1989 Mercury Grand Marquis LS 5.0 from North America
Summary:
Cheap parts, easy to fix, good power, and a comfortable ride
Faults:
The bottom half of the engine went at around 105000 miles. Replaced it with another 5.0, but out of a Town Car. Strangely enough, it came with headers.
Lost overdrive at around 110000 miles. Had a rebuilt tranny installed for under $500. That's probably why it still shifts rough.
Speedometer is 5mph off.
Rear passenger window doesn't work.
A lot of problems with the idle/stalling out. I up'd the idle two turns. Ran great, but continues to stall on occasion while at lights. Stalls continuously while backing up. Plan on replacing the idle air control valve to see if this helps. I've also been told that it could be a common vacuum problem.
General Comments:
This car has been great. Upon buying the car it was only used for long distance trips due to its comfort factor. Now it is used as my daily driver. It had great power, even from a stand still. Most parts are cheap to replace and readily available. I do not regret buying this car. In the next few weeks I am thinking about getting rid of it for a 1988 Grand Marquis. Why you ask.?. Well, it only has 18,300 original miles and is in great condition. Plus the wife won't let me bring in another car until one is removed. My others include a 1974 Cougar with a 351C, a 1976 Cougar with a 351W, and a junked 87 Firebird.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 20th October, 2005
3rd May 2007, 20:05
I'm 22 years old and have a '89 Mercury Grand Marquis. Overall, it's a great car. Although mine gets about 18-20 miles-per-gallon. It's a very smooth riding car to be that old. I can't complain!