2001 Mercury Grand Marquis used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Sudden unintended acceleration12 owner complaints, usually around 60,000 miles

  Check that the car accelerates smoothly, without hesitation or surges, and that cruise control works.

• Seat belt won't latch or retract11 owner complaints, usually around 79,200 miles

  Pull every seat belt out fully and make sure it retracts and latches.

• Airbags did not deploy in a crash7 owner complaints, usually around 52,489 miles

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Seat beltsRecall number 01V227001, Jul 16, 2001
• Air bagsRecall number 00V412000, Dec 6, 2000
• Air bagsRecall number 00V270000, Sep 13, 2000

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Some 1997-2008 vehicles equipped with a 4.6L 2V, 5.4L 2V, or 6.8L 2V engine--spark plug thread repair...Oct 1, 2007
• Extended coverage program 05N04 - extended coverage for composite intake manifoldDec 14, 2005
• Wds cop kit diagnostic tip - coil on plug (COP) ignition systems - engine misfire or rough runningNov 14, 2005
• Safety belt retraction speedJun 7, 2005
• Engine misfire or running - coil on plug (COP) ignition systems - wds cop kit diagnostic tipsAug 23, 2004
• Customer satisfaction program 02M01 supplement #4Jun 1, 2004

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.