AND IT WAS STATIONED THERE WAS A CRACK IN THE BACK MIDDLE OF THE HATCH NOW THERE A HUGE CRACK AND MY WINDOW OF THE TRUNK CAME UNHINGED AND FELL OFF I SEE THIS PROBLEM IN ALL MOUNTAINEERS THEY ALL HAVE THE CRACK IN THE HATCH HOPE THEIRS DON'T FALL OFF I SEE IT IN ALMOST EVERYONE'S. THIS SHOULD BE RECALLED BECAUSE WHAT WOULD OF HAPPENED IF I WAS DRIVING AND IT FELL OFF THIS IS NOT SAFE. PLEASE HAVE THIS INVESTIGATED. THANK YOU!
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-15
- VIN: 4M2ZU86K63Z
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. WHILE DRIVING, THE TRANSMISSION FAILED TO SHIFT. WHILE PARKED, THE EMERGENCY BRAKES FAILED AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO ROLL AWAY. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO GAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, THE BRAKE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE BRAKE LINES AND HOSES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE ISSUE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200,000.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-14
- VIN: 4M2ZU86K73U
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: 1) FRONT WHEEL BEARING HUB ASSEMBLY FAILURE RESULTING IN UNSAFE UNDRIVEABLE (THIS HAS BEEN REPEATEDLY REPORTED BY VEHICLE OWNERS REGARDLESS OF VEHICLES MILAGE) FAILURE ACCURED WHILE SLOWING DOWN FOR A STOPLIGHT AFTER EXITING A PARKING LOT OF A RESTAURANT 2) LIFT HATCH CRACKED CENTER OF HATCH ABOVE THE EMBLEM POTENTIALLY ALLOWING WATER INTO THE INTERIOR WORKING OF HATCH AND CAUSING UNTOLD AND UNSEEN WATER RELATED DAMAGES(THIS IS AN ADMITTED FORD MANUFACTURING DEFECT ACROSS THE ENTIRE VEHICLE LINE SPENDING MULTIPLE YEARS PRODUCTION)
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-01
- VIN: 4M2ZU66K23U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER HAS A SOLID AIR BAG LIGHT ON. IT HAS A CODE OF 33, WHEN YOU TURN THE CAR ON, THE LIGHT GOES ON AND BLINKS 3 TIMES THEN 3 MORE TIMES. THIS INDICATES A CODE 33. FORD HAS A TECHNICAL LETTER ABOUT THE ISSUE. THE LETTER STATES THERE IS A KIT FOR THIS PROBLEM. 1L2Z-78610E22-AAA IS THE KIT FOR A MEDIUM DARK PARCHMENT KIT. THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL ITEM AS IT IS A KNOWN DEFECT. FORD WANTS TO CHARGE $281.00 FOR THE PART. OUTRAGEOUS. I WOULD BE FORCED TO PAY OR NOT GET MY STATE VEHICLE TEST PASSED. DEFECTIVE PART SHOULD BE COVERED UNDER SAFETY RECALL ! SEE INFORMATION : 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER BUILD DATE 09/02 VIN===[XXX] BELOW IS A COPY OF A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN REGARDING YOUR CONCERN. YOU CAN BUY THE KITS THROUGH ANY FORD DEALER, THAT'S ABOUT THE ONLY PLACE TO GET THEM. YOU'LL FIND THE BUILD DATE ON THE VIN TAG ON THE DRIVER'S DOOR. FORD:2002-2003 EXPLORER MERCURY:2002-2003 MOUNTAINEER ISSUE: SOME 2002-2003 4DR EXPLORER/MOUNTAINEER VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT AN AIR BAG WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATED WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) B2292 