1999 Mercury Tracer

1999 Mercury Tracer

The 1999 Mercury Tracer is a compact sedan offered with two engine options: a 2.0L inline-4 and a 2.5L V6. The 2.0L engine produces 110 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.5L engine generates 125 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Tracer was praised for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior, but criticized for its lack of power and outdated design.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: Intake manifold gasket fails, causing coolant and oil leaks. Intake manifold gasket replaced. $200 - $400+
• Head Gasket Failure: Head gasket fails, causing coolant and oil leaks. Head gasket replaced. $800 - $1,200+

2.5L V6

• Timing Belt Tensioner Failure: Timing belt tensioner fails, causing the timing belt to skip or break. Timing belt tensioner replaced. $300 - $500+

Transmission

Manual Transmission

• Shifter Cable Breakage: Shifter cable breaks, preventing the transmission from shifting gears. Shifter cable replaced. $150 - $300+

Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Fluid Leak: Transmission fluid leaks from the transmission pan gasket or other seals. Transmission pan gasket or seals replaced. $100 - $250+
• Slipping Gears: Transmission slips out of gear while driving. Transmission rebuilt or replaced. $1,500 - $3,000+

Suspension

• Front Struts Failure: Front struts fail, causing the car to ride rough and handle poorly. Front struts replaced. $400 - $600+
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure: Rear shock absorbers fail, causing the car to bounce excessively. Rear shock absorbers replaced. $200 - $400+

Electrical

• Electrical System Malfunction: Electrical system malfunctions, causing various electrical issues, such as lights, gauges, or power windows not working. Electrical system diagnosed and repaired. $200 - $400+

Exterior

• Tail Light Lens Cracks: Tail light lens cracks, allowing moisture and dirt to enter. Tail light lens replaced. $50 - $150+

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking: Dashboard cracks, causing an unsightly appearance. Dashboard replaced. $300 - $500+
• Seat Belt Buckle Failure: Seat belt buckle fails, preventing the seat belt from locking. Seat belt buckle replaced. $100 - $200+

Summary

The 1999 Mercury Tracer has several common issues that can be costly to repair. Engine problems, such as intake manifold gasket failure and head gasket failure, are particularly severe and expensive. Transmission issues, like slipping gears, can also be costly. Suspension problems, such as strut and shock absorber failure, can affect ride quality and handling. Electrical malfunctions and interior issues are generally less severe and less expensive to repair. Overall, the Tracer has a moderate level of reliability, but some of the issues listed above can significantly impact the vehicle’s performance and safety.