Owners have filed 164 complaints
about the 2000 Mercury Mountaineer with NHTSA between 2000 and 2025.
The largest single group is the acceleration & cruise control.
Across this model's run it ranks 5 of 13 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 40
Against the median year of the Mercury Mountaineer. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
34.1% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 30
18% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2000 compares with every other Mercury Mountaineer
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Automatic Transmission
1231.6%
Tread/Belt
615.8%
Accelerator Pedal
513.2%
Radio/Tape Deck/Cd Etc.
513.2%
Frontal
410.5%
Stabilizer BAR
25.3%
Flasher Unit
25.3%
Body
25.3%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
11.2%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
33.6%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
67.1%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
1416.7%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
1619.0%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
910.7%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
1821.4%
150,000+ miles
1720.2%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Feb 2000peak 8Mar 2025
NHTSA investigations into the 2000 Mercury Mountaineer
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
DP05005Opened 22 Sep 2005Closed 4 Jan 2006ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
SPARK PLUG EJECTION FROM CYLINDER HEAD
ON SEPTEMBER 6, 2005, ODI RECEIVED A PETITION REQUESTING THAT THE AGENCY INVESTIGATE ALLEGATIONS OF ENGINE SPARK PLUG EJECTION IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1997 THROUGH 2004 FORD VEHICLES WITH TRITON V-8 AND V-10 ENGINES.ODI RECEIVED A TOTAL OF 474 NON-DUPLICATIVE COMPLAINTS ON THE SUBJECT VEHICLES WHERE THE COMPLAINANT, OR THE DEALER REPAIRING THE VEHICLE, REPORTED THAT A SPARK PLUG DETACHED FROM THE CYLINDER AND/OR EJECTED FROM THE ENGINE.AS OF DECEMBER 8, 2005, ODI IS NOT AWARE OF ANY ALLEGATIONS WHERE THE ALLEGED DEFECT RESULTED IN A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, A CRASH, AN INJURY, OR A FATALITY IN A...
PE03020Opened 21 May 2003Closed 5 Sep 2003SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
FRONT SEAT BACK RECLINER ATTACHMENT
BY LETTER DATED AUGUST 4, 2003, FORD NOTIFIED THE AGENCY THAT IT IS CONDUCTING A VOLUNTARY SAFETY RECALL (NHTSA RECALL NO. 03V281) INVOLVING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 1998-2001 FORD EXPLORER / MERCURY MOUNTAINEER 4-DOOR, MY 1998-2000 FORD EXPLORER 2-DOOR AND MY 2001-2002 FORD EXPLORER SPORT AND SPORT TRAC VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH HIGH BACK SEATS.COMPLAINTS ALLEGE THAT THE DRIVER'S SEAT BACK RECLINED WITHOUT WARNING.A BOLT BETWEEN THE UPPER SEAT RECLINER ATTACHMENT AND THE SEAT BACK FRAME MAY FRACTURE.FORD WILL REPLACE THE BOLT THAT ATTACHES THE SEAT RECLINER MECHANISM TO THE SEAT BACK FRAME ON THE...
Recalls on the 2000 Mercury Mountaineer
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
07V336000
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, PASSENGER VEHICLES, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND MOTOR HOMES CHASSIS, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY, UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.
Risk: THIS COULD RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
06E056000
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
CERTAIN AFTERMARKET FUEL FILTERS SOLD UNDER THE PUROLATOR BRAND NAME, P/N F65277, SHIPPED FROM JANUARY 16 THROUGH JUNE 2, 2006, FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. DUE TO INCORRECT DESIGN, THE QUICK CONNECTORS MAY NOT FULLY SEAT WITH THE TUBE INTERFACE, EVEN THOUGH THE PERSON MAKING THE CONNECTION MAY BELIEVE THAT THE QUICK CONNECTOR IS FULLY ATTACHED.
