The 2005-2008 Mercury Milan, Mercury’s mid-sized sedan, was part of Ford’s attempt to provide a well-rounded, affordable, and reliable option for American families. Sharing a platform with the Ford Fusion, the Milan offered a comfortable ride, an upscale interior, and multiple powertrain options, appealing to drivers looking for a reliable daily driver. However, like any vehicle, the Mercury Milan has a set of known issues that potential buyers should be aware of to make an informed purchase. This article delves into the common problems associated with the 2005-2008 Mercury Milan, offers tips on what to look for when buying, and provides a breakdown of typical ownership costs.
Common Problems with the 2005-2008 Mercury Milan
1. Transmission Issues
Transmission problems are one of the most commonly reported issues with the Mercury Milan, especially in the models equipped with the 6-speed automatic transmission. Some owners experience transmission slipping, harsh shifting, and delayed gear engagement, which can worsen with higher mileage. In severe cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary. Many of these problems stem from internal component wear and insufficient or degraded transmission fluid, which can lead to overheating and mechanical failure.
Signs and Prevention: Symptoms of transmission issues include a noticeable delay when shifting gears, a shudder or jerk during acceleration, and occasional slipping when the car is under load. It’s essential to check the transmission fluid levels regularly and have the fluid replaced per the manufacturer’s recommendations to prolong the transmission’s life.
2. Power Steering Fluid Leaks and Failure
Another common issue in the 2005-2008 Mercury Milan involves the power steering system, particularly power steering fluid leaks. Over time, components in the power steering system, such as hoses and seals, may degrade and cause fluid leakage. This can lead to reduced steering performance, increased steering effort, and potential damage to other steering components if not addressed promptly.
Signs and Prevention: Early signs of a power steering issue include difficulty turning the steering wheel, whining noises when turning, and low power steering fluid levels. Regularly inspect under the hood and check for fluid leakage around the power steering reservoir and pump. If you notice a decline in steering responsiveness, it’s wise to have a mechanic inspect the system to prevent more severe damage.
3. Air Conditioning and Heater Problems
Some Mercury Milan owners report intermittent issues with the air conditioning and heating system. The blower motor resistor, responsible for controlling fan speed, may fail, leading to inconsistent airflow or complete failure of the AC and heater blower. Additionally, the blend door actuator, which regulates the temperature of air inside the cabin, may malfunction, resulting in the inability to control the climate temperature effectively.
Signs and Prevention: Symptoms include weak airflow, only one fan speed working, or the AC blowing hot air instead of cold. A thorough test of the air conditioning and heating system, including checking for abnormal noises when adjusting temperature or fan speed, is recommended when purchasing a used Milan. Replacing a blower motor resistor or blend door actuator is relatively affordable, but it’s worth verifying the HVAC system’s functionality during a test drive.
4. Engine Misfire and Ignition Coil Problems
Many Milan owners have reported engine misfires, especially in the models equipped with the 2.3L I4 engine. These misfires are often due to failing ignition coils, which can deteriorate over time. Ignition coils are responsible for providing the spark needed to ignite the fuel-air mixture, so when they fail, the engine experiences a loss of power, rough idling, and even stalling. While ignition coils are a routine wear item, frequent failure can be frustrating and costly.
Signs and Prevention: If you notice a rough idle, hesitation under acceleration, or a flashing check engine light, it could be an ignition coil problem. Having a mechanic check for fault codes related to engine misfires can pinpoint which coils might need replacing. Replacing all ignition coils and spark plugs as preventative maintenance can reduce the likelihood of misfires and prolong engine life.
5. Electronic Issues and Instrument Cluster Failure
The 2005-2008 Mercury Milan is known to have occasional electrical issues, including malfunctioning dashboard lights, intermittent gauge readings, and erratic instrument cluster behavior. The instrument cluster can fail due to faulty connections or circuit board issues, resulting in inaccurate or completely blank readings for fuel level, speed, and engine temperature. Although not overly common, these issues can be inconvenient and may require repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
Signs and Prevention: Signs of electronic issues include flickering or non-responsive dashboard lights, erratic readings, or an entire gauge cluster that intermittently stops working. Before purchasing, verify that all dashboard indicators are functioning properly and pay close attention to any warning lights. If issues arise, a mechanic with expertise in electrical systems can diagnose and potentially resolve minor problems before they escalate.
