Faults:

The transmission went and was replaced by the dealership under warranty (we had a 48K warranty) at 33,000 miles. They kept the car for 2 weeks to complete the repair. They did give us a loaner car.

The transmission went a second time at 65,000 miles. We had complained of the car not shifting correctly since the last transmission change, but the dealer claimed the car was OK. They gave me a "discounted rate" so it only cost me a couple of grand. I spoke with Ford, and they said there was nothing they could do about it, and said I could speak with the Ford field service rep who would not speak with me, only with the service manager of the dealership. He told the dealership it was not a defect, and not Fords responsibility.

The tire sensor message came on and would not clear. The dealer told me that since I had the tires changed outside of the dealership, they could not be responsible for the repair and would have to charge me to put the sensors back on the wheels. I checked my VIN number with Ford, and I never had the tire senor option on my car. The error message is still on.

At 90,000 miles, the front differential went. Ford charged another $2000.00 and told me it was not unusual. I explained that the car had never even seen a dirt road, had never towed anything, and had only been driven back and forth to my office on the highway.

General Comments:

The car has great space and is very well laid out. It rides beautifully and is aesthetically holding up very well.

Unfortunately, mechanically, the car is either poorly designed or poorly built. I tried to buy American and was seriously disappointed. I am trading it in on a Honda.

Faults:

Transmission started slipping at 40,000 miles just out of warranty. Now at 55,000 the problem is getting worse. Dealer looked at the problem and said the transmission needs to be replaced at a cost of $3,000.00. I called Ford and they refuse to help with any repair costs.

General Comments:

Overall this is a solid SUV. Great in the snow and on wet roads. Terrible fuel mileage! Expensive repairs costs for brakes and tires. This SUV was $36,000.00 new, and now only 2 1/2 years later is only worth about $15,000.00! I have to give Ford credit, they have without a doubt in my mind convinced me to NEVER, EVER BUY another American made car again! Thanks for the most EXPENSIVE lesson in my life. I'm learning new words like TOYOTA and Honda!!!!!!!

Faults:

Driver's window seal/track displaced in upper door window frame.

General Comments:

Excellent ride and handling qualities.

Transmission and engine package well matched - feels turbine-smooth.

Very pleased with the towing characteristics and do not have the heavy duty towing package - we don't need it.

Faults:

Nothing so far!

General Comments:

The Mountaineer is a gorgous suv, the best ride I've ever owned. I'm in debt now because of it, but who cares! The engine is a bit weak for a V8, but it has got enough juice for strong passing power.

Mercurys are the bomb!