2005 Mercury Mountaineer Problems
- Complaints
- 82filed with NHTSA
- Median mileage
- 56,750miles, 69 complaints with mileage
- Recalls
- 0campaigns on record
- Trend
- RisingComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% higher than in the 3 years before.
- NHTSA crash rating
- —overall rating starts with 2011 models
- EPA fuel economy
- 15 mpgcombined, 4.0L 6-cyl 2WD · 13 city / 19 hwy
Sources: NHTSA records for the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer (complaints, recalls, investigations), NHTSA crash tests, EPA fuel economy. Report an error
What owners report
Owners of this model year most often describe a cracked plastic rear liftgate panel around the Mercury emblem and, separately, automatic transmission problems such as harsh or delayed reverse engagement and jerking shifts. A recurring theme in the complaints is the engine shutting off while driving with cruise control engaged, typically at lower speeds or on a slight downgrade.
- Body and structure
Cracked rear liftgate panel around the emblem
- 21 complaints (26%)
- median 73,500 mi at 7.5 yrs old (20 state mileage)
- filed 2009–2018
Complaints describe a crack in the plastic panel below the rear window that runs through or around the Mercury emblem, sometimes spreading down the tailgate; several owners say other Mountaineers and Explorers show the same crack. In some reports the cracked panel led to a hinge or bolt failure and the rear glass hanging loose or breaking, and some owners noted the wiper area freezing or sharp edges when opening the gate. Most say the vehicle was not in a collision, and dealers generally declined warranty repair or quoted a paid fix; one dealer diagnosis involved adding adhesive to reinforce the panel. Appears from roughly 30,000 to 130,000 miles, with many reports in the 35,000-75,000 mile range.
What to check: Open and close the liftgate and look closely around the emblem and under the rear window for cracks, and check the glass hinges and mounting bolts for rust or looseness. Ask whether any panel reinforcement or adhesive repair has been done.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“When I closed my hatch on the back of my Mercury Mountaineer that there was a crack. Also I have noticed it on other vehicle's like mine and ford explorer's. And I don't think it should that especially on two different kinds of vehicles and on alot of them almost everyone I get behind is like that.”
NHTSA complaint #10664014, filed 2014-12, 121,000 miles“My 2005 Mercury Mountaineer developed a crack in the rear lift gate right around the Mercury emblem. I have seen many more with the same problem, both ford explorers and the Mercury Mountaineer. When I took it to the dealer they were like too bad so sad it is out of warranty even though I bought a extended warranty from ford. I have been looking around now and I see lots of them with the same problem. …”
NHTSA complaint #10269589, filed 2009-05, 40,000 miles - Vehicle speed control
Engine shuts off while using cruise control
- 17 complaints (21%)
- median 83,000 mi at 8.1 yrs old (16 state mileage)
- 2 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2005–2018
Complaints describe the engine cutting out with a warning chime and dash lights while cruise control is set, often around 30-50 mph on a slight downgrade or after decelerating, leaving the driver without power steering or power brakes until the vehicle is shifted to neutral and restarted. Several owners were told the dealer could not duplicate the problem or found no stored codes. A smaller number of separate reports describe the engine dying without cruise control in use. Reported from very low mileage up to about 140,000 miles, with many cases at highway and around-town speeds under 50 mph.
What to check: Test cruise control at moderate speed on a gentle downhill stretch if it is safe to do so, and ask whether the throttle body or idle relearn service bulletins were ever applied. Have any stored diagnostic codes read before buying.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“As I was driving the vehicle just died; all the warning lights came on and as I was losing speed I pulled over to curb the best I could. Restarted car and it seemed to run fine but happened again 20 minutes later. This has also happened 2 other times within the last 10,000 miles of driving.”
NHTSA complaint #10649043, filed 2014-10, 141,000 miles“The engine has shut off twice while driving using cruise control. The first time I was able to get to the side of road and restart it.. The second time I put it in neutral and restarted it while moving. I am afraid to use the cruise control now - if there had been oncoming traffic we would've had a head-on collision as I was on a corner and went into the other lane. When the engine shuts off, the power steering is gone leaving it very difficult to turn.”
