2002 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 spring188 owner complaints, usually around 77,154 miles, owners paid about $730

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

• Tire blowout or tread separation27 owner complaints, usually around 77,000 miles

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

• Adaptive cruise control problems15 owner complaints, usually around 87,510 miles

  Try the driver-assistance features on the road and watch for false alerts or sudden braking.

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 04V106000, Mar 2, 2004
• VisibilityRecall number 03V087000, Mar 10, 2003
• Service brakes, hydraulicRecall number 02V266000, Oct 2, 2002

Service bulletins worth asking about

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

• Ford: speed control cable is susceptible to damage and CAN disconnect during hood maintenance and also...Jun 21, 2013
• Power window concerns - service tipNov 14, 2005
• Rear window defroster grid/integral antenna diagnosis and repair - terminal tab repairDec 13, 2004
• Grunting noise from front power window glass is powered to the full up positionNov 15, 2004
• Water in the blower case or on the passenger side floor, an inoperative climate control blower motor, a...Aug 9, 2004
• Inoperative electric rear window defroster (heated backlite) grid lines, integral antenna concernsJul 12, 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.