2008 Mercury Mountaineer

Introduction

The 2008 Mercury Mountaineer is a mid-size SUV powered by a 4.6L V8 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It boasts 292 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. The Mountaineer is known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reliable performance, but it has also been reported to have several issues.

Engine

4.6L V8

• Spark Plug Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The spark plugs can fail prematurely, causing misfires, rough idling, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the failed spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The water pump can fail, leading to overheating and coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Shifting Problems:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may experience difficulty shifting gears, resulting in delayed shifts, hard shifts, or slipping gears.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty transmission solenoid or valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The front lower control arm bushings can wear out, causing squeaking noises, vibration, and decreased handling.
  • Solution: Replace the worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear shock absorbers can fail, resulting in a rough ride, poor handling, and increased braking distance.
  • Solution: Replace the failed shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Discharge:
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can discharge prematurely due to a parasitic draw from faulty electrical components.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The headlight switch can fail, causing the headlights to not work.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Roof Rack Corrosion:
  • Description/Symptoms: The roof rack can corrode over time, leading to water leaks and structural damage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the damaged roof rack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Lid Hinge Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The center console lid hinge can break, causing the lid to sag or come loose.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty hinge.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more power window motors can fail, preventing the windows from opening or closing.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Mercury Mountaineer has been reported to have several issues, most of which are considered moderate in severity and can range in cost from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000 to repair. It’s important for owners to be aware of these potential issues and to address them promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of their vehicle.