2003 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 2003 Mercury Sable problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Mercury Sable 2003, several common problems have been reported:
- Electrical Issues:
- Owners have reported various electrical problems with the 2003 Mercury Sable. Complaints include issues with the radio (no sound, no lights), malfunctioning heat/AC temperature control, inoperative power windows and locks, non-functional door ajar buzzer, windshield wipers, lights, turn signals, and dome lights. Additionally, there have been reports of the blower motor for fan/heat turning on uncontrollably after the car has been running for about 30 seconds, as well as the high beam indicator light staying on. Despite these electrical issues, the car starts and runs fine on the road.
- Other Reported Problems:
- Apart from the transmission and electrical issues, the Mercury Sable 2003 has also faced complaints related to the engine oil pan gasket leaking, problems with the idle air bypass valve affecting engine performance, and issues with the camshaft sensor magnet.
These problems have caused significant inconvenience to owners of the Mercury Sable 2003, leading to repair costs and affecting the overall driving experience. It is crucial for owners to address these issues promptly to ensure the safety and functionality of their vehicles.
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 2003 Mercury Sable get?
Based on data from 25 vehicles, 1,602 fuel-ups and 387,384 miles of driving, the 2003 Mercury Sable gets a combined Avg MPG of 19.48 with a 0.18 MPG margin of error.
What engine is in a 2003 Mercury Sable?
3.0 L V62003 Mercury Sable / Engine
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.
How many miles per gallon does a 2003 Mercury Sable get?
Based on data from 25 vehicles, 1,602 fuel-ups and 387,384 miles of driving, the 2003 Mercury Sable gets a combined Avg MPG of 19.48 with a 0.18 MPG margin of error.
Is Mercury Sable the same as Ford?
The Mercury Sable is a range of automobiles manufactured and marketed by the Mercury brand of Ford Motor Company.
2003 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:
- Suspension problems
- Power train problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Structure problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Mercury Sable vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Mercury Sable
The NHTSA has received 201 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Mercury Sable. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Mercury Sable vehicles.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-13
- VIN: 1MEFM55S73A
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Mercury Sable. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle coasted to the side of the road and was towed to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-07
- VIN: 1MEFM55S13G
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY SABLE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE DECELERATED INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT PARKED ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 30,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-20
- VIN: 1MEFM55S63A
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: IDRIVING UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS ON A CITY STREET IN 2003 MERC SABLE WITH 33K MILES. WHILE IN MOTION, THE TRANSMISSION FAILS WITH NO FORWARD OR REVERSE WORKING OR ANY OTHER MECHANICAL WARNINGS.( NO TRANSMISSION CODES ON OBDII. I WAS IMMEDIATELY ABLE TO COAST INTO A DRUGSTORE PARKING LOT. CAR TOWED TO LOCAL FORD DEALER. DEALER INFORMED THAT THE TORQUE CONVERTER SPLINES HAVE FAILED AND TORQUE CONVERTER NEEDS TO REPLACED FOR $ 1726.00. DEALER REPAIRED VEHICLE, REPLACED WITH FORD RE-MANUAFACTURED TORQUE CONVERTER. SEARCHED INTERN NET AND FOUND SAME NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS OF FORD TORQUE CONVERTERS SPLINE FAILURES. BASED ON THE TYPE AND NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS THIS APPEARS TO WARRANT AN AUDIT OF THIS SAFETY PROBLEM. THERE ARE OTHER REPORTED COMPLAINTS THAT VEHICLES WERE TRAVELING ON HIGHWAYS AND SUFFERED TRANSMISSION FAILURES WHILE IN MOTION WITHOUT ANY WARNINGS. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-27
