2001 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 spring147 owner complaints, usually around 68,000 miles, owners paid about $610

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

• Sudden unintended acceleration15 owner complaints, usually around 60,000 miles

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

• Tire blowout or tread separation15 owner complaints, usually around 65,000 miles, owners paid about $1,000

  Check the tire age (the DOT date on the sidewall), the tread depth and any uneven wear.

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
• Exterior lightingRecall number 04V106000, Mar 2, 2004
• Service brakes, hydraulicRecall number 02V266000, Oct 2, 2002
• VisibilityRecall number 01V258000, Aug 8, 2001
• Seat beltsRecall number 01V144000, Apr 27, 2001
• Exterior lightingRecall number 01V078000, Mar 12, 2001
• EquipmentRecall number 00V396000, Nov 28, 2000
• Seat beltsRecall number 00V240000, Aug 24, 2000

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
• Ford: speed control cable is susceptible to damage and CAN disconnect during hood maintenance and also...Jun 21, 2013
• Rattling or clunking noise from the front suspension under normal driving conditionsAug 1, 2003

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.