2009 Mercury Mariner

Introduction: The 2009 Mercury Mariner is a mid-size SUV that was available with a choice of two engines and two transmissions. The base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 171 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. The optional engine is a 3.0-liter V6 that produces 223 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The Mariner has a comfortable interior and a spacious cargo area. However, it also has some notable issues.

Engine

2.5-liter Four-Cylinder

• Cam Phaser Failure:
  • Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced engine power, illuminated check engine light
  • Solution: Replace cam phasers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Runner Malfunction:
  • Symptoms: Decreased engine power, hesitation, illuminated check engine light
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold runner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0-liter V6

• Cylinder Head Gasket Failure:
  • Symptoms: Coolant leaks, white smoke from exhaust, overheating
  • Solution: Replace cylinder head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Piston Ring Failure:
  • Symptoms: Blue or black smoke from exhaust, excessive oil consumption
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace engine
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Six-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder:
  • Symptoms: Vibration when accelerating
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Solenoid Failure:
  • Symptoms: Transmission slipping or not shifting properly
  • Solution: Replace solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Wear:
  • Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure:
  • Symptoms: Steering instability, clunking or rattling noises
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Power Window Switch:
  • Symptoms: Power windows not working
  • Solution: Replace power window switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain:
  • Symptoms: Battery dies quickly
  • Solution: Test and replace faulty components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Panel Discoloration:
  • Symptoms: Door handle panel fades and discolors
  • Solution: Replace door handle panel
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Knob Failure:
  • Symptoms: Temperature control knob does not work
  • Solution: Replace climate control knob
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Backup Camera Failure:
  • Symptoms: Backup camera screen is blank or distorted
  • Solution: Replace rear backup camera
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: 14V-385, 14V-096

Summary: The 2009 Mercury Mariner has some notable issues, particularly with its engine, transmission, and suspension. The severity of the issues varies, with some being relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, while others can be more serious and costly. Overall, it is important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues before purchasing a Mariner.