2005 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.

• Headlights failing or too dim254 owner complaints, usually around 78,000 miles, owners paid about $700

  Check every exterior and interior light, and look for condensation inside the headlights.

• Airbag warning light56 owner complaints, usually around 55,000 miles, owners paid about $850

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

• Sudden unintended acceleration11 owner complaints, usually around 17,816 miles

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

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.

• Exterior lightingRecall number 15V861000, Dec 22, 2015
• SteeringRecall number 14V704000, Nov 5, 2014
• SteeringRecall number 13V385000, Aug 29, 2013
• Electrical systemRecall number 05V518000, Nov 9, 2005

Service bulletins worth asking about

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

• Summary to be provided on a future date.Jun 1, 2015
• Ford: the lighting control module has extended warranty coverage, on certain vehicles, due to a possible...Apr 11, 2014
• High effort to activate horn - vehicles built before 5/6/2005Nov 14, 2005
• High effort to activate hornMar 1, 2005
• Delayed reverse engagementFeb 7, 2005
• AM/FM and cellular phone reception interference - service tipJan 1, 2005

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.