1997 Mercury Sable LS review from North America
"Outstanding, affordable car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Head gasket replaced at 60,000 miles.
Rotor problems at 60,000 miles.
Dome light and door ajar lamp stay on.
Service Engine Soon light comes on for no reason.
General comments?
Aside from the gasket and rotor problems, I've only predominantly had electrical problems. I can deal with that as long as the car gets me where I need to go.
Spraying the door hinges did not help with the dome light problem. I just pulled out the dome light and floor bulbs, now the door ajar light works correctly.
I think the Service Engine Soon light is fluke this time. The first time, with the head gasket problem, it would blink while the car was stammering then stay on. Now it just pops on and the car is performing just fine.
The problems I mentioned above pale in comparison to all of the problems I had with my '86 Taurus.
I love my Sable. It's very comfortable, powerful, and handles well in the snow.
Impressive sound system (MACH).
I only gave it a 9 for performance because while it is fast and powerful once you get moving, I would like more power "off the line".
The paint quality is tremendous, and the chrome factory rims shine like aftermarket rims. As a matter of fact, they reflect on the concrete both day and night!
Recommended reviews
| So far it is decent |
| The Mercury Sable is a MONEY PIT, buy a Toyota or Honda to get reliability |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0L 24 valve V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 30000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 94500 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Taurus |
| Date of Entry | 20th February, 2003 |