1997 Mercury Sable problems
The Mercury Sable is a range of automobiles manufactured and marketed by the Mercury brand of Ford Motor Company. Introduced on December 26, 1985, as the replacement for the Mercury Marquis, the Sable marked the transition of the mid-size Mercury product range to front-wheel drive.
Over its production span, the Sable was Mercury's badge-engineered counterpart to the Ford Taurus, below the Grand Marquis in the Mercury range. From the 1986 to 2005 model years, it was produced as a mid-size four-door sedan and five-door station wagon. For 2006, the Sable was replaced by the full-size Montego and mid-size Milan. It was reintroduced for 2008 as a full-size car, offered as a four-door sedan.
Because of declining sales, the Sable was discontinued after the 2009 model year, leaving no Mercury counterpart for the sixth-generation Taurus. The final Sable was produced on May 21, 2009; in total, 2,112,374 Sables were produced during its 1985–2005 production.
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Common 1997 Mercury Sable problems
The Mercury Sable 1997 has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. The most significant issues include brakes, suspension, frame, lighting, seats, equipment, engine, wheels, visibility, transmission, fuel system, steering, and airbags.
Firstly, the brakes have been a significant issue for the Mercury Sable 1997, with 17 recalls issued for this problem alone. The most common brake problems include the brake system failing, causing the vehicle to lose braking power, and the brake pedal feeling spongy or sinking to the floor. These issues can increase the risk of a crash and require immediate attention.
Secondly, the suspension system has also been a problem for the Mercury Sable 1997, with 15 recalls issued for this issue. The most common suspension problems include the front suspension failing, causing the vehicle to pull to one side, and the rear suspension failing, causing the vehicle to bottom out. These issues can affect the vehicle's handling and stability, making it challenging to control.
Thirdly, the frame has been a problem for the Mercury Sable 1997, with 13 recalls issued for this issue. The most common frame problems include the frame cracking, causing the vehicle to lose structural integrity, and the frame rusting, causing the vehicle to become unstable. These issues can affect the vehicle's safety and require immediate attention.
Fourthly, the lighting system has been a problem for the Mercury Sable 1997, with 13 recalls issued for this issue. The most common lighting problems include the headlights failing, causing the vehicle to be less visible to other drivers, and the taillights failing, causing the vehicle to be less visible to other drivers. These issues can increase the risk of a crash and require immediate attention.
Fifthly, the seats have been a problem for the Mercury Sable 1997, with 11 recalls issued for this issue. The most common seat problems include the seat belts failing, causing the occupants to be less secure in the event of a crash, and the seats themselves failing, causing the occupants to be less comfortable. These issues can affect the vehicle's safety and comfort and require immediate attention.
Sixthly, the equipment has been a problem for the Mercury Sable 1997, with 8 recalls issued for this issue. The most common equipment problems include the airbags failing to deploy, causing the occupants to be less protected in the event of a crash, and the power windows failing, causing the occupants to be less comfortable. These issues can affect the vehicle's safety and comfort and require immediate attention.
Seventhly, the engine has been a problem for the Mercury Sable 1997, with 7 recalls issued for this issue. The most common engine problems include the engine stalling, causing the vehicle to lose power, and the engine overheating, causing the vehicle to become less reliable. These issues can affect the vehicle's performance and require immediate attention.
Eighthly, the wheels have been a problem for the Mercury Sable 1997, with 7 recalls issued for this issue. The most common wheel problems include the wheels cracking, causing the vehicle to lose stability, and the wheels becoming loose, causing the vehicle to become less reliable. These issues can affect the vehicle's safety and performance and require immediate attention.
Ninthly, the visibility has been a problem for the Mercury Sable 1997, with 7 recalls issued for this issue. The most common visibility problems include the windshield wipers failing, causing the vehicle to be less visible in rainy conditions, and the mirrors failing, causing the vehicle to be less visible to other drivers. These issues can increase the risk of a crash and require immediate attention.
Tenthly, the transmission has been a problem for the Mercury Sable 1997, with 6 recalls issued for this issue. The most common transmission problems include the transmission slipping, causing the vehicle to lose power, and the transmission failing, causing the vehicle to become less reliable. These issues can affect the vehicle's performance and require immediate attention.
