1992 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 1992 Mercury Tracer problems
The Mercury Tracer, produced in 1992, is known for its reliability and durability. However, there are a few common problems that owners have reported.
- Air Conditioning System: The air conditioning system in the 1992 Mercury Tracer has been known to cut out occasionally, which can be inconvenient for drivers.
- Wind Noise: Some owners have reported issues with wind noise while driving at high speeds, which can be distracting and uncomfortable.
- Heater Fan and Vent System: The heater fan and vent system in the 1992 Mercury Tracer may not function as well as it used to over time, which can make it difficult to keep the car at a comfortable temperature.
- Rust: The floor of the 1992 Mercury Tracer may rust, particularly if the car was not kept in a garage for the first 5-7 years of its life.
- Seat Belt Return: The seat belt return in the 1992 Mercury Tracer may not stop the seat belt in an easily accessible location anymore, which can be inconvenient for drivers and passengers.
These problems are generally not severe, but they can be frustrating for owners. Regular maintenance and inspections can help to identify and address these issues before they become more serious. It is also important to use high-quality motor oil and filters to ensure the longevity and performance of the engine and transmission.
In terms of safety, the 1992 Mercury Tracer received mixed reviews. While it was not tested by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) in many categories, it did receive a rating of "Not Tested" in the Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test and the Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test. This suggests that the car may not perform as well as some other vehicles in certain types of accidents. However, it is worth noting that the 1992 Mercury Tracer was not designed with the same safety features as more modern vehicles.
Overall, the 1992 Mercury Tracer is a reliable and durable car that can provide many years of service with proper maintenance and care. While there are a few common problems that owners should be aware of, these issues are generally not severe and can be addressed with routine repairs and inspections.
Is a Mercury Tracer a good car?
Vehicle overview
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. After a major redesign in 1997, the Tracer has seen only minor upgrades in '98 and '99.
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
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 horsepower does a 1988 Mercury Tracer have?
Specifications for Mercury Tracer 4-door 1.6 Automatic, 72hp, 1988.
Do they still make Mercury Mariners?
This version of the Mariner was its last, as Ford discontinued the Mercury brand due to declining sales. Ford ended production of the Mariner in October 2010. The last Mariner was assembled on October 5, 2010.
1992 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:
- Electrical system problems
- Seat belts problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1992 Mercury Tracer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1992 Mercury Tracer
The NHTSA has received 26 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1992 Mercury Tracer. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1992 Mercury Tracer vehicles.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-15
- VIN: 3MAPM10J8NR
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: AFTER 27 YEARS THE RUBBER FUEL FILLER PIPE ON THE CAR CRACKED AND BEGAN LEAKING FUEL. THE FUEL FILLER PIPE WAS REPLACED WITH A NEW FUEL FILLER PIPE FROM FORD MOTORCRAFT, PART #KFL-22, FOCZ-9324-AA. THE NEW FUEL FILLER PIPE LASTED ONLY 6 MONTHS BEFORE CRACKING AND SPILLING GAS ON MY DRIVEWAY CREATING A HAZARDOUS SITUATION. THE CAR WAS REPAIRED WITH A NEW THIRD PARTY [NOT FORD] FUEL FILLER PIPE. I'M BRINGING THIS TO YOUR ATTENTION BECAUSE NUMEROUS AUTO REPAIR WEB SITES HAVE HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS REGARDING DEFECTIVE REPLACEMENT FORD FUEL FILLER PIPES [ALL FORD MODELS]. FUEL FILLER PIPES SHOULD LAST MORE THEN 6 MONTHS. FORD'S REPLACEMENT FUEL FILLER PIPES ARE DEFECTIVE AND SHOULD BE RECALLED FOR REPLACEMENT BY FORD TO PREVENT A VERY HAZARDOUS SITUATION SHOULD A VEHICLE BE PARKED IN A GARAGE, I.E., NEAR A WATER HEATER OR OTHER IGNITION SOURCE, CREATING A LIFE-THREATENING SITUATION. THE LEAK FROM THE FUEL FILLER PIPE OCCURS WHETHER OR NOT THE VEHICLE IS PARKED OR MOVING WHEN THE FUEL TANK IS MORE THEN 3/4'S FULL. THE PIPE DETERIORATES FROM THE OUTSIDE WITH CRACKS RUNNING THE LENGTH OF THE PIPE. THE NYLON WEBBING ON THE INSIDE OF THE PIPE DOES NOT PREVENT IT FROM LEAKING. THE ATTACHED PHOTO SHOWS THE DEFECTIVE PIPE, BUT THE HUNDREDS OF HAIRLINE CRACKS IN THE PIPE CANNOT BE SEEN IN THE PHOTO BECAUSE OF PHOTO RESOLUTION. THE PIPE HAS ONLY BEEN IN USE ON THE CAR FOR JUST SIX MONTHS. I USE 91 OCTANE GASOLINE IN THE CAR. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-30
