1996 Mercury Marquis
Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1981 | 0 |
| 1982 | 1 |
| 1983 | 1 |
| 1984 | 10 |
| 1985 | 5 |
| 1986 | 4 |
| 1987 | 4 |
| 1988 | 9 |
| 1989 | 10 |
| 1990 | 6 |
| 1991 | 9 |
| 1992 | 24 |
| 1993 | 23 |
| 1994 | 30 |
| 1995 | 20 |
| 1996 | 31 |
| 1997 | 53 |
| 1998 | 29 |
| 1999 | 24 |
| 2000 | 23 |
| 2001 | 26 |
| 2002 | 11 |
| 2003 | 33 |
| 2004 | 12 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
35% of complaints: engine and engine cooling — 11 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing engine and manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe.
FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD DEFECTIVE.CAUSED STEAM AND VAPORIZED ANTI-FREEZE TO ENTER THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT.
NHTSA ODI report, 20040415
VEHICLE FIRE DUE TO POSSIBLE DEFECT. *MR *SCC *JB
NHTSA ODI report, 20031022
19% of complaints: service brakes — 6 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic.
13% of complaints: visibility — 4 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing power window devices and controls and windshield.
10% of complaints: suspension — 3 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing front.
Show complaint excerpts
FRONT SUSPENSION BROKE WHILE DRIVING, COULD NOT STEER CAR.*AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19960912
10% of complaints: steering — 3 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic power assist system and steering wheel/handle bar.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1996 Mercury Marquis — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (11 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (6 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for visibility issues (4 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1996 Mercury Marquis reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1996 Mercury Marquis?
The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 35% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1996 Mercury Marquis have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.