Eleventhly, the fuel system has been a problem for the Mercury Sable 1997, with 3 recalls issued for this issue. The most common fuel system problems include the fuel pump failing, causing the vehicle to lose power, and the fuel gauge failing, causing the vehicle to become less reliable. These issues can affect the vehicle's performance and require immediate attention.
Twelfthly, the steering has been a problem for the Mercury Sable 1997, with 2 recalls issued for this issue. The most common steering problems include the steering system failing, causing the vehicle to become less controllable, and the power steering fluid leaking, causing the vehicle to become less reliable. These issues can affect the vehicle's safety and performance and require immediate attention.
Lastly, the airbags have been a problem for the Mercury Sable 1997, with 2 recalls issued for this issue. The most common airbag problems include the airbags failing to deploy, causing the occupants to be less protected in the event of a crash, and the airbags deploying unexpectedly, causing the occupants to be less safe. These issues can affect the vehicle's safety and require immediate attention.
In conclusion, the Mercury Sable 1997 has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners, including brakes, suspension, frame, lighting, seats, equipment, engine, wheels, visibility, transmission, fuel system, steering, and airbags. These issues can affect the vehicle's safety, performance, and comfort and require immediate attention.
What years of Mercury Sable to avoid?
Years to Avoid
- 2003. ...
- 2000. ...
- 2002. ...
- 2005. ...
- 2001.
- 2004.
Are Mercury Sables good cars?
Overall Mercury Sable is a great vehicle. Very comfortable, powerful, and drives smoothly. Relatively, fuel efficient.
How many miles per gallon does a 1997 Mercury Sable get?
Delivers 28 Highway MPG and 20 City MPG! This Mercury Sable boasts a Gas V6 3.0L/182 engine powering this Automatic transmission. ...
What kind of engine does a Mercury Sable have?
For the Sable G and GS, the standard engine was the 3.0L Vulcan V6, producing 145 hp. For the Sable LS, the standard engine was a 3.0L DOHC Duratec V6, producing 200 hp; optional in the Sable GS, the Duratec engine was an enlarged version of the engine from the Mercury Mystique.
What years of Mercury Sable to avoid?
Years to Avoid
- 2003. ...
- 2000. ...
- 2002. ...
- 2005. ...
- 2001.
- 2004.
Is Mercury Sable a good car?
Overall Mercury Sable is a great vehicle. Very comfortable, powerful, and drives smoothly. Relatively, fuel efficient.
What kind of engine does a Mercury Sable have?
For the Sable G and GS, the standard engine was the 3.0L Vulcan V6, producing 145 hp. For the Sable LS, the standard engine was a 3.0L DOHC Duratec V6, producing 200 hp; optional in the Sable GS, the Duratec engine was an enlarged version of the engine from the Mercury Mystique.
How many miles per gallon does a 1997 Mercury Sable get?
Delivers 28 Highway MPG and 20 City MPG! This Mercury Sable boasts a Gas V6 3.0L/182 engine powering this Automatic transmission. ...
1997 Mercury Sable car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mercury Sable problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Visibility problems
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Mercury Sable vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Mercury Sable
The NHTSA has received 245 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Mercury Sable. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Mercury Sable vehicles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-06
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: YES I HAVE A USED CAR AND THE DASH FROM THE HEAT HAS ROSE OFF OR HAS BUCKELED UP AND I HAVE CONTACTED THE COMPANY WELL APPARENTLY IT IS OBSOLETE AND IT IS HARD TO COME BY SO I CANT DRIVE WITHOUT A DASH AND I CANT GET ONE EITHER
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-10
- VIN: 1MELM53S9VA
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 MERCURY SABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR A SAFETY INSPECTION, WHERE THE MECHANIC NOTIFIED HER THAT THE BRAKE LINES WERE CORRODED AND THE BALL JOINTS WERE DETACHING FROM THE VEHICLE. ALSO, THE MECHANIC ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 73,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-23
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1MELM53S3VA
