2005 Mercury Montego

The 2005 Mercury Montego was a full-size sedan offered with a 3.0L Duratec V6 engine producing 203 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, paired with either an Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission (FWD) or a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) for both FWD and AWD models. Owners generally appreciated the Montego’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and large trunk. Common complaints often centered on the CVT transmission reliability, lackluster fuel economy, and some electrical gremlins.

Engine

3.0L Duratec V6

• PCV Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whistling noise coming from the engine, rough idle, possible check engine light with codes related to lean conditions.
  • Solution: Replace the PCV valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, especially at lower RPMs, hesitation during acceleration, possible check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the IMRC assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Aisin 6-Speed Automatic (FWD)

• No Issues Found

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• Premature Failure/Fluid Leaks/Shuddering
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slippage, hesitation, shuddering during acceleration, fluid leaks from the transmission case, whining noises, complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: In some cases, a fluid change and CVT recalibration might temporarily improve the issue. However, major problems often require a complete transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps, vibrations in the steering wheel.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Sagging (AWD Models)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, especially when loaded.
  • Solution: Replace rear shocks and springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Door Ajar Sensor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Door ajar light stays on even when all doors are closed, interior lights remain illuminated, alarm system malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door ajar sensor in the affected door.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning, flickering lights, complete failure of the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Water Leaks into Trunk
  • Description/Symptoms: Water accumulating in the trunk, especially after rain. Often caused by degraded weather stripping around the trunk lid or taillights.
  • Solution: Replace weather stripping and/or reseal taillights.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, water leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replace sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Mercury Montego, while offering a comfortable and spacious ride, has some notable issues. The most serious and expensive problems are associated with the CVT transmission, which is prone to premature failure. Electrical gremlins and suspension issues are also common, though generally less costly to repair. Overall, potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the CVT transmission (if equipped) and be prepared for potential repairs.