1996 Mercury Tracer
1996 Mercury Tracer
The 1996 Mercury Tracer was a popular compact sedan that was offered with two engine and transmission options: a 1.9L SOHC I4 engine with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission, and a 2.0L DOHC I4 engine with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The 1.9L engine produced 118 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.0L engine produced 125 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque.
Engine
1.9L SOHC I4
Intake Manifold Gasket Failure Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaking from the intake manifold gasket, causing engine overheating or loss of power. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 Recalls: None Found
2.0L DOHC I4
No Issues Found
Transmission
5-Speed Manual Transmission
No Issues Found
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Slipping Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping or refusing to shift gears, causing difficulty driving. Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000 Recalls: None Found
Suspension
Front Suspension Struts Failure Description/Symptoms: Noises coming from the front suspension, difficulty steering, or uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace the front suspension struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700 Recalls: None Found
Rear Suspension Springs Sagging Description/Symptoms: Rear end of the vehicle sagging, causing reduced handling and ride comfort. Solution: Replace the rear suspension springs. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
Electrical
Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging properly, causing electrical issues and potential engine stalling. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600 Recalls: None Found
Starter Failure Description/Symptoms: Engine refusing to start, clicking sound when turning the key. Solution: Replace the starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
Exterior
Plastic Bumper Fading Description/Symptoms: Clear coat on the plastic bumpers fading and peeling, causing a dull or discolored appearance. Solution: Refinish or replace the plastic bumpers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: None Found
Interior
Headliner Sagging Description/Symptoms: Headliner material detaching from the roof, causing a sagging or drooping appearance. Solution: Replace the headliner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
Door Panel Squeaks and Rattles Description/Symptoms: Noises coming from the door panels, causing discomfort or distraction while driving. Solution: Tighten or replace the door panel clips or seals. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 1996 Mercury Tracer is a reliable and affordable compact sedan with a few minor issues. The most common issues are related to the transmission, suspension, and electrical system. While some repairs can be expensive, such as transmission rebuilds, most issues can be fixed for a reasonable cost. Overall, the Tracer is a good choice for those looking for a dependable and economical vehicle.