1990 Mercury Tracer problems
The Mercury Tracer is an automobile manufactured and marketed by Ford's Mercury division for model years 1987 through 1999, over three generations in three- and five-door hatchback, four-door sedan, and five-door station wagon configurations.
The first generation was marketed as a subcompact; the two succeeding generations were sold in the compact segment. All three generations derived from the Mazda 323/Protegé.
After 1999, Mercury ended sales of the Tracer; while the Ford Escort was later replaced by the Ford Focus, Mercury exited the compact segment. A planned Tracer fourth generation was projected for 2012, cancelled by the closure of the Mercury brand at the end of 2010.
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Common 1990 Mercury Tracer problems
The Mercury Tracer, produced in the 1990 model year, is known for several common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues include transmission problems, wind noise, air conditioning malfunctions, seat belt return issues, heater fan and vent system functionality, and rusting floors.
Transmission problems are a frequently reported issue, with some owners experiencing occasional issues with the transmission. The wind noise when driving at high speeds is another common complaint, which can be a source of discomfort for occupants.
Air conditioning malfunctions are also a concern for some Mercury Tracer owners. Occasionally, the air conditioning system cuts out, which can be inconvenient, especially during hot weather conditions.
Seat belt return issues are another problem reported by some owners. The seat belt return mechanism may not stop the seat belt in an easily accessible location, which can be a safety concern.
Heater fan and vent system functionality is another area of concern for some Mercury Tracer owners. The heater fan and vent system may not function as well as it used to, which can be a source of discomfort during cold weather conditions.
Rusting floors are a common problem for the Mercury Tracer, especially for vehicles that were stored in a garage for the first 5-7 years. This can be a significant issue, as it can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle.
In summary, the Mercury Tracer has several common problems that can affect its performance and reliability. These issues include transmission problems, wind noise, air conditioning malfunctions, seat belt return issues, heater fan and vent system functionality, and rusting floors. While some of these problems can be addressed through regular maintenance and repairs, others may require more significant interventions, such as engine replacement or structural repairs.
What is the Mercury Tracer equivalent to?
The Mercury Tracer is an American counterpart of the Australian-market Ford Laser KE, sold in Japan, Asia, and South Africa. While sharing a slightly different body, the Laser shared a common chassis with the front-wheel drive Mazda 323, designated the Mazda BF platform.
What is the Ford version of the Mercury Tracer?
Mercury Tracer | Second generation (1991–1996)
While remaining a counterpart of the Ford Laser, the redesign also made it a Mercury counterpart of the American Ford Escort (alongside the renamed Mazda Protegé sedan).
How much does a 1997 Mercury Tracer weigh?
2,509 to 2,585 lbs1997 Mercury Tracer / Curb weight
How much horsepower does a 1988 Mercury Tracer have?
Specifications for Mercury Tracer 4-door 1.6 Automatic, 72hp, 1988.
What is the Mercury Tracer equivalent to?
The Mercury Tracer is an American counterpart of the Australian-market Ford Laser KE, sold in Japan, Asia, and South Africa. While sharing a slightly different body, the Laser shared a common chassis with the front-wheel drive Mazda 323, designated the Mazda BF platform.
Is a 1998 Mercury Tracer a good car?
The Tracer has been Mercury's bread-and-butter car for years. Think of it as the car that brings consumers into the Mercury family. The Tracer's low price, decent reliability and above average crash test scores have consistently offered recent college grads and young families an attractive set of American wheels.
What is the Ford version of the Mercury Tracer?
Mercury Tracer | Second generation (1991–1996)
While remaining a counterpart of the Ford Laser, the redesign also made it a Mercury counterpart of the American Ford Escort (alongside the renamed Mazda Protegé sedan).
What is the value of a 1997 Mercury Tracer?
The value of a used 1997 Mercury Tracer ranges from $141 to $635, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
1990 Mercury Tracer car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mercury Tracer problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Steering problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Mercury Tracer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1990 Mercury Tracer complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Mercury Tracer.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-12-18
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2CNBJ18U1L6
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE VEHICLE WAS IDLING, UNDERNEATH THE HOOD CAUGHT FIRE AND CUT OFF. TS
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-25
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: NOTICED WATER ON PASSENGER'S SIDE. TOP OF MAT DRY, BUT UNDER MAT WAS WET. TOOK TO DEALER & MECHANIC SAID COMING FROM DOOR. NEEDS TO ORDER WEATHER STRIP. MANUFACTURER'S DEFECT. BODY SHOP NEEDS TO LOOK. 3RD DEALERSHIP SAID WATER COMING FROM AIR DUCT. *AK
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1990 Mercury Tracer problems:
What's Wrong with the Mercury Tracer?
24 complaints. Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com. 241 service bulletins. Documenting the process of troubleshooting common problems ...
T-5 transmission on 1.8l? - MX-5 Miata Forum
... common problems with the miata engine but whats perfect... ... 1990 Mazda Protege LX. This engine ... 1991-1996 Mercury Tracer LTS 1994-1997 Kia ...
Curbside Classic: 1988 Mercury Tracer - The Road To Hiroshima ...
Jun 11, 2014 ... I spoke to the gentleman who owns it; due to health problems, he doesn't drive it and due to no longer being alive, neither does his mother. I' ...
Q&A: Troubleshooting a 1989 Mercury Tracer that Suddenly Died ...
Jan 28, 2010 ... 1989 mercury tracer died suddenly and when you try to start it it just keeps cranking and wont start. i replaced the - Answered by a ...
Suspension Interchangability Guide | FEOA Forums
Dec 1, 2004 ... 1997-2003 Ford Escort and Mercury Tracer with 2.0 SPI engine ... 1990-1994 Mazda Protege DX and Mazda 323 ... i know you can use the zx2 s/r struts ...
Other years of Mercury Tracer
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