NHTSA complaint #10609479, filed 2014-07, 105,000 miles - Transmission and drivetrain
Harsh or delayed reverse, jerking shifts
- 15 complaints (18%)
- median 46,500 mi at 5.1 yrs old (12 state mileage)
- 1 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2006–2023
Owners describe a hard thump or long hesitation when shifting into reverse, occasional slipping in forward gears, and jerking or jumping during acceleration and stops; some report the overdrive light flashing and the vehicle dropping out of gear on the highway until it is shut off and restarted. Several were told the transmission needed rebuilding, and in one report metal debris was found in the pan. Others say the dealer found no drive-train coverage and left the repair to the owner. Most often reported between about 17,000 and 75,000 miles, though some reports come in past 100,000 miles.
What to check: Drive the vehicle from cold and shift into reverse several times, feeling for a delay or hard engagement, and check for jerking on light acceleration. Ask whether the transmission fluid service bulletin work or any rebuild has been done.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Mercury Mountaineer 05 with less then 60,000 miles, I was told that there was wearing in the valve case from automatic transmission which causes transmission to skip and shift hard and pop forward, I need to have it repaired , transmission place states this is a known problem which has a technical advisory about it....what's my recourse.”
NHTSA complaint #10266473, filed 2009-04, 20,000 miles“Two problems...first whenever I shift into reverse there is a hesitation and it takes longer than it should to reverse. Im also experiencing a jerk before I come to a complete stop. Second ..the back of my lift has a crack from the bottom of the window to the Mercury symbol and then it continues down under the symbol. I've done some research and there re lots of others with these same issues. I only have about 70000 miles on it.”
NHTSA complaint #10496362, filed 2013-02, 69,000 miles
Buying note. Check the liftgate panel and rear glass closely, test the transmission from cold including reverse, and try the cruise control on a downgrade; service records showing transmission fluid and throttle body updates are worth asking about. Paint and climate-control repairs are usually minor but common enough to inspect before purchase.
Summary written with AI from a sample of 60 NHTSA complaints for this model year (picked at random, with complaints that state a mileage and recent ones taken first), then checked automatically against the source records. Where a problem shows a complaint count, every complaint for this model year was matched with fixed keyword rules (written with AI and tested against the sample), and the mileage, age and repair figures are calculated from those complaints; owners' figures are as stated, not verified. Other counts refer to the sample. The excerpts come from NHTSA's public complaint records and are unverified; capitalisation is normalised, NHTSA staff notes are removed, and shortened text ends with “…”. Something wrong? Request a correction.
NHTSA recorded 82 consumer complaints for the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer. 69 of the complaints include a mileage, and 48% of those were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the median is 56,750 miles. Of all complaints, 6 involved a crash, 1 an injury, according to the filers. NHTSA lists 0 recall campaigns and 46 technical service bulletins for this model year.
Not compared (before 2008). Model years 2008–2023 of the same vehicle that have at least 25 complaints are compared, and a model needs at least 3 of them.
Which parts are reported most
Complaints can name more than one part, so the counts add up to more than the total. Select a part to see its complaints, recalls and bulletins.
- Body and structure26 32%
- Vehicle speed control13 16%
- Engine7 8.5%
- Brakes5 6.1%
- Electrical system5 6.1%
- Engine cooling5 6.1%
- Steering5 6.1%
- Other or unknown4 4.9%
Also reported: Air bags (3), Fuel system (3), Equipment (2), Electronic stability control (1), Seats (1), Suspension (1), Tires (1), Wheels (1).
Example complaints
Body and structure: “There is a crack in the lift gate which occurred over time for no apparent reason as there was no accident or collision of any kind with my Mountaineer. I understand that there have been other complaints on this. The Mercury dealership where I purchased and serviced my Mountaineer are out of business.”