AND LIGHT FLASHING CODE (LFC) 33 (DRIVER SEAT PRETENSIONER FAULT), OR LFC 34 (PASSENGER SEAT PRETENSIONER FAULT). THIS MAY BE CAUSED BY INTERMITTENT PRETENSIONER CONNECTION AT EITHER SEAT BELT BUCKLE. ACTION: INSTALL PRETENSIONER KIT FOR AFFECTED SIDE(S) BY BUILD DATE/COLOR. REFER TO THE FOLLOWING SERVICE INFORMATION FOR DETAILS. SERVICE INFORMATION OBTAIN CORRECT SERVICE KIT AND REFER TO INSTRUCTION SHEET INCLUDED WITH KIT FOR INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS. 2002 MODEL YEAR THROUGH 3/3/02 BUILD DATES MEDIUM DARK PARCHMENT 1L2Z-78610E22-AAA 2002/2003 MODEL YEARS 3/4/02 THROUGH 1/17/03 MEDIUM DARK PARCHMENT 1L2Z-78610E22-BAA [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-02
- VIN: 4M2ZU66W53U
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER RECALLS I HAVE HAD TO CHANGE THE INTAKE MANIFOLD, IGNITION COILS, I'M HAVING A GAS SMELLS NOW, TRANSMISSION THUMPS HARD WHEN GOING INTO FIRST GEAR, SOUNDS LIKE MY REAR END IS ABOUT TO FALL OUT, MY FRONT SEAT IS ELECTRIC AND DOESN'T MOVE, THE O/D LIGHT COMES ON, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON, BRAKE LIGHT ON, I KEEP TRYING TO FIX EVERYTHING THE MORE I FIX THE MORE PROBLEMS THAT COME UP, I HAVE CHECK THE RECALL LIST FOR 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER RECALL ON TRANSMISSION AND ALSO CALLED THE FORD CO THEY SAID THERE IS NOTHING. THE PROBLEM IS GETTING WORST AND AFRAID I WILL BE ON THE HIGHWAY WITH MY GRANDCHILDREN WHEN IT BREAKS. I'VE HAD TRANSMISSION LEVEL CHECKED SAID IT WAS FINE. GETTING READY TO DO A COMPLETE TUNE-UP ON IT TO SEE IF THAT WILL HELP WITH THE SMELL OF GAS AND MAKE IT RUN BETTER. IT IDLES HIGH. IT'S WORST WHEN I'M ON THE HIGHWAY.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-28
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 4M2DU66W23Z
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 TO 15 MPH, THE PASSENGER AND DRIVER SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING OR IMPACT. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED HEAD INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION, BUT THEY COULDN'T AFFORD TO GO. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 79,610.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-01
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: JUST LIKE EVERY OTHER MOUNTAINEER OR EXPLORER OF THIS ERA THE LIFT GATE HAS CRACKED AROUND THE VEHICLE LOGO. THIS HAS CAUSED PROBLEMS INCLUDING CORROSION, RUST, AND LOCKING MECHANISM FAILURE ON THE LIFTGATE. THIS PROBLEM CAN BE SEEN ON EVERY SINGLE MOUNTAINEER OR EXPLORER OF THIS ERA. IT'S PRETTY RIDICULOUS THAT FORD HAS NOT BEEN FORCED TO REMEDY THE ISSUE OR DONE IT VOLUNTARILY. IT IS CLEARLY AN ENGINEERING FAILURE.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-10-20