- VIN: 3MAPM10J2NR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ON MY DAUGHTERS 1992 MERCURY TRACER, THE IGNITION SWITCH ENGAGED THE ENGINE STARTER AND BEGAN SMOKING WITHOUT THE KEY IN THE IGNITION AND WHEN NO-ONE WAS IN THE CAR. I AM NOW FACED WITH $800.00 IN REPAIR BILLS FOR A DEFECTIVE FORD MOTOR COMPANY PART THAT COULD HAVE CAUSED A SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. *LA
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-29
- VIN: 3MAPM1484NR
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TREAD SEPARATION DISCOVERED ACCIDENTALLY PER INSPECTION FOR DRIVEABIITY CONCERN. *AK (DOT NUMBER: W2R4 TIRESIZE: P195/60R14)
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Fire: 1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL PUMP FAILED RESULTING IN AN ELECTRICAL FIRE IN THE CAR. NLM
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-02-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3MAPM10J6NR
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE SHOULDER HARNESS PULLED FROM TRACK ON IMPACT , THE DRIVER'S HEAD STRUCK THE WINDSHEILD AND RECEVIED CONTUSIONS TO NECK AND HEAD FROM THE LOOSE END OF THE HARNESS
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-02-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3MAPM10J6NR
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE SHOULDER HARNESS PULLED FROM TRACK ON IMPACT , THE DRIVER'S HEAD STRUCK THE WINDSHEILD AND RECEVIED CONTUSIONS TO NECK AND HEAD FROM THE LOOSE END OF THE HARNESS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: STARTER SHORTED OUT, CAUSING A FIRE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. DEALER HAS NOT BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-01
- VIN: 3MAPM1485NR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: EXHAUST VALVE BROKE EVERY YEAR, CAUSING REAR END TO OVERHEAT AND BURN THE TRUNK. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-04-23
- VIN: 3MAPM10J8NR
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THREE OCCASIONS OF SUDDEN ACCELERATION.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 3MAPM10JONR
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILED TO ENGAGE INTO APPROPIATE GEAR AND "SLIPPED" INTO NEUTRAL ALMOST CAUSING AN ACCIDENT.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-09-26
- VIN: 3MAPM10J7NR
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THERE WAS A GAS SMELL AROUND THE CAR AND IN THE GARAGE, DEALER CONTACTED AND STATED A HOLE FOUND IN THE GAS TANK. REPAIR WORK DONE AT CONSUMER'S EXPENSE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-09-01
- VIN: 3MAPM10JONR
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: INTERMITTENTLY WHILE DRIVING THE ELECTRIC SHOULDER STRAP MOVES UP AND DOWN CONSTANTLY . ALSO GETS STUCK AND RELEASES AND REPAIRS ISELF. NOW, SHOULDER STRAP MAKES WEIRD NOISES AND IS STUCK IN THE MIDDLE. DEALER AND MANUFACTURER HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-01-01
- VIN: 3MAPM10J4NR
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT HARNESS DOES NOT SLIDE ON TRACK. LEFT FRONT IS FROZEN 1/2 WAY IN POSITION. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-04-25
- VIN: 3MAPM10J1NR
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE BULB OF THE REAR MOUNTED BRAKE LIGHT MELTED THE ASSEMBLY , CAUSING SMOKE INSIDE VEHICLE.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-02-07
- VIN: 3MAPM10J9NR
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT JAMMED HALF WAY IN THE RETRACTOR. THE PROBLEM HAS BEEN REPAIRED. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-22
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3MAPM10J9NR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM SHORT CAUSED VEHICLE FIRE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-22
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3MAPM10J9NR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE PARKED IN DRIVEWAY BATTERY HAD A SHORT WHICH RESULTED IN FIRE. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DIFFICULTY IN STARTING THE VEHICLE MAKES A GRINDING NOISE. ONCE STARTED CREATED AN INABILITY TO SHUT OFF THE IGINITION.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-08
- VIN: 3MAPM10J1NR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: IGNITION SWITCH FAILURE, SWITCH WOULD NOT TURN, SMOKE FROM ENGINE, REPLACE LOCK AND SWITCH, STARTER BURNED OUT. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-08
- VIN: 3MAPM10J1NR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: IGNITION SWITCH FAILURE, SWITCH WOULD NOT TURN, SMOKE FROM ENGINE, REPLACE LOCK AND SWITCH, STARTER BURNED OUT. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 3MDPM15J1NR