Risk: FAILURE OF THIS CONNECTION COULD LEAD TO FUEL SPILLAGE AND, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
03V281000
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH HIGH BACK SEATS, THE UPPER BOLT ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE HIGH BACK SEAT, THAT ATTACHES THE SEAT RECLINER MECHANISM TO THE SEAT BACK FRAME, COULD FRACTURE. IF THE BOLT FRACTURES AND DOES NOT JAM IN THE SEAT BACK FRAME, THE SEAT BACK MAY RECLINE UNTIL IT MAKES CONTACT WITH AN OBJECT BEHIND THE SEAT, SUCH AS THE SECOND ROW SEAT CUSHION.
Risk: THE DRIVER COULD POTENTIALLY LOSE CONTACT WITH THE STEERING WHEEL OR FOOT PEDALS DURING SUCH AN EVENT, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
03V280000
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CABLES
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SPEED CONTROL AND 4.0L SOHC ENGINES, IF THE STRAND COVER ON THE SPEED CONTROL CABLE BECOMES FLARED AT THE END, THE SPEED CONTROL CABLE MAY BIND WHEN THE SPEED CONTROL IS ACTIVATED.
Risk: THE THROTTLE RETURN SPRING FORCE MAY NOT BE SUFFICIENT TO OVERCOME THE BINDING CONDITION WHEN THE SPEED CONTROL IS DISENGAGED. BRAKING FUNCTION WOULD BE MAINTAINED THOUGH STOPPING DISTANCES MAY BE INCREASED.
00T005000
TIRES:TREAD/BELT
TIRE DESCRIPTION: FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT, SIZE P235/75R15, PRODUCED AT THE DECATUR, ILLINOIS TIRE PLANT AND ALL FIRESTONE RADIAL ATX AND RADIAL ATX II TIRES, SIZE P235/75R15. OPERATION OF THESE TIRES AT LOW INFLATION PRESSURES, HIGH SPEED, AND IN HOT WEATHER, CAN CONTRIBUTE TO SEPARATION OF THE TIRE TREAD.
Risk: IF THE TREAD SEPARATES FROM THE TIRE, THE DRIVER CAN LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH CAUSING INJURY OR DEATH.
00V228001
SEAT BELTS
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES, LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH TRW SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES. THE BUCKLE BASE OF THESE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES WERE NOT PROPERLY HEAT TREATED AND THEREFORE DO NOT PASS THE LOAD BEARING REQUIREMENT OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 209, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES."
Risk: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED.
00V179000
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: 4-DOOR SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SIDE AIR BAGS. THE SUBJECT VEHICLES HAVE A REVISED LEVEL SIDE CRASH SENSOR THAT COULD DEPLOY THE SIDE AIR BAG IF THE IGNITION KEY IS IN THE "RUN" POSITION AND THE SEATBELT WEBBING IS FORCIBLY EXTRACTED FROM A LOCKED RETRACTOR WITH A JERKING MOTION.
Risk: INADVERTENT SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT COULD CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT.
00V072000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 4.0L ENGINES AND ALL-TIME 4-WHEEL DRIVE (A4WD) POWERTRAINS. THE GENERIC ELECTRONIC MODULE (GEM) COULD EXPERIENCE A CONDITION REFERRED TO AS "LOCK-UP" IN WHICH THE GEM CONTROLLED ELECTRONIC FUNCTIONS (E.G., FRONT WINDSHIELD WIPERS, INTERIOR LIGHTS, 4X4 SYSTEM, ETC.) COULD NOT BE TURNED ON OR, IN SOME CASES IF THE FUNCTION IS ON, COULD NOT BE TURNED OFF.
Risk: AN INOPERATIVE WINDSHIELD WIPER SYSTEM COULD AFFECT DRIVER VISIBILITY, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Little Rock, WA1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS:SUPPORT DEVICE/STRUT
The contact's daughter owns a 2000 Mercury Mountaineer. The contact stated that while her husband and her daughter were inspecting the engine compartment of the vehicle, the hinges of the hood failed, causing the hood to drop inadvertently. The contact's husband sustained a laceration on the arm but did not seek medical assistance. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the hood hinges were replaced. Additionally, the contact purchased a stick to hold the hood open. The vehicle was repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. The VIN was not available.
