2008 Mercury Mariner

Introduction:

The 2008 Mercury Mariner is a mid-size SUV available with two engine and transmission options: a 3.0L V6 with a 5-speed automatic transmission or a 3.5L V6 with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 3.0L V6 produces 224 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.5L V6 generates 260 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. Owners generally appreciate the spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong performance, but some have encountered issues with its powertrain, suspension, and electrical components.

Engine

3.0L V6 with 5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks and engine overheating
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None found

3.5L V6 with 6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Actuator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfiring, rough idle, and reduced performance
  • Solution: Replace the VVT actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Shudder:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibrations during acceleration
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None found

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Line Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Fluid leaks and loss of hydraulic pressure
  • Solution: Replace the leaking transmission line
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None found

Suspension

• Front Sway Bar End Links:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking sounds over bumps
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar end links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $400+
  • Recalls: None found
• Ignition Coil Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfiring and hard starting
  • Solution: Replace the ignition coil
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Water droplets inside the headlights
  • Solution: Replace the headlight assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $800+
  • Recalls: None found

Interior

• Dashboard Warning Lights Intermittent:
  • Description/Symptoms: Warning lights on the dashboard turn on and off randomly
  • Solution: Check the electrical connections or replace the instrument cluster
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None found
• Climate Control Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Climate control system not working properly
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty component
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the issue
  • Recalls: None found

Summary:

The 2008 Mercury Mariner has a range of issues affecting various components, including the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, and interior. While some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be more severe and costly. The most significant issues to watch out for include intake manifold gasket failure, VVT actuator failure, and transmission line leaks.