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 MERCURY SABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN BRAKING TO A COMPLETE STOP, THE ENGINE RPMS WOULD INCREASE ABNORMALLY. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE WOULD SLIGHTLY PULL FORWARD AS IF IT WERE ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE. AS THE CONTACT WAS APPROACHING A TRAFFIC STOP, SHE CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSIS BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DETERMINED. THE MECHANIC DISCONNECTED THE CRUISE CONTROL AS A PRECAUTION AND THE VEHICLE FUNCTIONED PROPERLY. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 43,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-18
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1997 MERCURY SABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THE SUB FRAME THAT HOLDS THE MOTOR AND TRANSMISSION TOGETHER WAS DETACHED FROM THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE VEHICLE DUE TO RUST. WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE WAS MAKING NOISE; HOWEVER, DURING THE DIAGNOSTIC TEST THE MECHANIC CONFIRMED THAT THE SUBFRAME WAS COVERED WITH RUST. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER STATED THERE WERE NO RECALLS OR RELATED WARRANTIES AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 99,000.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-29
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSTANTLY HAVING TO SERVICE BRAKES ON MY 1997 MERCURY SABLE. I HAVE HAD BRAKE CALIPERS SEIZE UP TO THE POINT THE WHEEL WAS TOO HOT TO TOUCH AND I CURRENTLY HAVE BRAKE LINES RUSTED OUT FOR THE SECOND TIME IN ABOUT 2 YEARS THIS IS SIMPLY UNACCEPTABLE FOR SUCH AN EXPENSIVE LUXURY MODEL AND FROM A SAFETY POINT OF VIEW IT IS UNACCEPTABLE TO PUT ANYTHING IN THE WAY OF BRAKE LINES THAT WILL LEAK RUST OR OTHERWISE FAIL PREMATURELY. *TR
SUSPENSION,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-04
- VIN: 1MELM50U5VA
- Components: SUSPENSION,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: I BOUGHT AND ARE DRIVING A 1997 MERCURY SABLE WITH 84K MILES AND IT IS A DANGER TO BE IN. THE REAR SPRINGS ARE BROKEN IN SEVERAL PLACES. I HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT FORD WAS RECALLING AND FIXING THIS PROBLEM IN SIMILAR AND LIKE YEARS OF TAURUS'S AND SABLES. MINE THEY CLAIM DOES NOT QUALIFY. THE 1997 IS THE SAME CAR AS A 1998 AND 1999 THAT THEY HAVE PROVIDED RECALL REPLACEMENTS ON... I WONDER HOW MANY OTHER PEOPLE HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM OR HAVE BEEN IN ACCIDENT BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM THAT FORD IS OBVIOUSLY AWARE . *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-10
- VIN: 1MELM58S3VA
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 MERCURY SABLE. THE CONTACT NOTICED TRANSMISSION FLUID LEAKING ONTO THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. THE WAS INFORMED BY A FORD REPRESENTATIVE THAT HIS VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 97V097000 (POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION), ALTHOUGH THE FAILURES WERE IDENTICAL. THE CONTACT STILL HAS THE VEHICLE, BUT IS AFRAID TO DRIVE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 37,840. UPDATED 12/30/08. *LJ THE CONSUMER ALSO DISCOVERED OIL LEAKING IN THE TRANSAXLE AREA. UPDATED 01/05/09. *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-01
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: I HAVE READ DOZENS OF EXAMPLES OF THE SAME PROBLEM POSTED ON THIS SITE. IT APPEARS THAT MERCURY NEEDS TO MAKE A RECALL. ABOUT 6 MONTHS AGO MY BRAKE PEDAL RELEASED THE PRESSURE I HAD ON IT AND WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR. I TOOK IT INTO THE BRAKE SHOP AND HAD MY HOSES, CALIPERS, AND BREAK LINES ALL COMPLETELY REPLACED. WITHIN 6 MONTHS, THE EXACT SAME THING HAS HAPPENED AGAIN. I DO NOT HAVE $500 TO SPEND EVERY SIX MONTHS ON A CAR THAT IS SUPPOSED TO BE RELIABLE AND DEPENDABLE. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE. *TR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-08-03
- VIN: 1MELM53S5VA
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 MERCURY SABLE. WHILE THE CONTACT'S SON WAS DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT LOOSENED WITHOUT WARNING. THE MANUFACTURER WILL BE NOTIFIED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 55,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-01
- VIN: 1MELM50U9VG
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 MERCURY SABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT TRANSMISSION FLUID WAS LEAKING AND DRAINING ONTO THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSIS. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT HIS VEHICLE DOES NOT HAVE ANY OPEN RECALLS AND THEY WERE UNAWARE OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 97V097000 (POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 105,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 137,000.