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: SO SORRY TO BOTHER YOU. I HAVE A MERCURY SABLE 03 WHICH HAS BEEN ACCELERATING BY ITSELF BECAUSE THE THROTTLE CABLE GETS STUCK. I SAW AN ARTICLE THAT SAID MY YEAR TAURUS AND SABLE HAVE THIS PROBLEM AS WELL AS SAW THAT ALL THOSE IN THE JUNK YARD HAVE THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM. IN THE ARTICLE IT SAID FORD AGREED TO FIX THOSE TO STOP FURTHER INVESTIGATION. HOW WOULD I GO ABOUT GETTING THIS FIXED? PLEASE AND THANK YOU. MY VEHICLE STARTED GOING 79 AND WOULDN'T STOP. EVEN IN NEUTRAL IT WENT 4000 RPM UNTIL THE THROTTLE CABLE WAS UNJAMMED. AND CONTINUES TO DO SO
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-13
- VIN: 1MEFM55S13G
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING MY CAR ON A CITY STREET AND THE CAR STARTED ACCELERATING ON ITS OWN AND I TRIED TO BRAKE BUT MY BRAKES WOULD NOT WORK. I HAD TO PUT BOTH FEET ON THE BREAK TO SLAM HARD ENOUGH TO TRY TO GET IT TO SLOW DOWN EVEN A LITTLE. I FOUND OUT THAT THE THROTTLE CABLE GOT STUCK AND COULD NOT GO BACK IN CAUSING THE CAR TO KEEP ACCELERATING.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-24
- VIN: 1MEFM55S73A
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 2003 MERCURY SABLE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO BEING CHARGED FOR VEHICLE REPAIRS THAT WERE UNDER WARRANTY. *LD *JS
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-24
- VIN: 1MEFM55S73A
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHY WAS I CHARGED $249.90 LABOR CHARGES WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS ONLY IN MY HANDS FOR A COUPLE OF DAYS AFTER BEING PURCHASED FROM KING BUICK BUT NOT FOR PARTS, SHOP MATERIALS AND USE OF A LOANER CAR. I SHOULD HAVE PAID NOTHING UNDER A WARRANTY AND WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF FORD HAS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THAT. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CALL MY CALL ON [XXX](C) OR [XXX](H) IF YOU NEED MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS. I WAS RIGHT ACROSS THE STREET FROM THE COMMUNITY WHERE I RESIDE AND DROVE THE CAR TO KING BUICK GMC IMMEDIATELY. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
STRUCTURE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-10
- VIN: 1MEHM55S13A
- Components: STRUCTURE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: 1. THE HOOD CLOSES APPARENTLY FINE, IT DOES NOT OPEN IF I TRY TO, HOWEVER KEEPS OPENING EVERY 20 MINUTES AFTER DRIVING. I COULD NOT FIND THE CAUSE. 2. VERY STRONG SMELL OF GAS KEEPS OCURRING, NO SIGNS OR DROPS OR VIISUAL LEAK PUDDLE.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-29
- VIN: 1MEFM55S33G
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY SABLE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS OPERATED, IT LOST ENGINE POWER WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO DOM'S GETTY SERVICE STATION (308 MERCER ST, HIGHTSTOWN, NJ) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED AS A TRANSMISSION FAILURE. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 57,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-29
- VIN: 1MEFM55S33G
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY SABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION FAILED. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOST ACCELERATION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO DOM'S GETTY STATION (HEIGHTSTOWN, NJ 08520, PHONE (609) 448-4146) FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING, WHICH LOCATED THE FAILURE AT THE TRANSMISSION INPUT SHAFT AND TORQUE CONVERTER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 57,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-12
- VIN: 1MEHM55S13A
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY SABLE. WHILE STATIONARY, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED RAPIDLY ON ITS OWN WITHOUT WARNING. IN ADDITION, THE "CHECK ENGINE" INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. FAIRWAY FORD IN SAN BERNARDINO, CALIFORNIA DETERMINED THAT THE SPEED CONTROL CABLE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 170,000. ...UPDATED 10/23/17 *BF UPDATED 11/1/2017*JS
INTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-05-30
- VIN: 1MEHM55S23G
- Components: INTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY SABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY IDLED BETWEEN 3-4 RPMS AND THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE INTERIOR LIGHTING FAILED TO ILLUMINATE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AUTO ZONE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 12281999. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED OF SERVICE BULLETIN NUMBER: SB-10052600-3673. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 164,000. THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS UNDER RECALL BUT, SHE WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONSUMER WOULD LIKE FOR THE RECALL TO BE PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE AT NO CHARGE. UPDATED 05/31/2017*JS
