2000 Mercury Tracer problems

Common 2000 Mercury Tracer problems

The Mercury Tracer, manufactured and marketed by Ford's Mercury division from 1987 to 1999, is known to have several common problems across its three generations. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on the search results:

• Transmission problems (1991-1996) Second-generation Mercury Tracers (1991-1996) often experience transmission issues, including slipping and hard shifting. These problems are usually caused by worn-out or damaged transmission components, such as clutches, bands, and gears. In some cases, the entire transmission may need to be replaced, which can be quite expensive.

• Faulty distributor cap and rotor (1991-1996) The distributor cap and rotor in the Mercury Tracer's engine can become faulty, causing misfires and other engine performance issues. This problem is more common in the second generation (1991-1996) of the Tracer. Replacing the faulty distributor cap and rotor can solve this issue, but it's important to ensure that the new parts are compatible with the vehicle's engine.

• Stalling or rough idle caused by vacuum leaks (1991-1996) The engine in second-generation Mercury Tracers can stall or experience rough idle due to vacuum leaks. These leaks are often caused by worn-out or damaged vacuum hoses, which can allow air to enter the engine and disrupt the fuel-air mixture. Replacing the damaged vacuum hoses can fix this issue, but it's important to ensure that all vacuum hoses are inspected and replaced if necessary to prevent future leaks.

• Ignition switch failures (1997-1999) The ignition switch in third-generation Mercury Tracers (1997-1999) can fail, leading to stalling or the inability to start the car. This problem is often caused by wear and tear on the ignition switch components, such as the contacts and wiring. Replacing the faulty ignition switch can solve this issue, but it's important to ensure that the new switch is compatible with the vehicle's electrical system.

• Intake manifold gasket leaks (1997-1999) The intake manifold gasket in third-generation Mercury Tracers can leak, causing coolant loss and overheating. This problem is often caused by wear and tear on the gasket material, which can degrade over time. Replacing the leaking gasket can fix this issue, but it's important to ensure that the new gasket is compatible with the vehicle's engine and that the cooling system is properly bled to prevent air pockets.

• Timing belt failure (1988-1989) The timing belt in first-generation Mercury Tracers (1988-1989) can fail, causing engine damage. This problem is often caused by wear and tear on the timing belt material, which can degrade over time. Replacing the timing belt at the recommended intervals can prevent this issue, but it's important to ensure that the new belt is compatible with the vehicle's engine and that all other related components, such as the water pump and tensioner, are inspected and replaced if necessary.

• Oil leaks from camshaft seals (1988-1989) The camshaft seals in first-generation Mercury Tracers (1988-1989) can leak oil, causing engine damage. This problem is often caused by wear and tear on the seal material, which can degrade over time. Replacing the leaking camshaft seals can fix this issue, but it's important to ensure that the new seals are compatible with the vehicle's engine and that all other related components, such as the timing cover and oil pan, are inspected and replaced if necessary.

• Faulty thermostat (1988-1989) The thermostat in first-generation Mercury Tracers (1988-1989) can fail, causing overheating. This problem is often caused by wear and tear on the thermostat components, such as the valve and housing. Replacing the faulty thermostat can fix this issue, but it's important to ensure that the new thermostat is compatible with the vehicle's engine and that the cooling system is properly bled to prevent air pockets.

• Cracked cylinder heads (1991-1996) The cylinder heads in second-generation Mercury Tracers (1991-1996) can crack, causing coolant loss and overheating. This problem is often caused by excessive heat and pressure on the cylinder heads, which can cause the material to weaken and crack. Replacing the cracked cylinder heads can fix this issue, but it's important to ensure that the new heads are compatible with the vehicle's engine and that all other related components, such as the gaskets and head bolts, are inspected and replaced if necessary.

• Faulty camshaft position sensor (1999) The camshaft position sensor in 1999 Mercury Tracers can fail, causing stalling or rough running. This problem is often caused by wear and tear on the sensor components, such as the wiring and connectors. Replacing the faulty sensor can fix this issue, but it's important to ensure that the new sensor is compatible with the vehicle's engine and that all other related components, such as the wiring harness and computer, are inspected and replaced if necessary.

These are just some of the common problems reported by Mercury Tracer owners. It's important to note that not all vehicles will experience these issues, and that regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent many of these problems from occurring. If you do experience any of these issues, it's recommended to consult with a qualified mechanic or dealership to ensure that the problem is properly diagnosed and repaired.

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.

How much does a 1997 Mercury Tracer weigh?

2,509 to 2,585 lbs1997 Mercury Tracer / Curb weight

How many miles do Mercury cars last?

Taken care of your car can easily go 200,000 miles but there will be repairs along the way.

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 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.

How many miles do Mercury cars last?

Taken care of your car can easily go 200,000 miles but there will be repairs along the way.

Are Mercury engines real?

Mercury Marine is a marine engine division of Brunswick Corporation headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. The main product line is outboard engines. It also produces the MerCruiser line of sterndrives and inboard engines.

2000 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:

• Service brakes problems
• Hydraulic problems
• Engine and engine cooling problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2000 Mercury Tracer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.