2009 Mercury Mountaineer

The 2009 Mercury Mountaineer is a mid-size SUV that offers a blend of comfort and capability. Available engines included a 4.0L V6 producing 210 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.6L V8 rated at 292 horsepower and 304 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Mountaineer for its spacious interior and smooth ride, while some common complaints included fuel economy and occasional reliability concerns.

Engine

4.0L V6

• Timing Chain Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise, especially on startup, indicates worn timing chain components (guides, tensioners). The noise may diminish as the engine warms up.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The check engine light illuminates and is accompanied by a rough idle, stalling, or poor engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

4.6L V8

• Spark Plug Thread Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs can loosen or eject from the cylinder head, resulting in a misfire, loud tapping noise, and potential damage to the cylinder head.
  • Solution: Installation of thread repair inserts or cylinder head replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Tick
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable ticking sound coming from the engine, particularly when cold. This may be caused by worn valve lash adjusters or lifters.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve lash adjusters or lifters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A shuddering or vibration felt during light acceleration or when the torque converter locks up.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter or a transmission flush with updated fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed gear changes, or the transmission slipping out of gear. These issues can be caused by worn internal components or low fluid level.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $4500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Compressor Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sags or fails to maintain proper ride height. The air suspension compressor may be noisy or not operate at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front or rear suspension when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent or no climate control; one side of the vehicle blows hot air while the other blows cold. A clicking noise might be heard from behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power windows operate slowly, erratically, or not at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The liftgate fails to stay open or closes unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof gets stuck, makes strange noises, or leaks water.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, or replacing the sunroof motor or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

The 2009 Mercury Mountaineer can be a reliable SUV, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues, especially with the engine, transmission, and suspension. The severity and cost of repairs can vary, but addressing these issues promptly can help prolong the vehicle’s lifespan. Spark plug and timing chain repairs tend to be on the higher end while actuator and strut repairs are less expensive.