2001 Mercury Villager problems
The Mercury Villager is a minivan that was marketed by Mercury from 1993 to 2002. Taking its name used by Mercury to denote its wood-trimmed station wagons, the Villager was developed in a joint venture between Ford and Nissan; the latter manufacturer marketed the line as the Nissan Quest. The first front-wheel drive van produced by Ford, the Mercury Villager was introduced between the Ford Aerostar and the Ford Windstar, competing against Chrysler minivans and the General Motors APV minivans.
Two generations of the model line were produced, with the Villager undergoing a full redesign for 1999. In a first for the minivan segment, the model line replaced a removable rear seat with a design that was repositionable (dependent on passenger or cargo use). The Villager was the last Mercury developed with the lightbar grille used by the brand.
The Villager was produced alongside the Nissan Quest by Ford at its Ohio Assembly facility (Avon Lake, Ohio) alongside the Ford Econoline/Club Wagon. After 2002, the Ford-Nissan joint venture ended, with both companies developing minivans on their own. Nissan released a new generation of the Quest, while the Villager was replaced entirely; for 2004, Mercury released a revived Monterey as its second minivan (a divisional counterpart of the Ford Freestar).
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Common 2001 Mercury Villager problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2001 Mercury Villager, several common problems have been reported:
- Rough Start and Idle: Another common problem is related to rough starting and idling of the engine in the 1999 Villager. This issue can lead to poor performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential stalling of the vehicle, affecting its overall reliability.
- Frame and Doors Rusting Out: Owners have complained about rusting issues with the frame and doors of the 1999 Villager. Rust can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle, leading to safety concerns and potentially costly repairs to address the rust damage.
- Won't Start: Some owners have reported instances where the 2000 Villager won't start. This can be a frustrating problem, causing inconvenience and potentially leaving the driver stranded. Identifying and resolving the root cause of this issue is crucial for the vehicle's functionality.
- AC Freon Leak: Another issue highlighted by owners is a freon leak in the air conditioning system of the 1999 Villager. Freon leaks can result in reduced cooling efficiency, affecting the comfort of the passengers and necessitating repairs to address the leak and restore proper functioning of the AC system.
These problems can significantly impact the performance, comfort, and safety of the 2001 Mercury Villager. Addressing these issues promptly through proper diagnosis and repairs is essential to ensure the vehicle operates optimally and maintains its reliability for the owners.
Why won't my Mercury Villager start?
The most common reasons a Mercury Villager won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
Is the Nissan Quest the same as the Mercury Villager?
The Mercury Villager is a minivan that was marketed by Mercury from 1993 to 2002. Taking its name used by Mercury to denote its wood-trimmed station wagons, the Villager was developed in a joint venture between Ford and Nissan; the latter manufacturer marketed the line as the Nissan Quest.
How much does a 2001 Mercury Villager weigh?
3,997 to 4,050 lbs2001 Mercury Villager / Curb weight
4,050 lbs. 20.0 gal. 200 lb-ft.
What engine is in a 2000 Mercury Villager?
3.3 L V62000 Mercury Villager / Engine
Nissan's 3.3-liter V-6, rated for 170 horsepower, hooks to a four-speed automatic transmission in the Villager.
Why won't my Mercury Villager start?
The most common reasons a Mercury Villager won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
Is the Nissan Quest the same as the Mercury Villager?
The Mercury Villager is a minivan that was marketed by Mercury from 1993 to 2002. Taking its name used by Mercury to denote its wood-trimmed station wagons, the Villager was developed in a joint venture between Ford and Nissan; the latter manufacturer marketed the line as the Nissan Quest.
Who made the Mercury Villager?
The Mercury Villager/Nissan Quest twins are designed by Nissan and built by Ford in Ohio. They come with a 3.3-liter, 170-hp V6. The Villager is relatively tight inside, in the front seats as well as in the cargo area, but the interior is versatile.
How much is a 1998 Mercury Villager?
