1999 Mercury Villager
Introduction:
The 1999 Mercury Villager is a minivan that offers various engine and transmission options:
- 3.3L V6: 170 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque
- 3.3L V6 with Supercharged: 215 hp and 230 lb-ft of torque
- 4-speed automatic transmission
- 5-speed manual transmission (only available with the 3.3L V6)
Owners praise the Villager for its spacious interior, comfortable seating, and reliable performance. However, it has also faced some issues over the years.
Engine
3.3L V6
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, reduced engine performance
- Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
3.3L V6 with Supercharged
- Supercharger Bearing Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Whining or squealing noises from the engine, reduced boost pressure
- Solution: Replace the supercharger bearings
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-speed Automatic
- Shift Solenoid Malfunction:
- Description/Symptoms: Delayed or harsh shifting, transmission slipping
- Solution: Replace the faulty shift solenoid
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Sagging:
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive lean on corners, uneven tire wear
- Solution: Replace the rear coil springs
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Front Sway Bar Link Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension
- Solution: Replace the faulty sway bar link
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery not charging, vehicle stalling
- Solution: Replace the alternator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain:
- Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, even after replacing the battery
- Solution: Check for parasitic electrical draws and rectify them
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Handle Malfunction:
- Description/Symptoms: Door handles break off or become difficult to open
- Solution: Replace the door handle assembly
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Power Window Motor Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Power windows inoperable, clicking noises from the door panel
- Solution: Replace the power window motor
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
- A/C Compressor Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: No cold air from the air conditioning system, compressor clutch not engaging
- Solution: Replace the A/C compressor
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 1999 Mercury Villager generally offers reliable performance, but it is not without its issues. The intake manifold gasket failure and supercharger bearing failure (for the supercharged engine) can be costly repairs. Suspension components may require replacement over time, and electrical problems such as alternator failure or battery drain can also arise. Interior issues like power window motor failure and A/C compressor failure are less common but can still impact comfort and convenience.