1997 Mercury Grand Marquis
Introduction
The 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis, a full-size luxury sedan produced by Ford Motor Company, offered a powerful V8 engine and a comfortable ride. Engine options included a 4.6L V8 and a 5.0L V8, while transmission options included a 4-speed automatic transmission and a 5-speed automatic transmission. The Grand Marquis was praised for its spacious interior, smooth handling, and ample power, but it was criticized for its outdated styling and poor fuel economy.
Engine
4.6L V8
Intake Manifold Gasket Failure Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, engine overheating, white smoke from exhaust Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ Recalls: None Found
5.0L V8
No Issues Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Solenoid Failure Description/Symptoms: Hard shifting, delayed shifting, slipping gears Solution: Replace solenoid Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Automatic Transmission
No Issues Found
Suspension
Strut Failure Description/Symptoms: Worn struts, reduced ride comfort, excessive bouncing Solution: Replace struts Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ Recalls: None Found
Electrical
Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery warning light illuminated, difficulty starting vehicle Solution: Replace alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ Recalls: None Found
Exterior
Door Lock Actuator Failure Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly, door locks making clicking noises Solution: Replace door lock actuator Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found
Interior
Heater Core Leak Description/Symptoms: Sweet-smelling coolant odor in cabin, fogging up windshield Solution: Replace heater core Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis generally has a moderate reliability rating, with some common issues reported, particularly in the engine (intake manifold gasket failure) and transmission (solenoid failure). The majority of repairs are relatively affordable, making ownership costs manageable.