$43/Month* *Estimated payments based on Kelley Blue Book® Fair Purchase Price of $2,014 at 3.19% APR for 60 months with $0 down for well-qualified buyers.
2001 Mercury Villager car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mercury Villager problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Suspension problems
- Air bags problems
- Seat belts problems
- Tires problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2001 Mercury Villager vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2001 Mercury Villager complaints
The NHTSA has received 20 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Mercury Villager.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-09
- VIN: 4M2ZV12T61D
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THIS IS MY SECOND VILLAGER, THE FIRST WAS A 1993 AND NOW OWN A 2001. THE BASE STRUCTURE WHERE THE RACK AND PINION GETS BOLTED-IN CRACKS, WHILE THE ALIGNMENT AND WHOLE RACK & PINION HAS SHIFTED. THE CRACK OCCURRED WHEN I WAS TURNING ONTO A RAMP TO MERGE ONTO THE FREEWAY.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-08
- Number Of Injuries: 4
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: IN DECEMBER OF 2007 I WAS DRIVING WITH MY THREE KIDS AND I WAS PREGNANT WITH TWINS. IT HAD BEEN RAINING FOR A FEW DAYS I SLOWED TO MAKE A RIGHT HAND TURN MY CAR SLIDE AND I WENT INTO A POLL HEAD ON MY AIRBAGS DIDN'T OPEN MY CAR WAS LATER TOTALED BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY. *TR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-10-15
- VIN: 4M2ZV12TX1D
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELTS PLASTIC COVERS HAVE BROKEN AND FALLEN OFF, WHICH HAS MADE THE LOCKING MECHANISM USELESS. THE SEAT BELTS ARE NOW INOPERABLE, WHICH HAS LEFT US WITH FIVE AVAILABLE SEATS IN A SEVEN-PASSENGER VEHICLE. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS CONTACTED REGARDING A RECALL NOTICE FOR THE 2001 VILLAGE SEATS BELTS, BUT I WAS TOLD THAT MY VAN DID NOT FALL UNDER THE RECALL. THE DEALERS SERVICE DEPARTMENT REFERRED ME TO FORD LINCOLN MERCURY COOPERATE OFFICES. THEY WERE CONTACTED, AND ONCE AGAIN, I WAS NOT OFFERED ASSISTANCE. *TR
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-09-15
- VIN: 4M2ZV11T61D
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE CHANGING A TIRE, THE JACK BENT CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO COLLAPSE. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INJURED. THIS WAS THE FIRST TIME THE CONTACT HAD USED THE JACK. THE DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-21
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: A LOCAL SEARS AUTO CENTER SOLD ME A SET OF BF GOODRICH TIRES IN OCTOBER, 2004 THAT HAVE SHOWN EXTREME PRE-MATURE WEAR. THE SEARS OUTLET HAS REFUSED TO TAKE ANY ACTION TO CORRECT THIS. UPON CONSULTATION WITH THE OEM, B.F. GOODRICH, I SHOULD HAVE NEVER BEEN SOLD THE TIRE TO BEGIN WITH. IT IS NOT THE RECOMMENDED TIRE FOR MY VEHICLE PER GOODRICH AND THIS IS BACKED UP WHEN DOING A WEB PAGE TIRE SELECTION SEARCH ON THE BF GOODRICH WEB PAGE. THESE TIRES HAVE WORN 50 % AT 15000 MILES OF USE ON TIRES RATED FOR 60,000 MILES TREAD LIFE. THEY ARE AN "H" RATED PERFORMANCE TIRE THAT SEARS SOLD FOR MY WIFE'S MERCURY VILLAGER MINI VAN...NOT EXACTLY A HIGH PERFORMANCE VEHICLE. DOES THE NHTSA HAVE ANY RECORDS ON FILE FOR APPLICATION OF A BF GOODRICH TA TIRE TO A MERCURY VILLAGER MINI VAN WHERE A SAFETY OCCURENCE HAS HAPPENED ? HOW CAN A RETAIL OUTLET BE ALLOWED TO SELL TIRES THAT ARE NOT RECOMMENDED BY THE OEM FOR THE VEHICLE THEY ARE BEING PLACED ON. ARE THERE GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS MEANT TO PROTECT THE CONSUMER AGAINST THESE UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES ? WHAT CAN I DO TO FILE A FORMAL COMPLAINT WITH THE NHTSA TO PREVENT THIS KIND OF MISBEHAVIOR FROM OCCURING TO OTHER CONSUMERS IN THE FUTURE