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-13
- VIN: 1MEHM55S73A
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY SABLE. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ACCELERATE INDEPENDENTLY WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO STOP WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL BEING DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE MOTOR MOUNT AND RADIATOR HOSE FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 121,373.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-29
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 MERCURY SABLE. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE COLLIDED WITH THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELT DID NOT LOCK, WHICH FORCED THE CONTACT TO STRIKE THE STEERING WHEEL DURING THE CRASH. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A CONCUSSION, BACK, AND NECK INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S HOME AND THEN TOWED TO A JUNK YARD. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-20
- VIN: 1MEHM55S13G
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY SABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE LIGHTS REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE LAMP SWITCH MALFUNCTIONED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V106000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 60,000.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-03
- VIN: 1MEFM50U63A
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I OWN A 2003 MERCURY SABLE, I REPLACED THE BRAKES , AND AN ASSORTMENT OF PROBLEMS FOLLOWED. FIRST THEY BEGAN LOCKING , THEN THE CAR WOULD NOT STOP AT ALL. I REPLACED PADS.ROTORS.TIRES ,BLEED THE BREAKS ALL IN AN EFFORT TO FIND THE PROBLEM. I COULD NOT, SO THE CAR HAS BEEN SITTING ABOUT A YEAR. THEN I RECEIVED THE RECALL ON THE BREAKS , NOW EVERYTHING MAKES SENSE.
POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-16
- Components: POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY SABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEAR SHIFTER WAS STUCK AND COULD NOT MOVE OUT OF THE PARK POSITION. IN ADDITION, THE BRAKE LIGHTS FAILED TO ILLUMINATE WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE BRAKE WIRING HAD TO BE PUSHED DOWN TO OVERRIDE THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED CONSTANTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V106000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE VIN AND FAILURE MILEAGE WERE UNKNOWN.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-01
- VIN: 1MEFM55S73A
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING EAST ON I-70 FROM KANSAS CITY MO. CRUISE WAS SET AT 78. 4 LANES. WAS IN LEFT PASSING LANE AND HAD TO SLOW DOWN QUICKLY BECAUSE OF VEHICLE IN FRONT WAS DOING ABOUT 50MPH. THE RIGHT WAS CLEAR AND I STARTED MOVING TO THE RIGHT TO PASS. THE CAR INSTANTLY ACCELERATED AS I STARTED TO TURN RIGHT. THE ACCELERATION ACTUALLY PULL THE CAR FORWARD SO FAST THE REAR END SLID TO THE LEFT. CAR MOVED A CROSSED THE RIGHT 3 LANES OF TRAFFIC AT ABOUT A 60 DEG ANGLE. I MANAGED TO TURN THE CAR INTO THE SKID TO AVOID THE GUARD RAILS AND STARTED BACK ACROSS THE LANES WITH COMPLETE LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE CAR AS IT DID A COMPLETE 360. AS I WAS RETURNED TO FACING EAST AGAIN I PULLED OFF INTO THE MEDIAN AS I WAS AGAIN IN THE FAR LEFT LANE NOW IN FRONT OF THE VEHICLE I HAD STARTED TO PASS. HAVING BEEN IN MANY EMERGENCY SITUATION IN MY 67 YEARS. I JUST ROAD OUT THE TURN. I WAS NO FUN WATCHING THE VEHICLE I WAS TRYING TO PASS APPROACH ME WHILE I WAS COMPLETING THE 360. WITH SO MANY VEHICLES SURROUNDING THE GAP I WAS IN, I AM STILL AMAZED NO ONE WAS KILLED, AND NO COLLISION OF ANY SORT OCCURRED. TOOK TO THE DEALER AND IT WAS SUGGESTED THE PCV VALVE WAS PLUGGED. REPLACED. AROUND FEB 2 2016 I WAS DRIVING I 95 TO FLORIDA. I NOTICED THE CRUISE DROPPING OUT TWICE WITHOUT BRAKING AND ONCE ACCELERATING WITHOUT RESETTING. I UNDERSTOOD NOW THAT THE I-70 INCIDENT WAS ACTUALLY THE CRUISE CONTROL. I WILL HAVE IT DISCONNECTED SO THAT IT CAN NOT BE USED AGAIN. HOW I SURVIVED IS BEYOND BELIEF. I AM EXTREMELY GLAD NO ONE WAS WITH ME.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-07