NHTSA complaint #10572695, filed 2014-03, 90,000 milesTransmission and drivetrain: “Had warped rotors within first 2,000 miles. Ford would only ground rotors but dealer replaced them at no charge. I have also experienced a loud, thumping noise when I am making a sharp turn to left or right at a very low speed. Also, often when putting car in reverse many times there is a large thump and vehicle appears to shift hard. Finally, when stopped on a steep hill, after removing foot from brake, vehicle rolls backwards many times.”
NHTSA complaint #10150251, filed 2006-02, 100 milesVehicle speed control: “I purchased a used 2005 Mercury Mountaineer last month, with 135,400 miles, while using cruise control and traveling approximately 35 MPH, the road went from level to a very slight downgrade. The car then just shut off after audible warning bell was heard. Noticed dashboard lights were all lit and battery gage was normal. I lost power steering, brakes and oil pressure. After pulling safely to the side of the road, I rested for 30 seconds before restarting the car, which subsequently operated normally. …”
NHTSA complaint #11150051, filed 2018-11, 136,200 milesEngine: “My transmission went only after 1 year of having car, spend ofver $3,000 for a new transmission and now the transmission is going again. This is unacceptable. I don't even drive that much.”
NHTSA complaint #10743667, filed 2015-07, 41,000 milesMileage when problems were reported
48% of the 69 complaints with a mileage were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the middle half falls between 34,177 and 98,581 miles.
Complaints by year filed
Trend: rising. Complaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% higher than in the 3 years before.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA's 5-Star Safety Ratings for the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer. Frontal results are shown driver / passenger; rollover shows the star rating and NHTSA's estimated risk of rolling over in a single-vehicle crash.
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Side | Side pole | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mountaineer · sedan | not rated | 4 / 5 | — | — | — |
Ratings before the 2011 model year come from an older, less demanding test and are not comparable with ratings for 2011 and later.
Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (5-Star Safety Ratings), nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Fuel economy and running cost
EPA ratings for each 2005 Mercury Mountaineer version. Annual fuel cost is the EPA's estimate at its current fuel prices for 15,000 miles a year (55% city driving).
| Version | Engine | Transmission | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mountaineer 2WD | 4.0L 6-cyl | 5-speed automatic | 14 | 19 | 16 | $4,200 |
| Mountaineer 2WD | 4.0L 6-cyl | 5-speed automatic | 13 | 19 | 15 | $4,450 |
| Mountaineer 2WD | 4.6L 8-cyl | 5-speed automatic | 13 | 18 | 15 | $4,450 |
| Mountaineer 4WD | 4.0L 6-cyl | 5-speed automatic | 13 | 17 | 14 | $4,800 |
| Mountaineer 4WD | 4.6L 8-cyl | 5-speed automatic | 13 | 17 | 14 | $4,800 |
| Mountaineer FFV 2WD | 4.0L 6-cyl · flex-fuel | 5-speed automatic | 13 | 19 | 15 | $4,450 |
| Mountaineer FFV 4WD | 4.0L 6-cyl · flex-fuel | 5-speed automatic | 13 | 17 | 14 | $4,800 |
Source: U.S. EPA and Department of Energy, fueleconomy.gov. Ratings are for comparing vehicles; real-world mileage varies with driving and conditions.
Recalls and investigations
NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer in the data used here. A recall can apply to some vehicles of a model year and not others, so check a specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Technical service bulletins
TSBs are manufacturer notes to dealers about known repair procedures. They are not recalls and do not by themselves mean a vehicle has a fault. 46 on record; the latest 10 are shown.
- 10156863Feb 7, 2019Body and structure, Equipment. Some 2000 and newer Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles equipped with aluminum body panels may exhibit corrosion concerns appearing as bubbled and/or peeling paint with or without accompanying white…
- 10155551Feb 7, 2019Body and structure. Some 2000 and newer Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles equipped with aluminum body panels may exhibit corrosion concerns appearing as bubbled and/or peeling paint with or without accompanying white…
- 10109070Sep 21, 2016Engine cooling, Engine. The Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) manual has been revised for diagnosing electronic throttle bodies (ETBs). The ETC_ACT and ETC_DSD PIDs should not used to diagnose possible ETB…
- 10045340Jul 10, 2012Engine. Ford/lincoln/mercury: if battery was disconnected or dead, vehicles/trucks may experience hard starts and engine idle rpm fluctuation and exhibit diagnostic trouble codes (dtcs) p0505, p0506, p2111…
- 10028736May 1, 2009Transmission and drivetrain. Ford: some vehicles may exhibit oil separation from the internal lube found in the unitized cartridge seal. Oil separation appears to be and is often misdiagnosed, as an axle lube leak.