NHTSA complaint #11651158 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 155,000 milesFortworth, TXFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. WHILE PARKED, THE VEHICLE ERUPTED INTO FLAMES WITHOUT WARNING. THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES REPORTED. THE VEHICLE REMAINED AT THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE WHERE IT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE PARKED IN FRONT OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS ALSO DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 05V017000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 155,000.
NHTSA complaint #10744582 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 155,000 milesFortworth, TXFire
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. WHILE PARKED, THE VEHICLE ERUPTED INTO FLAMES WITHOUT WARNING. THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES REPORTED. THE VEHICLE REMAINED AT THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE WHERE IT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE PARKED IN FRONT OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS ALSO DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 05V017000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 155,000.
NHTSA complaint #10744582 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 183,345 milesPanama City, FLFire
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I WAS DRIVING TO AN INTERSECTION WITH MY FAMILY WHILE GOING 45 MPH. I NOTICED BLACK COMING THROUGH THE VENTS. I PULLED OFF TO A GAS STATION PARKING LOT. I PROCEEDED TO USE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS UNDER THE HOOD, THE FIRE DEPARTMENT HAD TO COME PUT IT OUT. THEY DID A LOOK THROUGH AND DETERMINED THE FIRE STARTED AT THE FUSE BOX. I WENT HOME AND RESEARCHED THAT THIS IS A RECURRING PROBLEM WITH THIS TYPE OF VEHICLE. I'M NOW OUT THE 6500 I USED TO PURCHASE IT. I CANT FIX IT OR TRADE IT IN NOW.
NHTSA complaint #10660886 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 183,345 milesPanama City, FLFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I WAS DRIVING DON THE ROAD TO AN INTERSECTION GOING 45 MPH AND NOTICED BLACK SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. I PROCEEDED TO PULL OVER AND GOT MY FAMILY OUT THE CAR BEFORE THE ELECTRICAL WAS COMPLETELY FRIED. I TRIED TO PUT THE FIRE OUT WITH TWO EXTINGUISHERS AND HELP FROM FELLOW BYSTANDERS. THE BLAZE UNDER THE HOOD HAD TO BE PUT OUT BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. I RECEIVED A POLICE AND FIRE REPORT. THE AREA THAT THE FIRE HAD ORIGINATED FROM WAS THE FUSE BOX. I KNOW THIS WAS A FACTORY PROBLEM BECAUSE I DIDN'T DO ANY WORK IN THOSE AREAS. I WOULD LIKE COMPENSATION FOR MY VEHICLE BECAUSE I'M NOW OUT 6500 DOLLARS AND I SEARCHED ONLINE AND READ ABOUT OVER A 100 EXPLORER AND MOUNTAINEER FIRES UNDER THE HOOD. I NEVER RECEIVED ANY RECALLS FOR MY VEHICLE AND I OWNED IT OVER 10 YEARS.
NHTSA complaint #10660877 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 183,345 milesPanama City, FLFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I WAS DRIVING TO AN INTERSECTION WITH MY FAMILY WHILE GOING 45 MPH. I NOTICED BLACK COMING THROUGH THE VENTS. I PULLED OFF TO A GAS STATION PARKING LOT. I PROCEEDED TO USE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS UNDER THE HOOD, THE FIRE DEPARTMENT HAD TO COME PUT IT OUT. THEY DID A LOOK THROUGH AND DETERMINED THE FIRE STARTED AT THE FUSE BOX. I WENT HOME AND RESEARCHED THAT THIS IS A RECURRING PROBLEM WITH THIS TYPE OF VEHICLE. I'M NOW OUT THE 6500 I USED TO PURCHASE IT. I CANT FIX IT OR TRADE IT IN NOW.
