2011 Mercury Milan 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 steering46 owner complaints, usually around 101,000 miles, owners paid about $1,600

  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 power25 owner complaints, usually around 57,700 miles, owners paid about $460

  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.

• Check engine light13 owner complaints, usually around 41,000 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.

• Air bagsRecall number 21V158000, Mar 10, 2021
• Air bagsRecall number 21V081000, Feb 16, 2021
• Air bagsRecall number 19V001000, Jan 7, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 16V384000, May 31, 2016
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 15V793000, Nov 24, 2015
• SteeringRecall number 15V340000, Jun 2, 2015
• WheelsRecall number 11V574000, Dec 7, 2011

Service bulletins worth asking about

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

• When performing any transmission fluid change or topoff involving Motorcraft® Premium ATF, MERCON® V has...Feb 8, 2024
• Some 2010-2012 Fusion/Milan and 2011-2012 MKZ vehicles equipped with a 2.5L or 3.0L engine and electronic...May 26, 2023
• Reduced electric vehicle operation and increased gasoline engine operation around 10 years of vehicle age...Apr 7, 2023
• On vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission it is imperative that the converter pilot hub be...May 10, 2019
• Some 2010-2016 epas equipped vehicles may exhibit steering related noisesNov 17, 2016
• The Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) manual has been revised for diagnosing electronic...Sep 21, 2016

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.