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Mercury Montego Problems

The Mercury Montego was a mid-size sedan produced from 2005-2007, sharing its platform with the Ford Five Hundred. With 718 complaints and no reported deaths, it offered spacious accommodations and available all-wheel drive. The 2005 first model year had the most issues, while the nameplate has a complicated history stretching back to the 1970s. As a discontinued Mercury model, finding parts and knowledgeable service may require some effort.

718
Total Complaints
1
Total Recalls
5
Model Years
0
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2005
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1975 2004

Common Problem Categories

Power Train 174
Vehicle Speed Control 102
Electrical System 84
Engine 60
Service Brakes, Hydraulic 54

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2007 88 1 2 0 Average
2006 240 0 22 2 Below Average
2005 380 0 24 6 Avoid
2004 8 0 0 0 Good
1975 2 0 0 0 Good

Mercury Montego Years to Avoid

The 2005 Montego accumulated the most complaints as the first model year of this generation. Common issues include CVT transmission problems, throttle body failures, and power steering concerns. The CVT in particular can be expensive to repair or replace, making 2005 models risky purchases.

Best Mercury Montego Years

The 1975 Montego represents the best of the classic era, while for the modern generation, the 2007 model year is preferable due to refinements made during its short production run. If buying the 2005-2007 generation, prioritize examples with the conventional automatic transmission over the CVT.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mercury Montego reliable?

The 2005-2007 Montego has mixed reliability. Models equipped with the CVT transmission have more reported problems than those with the conventional automatic. The 3.0L Duratec V6 engine is generally reliable, but transmission issues can lead to expensive repairs.

What transmission problems does the Montego have?

The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) option is the primary concern. Symptoms include shuddering, hesitation, and complete failure. Replacement costs can exceed the vehicle's value. The six-speed automatic is more reliable but less common.

Are Mercury Montego parts available?

Parts availability is reasonable because the Montego shares most components with the Ford Five Hundred and Ford Freestyle. Many parts are interchangeable, and aftermarket support exists for common wear items.