NHTSA complaint #10660886 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Little Rock, WA1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS:SUPPORT DEVICE/STRUT
The contact's daughter owns a 2000 Mercury Mountaineer. The contact stated that while her husband and her daughter were inspecting the engine compartment of the vehicle, the hinges of the hood failed, causing the hood to drop inadvertently. The contact's husband sustained a laceration on the arm but did not seek medical assistance. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the hood hinges were replaced. Additionally, the contact purchased a stick to hold the hood open. The vehicle was repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. The VIN was not available.
NHTSA complaint #11651158 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Beech Island, SC
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I unlocked my vehicle, put the key in the ignition and it made a noise, then immediately after that failure to start, everything stopped working. No lights, will not lock doors, no clicking sound as if it were a dead battery.
NHTSA complaint #11554860 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 160,538 milesSaint Cloud, FL
POWER TRAIN
THE O/D LIGHT KEEPS FLASHING AND IT DOESN'T SHIFT INTO GEAR WHEN PULLING OUT IN FRONT OF ONCOMING TRAFFIC ITS VARY DANGEROUS FOR MYSELF AND OTHER DRIVERS PLEASE ADDRESS THIS ON GOING PROBLEM WITH THIS TRANSMISSION
NHTSA complaint #11287826 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 82,000 milesKeithville, LA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. WHILE DRIVING, THE HEADLIGHTS GRADUALLY BECAME DIM AND SHUT OFF. AFTER THE CONTACT MADE SEVERAL ATTEMPTS, THE HEADLIGHTS TURNED BACK ON AND REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS FOR THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS REFERRED TO NHTSA. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 82,000.
NHTSA complaint #11141475 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 153,000 milesSalesville, AR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I WAS ON MY WAY HOME FROM WORK(APPROX 12 MILES) AND DECIDED I'D TRY OUT THE CRUISE CONTROL IN MY NEWLY ACQUIRED 2000 MOUNTAINEER 302 AWD. THE FIRST PART OF THE COMMUTE IS WHAT I WOULD CONSIDER HARMLESS AND A VERY SAFE STRETCH TO TEST OUT THIS FEATURE SO I PRESS THE CRUISE BUTTON TO SET MY SPEED AT THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT OF 55MPH. ALL WAS WELL UNTIL I APPROACHED A SHARP HAIR PIN CURVE ABOUT 4 MILES INTO THE TRIP. I GENTLY STARTED TO APPLY THE BRAKE TO CANCEL THE CRUISE BUT THE VEHICLE DIDN'T RESPOND TO MY ATTEMPT. IN A STATE OF PANIC, I FIRMLY APPLY THE BRAKE TO REDUCE SPEED AND WAS ONLY ABLE TO DROP APPROXIMATELY 6-7 MPH. STILL WELL ABOVE THE ADVISED LIMIT FOR THAT PARTICULAR CURVE. AFTER MAKING IT THOUGH THE CURVE, THE MOUNTAINEER TRANSMISSION DOWN SHIFTED AND I WAS OFF TO THE RACES. I PANICKED AND IN DOING SO, FAILED TO PROCESS AND THINK CLEARLY. MY INSTINCT WAS TO KEEP POUNDING ON THE BRAKES IN HOPE THAT THE CRUISE CABLE WITH BREAK OR POP FREE. AT 70MPH MY BRAKES WERE USELESS. IT ACCELERATED JUST PAST 80MPH AND FINALLY RIGHT BEFORE MY TURN OFF ONTO THE ROAD THAT I LIVE, MY HEAD CLEARED AND I TURNED THE IGNITION KEY TO THE OFF POSITION AND WAS ABLE TO COAST INTO MY NEIGHBORHOOD. AS I EXITED THE VEHICLE, EVERY OUNCE OF COOLANT WAS BEING SHOT OUT OF THE RADIATOR AND ALL FOUR BRAKE ROTORS WERE GLOWING CHERRY RED. I WAS SCARED THE THING WAS GOING TO CATCH FIRE. LIKE INCIDENT REPORT PRIOR TO MINE, MY CRUISE CABLE RETAINER HAD MALFUNCTIONED AND WAS NO LONGER ANCHORED TO ITS USUAL POSITION. FORD HAS A MAJOR FLAW IN THE WAY THIS SYSTEM WAS DESIGNED AND NEEDS TO TAKE ACTION SO SOMEONE DOESN'T GET KILLED. HANDS DOWN, THE ABSOLUTE SCARIEST SITUATION I'VE EVER EXPERIENCED.
