Mercury Mountaineer

Name: 2003 Mercury Mountaineer
Brand: Mercury

EPA MPG: NA

RECALL ALERT: There is 1 recall on this vehicle. Learn More.

There is 1 recall on this vehicle. Learn More.

RECALL ALERT: There is 1 recall on this vehicle. Learn More.

There is 1 recall on this vehicle. Learn More.

CR's Take

The Mountaineer is positioned as a posher version of the Ford Explorer. Optional third-row seating brings passenger accommodations to seven. Conveniences include optional adjustable pedals that allow shorter drivers to optimize their driving position and an audible reverse warning system. The standard engine is an adequate-performing but coarse-sounding 4.0-liter V6; a 4.6-liter V8 is also available. The ride is firm and controlled. Handling is sound if unexceptional. The interior is versatile, with various folding seat arrangements. Unlike the Ford Explorer, the Mountaineer uses a permanent all-wheel-drive system without a low range.

Reliability Details

Owner Satisfaction Details

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2003 SUVs Reliability

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Mercury Mountaine...

Mercury Mountaineer

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Ford Explorer

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Owner Reports

Owner Satisfaction

2000

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2006

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2025

Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

See All Ratings & Specs

2003 Midsized SUVs 3-row Ratings

2003 Mercury Mountaineer

$2,925 - $3,300

EPA MPG NA

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EPA MPG NA

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2003 Honda Pilot

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2003 Nissan Pathfinder

$3,350 - $4,450

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Features & Specs

4-door SUV

2 front, 3 rear, 2 third

AWD, Rear

4-liter V6 (210 hp)
4.6-liter V8 (239 hp)

5-speed automatic

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

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Model History

2006-2010

2006 Redesign Year

Mountaineer's 2006 freshening updated interior and exterior styling, but also introduced some minor interior control frustrations. Ride and handling are acceptable, but the vehicle has a stiffer ride and less agility than higher-rated competitors. When compared to its less expensive Ford Explorer relative, the three-row interior is versatile, but few details rationalize its more expensive price.

2002-2005

2002 Redesign Year

A close relative of the Ford Explorer, Mountaineer's interior is roomy, and cargo space is generous. But the ride is stiff and choppy. The 2002 models brought a complete redesign with improved ride and handling, and an available, if small third-row seat. Independent rear suspension gives it a reasonably comfortable ride. The 4.0-liter V6 offers adequate acceleration, but is crude and noisy. A smoother 4.6-liter V8 was optional. Neither engine is particularly efficient though.

1997-2001

1997 Redesign Year

The Mercury Mountaineer, twin to the Ford Explorer, is roomy inside. The four-door version easily seats five and offers a large load area. The optional all-wheel-drive system can be used full time. The 160-hp, 4.0-liter V6 gives adequate acceleration. New for 1997 is a five-speed automatic transmission. A 210-hp, 5.0-liter V8 is optional as well. The steering feels light, but it gives some feel of the road. The ride is firm and well controlled.