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: PASSENGER FLOOR RUSTED OUT COMPLETELY IN TWO SPOTS ON THE FRONT RIGHT OF FLOOR. TWO MAJOR HOLES. THE REMAINDER OF THE FLOOR IS SHOWING SIGNS THAT IT TOO IS DETERIORATING. THIS IS A SAFETY CONCERN AS THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF THE FLOOR HAS BEEN COMPROMISED AND CAN ALLOW SOMEONE TO FALL THROUGH SHOULD EXCESS WEIGHT BE PLACED IN ANY OF THESE WEAK PLACES AND OR HOLES.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-17
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE VEHICLES STOCK JACKING LOCATIONS ARE NO LONGER CONSIDERED AS SAFE. THEY HAVE DETERIORATED DUE TO CORROSION AND RUSTING AWAY. SHOULD SOMEONE DECIDE TO TRUST ANY ONE OF THE AFFECTED JACKING LOCATIONS, THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF THE FRAME MAY CRUMPLE AND BREAK CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO DROP ONTO ANYONE PERFORMING WORK UNDERNEATH, WHICH MAY RESULT IN SEVERE INJURY, OR EVEN DEATH.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-23
- VIN: 1MEHM55S03A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THIS CAR WAS REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN 04V106000. THE RECALL WORK FAILED, CAUSING THE BRAKE LIGHTS TO NOT COME ON, AND THE VEHICLE TO NOT SHIFT OUT OF PARK.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-11
- VIN: 1MEFM55503G
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: NO ACCIDENT, BUT THE SEAT BELT ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE HAS STARTED "LATCHING" ONLY ON SPORADIC OCCASIONS. IT DOESN'T LATCH MORE TIMES THAN IT DOES LATCH. THE ARE TIMES WHEN YOU HAVE SUCCESSFULLY LATCHED THE SEATBELT, IT WILL COME UNLATCH END WHILE THE CAR IS MOVING. THIS HAS NOW BEEN OCCURRING FOR ABOUT A MONTH.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-12
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY SABLE EQUIPPED WITH DOUGLAS X-TRAC 2 TIRES, SIZE: P215/60/R16. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE BLEW OUT. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE VEERED BUT THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO REGAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE AND TIRE WERE NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE DOT NUMBER AND VIN WERE UNKNOWN. THE VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 105,029 AND THE TIRE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,159.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-23
- VIN: 1MEHM55S23G
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY SABLE. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO DECELERATE; HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP. THE CONTACT IMMEDIATELY SHIFTED THE VEHICLE INTO NEUTRAL AND AVOIDED A COLLISION. THE CONTACT BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND WAS INFORMED OF A CUSTOMER SERVICE CAMPAIGN. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED BECAUSE IT WAS MANUFACTURED IN ANOTHER PLANT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 123,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-01
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1MEHM55S63G
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: CAR WAS COMPLETELY STOPPED. WHEN ENGAGED INTO REVERSE, CAR MADE LOUD NOISE, TIRES SQUEALED, ENGINE RACED AND CRASHED INTO PARKED CAR BEHIND IT AT HIGH RATE OF SPEED. PARKED VEHICLE THAT WAS STRUCK THEN STRUCK CAR NEXT TO IT SINCE IMPACT WAS SO GREAT. CAR WAS UNCONTROLLABLE, COULD NOT BE STOPPED VIA BRAKES.
2003 Mercury Sable recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2003 Mercury Sable.
- Manufacturer: Robert Bosch LLC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:PADS
- Summary: Bosch Brake Components LLC (Bosch) is recalling certain aftermarket replacement front brake pads, models Bosch QuietCast BC598 and BP765, Bosch Blue BE598 and BE598H, Prostop PD598 and PD765M, Duralast Gold DG598, Duralast MKD598, Stop Master ST598, UltraStop ULT598, UltraLife MX598 and MX765, BrakeBest MKD765, and Prostop Platinum PGD598. These brake pads, manufactured October 1, 2014, to October 31, 2015 are intended for use on 2001-2007 Ford Taurus, 2001-2005 Mercury Sable, 1995-1999 Ford Taurus SHO, 1995-2002 Lincoln Continental, and 1993-1998 Lincoln Mark VIII vehicles. The brake pad shim may shift out of position causing the shim to contact the brake disc resulting in damage to the disc.