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-21
- Number Of Injuries: 6
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4M2ZV12T61D
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: CONSUMER VEHICLE T-BONED ANOTHER VEHICLE AT 45 MPH, AND NEITHER FRONTAL AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. DRIVER AND THE FIVE PASSENGERS WERE ALL RESTRAINED WITH THE SEAT BELTS. EVERYONE SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES FROM THE SEAT BELTS. NO ONE NEEDED TO BE TRANSPORTED TO A HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE. DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE BOTH INFORMED. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-27
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: DEFECTIVE TIRES MANUFACTURED BY GENERAL TIRE, REQUESTING A DEFECT INVESTIGATION. *BF WHILE DRIVING ONE OF THE VEHICLE TIRE EXPERIENCED A CATASTROPHIC FAILURE (GENERAL AMPERE G560). *NM
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-27
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: DEFECTIVE TIRES (P215/70R15) MANUFACTURED BY GENERAL TIRE, REQUESTING A DEFECT INVESTIGATION. *BF WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE'S TIRE HAD A CATASTROPHIC FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND REFUSED TO ACCEPT ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE FAILURE (GENERAL AMPERE G560 DK-66370-33255). *NM
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-14
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4M2ZV11T51D
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE DRIVER COLLIDED WITH THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF HER. BOTH FRONTAL AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THIS CAUSED THE DRIVER TO SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-22
- VIN: 4M2ZV14T11D
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: GERMAIN LINCOLN MERCURY REFUSED TO REPLACE WORN MOTOR MOUNTS WHILE VEHICLE WAS UNDER WARANTY. I HAD THE MOTOR MOUNTS REPLACED BY NAPLES NISSAN AT MY OWN EXPENSE OF APROXIMATELY $400 BECAUSE THE VEHICLE HAS A NISSAN POWER TRAIN. *LA
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-08
- VIN: 4M2ZV11T71D
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THE AIR CONDITIONER WOULDN'T COOL, THERE IS FREON LEAKING OUT SOMEWHERE. THE DEALER SAID THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG UNTILL THE WARRANTY RAN OUT, NOW THEY SAID THERE IS A LEAK.*AK WE HAD A WELL KNOWN NAMED GARAGE LOOK AT THE MERCURY VILLAGER AND SAID THAT FORD HAS HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE AIR CONDITIONER LEAKAGE FROM LINES UNDER THE VEHICLE. THEREFORE FORD SHOULD FIX THE PROBLEM SINCE ITS A PROBLEM FROM THE FACTORY. THE MERCURY IS ONLY 3 YEARS OLD, MY OTHER VEHICLE IS 5 YEARS OLD AND I HAVE NEVER HAD A PROBLEM WITH IT. THIS SHOULD BE FIXED UNDER THE FACTORY WARRANTY SINCE THEY KNOWN THERE WAS A PROBLEM AND ITS ONE REASON FORD STOPPED MAKING THE VILLAGER SINCE THEY WERE HAVING FAILURES. ALSO WE HAVE HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE DRIVER WINDOW ROLLING UP AND DOWN, HAVE IT INTO THE DEALERSHIP TO BE FIXED AND THE PROBLEM HAS WORSENED . NOW THE WINDOW WILL NOT ROLL DOWN OR UP.
