2008 Mercury Mariner

The 2008 Mercury Mariner is a compact SUV that offers a blend of comfort and practicality. Engine options include a 2.3L inline-4 engine producing approximately 153 horsepower and 152 lb-ft of torque, a 3.0L V6 engine producing approximately 200 horsepower and 193 lb-ft of torque. Some owners appreciate its smooth ride and spacious interior, while others have noted concerns about fuel economy and reliability issues.

Engine

2.3L Inline-4

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, check engine light illumination, decreased fuel economy. Often caused by faulty ignition coils or worn spark plugs.
  • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coil(s) and/or replace spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per coil, $50 - $150+ for spark plugs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Purge Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light on. Difficult to fill the gas tank. Engine runs rough after refueling.
  • Solution: Replace the purge valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, check engine light illumination, decreased fuel economy. Often caused by faulty ignition coils or worn spark plugs.
  • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coil(s) and/or replace spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per coil, $50 - $150+ for spark plugs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Purge Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light on. Difficult to fill the gas tank. Engine runs rough after refueling.
  • Solution: Replace the purge valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

All Transmissions

• Transmission Slipping/Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, delayed engagement, harsh or jerky shifts, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Complete transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,800 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rusting/Rotting of Rear Subframe
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the rear of the vehicle, especially when going over bumps. Visible rust and/or corrosion on the rear subframe.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear subframe.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming or growling noise that increases with vehicle speed. Vibration in the steering wheel.
  • Solution: Replace the worn wheel bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+ per wheel.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to operate, getting stuck, or moving very slowly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, warning lights on the dashboard (e.g., battery light), difficulty starting the vehicle, or complete electrical failure.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Lower Body Panels/Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust developing on the lower body panels and around the wheel arches.
  • Solution: Rust repair, body panel replacement, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly, gets stuck, or leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, track, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 2008 Mercury Mariner can have various issues ranging from minor electrical problems to more significant engine and transmission concerns. Suspension issues, particularly those related to the rear subframe, can also be costly to address. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for signs of rust, engine problems, and transmission issues before making a purchase.