NHTSA complaint #10849904 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 101,489 milesNorwalk, CT
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
REAR DOOR LATCH IS INOPERATIVE. ALSO RIGHT FRONT PASSENGER DOOR LOCK IS INOPERATIVE.
NHTSA complaint #10846148 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 101,489 milesNorwalk, CT
STRUCTURE:BODY
REAR DOOR LATCH IS INOPERATIVE. ALSO RIGHT FRONT PASSENGER DOOR LOCK IS INOPERATIVE.
NHTSA complaint #10846148 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 101,489 milesNorwalk, CT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
REAR DOOR LATCH IS INOPERATIVE. ALSO RIGHT FRONT PASSENGER DOOR LOCK IS INOPERATIVE.
NHTSA complaint #10846148 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 155,000 milesFortworth, TXFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. WHILE PARKED, THE VEHICLE ERUPTED INTO FLAMES WITHOUT WARNING. THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES REPORTED. THE VEHICLE REMAINED AT THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE WHERE IT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE PARKED IN FRONT OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS ALSO DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 05V017000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 155,000.
NHTSA complaint #10744582 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 155,000 milesFortworth, TXFire
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. WHILE PARKED, THE VEHICLE ERUPTED INTO FLAMES WITHOUT WARNING. THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES REPORTED. THE VEHICLE REMAINED AT THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE WHERE IT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE PARKED IN FRONT OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS ALSO DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 05V017000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 155,000.
NHTSA complaint #10744582 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 183,345 milesPanama City, FLFire
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I WAS DRIVING TO AN INTERSECTION WITH MY FAMILY WHILE GOING 45 MPH. I NOTICED BLACK COMING THROUGH THE VENTS. I PULLED OFF TO A GAS STATION PARKING LOT. I PROCEEDED TO USE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS UNDER THE HOOD, THE FIRE DEPARTMENT HAD TO COME PUT IT OUT. THEY DID A LOOK THROUGH AND DETERMINED THE FIRE STARTED AT THE FUSE BOX. I WENT HOME AND RESEARCHED THAT THIS IS A RECURRING PROBLEM WITH THIS TYPE OF VEHICLE. I'M NOW OUT THE 6500 I USED TO PURCHASE IT. I CANT FIX IT OR TRADE IT IN NOW.
NHTSA complaint #10660886 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 183,345 milesPanama City, FLFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I WAS DRIVING DON THE ROAD TO AN INTERSECTION GOING 45 MPH AND NOTICED BLACK SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. I PROCEEDED TO PULL OVER AND GOT MY FAMILY OUT THE CAR BEFORE THE ELECTRICAL WAS COMPLETELY FRIED. I TRIED TO PUT THE FIRE OUT WITH TWO EXTINGUISHERS AND HELP FROM FELLOW BYSTANDERS. THE BLAZE UNDER THE HOOD HAD TO BE PUT OUT BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. I RECEIVED A POLICE AND FIRE REPORT. THE AREA THAT THE FIRE HAD ORIGINATED FROM WAS THE FUSE BOX. I KNOW THIS WAS A FACTORY PROBLEM BECAUSE I DIDN'T DO ANY WORK IN THOSE AREAS. I WOULD LIKE COMPENSATION FOR MY VEHICLE BECAUSE I'M NOW OUT 6500 DOLLARS AND I SEARCHED ONLINE AND READ ABOUT OVER A 100 EXPLORER AND MOUNTAINEER FIRES UNDER THE HOOD. I NEVER RECEIVED ANY RECALLS FOR MY VEHICLE AND I OWNED IT OVER 10 YEARS.