- Consequence: A damaged or broken brake disc may reduce a vehicle's braking power, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Bosch will instruct the owners how to have the affected brake pads replaced, free of charge. The recall began on May 26, 2016. Owners may contact Bosch customer service at 1-888-715-3616.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES ARE BEING RECALLED TO CORRECT A PROBLEM WITH A MALFUNCTIONING STOP LAMP SWITCH AND/OR ASSOCIATED WIRING. THIS MALFUNCTIONING COULD RENDER THE STOP LAMPS INOPERABLE OR CAUSE THEM TO STAY ON ALL THE TIME. THIS COULD CAUSE CONFUSION TO A FOLLOWING DRIVER, WHICH COULD LEAD TO A CRASH.
- Consequence: IN ADDITION, IF THE SWITCH AND/OR ASSOCIATED WIRING FAIL IN THE OPEN POSITION, THE BRAKE LIGHTS WILL NOT ACTUATE AND THE DRIVER WILL NOT BE ABLE TO SHIFT THE VEHICLE OUT OF "PARK" IF THEY FAIL IN THE CLOSED POSITION, THE BRAKE LIGHTS WILL REMAIN ON, WHICH WILL NOT ALLOW THE SPEED CONTROL TO BE ACTIVATED. THIS COULD ALSO CAUSE THE BATTERY TO DISCHARGE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE STOP LAMP SWITCH AND ASSOCIATED WIRING ASSEMBLY AND INSTALL A NEWLY DESIGNED STOP LAMP SWITCH AND WIRE ASSEMBLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON APRIL 5, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE AIR FILTER PAPER IN THESE VEHICLES CAN SMOLDER OR BURN.
- Consequence: THIS CAN LEAD TO DAMAGE TO THE AIR INDUCTION SYSTEM ON THESE VEHICLES AND/OR AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AIR FILTER ELEMENT. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON MARCH 10, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 212, "WINDSHIELD MOUNTING." THE WINDSHIELDS MAY POTENTIALLY EXHIBIT INCREASED WIND NOISE, WATER LEAKAGE, AND SQUEAKS AND RATTLES.
- Consequence: POTENTIAL LOSS OF WINDSHIELD RETENTION MAY ALSO REDUCE OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THESE WINDSHIELDS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON MARCH 31, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD/MERCURY AT 1-800-392-3673.
Negative 2003 Mercury Sable car reviews
Positive 2003 Mercury Sable car reviews
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Hey there! I'm not entirely sure about the reliability, but I feel like I got a whole lot of car for my money. If I had gone for the same options with an Accord or Camry, it would have cost me $8,000 more. My only concern is resale value, so I hope the reliability is high. Also, the acceleration lags a little at first.
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It was a tough decision between the Sable and the Camry (my last two cars were Tauruses). I ended up going with the Sable because it has a solid feel, a more powerful engine, and a lower price. I just drove off the lot with my new Sable, but my Taurus was relatively problem-free for the 120,000 miles I drove it. I know the Camry has a better reputation, but I'm not quite sure why.
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I wasn't very familiar with the Sable when I first got it, but it has definitely surprised me. Out of all the Fords I've driven, this one is by far the most comfortable and quiet. I was pleasantly surprised to find an adjustable gas pedal in this car. I actually got this car at an auction with 127k miles on it for only $425, can you believe it? After driving it for 14 months, including through a snowy winter, I'm completely sold. I'm even planning on buying another one after this!
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I'm so glad to hear that you've been enjoying your Sable LS since 12-02! It's great to hear that you haven't had any maintenance problems and that you find it to be a comfortable mid-priced car. Plus, it's wonderful that it has many features of more expensive cars. Thanks for sharing your positive experience!