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: REAR MISALIGNED, CAUSING INCREASING NEED TO HOLD STEERING WHEEL TO MAINTAIN STRAIGHT TRACKING DIRECTION/ REAR TIRE WEAR. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-09-15
- VIN: 3MAPM15J8NR
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING HAS BECOME VERY DIFFICULT TO STEER; MAKES SQUEAKING NOISE WHILE MAKING TURNS, AT ANY TIME WHEN TURNING WHEELS; MOSTLY, HAPPENS AT LOW SPEEDS. TT
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-19
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3MAPN10J6NR
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: DRIVING VEHICLE AT SPEED 55MPH, HAD NO CONTROL OVER STEERING, VEHICLE FLIP OVER, DRIVER SIDE TIRE WAS FLAT. TT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-02
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WHEN FILLING GAS TANK THERE IS AN OVERFLOW OF GASOLINE WHEN THE GAS TANK IS FULL. TT
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-04-07
- VIN: 3MAPM10J0NR
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THREADS ON TIE ROD WORE OUT, CAUSING TIE ROD TO SEPARTE FROM TIE ROD END ON PASSENGERS SIDE; ALLOING NO CONTROL OVER FRONT RIGHT TIRE. TT
1992 Mercury Tracer recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1992 Mercury Tracer.
- Manufacturer: DANA CORPORATION
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT
- Summary: THE OFFSET TOE ADJUSTING PIN CAN FRACTURE UNDER CONDITIONS SUCH AS TORSIONAL LOADS, FLEXING MOTION, IMPACT LOADS, AND OVERTORQUING.
- Consequence: THIS CAN RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE STEERING CONTROL ANDAN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DANA WILL PAY FOR REPLACEMENT AND LABOR COSTS OF THE ADJUSTMENT PIN WITHOUT CHARGE TO THE INSTALLING FACILITY AND THE VEHICLE OWNER. THESE PINS SHOULD BE REPLACED BY A FORD ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT PIN ASSEMBLY. OWNER OR INSTALLER INQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS RECALL CAMPAIGN SHOULD CONTACT DANA SERVICE CENTER AT 1-800-248-9606.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: THE STOP LAMP SWITCHES COULD INTERMITTENTLY MALFUNCTION RESULTING IN THE STOP LAMPS NOT ILLUMINATING WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED.
- Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN FOLLOWING MOTORISTS NOT BEINGSIGNALED THAT THE VEHICLE IS BRAKING, AND COULD RESULT IN A COLLISION.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE FAULTY STOP LAMP SWITCHES.
Negative 1992 Mercury Tracer car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1992 Mercury Tracer problems:
1997 Mercury Tracer Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
... known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 Mercury Tracer ... common issues based on car owner complaints ... 1992 Mercury Tracer problems. (6).
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... known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1995 Mercury Tracer ... common issues based on car owner complaints ... 1992 Mercury Tracer problems. (6).
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Other years of Mercury Tracer
Are you having problems with your 1992 Mercury Tracer?
Arden Kunze 2024-11-20
I purchased my tracer in 1997, and unfortunately, I had problems with it almost immediately. The biggest issue I've had was with the transmission, which required a replacement. It ended up being very expensive, even though my Dad was able to do most of the work himself. While I wouldn't recommend this car to a friend, I hope my experience can help others make an informed decision.
Alex Boyer 2024-08-28
The '92 Tracer was purchased used with 156,000 miles. It's a 5-speed stick, which makes driving the car enjoyable. The clutch has been replaced, so it shifts smoothly.
Kamren Sporer 2024-05-22
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with our Tracer. We've had it for nearly 5 years now and have driven it about 140,000 miles. It's been a reliable car overall, with only occasional issues getting stuck in high gear when slowing down at a stoplight or tollbooth. Interestingly, the mechanic has never experienced this issue when test-driving it. We've only had minor problems with the tires and battery, but no major mechanical failures. On the highway, it has great pick-up and cruises happily at 70-75 mph. It's also quite comfortable, especially for someone on the smaller side. Thanks for listening!
Kurtis Krajcik 2024-04-08
Hey there! I just wanted to share my experience with my first car. My dad got me this car thinking it would be a great choice for a teen's first car, but unfortunately, we've had some trouble with it. We've had issues with the starter, brakes, and even a cracked head, which was the worst! But I'm still grateful for the opportunity to have my own car and learn how to take care of it.