2002 Mercury Mountaineer Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.99/5 Average
113 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Mercury has overhauled their Mountaineer for model-year 2002 in an attempt to make it more car-like than ever before. Among the improvements are a 2.5-inch wider stance for improved handling and roominess, a new independent rear suspension that improves ride and handling, while at the same time accommodating a standard third row of seats, larger door openings with a lower step-in height, standard six-way power adjustable driver's seat and optional power adjustable pedals. With this year's redesign, Mercury is trying to further differentiate the Mountaineer from its look-alike cousin the Ford Explorer.

Pros:
  • Third-row seating, independent rear suspension, powerful engines, wide selection of convenience features, attractive new design inside and out.
Cons:
  • No Control Trac 4WD option, poor fuel economy with V8, unnecessary taillight protectors come standard.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 113.00
  • Transmission Problems - 2002 Mercury Mountaineer
    By -

    I have had many problems with my 2002 Mountaineer. I am so disappointed in my choice to purchase this auto. Soon after we bought it we had to pay almost $2000 to have the rear axles fixed, a couple years later we had to replace the back A/C unit & some other parts, and that was another $2000 +. I just found out yesterday that my transmission is going out! I am really frustrated with Ford.........I wont make this mistake again, its Nissan or Toyota for me!!!!!!!!!!

  • Happy Mountain Guy - 2002 Mercury Mountaineer
    By -

    I bought my Mountaineer new in 2002. It was a perfect vehicle for the first two years, then as with all Fords, started riding rougher and rougher as the years went on. I have a family of 6 and am 65" myself. All of us fit comfortably in the SUV. I have the V8 4.6 and get 14/18. I just filled up today on empty and it cost $82 to fill the 20 gal tank. I agree with the others that the transmission is a weakness. I have 111,000 miles after 5.5 years and just took out an extended warranty for $1,700, which covers all major powertrain items. To protect themselves, the insurance company has a 90 day/1,000 mile waiting period before you can make any claims

  • Mountaineer Review - 2002 Mercury Mountaineer
    By -

    I love this truck. It handles great. I wish it got better gas milage and the homelink does not work with my Garage doors. The interior is great. I love the dual climate control. I am always cold and my husband is always hot (now we well both be comfortable).

  • Been a Great Car - 2002 Mercury Mountaineer
    By -

    This has been a great car for us. Its safe and reliable, comfortable, and Ive been happy with fords free oil changes they offered us for the time we own the vehicle. Its a very nice car and great up in the mountains.

  • Solid Performer - 2002 Mercury Mountaineer
    By -

    Purchases about two years ago with about 50K miles. Now at 120K and and very happy with purchase. Two repairs - one front wheel bearing at about $300 and a $600 complete brake job (front/rear rotors, and rear calipers). Otherwise, no problems. I do mostly highway driving and get about 20-21mpg with a V8 consistently. Comfortable ride. Good quality build. Amazingly, after 120K miles, no rattles or squeaks! Styling still looks fresh after 7 years. Bottom line - very solid SUV and a very good value.

  • Good all-around family vehicle - 2002 Mercury Mountaineer
    By -

    We were won over by the styling and additional features of the Montaineer, most notably the standard third row seat for hauling around the relatives and little league team on occassion. The Mountaineer handles this task admirably, with suprisingly good legroom and comfort for the third row seat. The independent rear suspension provides a very comfortable ride, and the 5.0L V-8 is very peppy with good torque for trailer pulling. Very smooth riding and extra stable at highway speed. Quality has been excellent. Mileage of 17 to 20 Mpg could be a bit better, but overall the truck has provided a very enjoyable ownership experience.

  • Help!!! - 2002 Mercury Mountaineer
    By -

    We bought our 2002 Mountaineer new based on our favorable experiences with other Ford vehicles (Bronco, Windstar). However, we have had a very different experience with the Mountaineer. So far we have had the car in for transmission work 13 different times. The transmission shudders when shifting into overdrive and slips noticeably. The Ford dealership we purchased the car from finally overhauled the transmission last week ($1400.00 to fix of which we paid 10%, the dealership paid 10% and Ford paid 80%). Its still not fixed, so I am contacting dealership and Ford tomorrow in hopes of one day getting this resolved...HELP!!!

  • Mountaineer Rating - 2002 Mercury Mountaineer
    By -

    Most enjoyable vehicle we have owned in years. I like the styling as opposed to the 2002 Explorer. I also like the fact that not everyone has a Mountaineer. Ours is equiped with the 4.0 6cyl. We have made a couple of trips and averaged 20.1 MPG. I commute 32.0 miles to work a day and average in town/commute driving I get 18.5 to 18.7 MPG at 65 MPH. Comfort and Convience are all excellent. AWD makes for some different handling but when the snow arrives this year it should prove itself valuable.

  • Great until you hit 80k - 2002 Mercury Mountaineer
    By -

    We bought this car in 2004. I loved it for the first two years or so. The it started falling apart. We have had to replace the transmission and it needs to be replaced again now. Other replacements, power window motor and switch pannel, window regulator, back glass, wheel barings, door hinges, cracked running boards, air compressor, power seat motor and various timing belts. I have just been advised the ABS is out and my rear end may or may not be going out and the doors no longer lock. Interior wise its comfy. Some of the paint on the steering wheel and radio started peeling and flaking at about 50k. Basically this car is junk. We are trading in tomorrow on a Land Rover LR3 tomorrow

  • Love My Mountaineer - 2002 Mercury Mountaineer
    By -

    I purchased my Mountaineer in 2005 with approximately 25,000 miles on it. I recently took it to the dealership and had a new hose put on it. It is and has been the most comfortable and reliable car that I have ever owned. I love it.

Mercury Mountaineer Reviews By Year:
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