NHTSA complaint #10660877 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 183,345 milesPanama City, FLFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I WAS DRIVING TO AN INTERSECTION WITH MY FAMILY WHILE GOING 45 MPH. I NOTICED BLACK COMING THROUGH THE VENTS. I PULLED OFF TO A GAS STATION PARKING LOT. I PROCEEDED TO USE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS UNDER THE HOOD, THE FIRE DEPARTMENT HAD TO COME PUT IT OUT. THEY DID A LOOK THROUGH AND DETERMINED THE FIRE STARTED AT THE FUSE BOX. I WENT HOME AND RESEARCHED THAT THIS IS A RECURRING PROBLEM WITH THIS TYPE OF VEHICLE. I'M NOW OUT THE 6500 I USED TO PURCHASE IT. I CANT FIX IT OR TRADE IT IN NOW.
NHTSA complaint #10660886 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 183,345 milesPanama City, FLFire
ENGINE
I WAS DRIVING DON THE ROAD TO AN INTERSECTION GOING 45 MPH AND NOTICED BLACK SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. I PROCEEDED TO PULL OVER AND GOT MY FAMILY OUT THE CAR BEFORE THE ELECTRICAL WAS COMPLETELY FRIED. I TRIED TO PUT THE FIRE OUT WITH TWO EXTINGUISHERS AND HELP FROM FELLOW BYSTANDERS. THE BLAZE UNDER THE HOOD HAD TO BE PUT OUT BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. I RECEIVED A POLICE AND FIRE REPORT. THE AREA THAT THE FIRE HAD ORIGINATED FROM WAS THE FUSE BOX. I KNOW THIS WAS A FACTORY PROBLEM BECAUSE I DIDN'T DO ANY WORK IN THOSE AREAS. I WOULD LIKE COMPENSATION FOR MY VEHICLE BECAUSE I'M NOW OUT 6500 DOLLARS AND I SEARCHED ONLINE AND READ ABOUT OVER A 100 EXPLORER AND MOUNTAINEER FIRES UNDER THE HOOD. I NEVER RECEIVED ANY RECALLS FOR MY VEHICLE AND I OWNED IT OVER 10 YEARS.
NHTSA complaint #10660877 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 183,345 milesPanama City, FLFire
ENGINE
I WAS DRIVING TO AN INTERSECTION WITH MY FAMILY WHILE GOING 45 MPH. I NOTICED BLACK COMING THROUGH THE VENTS. I PULLED OFF TO A GAS STATION PARKING LOT. I PROCEEDED TO USE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS UNDER THE HOOD, THE FIRE DEPARTMENT HAD TO COME PUT IT OUT. THEY DID A LOOK THROUGH AND DETERMINED THE FIRE STARTED AT THE FUSE BOX. I WENT HOME AND RESEARCHED THAT THIS IS A RECURRING PROBLEM WITH THIS TYPE OF VEHICLE. I'M NOW OUT THE 6500 I USED TO PURCHASE IT. I CANT FIX IT OR TRADE IT IN NOW.
NHTSA complaint #10660886 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 183,345 milesPanama City, FLFire
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
I WAS DRIVING DON THE ROAD TO AN INTERSECTION GOING 45 MPH AND NOTICED BLACK SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. I PROCEEDED TO PULL OVER AND GOT MY FAMILY OUT THE CAR BEFORE THE ELECTRICAL WAS COMPLETELY FRIED. I TRIED TO PUT THE FIRE OUT WITH TWO EXTINGUISHERS AND HELP FROM FELLOW BYSTANDERS. THE BLAZE UNDER THE HOOD HAD TO BE PUT OUT BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. I RECEIVED A POLICE AND FIRE REPORT. THE AREA THAT THE FIRE HAD ORIGINATED FROM WAS THE FUSE BOX. I KNOW THIS WAS A FACTORY PROBLEM BECAUSE I DIDN'T DO ANY WORK IN THOSE AREAS. I WOULD LIKE COMPENSATION FOR MY VEHICLE BECAUSE I'M NOW OUT 6500 DOLLARS AND I SEARCHED ONLINE AND READ ABOUT OVER A 100 EXPLORER AND MOUNTAINEER FIRES UNDER THE HOOD. I NEVER RECEIVED ANY RECALLS FOR MY VEHICLE AND I OWNED IT OVER 10 YEARS.
