2009 Mercury Mariner 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.

• Loss of power steering84 owner complaints, usually around 130,000 miles, owners paid about $1,396

  Turn the wheel from lock to lock while parked and on the road: it should be smooth, with no clunks, stiffness or warning lights.

• Sudden loss of power42 owner complaints, usually around 115,000 miles

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Engine stalls while driving35 owner complaints, usually around 75,000 miles

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

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.

• SteeringRecall number 14V284000, May 29, 2014

Service bulletins worth asking about

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

• The Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) manual has been revised for diagnosing electronic...Sep 21, 2016
• 6F35 transmission - fluid leak at left side halfshaft seal built on or before 10/14/2013 issueMar 15, 2016
• Mercury/ford: on some vehicles, there is a fluid leakage, coming from left hand (LH) halfshaft seal of the...Mar 14, 2014
• Ford/mercury: if diagnostic code B2278 is stored in power steering control module (PSCM), it needs...Feb 7, 2014
• Ford: due to an intermittent loss of RPM or lack of acceleration, in some vehicles, with illuminated...Nov 13, 2013
• Ford: on the left hand half shaft seal, there is a fluid leak from the transmission because of wear on...Nov 1, 2013

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.