1996 Mercury Villager review from North America

Transmission Positioning Sensor.

Had intermittent problems with this and sometimes car would not start. Very frustrating, but problem was solved. Part was relatively cheap ($45.00 USD dealer cost-aftermarket cost probably cheaper). Labor to find the problem was horrendous ($1000 USD and approx. 3 weeks in the shop). Probably dealer was not as smart as I would have liked.

Fuel Pump motor replaced at 160,000 miles.

Ball Joints and tie rods replaced on both sides. (once at 45,000 miles and again at 160,000 miles.

CV axles replaced at 160,000 miles.

I bought the car with 22,000 miles, which was a 2 year lease turn in. Paid $16,000 USD for it in 1998. Other than the above minor problems, the car has been very reliable and still going strong. I have 182,000 miles on it and feel that it is good for 250,000 miles (Friend has one with 242,000 miles with no major mechanical problems). Would definitely buy another. All the parts with the exception of the TPS are relatively cheap and easy to replace. Paint looks very good and brand new other than the small rust spots on the bottom of the car. The car has been in driven in every season with heavy use during highly salted Michigan roads and the rust is minimal. Car has been always stored outside and only waxed about 5 times. I could not have asked for a better or more reliable auto. By the way, I own a store and this vehicle has been used to haul many heavy items (cases of drinks) and van was packed full. Still van drives strong.