2008 Mercury Grand Marquis
Introduction:
The 2008 Mercury Grand Marquis is a full-size sedan known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and affordable price. It was offered with two engine options and two transmission options. The standard engine was a 4.6-liter V8 producing 224 horsepower and 272 lb-ft of torque, while the optional engine was a 5.4-liter V8 producing 302 horsepower and 361 lb-ft of torque. The standard transmission was a four-speed automatic, while a five-speed automatic was available with the 5.4-liter engine.
Owners appreciate the Grand Marquis’s roomy interior, smooth ride, and classic styling. However, some owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, and other components.
Engine
4.6-liter V8
Spark plug failure: Premature failure of the spark plugs can cause misfires and reduced engine performance. Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, reduced power Solution: Replace the spark plugs Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: None Found
Intake manifold gasket failure: A leaking intake manifold gasket can cause a vacuum leak, leading to poor engine performance and reduced fuel economy. Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leak, rough idle, decreased fuel economy Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found
5.4-liter V8
Cam phaser failure: The cam phasers can fail, leading to reduced engine power and fuel economy. Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, poor fuel economy, rattling noise from the engine Solution: Replace the cam phasers Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+ Recalls: None Found
Valve cover gasket leaks: Leaking valve cover gaskets can allow oil to seep out of the engine. Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve covers Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Transmission
Four-Speed Automatic
- Transmission slipping: The transmission can slip, causing loss of power and difficulty accelerating. Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, difficulty accelerating, slipping gears Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ Recalls: None Found
Five-Speed Automatic
Harsh shifting: The transmission may shift harshly, especially when upshifting. Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed shifts Solution: Update the transmission software Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: None Found
Shift solenoid failure: A faulty shift solenoid can prevent the transmission from shifting properly. Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, transmission stuck in one gear Solution: Replace the shift solenoid Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Suspension
Lower control arm bushings wear out: The lower control arm bushings may wear out prematurely, leading to excessive play in the suspension. Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, clunking noise, uneven tire wear Solution: Replace the lower control arm bushings Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found
Rear air suspension problems: The rear air suspension system can fail, resulting in a loss of ride height and handling. Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride height, sagging rear end, poor handling Solution: Replace the air suspension components (compressor, airbags, etc.) Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ Recalls: None Found
Electrical
Battery failure: The battery may fail prematurely, leading to starting problems. Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, dim headlights, electrical malfunctions Solution: Replace the battery Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: None Found
Alternator failure: The alternator may fail, causing the battery to discharge and leaving the vehicle stranded. Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, electrical malfunctions, difficulty starting the vehicle Solution: Replace the alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found
Exterior
Headlight condensation: Moisture may accumulate inside the headlights, reducing visibility. Description/Symptoms: Condensation inside the headlights Solution: Replace the headlights Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Tail light failure: The tail lights may fail prematurely, reducing visibility for other drivers. Description/Symptoms: Dim or inoperable tail lights Solution: Replace the tail light bulbs or assembly Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: None Found
Interior
Center console lid breaking: The center console lid may break due to weak plastic. Description/Symptoms: Broken or loose center console lid Solution: Replace the center console lid Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: None Found
Power window failure: The power window motors or switches may fail, preventing the windows from being operated. Description/Symptoms: Inoperable power windows Solution: Replace the window motor or switch Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Summary
Overall, the 2008 Mercury Grand Marquis is a reliable and comfortable sedan. However, it is not immune to certain issues. The most common issues reported by owners are related to the engine, transmission, and suspension. While some of these issues are minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be costly. It is important for potential buyers to be aware of these potential issues before purchasing a Grand Marquis.