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
- Summary: CONSUMER COMPLAINED ABOUT LEFT REAR WHEEL LOCKING UP AND DAMAGING THE TIRE. CONSUMER WAS DRIVING ABOUT 25 MPH AND THE VEHICLE SPUN OUT OUT OF CONTROL. VEHICLE WAS EQUIPPED WITH ABS BRAKE SYSTEM. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-15
- VIN: 4M2ZV11TX1D
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: BOUGHT CAR SEPT 01 AND AIRCONDITIONING FAILED BEFORE THE SECOND SUMMER AFTER PURCHASE. I CALLED DEALER JAN 03 AND WAS TOLD AIR WOULDN'T WORK IF OUTSIDE TEMP WAS BELOW 60. RETURNED IN APRIL WITH SAME COMPLAINT, BUT MILEAGE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY. COST TO REPAIR WILL BR $669. PLUS TAX.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4M2ZV11T21D
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSUMER HEARD A NOISE WHEN BRAKING, AND THE BRAKE LIGHT WAS ON. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER, AND THE BRAKE PADS WERE REPLACED AT 13,780. CONSUMER STATED THAT AT 28,000 THE PROBLEM RECURRED. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-06-16
- VIN: 4M2ZV12T51D
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: CENTER ROW SLIDING BUCKET SEAT (PASSENGER SIDE) DOES NOT LOCK INTO PLACE. I HAVE TAKEN THIS VEHICLE IN FOR THE SAME PROBLEM 6 TIMES (2 TIMES TO SALINAS DEALERSHIP AND 4 TIMES TO SEASIDE DEALERSHIP) W/O HAVING IT SUCCESSFULLY REPAIRED. THE SEAT WILL APPEAR LATCHED, BUT IS NOT TRULY ENGAGED. WITH AN OCCUPANT IN THE SEAT IT WILL SLIDE FORWARD WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED, CREATING A DANGEROUS SITUATION FOR THE CENTER SEAT OCCUPANT AND THE FRONT PASSENGER. THIS DEFECT WAS THERE FROM THE BEGINNING, NOTICED AFTER WE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. IT DID NOT DEVELOP OVER TIME, SO THE INCIDENT DATE WILL REFLECT THE PURCHASE DATE OF THE VEHICLE. *NLM
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-23
- VIN: 4M2ZV11T51D
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE HOOD AND DOOR CONTAINED A LOT OF SPACE ON THE EXTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHEN THE VEHICLE REACHED 50-60 MILES MPH THE VEHICLE VIOLENTLY VIBRATED. *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-10-15
- VIN: 4M2ZV12T61D
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED BRAKE PEDAL WOULD GO TO FLOOR MOMENTARILY AND POP BACK UP. ALSO LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID IS OCCURRING. DEALER NOTIFIED, AND IS UNABLE TO LOCATE THE PROBLEM. *AK WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL GOES TO THE FLOOR, THERE WILL BE NO BRAKE, BUT IN A MATTER OF SECONDS THE PEDAL POPS UP AND THE VEHICLE GOES ON ABS MODE. *YH
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: N/A
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN BETWEEN 50-70 MPH EXTREME VIBRATION OCCURS, CAUSING LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL. DEALER STATES THAT THIS IS A NORMAL CHARACTERISTIC OF VEHICLE. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-12-04
- VIN: 4M2ZV14T71D
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: WHILE TAKING SEATBELT OFF BELT WILL NOT RETRACT. *AK BOTH FRONT SEAT BELTS DO NOT RETRACT PROPERLY WHILE REMOVING. *YH
2001 Mercury Villager recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2001 Mercury Villager.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE THE PLASTIC TRIM COVER AROUND THE BASE OF THE FRONT SEAT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE TRAPPED BETWEEN THE SHOULDER OF THE RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE BOLT AND THE SEAT PEDESTAL. THIS COULD EVENTUALLY ALLOW THE SEAT BELT BUCKLE BOLT TO LOOSEN.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE OCCUPANT SEATED IN THAT LOCATION MAY NOT BE ADEQUATELY RESTRAINED, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLY ATTACHMENT. SOME BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES MAY REQUIRE REPLACEMENT.
