2009 Mercury Mountaineer

Introduction

The 2009 Mercury Mountaineer is a midsize SUV offered with two engine options and two transmission options. The 4.0L V6 engine produces 210 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque, while the 4.6L V8 engine produces 292 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed automatic and a 6-speed automatic.

Owners generally praise the Mountaineer for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong towing capacity. However, it has received some criticism for its fuel economy and uninspired handling.

Engine

4.0L V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to skip or break. This can result in catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: N/A
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing a vacuum leak. This can lead to rough idling, stalling, and decreased fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: N/A

4.6L V8

• Spark Plug Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The spark plugs can fail prematurely, causing misfires and decreased engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: N/A
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The coil packs can fail, causing misfires and decreased engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the coil packs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: N/A

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The shift solenoids can fail, causing harsh shifting or inability to shift gears.
  • Solution: Replace the shift solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200
  • Recalls: N/A

6-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can fail, causing shuddering, slipping, and loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: N/A

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The front lower control arm bushings can wear out prematurely, causing clunking noises and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the front lower control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: N/A
• Rear Stabilizer Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear stabilizer bar links can fail, causing knocking noises and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear stabilizer bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: N/A

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can drain prematurely, especially when the vehicle is parked for extended periods.
  • Solution: Diagnose and fix the source of the battery drain, which can vary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200+
  • Recalls: N/A
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator can fail, causing electrical system problems and battery drain.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: N/A

Exterior

• Tailgate Lid Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: The tailgate lid can corrode on the inside, leading to rust and paint bubbling.
  • Solution: Replace the tailgate lid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800+
  • Recalls: N/A

Interior

• Rear Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear seat heaters can fail to operate.
  • Solution: Replace the rear seat heater element.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: N/A

Summary

The 2009 Mercury Mountaineer has a few common issues, including timing chain tensioner failure, intake manifold gasket failure, shift solenoid failure, torque converter failure, and battery drain. The severity of these issues can vary, and repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars to over $2,000. However, most issues are relatively minor and affordable to fix. Overall, the Mountaineer is a reliable SUV with a spacious interior and comfortable ride.