2000 Ford Mystique

The 2000 Ford Mystique, also sold as the Mercury Mystique, was a compact sedan known for its comfortable ride and relatively fuel-efficient engines. Two engines were available: a 2.0L Zetec DOHC inline-4 producing around 125 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5L Duratec DOHC V6 making approximately 170 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque. Both engines could be paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the car’s nimble handling and user-friendly interior, but common complaints revolve around reliability issues, particularly with the engine and electrical systems, as well as some concerns about parts availability due to its age.

Engine

2.0L Zetec DOHC I4

• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall intermittently or fail to start completely. The check engine light may illuminate with a code related to the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced performance and acceleration, especially at lower RPMs. Check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the IMRC.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Duratec DOHC V6

• Coolant Leaks (Thermostat Housing, Water Pump)
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant levels dropping, overheating, visible coolant leaks around the thermostat housing or water pump area.
  • Solution: Replace the thermostat housing or water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engines)

• Shifting Problems/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, slipping between gears, delayed engagement. This is more common in higher mileage vehicles.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and filter change may provide temporary relief. Transmission rebuild or replacement is often necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid/filter) - $1500+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Broken Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, clunking noises, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the broken coil spring, and preferably replace both springs on the same axle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints and Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, clunking noises, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints and control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not operating, or operating slowly and intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery not charging, stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially in Areas Prone to Road Salt)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on body panels, particularly around wheel wells, rocker panels, and door bottoms.
  • Solution: Rust repair can range from patching small areas to replacing entire panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaches from the backing board and sags down.
  • Solution: Replace or re-glue the headliner fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles (interior or exterior) break or become loose.
  • Solution: Replace the broken door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Ford Mystique, while appreciated for its ride and handling, suffers from reliability issues typical of older vehicles. Engine problems such as coolant leaks and sensor failures are common, as are transmission issues with the automatic. Suspension components like coil springs and ball joints are also prone to wear and tear. Electrically, power window motors and alternators are known to fail. Rust can be a significant problem, depending on the vehicle’s location. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as transmission work or extensive rust repair, can be costly. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and be prepared for potential maintenance and repair costs.