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2001 Mercury Mountaineer Full Review
Date Published: 7/31/08
Also in the 2001 Mercury Mountaineer Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mercury Mountaineer Full Review
7.
8.
2001 Mercury Mountaineer Review
Rear childseat tether anchors are the sole additions for 2001 as Mercury's upscale version of the 4-door Ford Explorer begins a short model year. Redesigned versions of Mountaineer and Explorer are due in January ‘01 as 2002 models; they're larger than the 1995-2001 editions and will have new styling and offer seating for up to eight passengers on three rows.
For ‘01 Mountaineer offers rear- and 4-wheel drive with a choice of an overhead-cam V6 with a 5-speed automatic transmission or a V8 with 4 speed automatic. V6 models with 4WD get Ford's Control Trac system, which need not be disengaged on dry pavement. V8 versions have permanently engaged 4WD. Options include front side airbags, rear load leveling suspension, and Ford Motor Company's Reverse Sensing System, which signals an audible warning when the vehicle backs up close to an object.
Luxury options groups are called Monterey and, for V8 models only, Premiere. Both include woodgrain interior trim and color-keyed bodyside moldings, running boards, and bumpers, among other amenities. The Premiere adds a color-keyed grille, special spruce green paint, and exclusive 16-inch tires on 5-spoke alloy wheels in place of standard 15 inch wheels. Included with the optional universal garage door opener is an integrated digital memo recorder. Mountaineer's performance and accommodations mirror those of comparably equipped Explorers.
For ‘01 Mountaineer offers rear- and 4-wheel drive with a choice of an overhead-cam V6 with a 5-speed automatic transmission or a V8 with 4 speed automatic. V6 models with 4WD get Ford's Control Trac system, which need not be disengaged on dry pavement. V8 versions have permanently engaged 4WD. Options include front side airbags, rear load leveling suspension, and Ford Motor Company's Reverse Sensing System, which signals an audible warning when the vehicle backs up close to an object.
Luxury options groups are called Monterey and, for V8 models only, Premiere. Both include woodgrain interior trim and color-keyed bodyside moldings, running boards, and bumpers, among other amenities. The Premiere adds a color-keyed grille, special spruce green paint, and exclusive 16-inch tires on 5-spoke alloy wheels in place of standard 15 inch wheels. Included with the optional universal garage door opener is an integrated digital memo recorder. Mountaineer's performance and accommodations mirror those of comparably equipped Explorers.
Competition
This is by far the hottest market segment right now. Crowded with more than 20 vehicles, midsize SUVs vary in size and type but nearly all seat five adults and offer V6 or V8 engines. Our Best Buy is the car-based Lexus RX 300. Though it lacks a low range in 4WD mode, it's the most carlike to drive and offers all of the versatility of a truck-based model.
Our Recommended choices are all traditional SUVs: the Dodge Durango, which offers optional third-row seating; the best-selling Ford Explorer clone Mercury Mountaineer; the Teutonic Mercedes-Benz M-Class; the utilitarian Nissan Xterra; and the refined but expensive Toyota 4Runner.
Our Recommended choices are all traditional SUVs: the Dodge Durango, which offers optional third-row seating; the best-selling Ford Explorer clone Mercury Mountaineer; the Teutonic Mercedes-Benz M-Class; the utilitarian Nissan Xterra; and the refined but expensive Toyota 4Runner.
News
If you've seen the Mountaineer concept vehicle at a major 2000 auto show near you, you've basically seen the redesigned production model. But though Mercury's SUV will soon stand more clearly apart from its Ford parent, the new Mountaineer will also likely be delayed from its planned launch this fall as a 2001 model to the first quarter of '01, when it will go on sale as an '02. A Ford spokesman recently cited "normal quality and fit and finish issues" as the reason for the schedule change.
That aside, the new Mountaineer rides the same slightly enlarged platform as the next Explorer, with width inceasing 2 inches on a more sharply lined body announced by a toothy satin-finish grille and trapezoidal headlamps. Lower-body side cladding remains standard, but should be finished for a more expensive look. Judging by the concept, 17-inch wheels and tires will be a first-time Mountaineer option. Underneath, the rear suspension abandons a solid axle for a fully independent setup that promises a smoother on-road ride and may also enhance off-road capability. We expect current powertrains to carry over with detail refinements, and interiors should be spruced-up with a redesigned dash and more upscale materials.
That aside, the new Mountaineer rides the same slightly enlarged platform as the next Explorer, with width inceasing 2 inches on a more sharply lined body announced by a toothy satin-finish grille and trapezoidal headlamps. Lower-body side cladding remains standard, but should be finished for a more expensive look. Judging by the concept, 17-inch wheels and tires will be a first-time Mountaineer option. Underneath, the rear suspension abandons a solid axle for a fully independent setup that promises a smoother on-road ride and may also enhance off-road capability. We expect current powertrains to carry over with detail refinements, and interiors should be spruced-up with a redesigned dash and more upscale materials.
