The Mercury Mariner is a compact SUV manufactured by Ford's luxury division, Mercury. It is thus the luxury division of the Ford Escape. It is designed as a crossover SUV in that its size is closer to that of a traditional car while possessing the high ground-clearance and all-wheel-drive capability of SUVs. Making its debut in 2005, the Mariner is currently in its second generation.
In some 2005 and 2006 Mercury Mariners, the air conditioner may quit working. This is attributable to the loss of refrigerant through the compressor's front shaft seal.
Some 2005 Mariners may develop rear brake noise when cold or during damp weather. Revised brake pads are available for replacement.
Some Mercury Mariners of model years 2005 to 2008 may experience engine stalling when coming to a stop. This happens due to premature wearing of the torque converter, thus making it unable to unlock. That particular component would need to be replaced.
Some 2005 and 2006 Mercury Mariners may start slow. To solve the problem, such vehicles require reprogramming of the powertrain control module.
Something to watch out for in some Mercury Mariners is the fuel tank, which may fill up slowly. This can be due to either ice forming in the fuel tank vent line in cold weather or a bend in the filler pipe that is too tight. A revised wider pipe is available.
Other problems with Mercury Mariners involve noise. In some vehicles, hydraulic spikes in the power steering system may cause a clunk or rattle when turning the wheel riding over bumps. This would require the installation of a revised low pressure hose with an internal restrictor. Also, some vehicles may develop a whining sound from the drivetrain; this can be reduced by installing half-shafts equipped with dampers.
Something to watch out for as well is the fuel tank, which may fill up slowly. This can be due to either ice forming in the fuel tank vent line in cold weather, or a bend in the filler pipe that is too tight. A revised wider pipe is available.