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I completely agree that the Sable is an amazing vehicle that is often overlooked. I recently test drove the new Camry and while it was nice, I found the Sable to be superior in terms of overall performance, interior and exterior style. Even though the exterior design may be considered somewhat dated, it is still a very attractive car. My family and I have owned 5 Sables, and we took a four year hiatus with two Lincoln Continentals, but we found that there was no significant difference in quality between the two vehicles despite the $20,000 difference in price. I often wonder why the auto magazines tend to favor foreign cars over American-made ones. I strongly believe in supporting American-made products, and I encourage others to do the same.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Mercury Sable problems:
2003 Mercury Sable Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Top 2003 Mercury Sable Problems · Problem With Idle Air Bypass Valve May Cause Engine Performance Problems · Engine Oil Pan Gasket May Leak · Camshaft Sensor ...
Mercury Sable Questions - I have a 2003 sable that hesitates while ...
May 2, 2010 ... If the correct amount of fuel is going in but the manifold air pressure sensor disagrees then the computer will tell you there is a problem with ...
Common 2003 Mercury Sable Battery Problems - Find the Right ...
Feb 26, 2019 ... 2003 mercury sable keeps killing battery.....new alt and… · 1. Inspect the battery cables for corrosion or loose connections. Inspect the engine ...
2003 Mercury Sable Electrical Problem | Taurus Car Club of America
Nov 5, 2021 ... It sounds like it's fairly common for the GEM Module to fail in these. Before I knew that it was just a blown 15 amp fuse, I was thinking I was ...
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 ...
Other years of Mercury Sable
Are you having problems with your 2003 Mercury Sable?
Elton Rath 2024-11-04
The car appeared to be good based on the known specs at the time of purchase, but after a few years, it started to show some issues. In my opinion, the support from Ford Motor is not up to the mark. However, I had some protection as I bought the extended warranty. It is worth noting that some other owners have also reported similar issues. For instance, the A/C tends to go up after 2-3 years, and the door seals may leak, requiring replacement. Additionally, the car does not burn E85 fuel as listed by Ford, and it may run rough and choke on mixed fuel. Unfortunately, I now need spark plug wires after just 41,500 miles.
Webster O'Conner 2024-09-16
This car is serving us well so far. It has a comfy, spacious interior and a generally smooth ride, only occasionally disturbed by the worst bumps. Passing power is good, and the engine is smooth when warmed up, although it can sound a bit rough when it's cold.
Casey Schneider 2024-09-09
I purchased this car about 5 years ago from a friendly old man in my neighborhood. At the time, it had about 45,000 miles on it, but unfortunately, the paint was already peeling. Despite this, I thought it was a steal when the old man offered it to me for just $600, especially since the NADA book value for a car in great condition was only $1100. However, after a couple of rainstorms, the rust around the wheel wells started to develop and I had to make a lot of repairs. Some of the repairs I can remember include front springs, upper and lower tie rods (twice), shocks (twice), brakes (regular maintenance), water pump, blower motor, wiring harness from alternator to fuse box, fuel pump and fuel filter (twice), new or rebuilt radiator, almost all the radiator/cooling hoses rotted out, AC condenser/compressor, and the alternator (which was still the original). The sunroof still works, but I'm afraid to open it since a plastic track piece broke. The driver's leather seat also ripped in the middle from usage. Despite all of this, I'm proud to say that I've managed to get 200,000 miles on an American car, which is truly amazing! Although I'm getting a hand-me-down from a family member this weekend, I've learned my lesson and will never purchase a car like this again. Even my mechanic told me, 'I told you to get a Honda or Toyota!'
Justyn Leffler 2024-08-05
The engine and transmission make excessive noise, which can be a bit bothersome. The steering can be a bit hard, but the gasoline mileage is very good. The body work is well done and the overall quality is very good. However, there is a lot of road noise and the front passenger seat is too low. Nonetheless, the engine runs great!
Elijah Runolfsson 2024-07-04
As a fellow car enthusiast, I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed driving the 2003 wagon. While adjusting to the small side mirrors was a bit of a challenge, I found the overall driving experience to be quite enjoyable. The only minor issues I encountered were the low doors, which required me to be cautious when exiting the vehicle to avoid high curbs, and the hood, which required a bit of extra force to close properly. Additionally, the interior switches appeared somewhat fragile, but the gauges were easy to read, even at night. Although the headlamps could be brighter, the car still offers great value for the money. The only downside is that the front bench center seat is quite narrow, making it difficult for anyone to sit there comfortably. Overall, I would highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a fun and affordable ride.