6. Suspension Wear and Noisy Ride
With time, the suspension system in the Milan can experience wear and tear, especially the control arms, bushings, and sway bar links. Worn suspension parts may lead to a bumpy, noisy ride and poor handling, particularly on rough roads. This is a common issue as the vehicle ages and is primarily due to the typical wear from daily driving and occasional rough road conditions.
Signs and Prevention: Symptoms of worn suspension include clunking noises when going over bumps, uneven tire wear, and a rougher ride. Inspecting the suspension system’s components, especially in a high-mileage Milan, is essential. Additionally, periodic alignment checks and balancing tires can help prevent premature suspension wear.
7. Interior Quality and Premature Wear
Although the Mercury Milan is generally well-regarded for comfort, some owners report premature wear of interior materials, especially the seats and dashboard. Leather or cloth upholstery may develop cracks or tears, and plastic trim pieces may become loose over time. This is more of an aesthetic concern, but it can impact the car’s resale value and overall interior quality.
Signs and Prevention: Inspect the seats, dashboard, and other interior components closely for signs of wear or damage. Proper maintenance, like cleaning and conditioning leather seats, can help slow down wear. Replacement seat covers or mats are available for worn interiors but can add to ownership costs if needed frequently.
Buying Tips: What to Look for in a 2005-2008 Mercury Milan
- Check for Transmission Health: The automatic transmission is prone to issues, so test the vehicle on a variety of roads to detect any slipping or hesitation. Consider getting a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic to assess transmission health.
- Look for Power Steering and Suspension Condition: Inspect for fluid leaks and test the steering responsiveness. Noisy or clunky suspension components can indicate wear that may require replacement.
- Verify HVAC and Electronics Functionality: Check that the air conditioning, heating, and all electrical components are working correctly, as HVAC repairs can add up if multiple parts are affected.
- Review Service Records: Maintenance records, especially for regular oil changes, transmission service, and spark plug or ignition coil replacements, can indicate the car has been well cared for.
Cost of Ownership: Is the 2005-2008 Mercury Milan Expensive to Own?
Fuel Economy
The Mercury Milan delivers reasonable fuel efficiency for its class, especially with the 2.3L 4-cylinder engine. Expect around 20-24 MPG in mixed driving conditions, which is relatively economical compared to larger sedans of the era. The V6 variant offers more power but sacrifices some fuel economy, so for those prioritizing lower fuel costs, the 4-cylinder might be a better choice.
Maintenance and Repair Costs
Routine maintenance costs for the Milan are generally affordable, especially if you handle oil changes, tire rotations, and basic fluid checks regularly. However, more significant repairs such as transmission replacement, power steering repairs, and suspension work can be costly, particularly if the car hasn’t been well maintained over the years. Opting for a used model with a clean maintenance record can reduce unexpected repair costs.
Insurance and Depreciation
The Mercury Milan is typically inexpensive to insure, as it falls into a lower insurance category for mid-sized sedans. The car’s value has depreciated considerably since its release, making it affordable on the used market, though this also means resale values are generally low.
Potential Extra Costs
Owners should anticipate occasional expenses for things like replacing ignition coils, suspension components, and addressing minor interior wear. Investing in regular inspections and staying on top of small repairs can help reduce the likelihood of major, unexpected costs.
Conclusion
The 2005-2008 Mercury Milan offers a comfortable ride and solid practicality, but it does have a few commonly reported issues. From transmission troubles and power steering leaks to ignition misfires and electronic quirks, understanding these potential problems can help buyers make a more informed decision. With proper maintenance and attention to known issues, the Milan can still provide reliable service for those seeking a budget-friendly, mid-sized sedan.