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. WHILE THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS APPROACHING A RED LIGHT, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO ITS REAR AT A MODERATE RATE OF SPEED. THE SEAT BACK AND THE HEADREST FRACTURED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED EXTENSIVE DAMAGES TO THE NECK AND BACK, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL TREATMENT. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT THE SEAT AND HEADREST WERE NOT STRUCTURALLY SOUND. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY TO A REPAIR SHOP. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 4M2DU86W532
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: FAULTY AIRBAGS: ON NOVEMBER 3, 2015 AT APPROXIMATELY 0540, THE SIDE CURTAIN (BOTH DRIVER SIDE AND PASSENGER SIDE) AIRBAGS EXPLODED IN MY 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER WITHOUT CAUSE WHILE I WAS TRAVELING 55 MPH ON A MAJOR/BUSY STATE HIGHWAY. THE EXPLOSION OF THE AIRBAGS HIT ME ON MY LEFT SIDE CAUSING NECK STRAIN AND TEMPORARY HEARING LOSS TO THE LEFT EAR. I WAS THE ONLY OCCUPANT IN THE VEHICLE. I WAS ABLE TO SAFELY DRIVE TO SHOULDER OF ROAD (I DON'T REMEMBER HOW I GOT THERE), LUCKILY NO CARS WERE AROUND ME AT THE TIME. THE EXPLOSION ALSO CAUSED THE DRIVER SIDE WINDOW TO FALL FROM ITS CASTERS AND WAS UNABLE TO CLOSE WINDOW (AND THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WINDOW NO LONGER WORKS). THE AIR IN THE CURTAINS WOULD NOT DISSIPATE AND I REMEMBER NOT BEING ABLE TO BREATH WELL. THERE WAS A CHEMICAL IN THE AIR AND DO TO THE CURTAINS, IT WAS DIFFICULT TO GET OUT OF THE CAR. LATER IN THE DAY I TOOK CAR TO REYNOLDS FORD AND WAS TOLD THIS WAS NOT COVERED BY FORD. I ALSO WENT TO MY PCP AND WAS TREATED WITH PREDNISONE AND EAR WASH FOR LEFT EAR HEARING LOSS. LATER, HAD DRIVERS WINDOW REPAIRED.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 4M2DU86W53U
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: BACK HATCH GLASS EXPLODED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY (PARKED IN A PARKING LOG), AND THE DRIVER WAS CLOSING THE HATCH. BACK GLASS PORTION OF HATCH WAS BEING MANUALLY CLOSED AT A SLOW-MODERATE RATE, AND GLASS SUDDENLY SHATTERED WITHOUT WARNING. THERE WAS NO IMPACT TO THE GLASS, NOR ANY DISCERNIBLE REASON WHY THE GLASS SHOULD HAVE SUDDENLY SHATTERED. APPROXIMATELY 90% OF THE GLASS ENDED UP IN THE CAR OR ON THE PARKING LOT SURFACE, WITH ONLY ABOUT 10% OF THE GLASS REMAINING ATTACHED TO THE HATCH FRAME AND STRUTS.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-01
- VIN: 4M2ZU86K53U
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SEE WHERE SEVERAL PEOPLE ARE EXPERIENCING THE SAME ISSUES THAT I AM HAVING WITH MY 2003 MOUNTAINEER. THE REAR GATE IS CRACKING AROUND THE EMBLEM. I'VE HAVE REPORTED THIS TO FORD AND THEY TELL ME I CAN PAY TO FIX IT AND IF THERE IS RECALL THEY WILL REIMBURSE ME. IN ADDITION I AM ALSO EXPERIENCING THE DOOR AJAR LIGHT COMING ON WHEN ALL ARE SHUT AND SECURE. I HAVE CONTACT FORD AND SEVERAL LOCAL DEALERSHIPS. THE DEALERSHIP ALL TELL ME THEIR HANDS ARE TIED UNTIL FORD MAKES A DECISION AND THAT I AM NOT ALONE. FORD REFUSES TO DO ANYTHING. IT'S ALMOST LIKE THEY DON'T CARE. WITH ALL THESE COMPLAINTS WHY ISN'T THIS AGENCY DOING SOMETHING?
