2003 Mercury Mountaineer 4L AWD V6 from North America

Summary:

If this is an example of America's ability to build fine automobiles, we are in serious trouble

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.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 26th March, 2007

12th Jun 2008, 12:09

I have a Mercury Mountaineer with 62k, and my front diff went on my vehicle. What kind of mess is that? I never drive this vehicle hardly, and I can't believe that I have this problem. They told me there was nothing that they can do.

2003 Mercury Mountaineer 4.6 V8 from North America

Summary:

Not worth the money!

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!!!!!!!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 16th April, 2006

4th Apr 2007, 20:55

My 2000 Mountaineer Premier V eight with class 3 trailer tow package only got 12MPG under any conditions and the transmission started to slip at 44,000 miles, traded it for a leased 2002 V six class II towing package which I turned in at end of lease with 56,000 miles on it in January of 2006. It gave me 22MPG on highway cruise control.

I have now purchased a V Six 2003 Convenience with under 25,000 miles from my dealer. As I bought the car for 14,900 with Ford 60,000 mile certification it looks to be a good deal.

We shall see.

2003 Mercury Mountaineer Luxury 4.6L from North America

Summary:

An absolute pleasure to drive

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.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 7th September, 2003

2003 Mercury Mountaineer 4.6L SOHC V8 from North America

Summary:

A stunner

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!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd January, 2003