2004 Mercury Monterey

The 2004 Mercury Monterey is a minivan that offers a comfortable ride and spacious interior, making it a popular choice for families. It came equipped with a 4.2L V6 engine producing 201 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the smooth ride and ample space, while others dislike the van’s fuel economy and reliability issues.

Engine

4.2L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine may run rough, misfire, or have a coolant leak. A check engine light may also illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, and reduced power. Check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (per coil)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cooling Fan Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine overheating, particularly in stop-and-go traffic.
  • Solution: Replace the cooling fan motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping during acceleration, or harsh and jerky shifts.
  • Solution: Could indicate low transmission fluid, a faulty valve body, or internal damage requiring a rebuild or replacement. A fluid flush may help some minor issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at certain speeds, especially when the torque converter is locking up.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, leading to a bouncy ride and potential handling issues.
  • Solution: Replace worn rear coil springs or consider adding helper springs or air shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Out Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bumpy, bouncy, and unstable ride. Vehicle may dip or sway excessively during braking or turns.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power sliding doors may fail to open or close properly, or may exhibit erratic behavior.
  • Solution: Could be due to a faulty motor, damaged wiring, or a malfunctioning door latch. Inspect and repair/replace the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges may stop working, the display may flicker or go dark, or warning lights may illuminate randomly.
  • Solution: Could require repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working, or may move slowly and erratically.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rusting around Wheel Wells and Rocker Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust develops around the wheel wells and rocker panels of the vehicle
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels, and apply rust prevention treatments.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ (per panel)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Seat Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats may not move in one or more directions.
  • Solution: Replace the seat motor or repair the wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Mercury Monterey can be a comfortable and practical vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of its common issues. The engine and transmission can experience significant problems, leading to potentially high repair costs. Suspension and electrical issues are also relatively common. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, and repair costs can vary widely depending on the specific problem. Careful inspection and a thorough pre-purchase inspection are highly recommended.