New owner needs your help and opinions.

[Shora]

Hi everybody,

<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p> </o:p>

I’m new to both this site and as an MM owner. I have been saving for an MM since I first read about them in one of my car magazine subscriptions in 2002. I come from a lower middle class family so my last car was 12 yrs. old. Having just graduated college, I used all of my savings and took a loan to purchase a beautiful black 2003 Marauder with only 14,500 miles from a very nice couple (no kids). They gave me every single paper that the car came with and documents off all service records (oil changes). I promise that the car still has the brand new smell and I don’t think that the back seats were ever used. Anyway, as you can tell, this car is way out league for a poor young man like me but life is short and I LOVE this car. I plan on keeping it even when I start my career and earn enough money for a newer car. I plan on keeping this black beauty as a second car for as long as possible. I have changed the oil, filters, and even brakes/ rotors on my last car but that is about as far as I can do on my own. I am asking for all of your help in maintaining my dream car.

<o:p> </o:p>

1) Oil: I change it every 3,000 miles/ 3 months period. However, how often do you guys recommend that I change the transmission fluid? Should I follow the recommendation (30,000 miles) or do it before? The car has only 15,000 miles on it now but it is still over 2 years old. Should I change the fluid? Fluid and filter? Flush? Leave it alone until the recommended 30,000 mile mark?

<o:p> </o:p>

2) Warranty: About to expire in June (low miles but the car was one of the first ones sold). Should I pay the large amount of money (was quoted to over $3,000 for premium package) for it or just hope for the best?

<o:p> </o:p>

3) Wheel locks: Which is the best brand? Where can I get them?

<o:p> </o:p>

4) Spoiler: As a gift, I received a brand new factory spoiler for my MM. However, I found out that drilling is required for installation so I haven’t even opened the box. Drilling into this beautiful machine is worse than going to the dentist. Should I install it? What do you guys think?

<o:p> </o:p>

5) Tints: Since car is 100% stock it doesn’t have tints. To be honest, I could live without them but I really want to protect the interior and leather from the “<?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" /><st1:City><st1:place>Miami</st1:place></st1:City> Sun” here in <st1:place>South Florida</st1:place>. Will tints even help to protect the interior? If so, what percentage should I get without going too dark?

<o:p> </o:p>

If you all could answer as many of the questions above I would be very grateful.

<o:p> </o:p>

Thanks in advance,

Ben

[RoyLPita]

Welcome aboard. Enjoy the site & congrats on getting a nice, low mileage MM.

In my opinion, Go for the Premiumcare policy for over 500+ compoment coverage (there may be better deals for this plan elsewhere).

As for wheel locks, you could get them at your local Ford/Lincoln- Mercury dealer.

Since you change your oil religiously, you should get the oil filter drain piece. This piece is now standard on the 2005 CV & GM and will fit the MM. This will prevent any oil residue from collecting on your power steering rack and crossmember. There is a thread called "oil filter drain" on the site somewhere (PM me, I can get you one for less than $10).

If you know anyone who has a body shop, have them install your spoiler. There are threads here that show the right and wrong way to have your spoiler installed.

As for tint, I recommend it. It will help keep the inside cool and resist fade. Try to find a shop that deals with Llumar film. I've had good luck with this type. You could get what is legal (light on the front sides, dark on the rear sides, and limo on the rear) or other percentages that may not be. You be the judge.

I'll leave the trans fluid changes to the other members.