2001 Mercury Mountaineer Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration | Ride |
| Cargo room | Fuel economy |
| Visibility | |
| Build quality | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
V6 provides good off-the-line power and fine around-town response, feeling overtaxed only in highway passing or on mountain upgrades. V8 a bit stronger, but also thirstier and gruffer.
| 4WD, V6 | AWD, V8 | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
V6 provides good off-the-line power and fine around-town response, feeling overtaxed only in highway passing or on mountain upgrades. V8 a bit stronger, but also thirstier and gruffer.
Fuel Economy
Expect to average around 15-16 mpg with the V6, versus the abysmal 12.4 mpg we got with test AWD V8 model.
| 4WD, V6 | AWD, V8 | Class Average |
| 4 | 2 | 3.7 |
Expect to average around 15-16 mpg with the V6, versus the abysmal 12.4 mpg we got with test AWD V8 model.
Ride Quality
Ride quality is not as smooth as many competitors--including 2002 replacement. However, Mountaineer models tend to have more bump absorption than Explorer counterparts.
| 4WD, V6 | AWD, V8 | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 3.8 |
Ride quality is not as smooth as many competitors--including 2002 replacement. However, Mountaineer models tend to have more bump absorption than Explorer counterparts.
Steering/Handling/Braking
All 2001 Explorers and Mountaineers handle with reasonable balance and confidence.
| 4WD, V6 | AWD, V8 | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 3.7 |
All 2001 Explorers and Mountaineers handle with reasonable balance and confidence.
Quietness
Not car-quiet, but not excessively loud for a truck-based wagon, though tire and wind noise rise markedly with speed.
| 4WD, V6 | AWD, V8 | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 3.7 |
Not car-quiet, but not excessively loud for a truck-based wagon, though tire and wind noise rise markedly with speed.
Controls
Straightforward and logical, but a mild stretch to climate controls. Power window switches are illuminated.
| 4WD, V6 | AWD, V8 | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 5.8 |
Straightforward and logical, but a mild stretch to climate controls. Power window switches are illuminated.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Step-in height is slightly taller than SUV norm, but there's plenty of room and a comfortable driving position. Materials range from serviceable to leather-fancy; all are solid.
| 4WD, V6 | AWD, V8 | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
Step-in height is slightly taller than SUV norm, but there's plenty of room and a comfortable driving position. Materials range from serviceable to leather-fancy; all are solid.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Ample space for four adults, and three can squeeze in back.
| 4WD, V6 | AWD, V8 | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4.4 |
Ample space for four adults, and three can squeeze in back.
Cargo Room
Good in-cabin storage, ample cargo room, separate-opening liftglass, and undercarriage spare-tire storage. Split rear seatback folds in single motion without removing headrests.
| 4WD, V6 | AWD, V8 | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 7.5 |
Good in-cabin storage, ample cargo room, separate-opening liftglass, and undercarriage spare-tire storage. Split rear seatback folds in single motion without removing headrests.
Value within Class
Left over 2001 Mountaineer 4-drs will be a hard sell against redesigned 2002 version, so demand deep discounts. Its probably best to put you money on the '02 models.
| 4WD, V6 | AWD, V8 | Class Average |
| 5 | 4 | 4.2 |
Left over 2001 Mountaineer 4-drs will be a hard sell against redesigned 2002 version, so demand deep discounts. Its probably best to put you money on the '02 models.
Total Score
| 4WD, V6 | AWD, V8 | Class Average |
| 48 | 45 | 47.3 |
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 36 | |
| Average Score | 47 | |
| High Score | 64 |
2001 Mercury Mountaineer Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 09/11/2000
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| 4-door wagon, 2WD | $27,655 | $24,369 | $575 |
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| 4-door wagon, 4WD | $29,655 | $27,149 | $575 |
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| 4-door wagon, AWD | $30,120 | $27,563 | $575 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
2WD
Powertrain
4.0-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, power steering, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front captain chairs, split folding rear seat, center console, cupholders, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, intermittent rear wiper/washer, rear defogger, AM/FM/cassette, digital clock, tachometer, illuminated visor mirrors, variable intermittent wipers, cargo cover, map lights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, running boards, roof rack, rear privacy glass, fog lights.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Full-size spare tire, 235/70R15 all-terrain tires, alloy wheels.
4WD adds to 2WD:
Powertrain
Control Trac full-time 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case.
