Complaints by model year
| Year | Complaints | vs. typical* | Recalls | Top problem | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 | 11 | 1.7× | 1 | Transmission | Average |
| 1999 | 6 | typical | — | Wheel & Tire | Average |
| 1998 | 5 | −25% | 1 | Wheel & Tire | Average |
| 1997 | 7 | typical | — | Acceleration | Average |
* Complaints compared with the median Mountaineer year at the same age, so new and old years are judged fairly. How this works.
Most common Ford Mountaineer problems
Latest Ford Mountaineer recalls
Vehicle speed control
On certain trucks equipped with speed control, gasoline or natural gas engines, the speed control deactivation switch May overheat.
Remedy: Dealers will install a fused wiring harness into the speed control system free of charge. The recall began on August 7, 2006. Owners May contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. (note: also see recalls 05V017 and 05V388)
Structure › Body › Hatchback/liftgate › Hinge and attachments
On certain sport utility vehicles, the liftgate glass strut May become disengaged or the hinge May fracture allowing the glass to fall and possibly break.
Remedy: Dealers will have the liftgate glass strut brackets and glass hinges replaced. For the vehicles built from August 1, 2000 through March 3, 2002, the dealers will replace the hinges and liftgate strut bracket.
Frequently asked questions
What years of the Ford Mountaineer should you avoid?
None of the Ford Mountaineer years has an unusually high number of complaints compared with the others at the same age.
What is the best year for the Ford Mountaineer?
1998 has the fewest complaints compared with other Mountaineer years at the same age. Newer years can look better simply because fewer complaints have come in yet, so we compare like with like.
What are the most common Ford Mountaineer problems?
Across all years, owners report the most problems with the speed control & acceleration (6), wheels & tires (5) and transmission & drivetrain (5). Acceleration complaints peak in the 1997 model year.
How many recalls has the Ford Mountaineer had?
2 recalls across 1997–2002. The model year with the most is 1998.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.