1991 Mercury Sable

Introduction:

The 1991 Mercury Sable is a midsize sedan that was known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and a decent fuel economy. It was available with a range of engine and transmission options, including:

• 3.0L V6 (140 hp, 185 lb-ft torque) with a 4-speed automatic transmission
• 3.8L V6 (165 hp, 215 lb-ft torque) with a 4-speed automatic transmission

Engine

3.0L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, engine overheating, rough idling
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, engine overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
• EGR Valve Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, poor fuel economy
  • Solution: Replace EGR valve
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

3.8L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, engine overheating, rough idling
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Water Pump Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating
  • Solution: Replace water pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic:

• Transmission Slippage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of acceleration power
  • Solution: Flush transmission fluid, replace transmission filter, or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
• Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission stuck in gear
  • Solution: Replace solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Suspension

• Strut or Shock Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, uneven tire wear, clunking noises
  • Solution: Replace struts or shocks
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim lights, battery not charging, electrical system failure
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
• Battery Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine not starting, weak electrical power
  • Solution: Replace battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Exterior

• Rust on Body Panels:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on body panels, especially around wheel wells and fenders
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+

Interior

• HVAC System Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor not working, AC not blowing cold air, heat not working
  • Solution: Replace HVAC system components (e.g., blower motor, AC compressor, heater core)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not opening or closing properly
  • Solution: Replace power window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Recalls:

• NHTSA Campaign Number: 91V203000: Seat belt tensioner failure
• NHTSA Campaign Number: 92V222000: Steering gear failure

Summary:

The 1991 Mercury Sable has several issues that can be costly to repair, particularly engine and transmission problems. The intake manifold gasket failure is a common issue across both engine options, while the 4-speed automatic transmission can experience slippage or solenoid failure. Suspension components like struts and shocks may also fail, leading to a rough ride. Electrical problems such as alternator failure and battery issues can also arise. However, many of these issues can be prevented with regular maintenance and proper driving habits.