Negative 2001 Mercury Villager car reviews
Positive 2001 Mercury Villager car reviews
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I've owned my Mercury Villager for 2 1/2 years now and I absolutely love it! During our search for a minivan, we test drove many different models, but the Villager stood out because of how well it handled. It felt more like a car than a van, which was a pleasant surprise. In the time that we've had it, we've only had to do minor maintenance items, which is a testament to its reliability. This is in stark contrast to the Caravan we had before, which required much more attention. Overall, I believe that the Villager was well worth the money we paid for it, and I wish they would bring them back!
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I am so glad to hear that you are enjoying your Villager van! Before purchasing one myself, I asked many Villager owners what they thought of their van and I did not hear a single negative comment. It's surprising to me that the editor ratings aren't better, but I can assure you that you made a great choice!
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My second villager but sadly my last. This van has been safe and reliable and has the pick up of my husbands Nissan sedan. I started out using it for transportation to preschool and am now using it for 800 mile trips to Ohio for college. Never a second thought about it breaking down. Just keep up with service and you're set.
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My wife has been using this van daily since we bought it in 2000, and I can't convince her to switch to something else. It's unfortunate that they no longer produce this model, as I would definitely consider purchasing another one.
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Great handling and ride for a van. A little on the small side, but good enough for my family.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2001 Mercury Villager problems:
2001 Mercury Villager Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Top 2001 Mercury Villager Problems · No Start, Engine Stalls · Fuel Injectors May Fail and Cause Drivability Concerns · Coolant Leak From Plug Behind Timing ...
Q&A: 2001 Mercury Villager Problems & Repair | JustAnswer
Apr 2, 2013 ... Based on your symptoms it sounds like your engine is running lean due to a vacuum leak or a dirty or malfunctioning mass air flow sensor (this ...
Mercury Villager Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
Top Mercury Villager Problems · No Start, Engine Stalls · Fuel Injectors May Fail and Cause Drivability Concerns · Exhaust Manifold Can Warp and Cause the Studs to ...
Q&A: 2001 Mercury Villager Estate - Interior Issues
Jul 21, 2014 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
What's Wrong with the Mercury Villager?
Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 1st in overall reliability out of 14 Mercury models , with real engine and fuel system concerns. What Villager Owners ...
Other years of Mercury Villager
Are you having problems with your 2001 Mercury Villager?
Hazel Gleichner 2024-08-25
Although my Mercury Estate may have some drawbacks, such as being underpowered and having difficulty achieving fuel economy, it still manages to provide a comfortable ride and handles well. Despite the challenges with fueling, I have found ways to maximize its fuel capacity. Additionally, while the body may be prone to scratches, it is still a reliable and enjoyable vehicle to drive.
Damian Mann 2024-07-19
Spacious, easy driving, no blind spots.
Humberto Davis 2024-06-03
This has been a pretty reliable vehicle with over 100,000 miles on it and it still runs well. Although I wish I had gotten a Ford Expedition 4x4 because this vehicle is too small for us and doesn't perform well in the snow, it does get good gas mileage at 14cty 19-21hw. The best part is that there has been absolutely nothing mechanically wrong with it!
Florian Mayert 2024-04-12
I understand that minivans are not the most exciting vehicles out there, and the Villager in particular may not be the most thrilling option. Additionally, I have experienced a persistent squeak from the steering column that the dealer was unable to fully resolve.
Baron Graham 2024-02-07
My sister surprised me with a mini van that I hadn't seen before. I've been struggling with work and finances lately, so while it may not be the most powerful or stable on the road compared to a Dodge Caravan, I'm grateful for it. We paid $3,300 for it, and while we've had to put $1,500 into the front end in the first three months, it seems to go through front end parts quite easily. The previous owner put over $4,000 into it and we had to spend $900 on a new account. It gets 17 miles per gallon, so I do have to stop for gas frequently, but I just realized that the back seat doesn't fold all the way down, which I would have liked. I'm hoping it lasts me a while, especially since it already has 180,000 miles on it. I do wish I had gotten to see it before we bought it, but I'll make the best of it!