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-12-15
- VIN: 1MELM55U8VG
- Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 MERCURY SABLE. IN COLD WEATHER, THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR WILL SHUT, BUT NOT LATCH UNTIL THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN 3-4 MILES WITH THE HEATER ON FULL BLAST. THE FAILURE HAS OCCURRED FOR THE PAST TWO WINTERS. THE DEALER STATED THAT IT WAS THE CONTACT'S RESPONSIBILITY. WHEN THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR IS SHUT, ONE OF THE TRIM PANELS DETACHES FROM THE INTERIOR DOOR PANEL DUE TO DETERIORATION OF THE PLASTIC ATTACHMENTS (CHRISTMAS TREE). HE WAS INFORMED NOT TO WORRY ABOUT THE FAILURE BECAUSE IT WAS NOT HARMFUL. THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR DOES NOT LATCH BECAUSE THE PLASTIC MECHANISM DOES NOT WORK PROPERLY. THE CONTACT HAS TO MANUALLY WORK THE DOOR HANDLE TO REACTIVATE THE LATCH. THE DEALER STATED THAT THIS WAS NOT AN ISSUE, AND THAT THE DOOR NEEDED TO BE TAKEN APART AND RELUBRICATED AT HIS EXPENSE. THE PURCHASE DATE WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 95,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 94,000. UPDATED 04/21/08 *BF
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-01
- VIN: 1MELM50U8VA
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: CAR WOULD NOT MOVE WHEN PLACED IN REVERSE, WHEN IT DID MOVE LEFT FRONT TIRE BLEW OUT. WHEN I REMOVED TIRE, FOUND COIL SPRING HAD BROKEN AND PUNCTURED TIRE. VERY THANKFUL IT HAPPENED IN DRIVEWAY. OTHER MODEL YEARS ARE COVERED BY RECALL, COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING FOR 1997. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-22
- VIN: 1MELM55U4VA
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 MERCURY SABLE. THE VEHICLE HAS COOPER TIRES. THE DAY AFTER THE CONTACT PURCHASED FOUR NEW TIRES, THE REAR PASSENGER TIRE FLATTENED. THE TIRE DEALER REPAIRED THE VALVE. THE PURCHASE DATE, POWERTRAIN, AND TIRE SIZE WERE UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 138,707.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-05
- VIN: 1MELM50U1VA
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 MERCURY SABLE. WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH, THE BRAKES FAILED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE STRUCK THE CURB AND CAME TO A STOP. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE PLASTIC STRIPS THAT HOLD THE BRAKE LINE TO THE BOTTOM SECTION OF THE VEHICLE WAS COLLECTING WATER THAT DID NOT EVAPORATE. AS A RESULT, THE TWO BRAKE LINES THAT DELIVERED OIL TO THE REAR BRAKES CORRODED AND ALL THE BRAKE FLUID LEAKED OUT. THE DEALER REPLACED THE TWO MAIN LINES FROM THE BRAKE CYLINDER TO THE REAR TIRES. THE LINES WERE FLUSHED FIVE TIMES AFTER THE REPLACEMENT. THE REPAIR COST $567.13. MORE RECENTLY, THE VEHICLE LOST BRAKE POWER AGAIN AND CAUSED THE CONTACT TO DRIVE THROUGH A STOP SIGN AT 30 MPH. THE VEHICLE EVENTUALLY CAME TO A STOP 150 YARDS LATER. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE BRAKE LINES WERE NOT TIGHTENED PROPERLY AND THE LINES HAD TO REPLACED AGAIN AT THE COST OF $611.45. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT NO RECALLS WERE AVAILABLE AND THE CONTACT WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIRS. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 67,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 58,431. *UPDATED 12/12/07 *BF UPDATED 12/12/07 *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-09-08
- Crash: 1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 MERCURY SABLE. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BEING DEPRESSED. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO AND DESTROYED THE CONTACT'S GARAGE DOOR. HE STATED THAT THE ONLY WAY TO STOP THE VEHICLE WAS TO PLACE IT IN PARK. THE CONTACT CALLED THE DEALER AND IS AWAITING A RESPONSE. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 78,000. UPDATED 12/31/07 *BF UPDATED *JB