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-02
- VIN: 4M2ZU86K23Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: NOT IN AN ACCIDENT. A 1 1/2 INCH VERTICAL CRACK HAS APPEARED IN THE BODY BETWEEN THE MIDDLE OF THE BACK LIFT DOOR UNDER THE WINDOW EXTENDING TO THE ROUND MERCURY SYMBOL BETWEEN THE LETTERS, R AND THE C. DID NOT NOTICE UNTIL TAKING IT THROUGH A CAR WASH WHERE I WAS WARNED IT HAD TO BE COVERED.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-16
- VIN: 4M2ZU86W73Z
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY SHUT OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL PUMP WAS FAULTY. THE FUEL PUMP WAS REPLACED, BUT THE FAILURE CONTINUED. NO FURTHER INFORMATION WAS AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 113,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-01
- VIN: 4M2DU86WX3U
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WENT TO PLACE SOMETHING IN THE BACK AND LIFTED THE GATE AND THE LEFT SIDE HINGE CAME OUT AND HAD TO CATCH THE GATE FROM FALLING. GOT MY SON TO HELP TRY TO SECURE IT AND THE STRUT ON THE LEFT SIDE DOESNT WORK SO HAD TO FORCE IT TO CLOSE
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-26
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 4M2DU86W23Z
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 TO 30 MPH, THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED LACERATIONS TO THE LEFT CHEEK THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE AIR BAG LIGHT REMAINED ILLUMINATED AND FLASHED A CODE THIRTEEN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-19
- VIN: 4M2DU86WX3Z
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: ON MAY 19 2014 WHILE PUTTING A BAG IN THE REAR I NOTICED WHEN LIFTING THE TAIL GATE A CRACK HAD APPEARED AROUND THE MERCURY EMBLEM DOWN TO THE BOTTOM OF THE LIFT GATE. I WENT TO THE LOCAL FORD DEALER AS THERE ARE NO MORE MERCURY DEALERS TO QUESTION THE PROBLEM. THE COLLISION MANAGER TOLD ME THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM ON THIS MODEL AND FORD HAS NOT DONE A RECALL. I DID NOT REPLACE THE PLASTIC PANEL DUE TO THE COST OF $500.00. IN MY OPINION FORD SHOULD HAVE ISSUED A RECALL. I ALSO NOTICED ON THE INTERNET HOW MANY PEOPLE COMPLAINED INCLUDING THIS WEBSITE. WHY HASN'T NHTSA DONE SOMETHING ABOUT IT?
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-11-17
- VIN: 4M2DU86W93U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWN A 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. THE CONTACT STATES THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT BOTH FRONTAL SIDE AIR BAGS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-14
- VIN: 4M2DU86W43U
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: ON THE BALTIMORE-WASHINGTON PARKWAY (295 N ) NORTHBOUND, CHANGED LANES TO THE LEFT AND ACCELERATED. THE GAS PEDDLE WAS PUSHED TO THE FLOOR, STAYED THERE AND WOULD NOT RELEASE. I STOOD ON THE BRAKES, BUT ONLY SOMEWHAT SLOWIED THE ACCELERATION. THE VEHICLE CONTINUED UNTIL WE REACHED ABOUT 80MPH AND COMING CLOSE TO REAR ENDING THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME. I WENT OFF ON THE SHOULDER AND TURNED OFF THE IGNITION KEY TO GET THE VEHICLE STOPPED. THE BRAKE OVERHEATED BRAKES. I COULD NOT SEE A PROBLEM. THIS WAS NOT CAUSED BY A FLOOR MAT. THE PEDAL WAS STUCK TO THE FLOOR. I WIGGLED AND PULLED AND IT COME BACK UP WITH A POP. IN DAYLIGHT THE NEXT DAY, I INSPECTED THE PEDAL AND PUSHED IT DOWN. IT AGAIN WENT TO THE FLOOR AND STAYED THERE. I SLID UNDER THE DASH AND FOUND THAT THE HORIZONTAL PIN THAT HOLDS THE PEDAL TO THE FLOOR BRACKET HAD BACKED OUT SIDEWAYS FROM