[RF Overlord]

1) how often do you guys recommend that I change the transmission fluid? If you plan to leave the car stock, and you don't tow anything with it, then changing the ATF at 30,000 mile intervals should be fine. However, changing more often is good insurance. Consider installing a new pan with a built-in drain plug (or adding a drain plug to your existing pan). That way you can do a simple drain/refill every 15,000 miles (for example), then do a complete pan-drop & filter change at 30,000. The drain plug makes the job easier and MUCH less messy, so you'll be inclined to do it more often. ;)
3) Wheel locks: Which is the best brand? Where can I get them? McGard. Contact Wes at Innovative Interceptors or Ray "The Dealer" (both are sponsors here).
4) As a gift, I received a brand new factory spoiler for my MM. However, I found out that drilling is required for installation so I haven’t even opened the box. Should I install it? Yes, absolutely. I had the same fear of drilling into my car as you have, but it's a VERY easy job using the installation kit provided...I went REALLY slow and it only took a bit over an hour. I've done 3 more since then for other members.
5) Will tints even help to protect the interior? If so, what percentage should I get without going too dark? Yes, tint WILL help...as far as the percentage allowed, that varies by state. You should check with your DMV to be sure, but most reputable shops that install tint should be aware of the local limits.

[Bradley G]

Welcome shora! and congradulations on the finest car I have ever seen FMC produce(did I say that?).

I did the trans powerflush @ 15K,They(wrenches) don't have to crack open the trans to get all the fluid replaced.No risk of contamination or leak from removeing filter/trans pan.
If you are gonna be embarrasing the locals, with your Black beauty,Get the trans service.It should be a c-note or so.
The dealer is a little strong on the $$ of the ESP(warranty).I would suggest buying the warranty(call around to other dealers), but tailor the time and mileage to your requirements.If you wait till the factory warranty lapses,The costs for "Used car" vs. "New car" warranties are much higher,and require an inspection.I did not tint the windows,I want people to wonder;WTF is that guy so happy?:D
Bradley G

[Rick-n-Miami]

Welcome aboard! I see you're in Miami? Where abouts? Tonight is our monthly meet up at Tower Shoppes. We usually meet around 5-6 for a couple hours and then head out for some food. If you're up for going, let me know and maybe we can caravan up.

[Shaft333]

I did not tint the windows,I want people to wonder;WTF is that guy so happy?:D
Bradley G
Are you sure it's not because we live in a police state that allows no tint on the driver/passenger side windows?

Congrats on your car. It's quite a car for someone that hasn't even started their career.

A warranty is a good idea. The quote you got does seem high. Like some have said, call around... or negotiate.

If the look of the spoiler is your thing - then go with it. To me it's kind of like wearing a baseball cap and a nice suit.

I'm not a fan of wheel locks. The tool to defeat them is about $10 (and works well). To make the locks truly effective you can't keep your key in the car. I don't know how good the Mercury roadside assistance is. They make removing the wheels difficult when you need to (unless you use the aforementioned tool). The sad part.. I have them and I'll keep them on because there is a part of me that does feel that they might be sort of effective. (Sad, aren't I?)

Get tint if it's legal. It looks great on these cars... unless you can't tint your driver/passenger side windows... then it does look like you're a limo driver.

[Bluerauder]

Hi everybody,

<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p> </o:p>

[font=Times New Roman][size=3]I’m new to both this site and as an MM owner. ..."snip".... They gave me every single paper that the car came with and documents off all service records (oil changes).
Hello Shora and Welcome to the MM.Net :welcome: You have come to the right place for answers on the MM. :D I am also on a 3,000 mile oil change schedule.

Hey, did that couple give you the Marauder leather jacket along with all the papers and documentation?? :dunno:

[Tallboy]

Welcome aboard! Glad you're here! Here's my take...


1. Flush the trans.

2. Screw the warranty/service contract. Keep your money in your pocket.

3. IMO The Gorilla wheel lock system is far superior to traditional wheel locks. All five lug nuts get replaced on each wheel with much better looking/higher quality acorn-style lug nuts. 5 locks per wheel [as opposed to one that doesn't match the others] just might convince the would-be-thief to move on.

4. I'm with Shaft333 on the spoiler. I don't like it.

5. Find a reputable tint shop and have a "legal" tint job done. Don't scrimp on the tint. The "Florida" sun will tear your interior up like Rosie O'Donnel on a ham sandwich.

[LordVader]

:beer: Welcome aboard and congrats on buying the MM. My MM is kind of like yours in that I bought mine with about the same mileage as yours and my warranty will run out in November.