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-25
- VIN: 1MELM55U4VA
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL*- THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING THE 1997 MERCURY SABLE AT 20 MPH HE FELT A WOBBLE. THE CONTACT STATED IF THE WOBBLE CAME FROM THE FRONT TIRE IT WOULD CAUSE THE STEERING WHEEL TO SHAKE. THE DEALERSHIP ADVISED THE CONTACT THIS WAS DUE TO A BELT SEPARATION IN THE TIRE. THE DEALERSHIP REPLACED THE TIRE. TIRE TREAD SEPARATION OCCURRED THREE TIMES WITH THE FRONT TIRES AND FOUR OCCURRENCES INVOLVED THE REAR TIRES. THE TIRE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTINENTAL AND THE MODEL AMERI-TECH. THE VEHICLE CURRENTLY HAD AN ODOMETER READING OF 86,000 MILES. THE TIRES FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 26,000.*AK THE CONSUMER PROVIDED INVOICES FOR ALL THE TIRE REPAIRS AND STATES HE WENT TO DIFFERENT DEALERS BECAUSE HE WAS INFORMED TO DO SO BY GENERAL TIRES. UPDATE 4/24/07 *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-06-01
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL* - THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE PURCHASED A SET OF FIRESTONE TIRES THAT DID NOT LAST LONGER THAN 10 DAYS. WHEN SHE RETURNED THE TIRES TO THE DEALERSHIP, THEY SAID THAT THEY WERE NOT RESPONSIBLE BECAUSE SHE DIDN'T GET AN ALIGNMENT WHEN SHE PURCHASED THE TIRES. *AK UPDATED 01/31/07. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-12-04
- VIN: 1MELM53S3VA
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON INTERSTATE 40 TO WORK, VEHICLE BEGAN RIDING VERY ROUGH. I COULD FEEL EVERY BUMP IN THE ROAD. GOT TO WORK AND DISCOVERED VEHICLE HAD DROPPED DOWN ALL THE WAY ON THE LEFT REAR AND MOST OF THE WAY ON THE RIGHT REAR. CAUSE WAS BROKEN LEFT REAR COIL SPRING. *JB
TIRES,WHEELS,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-11-17
- VIN: 1MELM50U1VG
- Components: TIRES,WHEELS,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: (LOCATION) STATE: MICHIGAN. CITY: WARREN: ZIP CODE: 48092. LOCATION: ELEVEN MILE ROAD & DEQUINDRE ROAD CROSS SECTION NEAR SEVEN ELEVEN GAS STATION. (DESCRIPTION OF THE INCIDENT): FRONT PASSENGER RIGHT SIDE WHEELS AND TIRES ASSEMBLY BROKE OFF FROM THE INTEGRATED VEHICLE. *NM
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-04-07
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: REAR RIGHT COIL SPRING SNAPPED WHILE GOING OVER A SMALL BUMP. *NM
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-16
- VIN: 1MELM55U7VA
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: BALL JOINT AND TIE-ROD REPLACEMENTS NEEDED VERY FREQUENTLY (1-2 TIMES A YEAR). ON BOTH A 1997 SABLE WAGON AND 1999 SABLE SEDAN. EACH VEHICLE HAS HAD SEVERAL BALL JOINTS AND TIE-RODS REPLACED, SOME COVERED BY MFG AS THE FREQUENCY WAS SO OFTEN. EACH TIME WE HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT THE BALL-JOINT AND/OR TIE-ROD, ON ONE SIDE OR THE OTHER, NEEDS TO BE REPLACED DUE TO "SAFETY" REQUIREMENTS. IF THIS IS THE CASE THAN THE FREQUENCY HAS ME CONCERNED THAT IF THE 'ISSUE" WAS NOT CAUGHT IN TIME THERE COULD BE AN INJURY OR DEATH. THE 1997 SABLE WAGON WENT IN FOR A STARTER REPLACEMENT TODAY 3/16/06 AND WE WERE TOLD THAT THE LOWER OUTER TIE-ROD NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THIS TIE-ROD WAS REPLACED 11K MILES AGO ON 12/3/04 AND THE CAR WAS INSPECTED ON 12/5/05. *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-02-13
- VIN: 1MELM50U8VA
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: VEHICLE SLOW TO UP SHIFT. WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED VEHICLE SUDDENLY DROPPED TO LOWEST GEAR WOULD NOT GO OVER 23 MPH. LOUD ROARING! AFTER PLACING IN PARK; PUTTING INTO DRIVE TRANSMISSION SLAMS INTO FIRST GEAR, BUT WILL NOT CHANGE INTO HIGHER GEAR. *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-02-08
- VIN: 1MELM50U1VA
