1999 Mercury Grand Marquis LS 4.6L V8 from North America
Summary:
Highly recommend it - especially if you can find a good used one
Faults:
ABS and traction control lights went on 10 days after removing front brake pads to check on wear. Probably blown wheel speed sensor. This was at 129k miles. Will take to dealer for repair since private shops don't seem to be equipped to handle this problem.
Replaced air intake bypass control valve at 115,000 miles. Cost $55 and did the work myself. $150 job at dealer. Car would start then immediately die unless you held the throttle down which forced the valve to open (it was sticking). They can't be easily cleaned as this is an electrical part.
Has plastic intake manifold which could be a problem down the road. All US makers used these in late 90's.
Other than that, 86k miles trouble free since purchase.
General Comments:
Love the smooooth ride! Lots of power from 4.6L V8. Huge trunk. I drive 25K miles per year and this car keeps me from being beaten up by the roads. Great looking. Has an occasional rattle in the right front air bag area. Seems to happen with passenger in that seat only. Gets 25 mpg on the highway. Traction control necessary with rear wheel drive. Bought it at 7 yrs old for 1/3 price of new one and it was like new. Grand Mark's should not be purchased new as depreciation in first year is serious.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 14th November, 2009
14th Nov 2009, 14:13
150 dollars for an IAC at a Ford dealer? Mine went out at 43,000 miles and I paid 365 dollars. Subtracting diagnostic charge it would have been 265, the part was 130 dollars alone.