Transmission at 115,000.
Faded headlight lenses.
Interior plastic pieces cracked.
Interior pillar covers came loose.
Electric seat adjustment mechanisms broke.
Electric window switch failed.
Very reliable car. Just turned 192,000.
The four cylinder Mystique was underpowered.
The engine always ran warmer than normal, but never overheated.
Backseat comfort negligible.
Shade tree oil changes were difficult because of the location of the oil filter behind the right front wheel. The wheel had to be removed in order to get to the filter.
The rear suspension got real noisy, but the suspension was sound and good on tire wear.
It was very responsive in steering and had a good tight turning radius.
Ford/Mercury was good about recalls.
Forward and side visibility was fantastic.
The trunk was very roomy.
Nothing major to say, just want to point out that you don't have to remove the wheel to change the oil filter. I would suggest looking for a route from behind the passenger side control arm, or the trans-axle, it will be a tight fit, but unless I'm mistaken this is the easiest way. There may or may not be a plastic shield/guard you have to bend.
Les.
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