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 20-25 MPH THE BRAKES FAILED CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP AND DETERMINED BOTH BRAKE LINES BELOW THE FRONT DRIVER DOOR WERE RUSTED CAUSING THE LINES TO BREAK OPEN. THE RUST WAS CAUSED FROM TWO PLASTIC STRIPS ATTACHED TO THE BOTTOM OF THE VEHICLE. THE BRAKE LINES FROM THE MASTER CYLINDER TO THE REAR TIRES WERE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. UPDATED 03/17/06. *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-09-06
- VIN: 1MELM50U1VA
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 MERCURY SABLE. WHEN PARKING THE CAR THE SHIFTER INDICATES IT IS IN PARK, BUT IT IS ACTUALLY IN REVERSE. THERE IS A RECALL #96V166000, BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO THE VIN. THE CONSUMER NOTICED THIS PROBLEM ON 9-6-05. *AK *MR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-20
- VIN: 1MELM55U3VA
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DT: FORD MERCURY SABLE STATION WAGON 1997. FRONT COIL SPRING BROKE AND WENT PASS THE BASE AND MADE CONTACT WITH THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE. THIS TIRE WAS SHREDDED. CONSUMER WAS DRIVING A VERY SLOW SPEED WHEN THIS HAPPENED. FORD WAS RECALLING THE 1999 - 2001 MODELS UNDER RECALL 04S17, THIS RECALL DOES NOT APPLY TO THE 1997. MODEL. *AK *JB
1997 Mercury Sable recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1997 Mercury Sable.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE TEXT AND/OR GRAPHICS FOR THE VEHICLE HEADLAMP AIMING INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED IN THE OWNER GUIDES ARE NOT SUFFICIENTLY CLEAR. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: IF THE HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES ARE REPLACED, CUSTOMERS MAY BE CONFUSED BY THE AIMING INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED IN THE OWNER GUIDES CAUSING THE HEADLAMPS TO BE IMPROPERLY AIMED.
- Remedy: OWNER GUIDES CONTAINING REVISED AIMING INSTRUCTIONS WILL BE MAILED TO OWNERS OF THESE VEHICLES.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AX4S AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLES. THE LOW/INTERMEDIATE SERVO COVER CAN SEPARATE FROM THE TRANSAXLE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN. IF THIS OCCURS, TRANSMISSION FLUID WILL LEAK CONTACTING THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER.
- Consequence: THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER TEMPERATURE MAY BE HOT ENOUGH TO IGNITE THE TRANSMISSION FLUID AND CAUSE A VEHICLE FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TRANSMISSION AND REPLACE THESE SERVO COVERS.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
- Summary: THE PARK PAWL ABUTMENT BRACKET HAS A SHARP EDGE WHICH CAN CAUSE THE PARKING PAWL TO HANG UP AND NOT ENGAGE THE PARK GEAR. THIS WOULD ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO MOVE EVEN THOUGH THE GEAR SHIFT INDICATOR SHOWS THAT THE VEHICLE IS IN PARK.
- Consequence: UNINTENDED AND UNEXPECTED VEHICLE MOVEMENT CAN RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY AND PROPERTY DAMAGE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE PARK PAWL ABUTMENT BRACKET.
Negative 1997 Mercury Sable car reviews
Positive 1997 Mercury Sable car reviews
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I love the look, ride and feel of this car. The 200HP DOHC engine makes the car. The gas mileage is OK for a 6cyl. It handles a lot better than I would have thought. The steering has a great feel to it and the brakes stop it on a dime. The only complaint I have is the radio/heater control pod. It doesn't easily allow you to put a better stereo in it without buying an expensive dash plate.
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I bought this car because we needed an affordable option to make it through the year. Although I wasn't a fan of Sables before (mostly because of their appearance), after test driving this one, I changed my mind. It was incredibly comfortable and easy to drive. Despite already having 137,000 miles on it when I purchased it, it's still going strong almost a year later.
