2007 Mercury Mariner

The 2007 Mercury Mariner is a compact SUV that offered a blend of comfort and practicality. Engine options included a 2.3L inline-4 engine producing 153 hp and 152 lb-ft of torque, a 3.0L V6 engine outputting 200 hp and 193 lb-ft of torque, and a hybrid 2.3L inline-4 engine. All engines were paired with an automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Mariner for its smooth ride and relatively upscale interior for its class, but some common complaints included issues with reliability, particularly with certain engine and transmission components, and electrical glitches.

Engine

2.3L Inline-4

• Timing Chain Wear/Stretching
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, rough idling, check engine light with codes related to camshaft/crankshaft correlation. Can lead to engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, chain guides, and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, stalling, poor acceleration, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, hesitation during acceleration, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the IMRC valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Synchronizer Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Chirping noise from the front of the engine, rough running, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft synchronizer and potentially the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.3L Inline-4 (Hybrid)

• Hybrid Battery Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced fuel economy, decreased electric-only driving range, longer engine run times, warning lights on the dashboard related to the hybrid system.
  • Solution: Replacement or reconditioning of the hybrid battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $8000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Automatic Transmission Slipping/Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement, slipping between gears, harsh or erratic shifting, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, could range from a fluid flush and filter change to a complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ (fluid flush), $2500 - $4500+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming or grinding noise from the rear of the vehicle that increases with speed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear wheel bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not operating, moving slowly, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Ajar Sensor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Door ajar light staying on even when all doors are closed, interior lights staying on, alarm system malfunctioning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door ajar sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical issues, difficulty starting, or a dead battery.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate not staying open, falling closed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or leaking.
  • Solution: Could involve repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Driver Information Center (DIC) Display Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Display fading, flickering, or becoming unreadable.
  • Solution: Replacement of the DIC unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Mercury Mariner, while offering a comfortable ride and decent features for its time, does have some common problems owners should be aware of. Engine issues, particularly with the timing chain on the 2.3L and IMRC on the 3.0L, can be costly. Transmission problems can also be significant. Electrical gremlins and suspension wear are typical for a vehicle of this age. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but potential buyers should factor in these risks when considering a purchase.