NHTSA complaint #10660877 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesBattle Ground, WA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DOOR LOCKS BECAME INOPERABLE AT TIMES AND TOOK NUMEROUS ATTEMPTS BEFORE THE LATCH WOULD OPEN. THE FAILURE OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
NHTSA complaint #10655124 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesBattle Ground, WA
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DOOR LOCKS BECAME INOPERABLE AT TIMES AND TOOK NUMEROUS ATTEMPTS BEFORE THE LATCH WOULD OPEN. THE FAILURE OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
NHTSA complaint #10655124 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 240,000 milesColumbus, OHFire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2000 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, FUEL FUMES EMITTED INTO THE VEHICLE AND THE ENGINE BEGAN TO SMOKE BEFORE IT CAUGHT FIRE. THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS DEEMED DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 240,000.
NHTSA complaint #10648414 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 199,000 milesHigh Point, NCFire1 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I AM DISABLE ON JUNE 11, 2014 I WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 35 MPH AND SUDDENLY FLAMES GUSHED FROM THE DASH I STOPPED THE IGNITION WOULD NOT TURN OFF FIRE WIPPED MY RIGHT SIDE AND I BROKE MY ANKLE TRYING TO GET OUT OF THE CAR.
NHTSA complaint #10598164 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Battle Ground, WA
STRUCTURE:BODY
WATER LEAKAGE IN INTERIOR OF VEHICLE IS A HEALTH HAZARD DUE TO MOLD ISSUES, ESPECIALLY FOR CHILDREN. SICKNESS FROM MOLD CAN BE A LIFELONG AFFLICTION. IT IS A HEALTH SAFETY ISSUE. WATER LEAKING INTO THE INTERIOR OF A CAR, WHETHER BY DEFECTIVE ASSEMBLY OR DEFECTIVE DESIGN, SHOULD NOT HAPPEN. IT SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM WITH FORD (AND PROBABLY OTHER MAKE) VEHICLES THAT HAVE MOONROOFS OR SUNROOFS. THERE IS NO QUESTION THAT SOMETHING SHOULD BE DONE TO STOP THIS. FORD'S IMPLICIT DENIAL OF BLAME IS A MORAL FAILURE. THE FOLLOWING WAS SENT TO FORD... WHAT IS YOUR VEHICLE SALES OR SERVICE ISSUE?:MY 2000 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER HAS BEEN LEAKING IN THE INTERIOR FROM A KINKED MOONROOF DRAIN HOSE. I TOOK IT TO A BODYSHOP TO BE REPAIRED. THE DRAIN HOSE WAS PERMANENTLY KINKED FROM SLOPPY ASSEMBLY. THE DRAIN HOSE HAD TO BE REPLACED. WHAT ACTION HAS YOUR DEALER TAKEN TO ADDRESS THE ISSUE?:MY DEALER SAW THE DRAIN HOSE AND AGREED IT WAS A FACTORY ASSEMBLY DEFECT. THEY GAVE ME THE 1-800-392-3673 AND TOLD ME TO CONTACT THAT NUMBER FOR REIMBURSEMENT OF THE COST TO REPAIR. I WAS TOLD THERE WAS NO PROTOCOL OR RECALL TO ADDRESS THE DRAIN HOSE ISSUE. RESEARCHING ON THE INTERNET, IT SEEMS TO BE A NOT UNCOMMON PROBLEM WITH EXPLORERS AND MOUNTAINEERS. WHAT ASSISTANCE ARE YOU SEEKING FROM FORD MOTOR COMPANY?:FORD SHOULD AT LEAST REIMBURSE ME FOR THE COST OF REPLACING THE DRAIN HOSE. $272.85. THERE WERE OTHER ISSUES SUCH AS MOLD WHICH I WAS ABLE TO FIX MYSELF. I STILL HAVE THE DEFECTIVE DRAIN HOSE. I AM CERTAIN THE DEALER WOULD PROVIDE AN AFFADAVIT THAT THIS WAS AN ASSEMBLY DEFECT. I CAN ALSO SEND A PHOTO. ARE YOU THE OWNER OF THE VEHICLE :YES VIN : [XXX] MILEAGE : 150000 WHERE IS YOUR VEHICLE NOW : INPOSSESSION HAVE YOU CONTACTED THE DEALER :YES DEALER NAME : WESTLIE FORD INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint #10554563 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 165,000 milesBaton Rouge, LAFire