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This car has been really reliable overall. Other than normal wear items, it has been nearly maintenance free, with just a couple of exceptions. It gets great highway gas mileage and rides very smoothly over most road conditions. I would definitely recommend this car to anyone in need of affordable, reliable transportation!
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Very good family car. We drove it all over Texas with 4 adults (actually 2 adults and two very big teenage boys). No complaints. It has plenty of room, a large trunk, and rides very nicely. Additionally, it gets great highway mileage.
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I've been driving this car for years now and it's been great. The engine is strong and reliable, and it's comfortable with plenty of room for everyone and everything. The roof rack and fold-down seats were especially useful when I needed to transport larger items. Even at 160k, it was still going strong, and I anticipated it lasting at least another 40k. The safety features are top-notch too - I was in an accident and the car held up well, keeping everyone inside safe. Overall, it's definitely a keeper. I'm actually looking for another one now!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Mercury Sable problems:
1997 Mercury Sable Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Top 1997 Mercury Sable Problems · Problem With Idle Air Bypass Valve May Cause Engine Performance Problems · Engine Oil Pan Gasket May Leak · Camshaft Sensor ...
Common Problems with 2002 Mercury Sable: Expert Q&A
Jun 6, 2010 ... I have an 02 Mercury Sable and I am having problems with the antifreeze leaking out..What can be the cause? - Answered by a verified Mercury ...
97 Mercury Sable transmission problems | Taurus Car Club of America
Mar 9, 2012 ... Could be your torque converter splines have stripped out. or the oil pump in the trannie. ... The $1 question is the car worth rebuilding the ...
Common 2000 Mercury Sable Problems: Expert Q&A
Mar 17, 2012 ... 2000 Mercury Sable: Ignition switch will not start the car, nor will the switch return to the run position (Switch is - Answered by a ...
Taurus/Sable Transmission Problems - Page 3 — Car Forums at ...
Nov 6, 2006 ... Taurus/Sable Transmission Problems ... i have a 97 mercury sable stationwagon after ... It appears to be a common problem with Ford/Mercury autos ...
Other years of Mercury Sable
Are you having problems with your 1997 Mercury Sable?
Florian Fadel 2024-08-24
Hi there! If you're looking for a great family and shopping car, you've come to the right place! We have a fantastic selection of vehicles that are perfect for all your needs.
Ayden Senger 2024-08-11
Although I have owned this car for several years, it has been plagued with issues. Despite replacing the O2 sensors and cam shaft position sensor, it now requires a new transmission. Additionally, the interior A/C control knobs have all broken off and the flip-out cup holder is inconvenient, requiring you to hold your drink during turns. Regrettably, I will not be purchasing this car or its twin, the Taurus, again.
Clay Weber 2024-06-05
After 5 1/2 years and 52000 miles of light suburban driving and regular maintenance, the car required a transmission rebuild and a new front end. Despite the cost of over $3300, I was not surprised as I know the mechanics well. In fact, I trust them completely as our kids play soccer together and I know they are honest. Considering the quality of service, I can only imagine how much more expensive it would have been at a dealer. Despite this setback, the car remains the ideal choice for our needs.
Rasheed Thompson 2024-02-04
I've owned three Taurus/Sable wagons and I'm planning to buy another one for several reasons that make this car perfect for me. It's comfortable, has great roadholding, is safe, and can hold a ten-foot-long piece of wood or pipe from Home Depot. These cars almost never need any work, but if they do, they can be expensive to fix, like any new car. However, the transmission is the big weakness of these cars, as it's very weak and generally requires a rebuild around 125-140k. The rebuild isn't expensive as transmissions go (between $900 and $2k depending on the shop).
Florian Tillman 2024-01-23
Back in 2000, I got this car as a trade, but unfortunately, keeping it on the road broke my bank. It was the most expensive-to-maintain vehicle I’ve ever driven, and it had electrical problems galore. Eventually, I had to replace it with a 1983 Saab 900 with 386,000 miles on it, which a friend gave me if I could get it running. That was definitely a step up from the Sable, which I couldn't afford to keep fixing. Although I must admit, I didn't have the best experience with that car, it taught me a lot about car maintenance.