1999 Mercury Sable 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.

• Broken coil spring35 owner complaints, usually around 78,000 miles

  Drive over bumps and listen for clunks or rattles. Look for uneven tire wear.

• Windshield wiper failure17 owner complaints, usually around 65,988 miles

  Test the wipers, washers, defrosters and every window. Look for chips or cracks in the windshield.

• Airbags did not deploy in a crash9 owner complaints

  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.

• SuspensionRecall number 04V332000, Jul 15, 2004
• Seat beltsRecall number 99V250000, Sep 20, 1999
• Power trainRecall number 98V288000, Nov 9, 1998
• Vehicle speed controlRecall number 98V204000, Sep 1, 1998
• Seat beltsRecall number 98V198000, Aug 25, 1998

Service bulletins worth asking about

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

• For 1999-2001 Taurus or Sable vehicles Safety Recall 04S17 has been issued for vehicles that are operated...Apr 21, 2016
• Safety recall 04S17Apr 21, 2016
• Mercury/ford: safety recall regarding front coil springs CAN fracture on vehicles operating for extended...Sep 9, 2014
• Mercury/ford: front coil springs CAN fracture, after operating, for an extended period of time, in high...Aug 11, 2014
• General (PCM) power train control module programming proceduresDec 13, 2004
• General power train control module (PCM) programming proceduresNov 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.