- 10023943Oct 1, 2007Engine cooling. Some 1997-2008 vehicles equipped with a 4.6l 2v, 5.4l 2v, or 6.8l 2v engine--spark plug thread repair procedure--not covered under new vehicle limited warranty. *nj this includes f-53 motorhome…
- 10021052Feb 27, 2007Fuel system. Mil on with dtc p0463 or erratic fuel gauge operation.
- 10021038Feb 26, 2007Electrical system. Mil on with p0463 or erratic fuel gauge operation.
- 10019384Jan 1, 2006Tires. Low tire indicator on - tpms system sensor wake up.
- 10019379Jan 1, 2006Fuel system. Malfunction indicator lamp on with pcm diagnostic trouble code p0463 and/or ic diagnostic trouble code b1201 - fuel gauge drops to empty or slow to update after refueling.
Other model years of the Mercury Mountaineer
| Year | Complaints | Median mi | Recalls | Crash ★ | MPG | Score (50 = typical) | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 13 | 38,660 | 1 | — | 17 | — | Not enough data |
| 2009 | 6 | 47,000 | 0 | — | 17 | — | Not enough data |
| 2008 | 96 | 65,800 | 1 | — | 16 | Not compared (fewer than 3 comparable model years) | Falling |
| 2007 | 81 | 75,000 | 0 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Rising |
| 2006 | 117 | 58,849 | 1 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2005 | 82 | 56,750 | 0 | — | 15 | Not compared (before 2008) | Rising |
| 2004 | 210 | 68,000 | 0 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2003 | 152 | 78,784 | 0 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2002 | 372 | 75,000 | 2 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2001 | 22 | 75,000 | 3 | — | 17 | — | Stable |
| 2000 | 123 | 70,000 | 6 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Rising |
| 1999 | 151 | 70,000 | 7 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1998 | 236 | 85,000 | 5 | — | 16 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1997 | 328 | 124,000 | 6 | — | 14 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
All Mercury Mountaineer model years · Best and worst years by complaints
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common problems with the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer?
Owners of this model year most often describe a cracked plastic rear liftgate panel around the Mercury emblem and, separately, automatic transmission problems such as harsh or delayed reverse engagement and jerking shifts. The issues reported most often: Cracked rear liftgate panel around the emblem; Engine shuts off while using cruise control; Harsh or delayed reverse, jerking shifts.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer have?
NHTSA recorded 82 consumer complaints for the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer as of Oct 29, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
What part of the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer is reported most often?
Body and structure is named most often, in 26 complaints (32% of the total), followed by transmission and drivetrain with 19.
Has the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer been recalled?
NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for this model year in the data used here. To check a specific vehicle, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What gas mileage does the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer get?
The EPA rates the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer (Mountaineer 2WD, 4.0L 6-cyl) at 15 mpg combined, 13 city and 19 highway, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $4,450 at 15,000 miles a year. Other engine and drive versions are rated differently.
At what mileage are problems with the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer reported?
Among the 69 complaints that include a mileage, the median is 56,750 miles and the middle half falls between 34,177 and 98,581 miles; 48% were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles.
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 29, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate. Crash ratings are from NHTSA’s New Car Assessment Program. Fuel economy is from the EPA and DOE (fueleconomy.gov).
Complaint counts come from NHTSA’s public complaint database; we count each complaint once. The source records for this vehicle are on nhtsa.gov. Scores and trends are our own summaries of that data, described in the methodology. This page is not legal, safety or repair advice: for a specific vehicle, check its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask a qualified mechanic. See an error? Tell us.