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Mercury Mountaineer

EPA MPG: NA
Average Retail Price
$3,100 - $3,475

RECALL ALERT:
There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

First Take
A redesigned Mountaineer was introduced last spring as an early 2002 model. A new, fully independent suspension improves its ride and handling, and optional third-row seating brings passenger accommodations to seven. Conveniences include optional adjustable pedals that allow short drivers to maintain a safe distance from the wheel and an audible reverse warning system. The standard engine is an adequate-performing but coarse-sounding 4.0-liter V6; a 4.6-liter V8 is also available. Unlike the similar Ford Explorer, the Mountaineer uses a permanent all-wheel-drive system without a low range. Stability control and side-curtain air bags were recently added.

2002 SUVs Reliability

No Data Available

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Good
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Good
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Good
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

2002 Midsized SUVs 3-row Ratings

$3,100 - $3,475
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$3,350 - $3,750
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$3,100 - $4,600
economy-icon
EPA MPG 17 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$3,050 - $4,150
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$5,350 - $6,800
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
Features & Specs
Body Style
    4-door SUV
Seating
2 front, 3 rear, 2 third
Drive Wheels
AWD, Rear
Engines Available
  • 4-liter V6 (210 hp)
  • 4.6-liter V8 (239 hp)
Transmissions Available
  • 5-speed automatic
Warranty
Coverage varies among versions of this vehicle

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

Read more about extended warranties
Model History
2006-
Current Generation

Mountaineer's 2006 freshening updated interior and exterior styling, but also introduced some minor interior control frustrations. Ride and handling are acceptable, but the vehicle has a stiffer ride and less agility than higher-rated competitors. When compared to its less expensive Ford Explorer relative, the three-row interior is versatile, but few details rationalize its more expensive price.

2002-2005
2002 Redesign Year
A close relative of the Ford Explorer, Mountaineer's interior is roomy, and cargo space is generous. But the ride is stiff and choppy. The 2002 models brought a complete redesign with improved ride and handling, and an available, if small third-row seat. Independent rear suspension gives it a reasonably comfortable ride. The 4.0-liter V6 offers adequate acceleration, but is crude and noisy. A smoother 4.6-liter V8 was optional. Neither engine is particularly efficient though.
1997-2001
1997 Redesign Year

The Mercury Mountaineer, twin to the Ford Explorer, is roomy inside. The four-door version easily seats five and offers a large load area. The optional all-wheel-drive system can be used full time. The 160-hp, 4.0-liter V6 gives adequate acceleration. New for 1997 is a five-speed automatic transmission. A 210-hp, 5.0-liter V8 is optional as well. The steering feels light, but it gives some feel of the road. The ride is firm and well controlled.