RIGHT TO LEFT, ALLOWING THE PEDAL TO GO SOMEWHAT SIDEWAYS AND THE MOTOR FOR THE ADJUSTABLE PEDAL ASSEMBLY HAD CAUGHT ON A METAL BRACKET KEEPING THE PEDAL FROM RETURNING TO THE UP POSITION. I REMOVED THE PEDAL ASSEMBLY AND INSPECTED THE PROBLEM. THIS IS POOR ENGINEERING AND THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL.. THERE ARE NO CLIPS OR PINS TO HOLD THE PEDAL PIN IN PLACE ! ! ! THE ASSEMBLY RELIES ON SLIGHT INTERFERENCE BETWEEN SPLINES ON THE PIN AND SPLINES INSIDE WHERE IT GOES THROUGH THE PEDAL. WHAT HAPPENED WAS, THAT OVER A PERIOD OF TIME, FROM THE PEDAL WIGGLING, THE PIN BACKED OUT.FROM USE, ON ITS OWN. AGAIN, THIS NOT SUFFICIENT TO KEEP THE PEDAL ASSEMBLED. IT NEED CLIPS ON BOTH ENDS OR COTTER PINS ON BOTH ENDS OF THE PIN ASSEMBLY. A CONCERN IS THE USE OF PLASTIC BRACKET TO MOUNT THE PEDAL TO THE FLOOR. IN MY PAST EXPERIENCE, THE MOUNTING BRACKETS HAD BEEN MADE OF METAL. PLASTIC FATIGUES FASTER THAN METAL AND IS PRONE TO CRACKING AND BREAKING. *TR
VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-06
- VIN: 4M2ZU66K43Z
- Components: VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR LIFTGATE BECAME INOPERABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING AND THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE LIFTGATE AND WINDOW NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 111,500.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-15
- VIN: 4M2ZU86K93Z
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE TRAVELING ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECAME STUCK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL HAD TO BE ENGAGED AND THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL HAD TO BE DEPRESS SEVERAL TIMES IN ORDER TO RELEASE IT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 135,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-10-14
- VIN: 4M2ZU86W13U
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FIBERGLASS ON THE TAILGATE CRACKED AND DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-16
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I PURCHASED A 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER ON 2/15/14 AND I TOOK IT ON A ROAD TRIP ON 2/16/4 WITH MY GRANDKIDS. AFTER ENTERING THE HIGHWAY AND GAINING SPEED I STARTED TO SMELL A STRONG BURNT RUBBER AND EXHAUST SMELL. THE SMELL WAS VERY TOXIC AND STUCK TO OUR CLOTHING. ON 2/18/14, I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER FOR HIS MECHANIC TO TAKE A LOOK AT IT. THE MECHANIC SAID THERE WAS SOME DEGREASER THAT OVERFLOWED FROM A CUPLER AND LEAKED ONTO THE EXHAUST. I ASKED IF THERE WAS A LEAK AND THE MECHANIC RESPONDED BY SAYING NOT REALLY, WHICH MEANT THERE WAS A LEAK. THE MECHANIC ASSURED ME THAT THE PROBLEM WAS TAKEN CARE OF, BUT IF IT STILL OCCURS, THEY WOULD SEND IT IN FOR TWO DAYS. I CONTINUED TO SMELL THE TOXIC SMELL AND ON 2/19/14 THE HATCH ON LIFT GATE JUST CRACKED. ALSO WHEN I TURN AT A LOW SPEED, I HEAR A STRANGE SOUND AND VIBRATION, COMING FROM THE TIRE AREA. I'VE HEARD OF NUMEROUS ISSUES AND COMPLICATIONS WITH THE MERCURY MOUNTAINEERS. I DON'T WANT MY GRANDCHILDREN NOR MY LIFE PUT IN DANGER. A DRIVER SHOULD BE ENSURED WITH SAFETY WHEN DRIVING A VEHICLE. FORD DOESN'T CARE ABOUT THEIR CONSUMERS TO SELL DEFECTIVE AND NONSAFE VEHICLES. PLEASE RECALL THIS VEHICLE AS IT HAS TOO MANY ISSUES THAT CAN BE LIFE THREATENING, LIKE THE ROLLOVER RATE. *TR
2003 Mercury Mountaineer recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2003 Mercury Mountaineer.
- 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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