2004 Mercury Sable

Introduction:

The 2004 Mercury Sable is a mid-size sedan available with two engine options: a 3.0L Duratec V6 and a 3.9L Duratec V8. The 3.0L produces 200 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.9L produces 210 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Sable is praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong V8 engine, but criticized for its bland styling and outdated technology.

Engine

3.0L Duratec V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, overheating engine
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or rattling noise from engine, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Replace timing belt tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.9L Duratec V8

• No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration during acceleration or shifting
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shift Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, transmission slipping
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or rattling noise from suspension, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Deterioration:
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or rattling noise from suspension, vibration during braking
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Battery Cable:
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical system failure, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Replace battery cable
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery warning light, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Plastic Bumper Fading:
  • Description/Symptoms: Faded or discolored plastic bumper
  • Solution: Polish or replace bumper
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to adjust temperature or airflow
  • Solution: Replace climate control module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty or inability to operate power windows
  • Solution: Replace power window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2004 Mercury Sable has some common issues, particularly with the engine intake manifold gasket and transmission torque converter. These issues can be costly to repair but are not considered severe in terms of safety or reliability. The Sable’s strengths lie in its spacious interior and comfortable ride, while its weaknesses include outdated technology and a bland exterior.