AWD adds to 4WD
Powertrain
5.0-liter V8 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, permanent 4-wheel drive, limited-slip differential.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Trailer Tow Pkg. (heavy-duty flasher, trailering harness), 235/75R15 all-terrain white-letter tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Convenience Group
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2WD, 4WD, AWD
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$1,195
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$1,016
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Cloth sport bucket seats, 6-way power driver seat, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, rear radio and climate controls, rear headphone jacks, remote keyless entry, key pad entry, autolock/relock system, overhead console w/compass and outside temperature indicator, illuminated visor mirrors, automatic day/night rearview mirror, high series floor console, rear vent w/fan, additional cupholders, automatic headlights, puddle lights.
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Luxury Group
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2WD, 4WD, AWD
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$1,495
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$1,271
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Leather upholstery, 6-way power front sport bucket seats, automatic climate control, message center (trip computer, oil-life monitor, additional warning lights), Mach AM/FM/cassette/CD player, steering wheel radio/climate controls. Requires Convenience Group.
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Monterey Feature Group
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2WD, 4WD, AWD
|
$495
|
$421
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Woodgrain interior trim, unique floormats, light tan lower body, badging. Requires Convenience Group and Luxury Group.
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Premiere Feature Group
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2WD, AWD
|
$595
|
$506
|
|
Woodgrain interior trim, unique floormats, Spruce Green or Wedgewood Blue metallic paint, color-keyed grille, bodyside moldings, bumpers and running boards, 255/70R16 white letter tires, special alloy wheels. Requires Convenience Group, Luxury Group. 2WD requires 5.0-liter engine.
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Powertrain |
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5.0-liter V8 engine
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2WD
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$465
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$395
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Includes 4-speed automatic transmission, limited-slip differential, 3.73 axle ratio, Trailer Tow Pkg., 235/75R15 all-terrain white-letter tires. NA 4WD.
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Limited-slip differential
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2WD, 4WD
|
$355
|
$302
|
|
Includes Trailer Tow Pkg. (heavy-duty flasher, trailering harness) and 3.73 axle ratio.
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Safety |
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Front side-impact airbags
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2WD, 4WD, AWD
|
$395
|
$336
|
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Requires Convenience Group.
|
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|
Reverse Sensing System
|
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|
2WD, 4WD, AWD
|
$255
|
$217
|
|
Requires Convenience Group.
|
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|
|
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
Automatic climate control
|
||
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2WD, 4WD, AWD
|
$590
|
$502
|
|
Includes steering wheel climate/radio controls, message center (trip computer, oil-life monitor, additional warning lights). Requires Convenience Group and Mach AM/FM/cassette/CD player.
|
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Leather sport bucket seats
|
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2WD, 4WD, AWD
|
$950
|
$808
|
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Includes 6-way power front seats. Requires Convenience Group.
|
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Universal garage door opener
|
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2WD, 4WD, AWD
|
$215
|
$182
|
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Includes Travelnote digital memo recorder.
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Power sunroof
|
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2WD, 4WD, AWD
|
$800
|
$680
|
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Requires Convenience Group.
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6-disc CD changer
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2WD, 4WD, AWD
|
$395
|
$336
|
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Requires Convenience Group.
|
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Mach AM/FM/cassette/CD player
|
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2WD, 4WD, AWD
|
$440
|
$374
|
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Requires Convenience Group.
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Engine block heater
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2WD, 4WD, AWD
|
$35
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$30
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Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires |
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Skid plates
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4WD, AWD
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$125
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$107
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Rear load-leveling suspension
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4WD, AWD
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$395
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$336
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Requires Convenience Group, leather sport bucket seats.
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Chrome alloy wheels
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2WD, 4WD, AWD
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$495
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$421
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235/75R15 all-terrain white-letter tires
|
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2WD, 4WD
|
$230
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$196
|
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2001 Mercury Mountaineer Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Mercury Mountaineer 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 111.6 |
| Overall Length, in. | 190.7 |
| Overall Width, in. | 70.2 |
| Overall Height, in. | 70.5 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4045 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 79.1 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 21.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.9 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.4 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.3 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.8 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| sohc V6 | ohv V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 4.0 /245 | 5.0 /302 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 210 @ 5250 | 215 @ 4200 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 240 @ 3250 | 288 @ 3300 |
| Availability | Standard | Optional |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
||
| 4-speed automatic | --/-- | 14/19 |
| 5-speed automatic | 15/19 | --/-- |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Mercury Mountaineer 4-door wagon |
| Collision | 4 |
| Collision (HLDI) | 78 |
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
| Injury | 3 |
| Injury (HLDI) | 82 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
| Theft | 3 |
| Theft (HLDI) | 75 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
USA
Drivewheels:
all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive
Also in the 2001 Mercury Mountaineer Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mercury Mountaineer Full Review
7.
8.
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