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SMOKE EMITTED FROM UNDER THE HOOD AREA. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED BLACK SMOKE AND FLAMES IN THE ENGINE AREA. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACTED TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S INSURANCE COMPANY FOR FURTHER INVESTIGATION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 165,000. UPDATED 06/26/13*LJ THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE. UPDATED 06/27/13 *BF UPDATED UPDATED 07/02/2013
NHTSA complaint #10510356 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 165,000 milesBaton Rouge, LAFire
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SMOKE EMITTED FROM UNDER THE HOOD AREA. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED BLACK SMOKE AND FLAMES IN THE ENGINE AREA. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACTED TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S INSURANCE COMPANY FOR FURTHER INVESTIGATION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 165,000. UPDATED 06/26/13*LJ THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE. UPDATED 06/27/13 *BF UPDATED UPDATED 07/02/2013
NHTSA complaint #10510356 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 142,000 milesJustice, IL
WHEELS
I HAVE A 2000 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER THAT I HAVE HAD FOR 2YRS. NOW. I KEEP UP THE MAINTENANCE ON THIS CAR. I KEEP THE OIL CHANGED TIRES ROTATED, BRAKES FIXED, PASS THE EMISSION TEST EVERY YEAR SINCE PURCHASING IT. I'VE HAD THIS SQUEALING HIGH PITCH GRINDING NOISE COMIN FROM THE REAR TIRES.IT IS VERY LOUD. I HAVE NEW BRAKES ALL THE WAY AROUND,SHOES,ROTORS,PADS,IN IT STILL MAKES THIS VERY LOUD NOISE.IT HAS GOTTEN LOUDER SINCE I HAVE ALL NEW BRAKES. I DON'T KNOW WHAT THIS NOISE IS, BUT I KNOW ITS EMBARRASSING TO DRIVE,CAUSE THE NOISE IS SO LOUD.
NHTSA complaint #10472784 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 142,000 milesJustice, IL
SERVICE BRAKES
I HAVE A 2000 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER THAT I HAVE HAD FOR 2YRS. NOW. I KEEP UP THE MAINTENANCE ON THIS CAR. I KEEP THE OIL CHANGED TIRES ROTATED, BRAKES FIXED, PASS THE EMISSION TEST EVERY YEAR SINCE PURCHASING IT. I'VE HAD THIS SQUEALING HIGH PITCH GRINDING NOISE COMIN FROM THE REAR TIRES.IT IS VERY LOUD. I HAVE NEW BRAKES ALL THE WAY AROUND,SHOES,ROTORS,PADS,IN IT STILL MAKES THIS VERY LOUD NOISE.IT HAS GOTTEN LOUDER SINCE I HAVE ALL NEW BRAKES. I DON'T KNOW WHAT THIS NOISE IS, BUT I KNOW ITS EMBARRASSING TO DRIVE,CAUSE THE NOISE IS SO LOUD.
NHTSA complaint #10472784 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.