1990 Mercury Sable

Introduction: The 1990 Mercury Sable is a mid-size sedan that was powered by a 3.0-liter Vulcan V6 engine. The engine produced 140 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque. The Sable was available with either a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission. The Sable was praised for its comfortable ride and spacious interior. However, it was criticized for its lack of power and poor fuel economy.

Engine Options:

• 3.0-liter Vulcan V6

Transmission Options:

• 4-speed automatic transmission
• 5-speed manual transmission

Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing a vacuum leak. This can lead to a loss of power, rough idling, and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The water pump can fail, causing the engine to overheat. This can lead to engine damage if not repaired promptly.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt can fail, causing the engine to stop running. This is a serious and potentially expensive repair.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The oil pump can fail, causing the engine to seize. This is a catastrophic failure that will require a new engine.
  • Solution: Replace the oil pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Automatic Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic transmission may slip, causing the vehicle to lose power. This can be a sign of a worn transmission or a low transmission fluid level.
  • Solution: Check the transmission fluid level and add fluid if necessary. If the fluid level is correct, the transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Manual Transmission Grinding
  • Description/Symptoms: The manual transmission may grind when shifting gears. This can be a sign of worn gears or a low transmission fluid level.
  • Solution: Check the transmission fluid level and add fluid if necessary. If the fluid level is correct, the transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The front suspension struts can fail, causing the vehicle to ride rough and handle poorly.
  • Solution: Replace the front suspension struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Coil Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear suspension coil springs can fail, causing the vehicle to sag in the rear. This can reduce handling and stability.
  • Solution: Replace the rear suspension coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to discharge and the electrical system to malfunction.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The starter can fail, preventing the engine from starting.
  • Solution: Replace the starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Damage
  • Description/Symptoms: The wiring harness can be damaged by rodents or other factors, causing electrical problems.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the damaged wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
  • Recalls: 97V060000: Air Bag Wiring

Exterior

• Headlight Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The headlight switch can fail, causing the headlights to not work.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tail Light Lens Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The tail light lenses can crack, allowing moisture to enter the tail light assembly.
  • Solution: Replace the tail light lens.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack, especially in vehicles that have been exposed to excessive sun or heat.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or have it repaired by a professional.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 1990 Mercury Sable is a reliable and comfortable vehicle. However, it is not without its issues. Some of the most common problems include intake manifold gasket failure, water pump failure, timing belt failure, and transmission slipping. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific problem. Overall, the Sable is a good choice for drivers who are looking for a reliable and affordable mid-size sedan. However, it is important to be aware of the potential problems that can occur.