1. I am going to wait and do the flush at 30K.

2. Haven't decided yet whether to spring for the warranty (however leaning that way).

3. I have heard that McGard and Gorilla locks, but I think some people have had problems with the Gorilla types (shorties vs long).

4. If someone hit me up with a spoiler I would go ahead and have it installed by either the dealer or a reputable body shop.

5. I'm here in Texas and with you in Florida, you will need the tint. There is a thread on this site that has the tint values and regs by state. I have 38% on my front side windows and 17% on my rear and side windows. I had 17% all the way around originally and didn't think I would like it, but when I registered it here in Texas and found out I would have to change the front windows I was a little peeved. But with the darker rears it still works and keeps the damaging sun off my leather seats.

[wsmylie]

Welcome shora and congratulations on the MM. Did this older couple that sold the car happen to live in the Davie/Hollywood area?? There is/was an older couple with an immaculate early 03 that I used to see occasionally but havn't seen around for a several months now. I spoke to them a couple of times and they told me that the car was garage kept and generally only driven to go out to breakfast on Sundays. Was thinking this might be the one you purchased. Hope to see you at the Tower Shops. BILL

[fastblackmerc]

Hi everybody,

<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p> </o:p>

I’m new to both this site and as an MM owner. I have been saving for an MM since I first read about them in one of my car magazine subscriptions in 2002. I come from a lower middle class family so my last car was 12 yrs. old. Having just graduated college, I used all of my savings and took a loan to purchase a beautiful black 2003 Marauder with only 14,500 miles from a very nice couple (no kids). They gave me every single paper that the car came with and documents off all service records (oil changes). I promise that the car still has the brand new smell and I don’t think that the back seats were ever used. Anyway, as you can tell, this car is way out league for a poor young man like me but life is short and I LOVE this car. I plan on keeping it even when I start my career and earn enough money for a newer car. I plan on keeping this black beauty as a second car for as long as possible. I have changed the oil, filters, and even brakes/ rotors on my last car but that is about as far as I can do on my own. I am asking for all of your help in maintaining my dream car.

<o:p> </o:p>

1) Oil: I change it every 3,000 miles/ 3 months period. However, how often do you guys recommend that I change the transmission fluid? Should I follow the recommendation (30,000 miles) or do it before? The car has only 15,000 miles on it now but it is still over 2 years old. Should I change the fluid? Fluid and filter? Flush? Leave it alone until the recommended 30,000 mile mark?

<o:p> </o:p>

2) Warranty: About to expire in June (low miles but the car was one of the first ones sold). Should I pay the large amount of money (was quoted to over $3,000 for premium package) for it or just hope for the best?

<o:p> </o:p>

3) Wheel locks: Which is the best brand? Where can I get them?

<o:p> </o:p>

4) Spoiler: As a gift, I received a brand new factory spoiler for my MM. However, I found out that drilling is required for installation so I haven’t even opened the box. Drilling into this beautiful machine is worse than going to the dentist. Should I install it? What do you guys think?

<o:p> </o:p>

5) Tints: Since car is 100% stock it doesn’t have tints. To be honest, I could live without them but I really want to protect the interior and leather from the “<?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" /><st1:City><st1:place>Miami</st1:place></st1:City> Sun” here in <st1:place>South Florida</st1:place>. Will tints even help to protect the interior? If so, what percentage should I get without going too dark?

<o:p> </o:p>

If you all could answer as many of the questions above I would be very grateful.

<o:p> </o:p>

Thanks in advance,

Ben
IMHO:
1a. I drain the oil & change the filter every 5,000 miles, use either semi-synthetic (like the factory) or full synthetic. Remember the oil capicity is 6.5 quarts with a filter change.
1b. Change the trans fluid at least at the mileage recommended by the factory. I'd go with the drain plug in the pan at the very least, but would spend the extra money for an aftermarket pan that is deeper and that has a drain plug. I'd also install a trans cooler... lower trans temps = longer life.

2. I definately go for an extended warranty. There is a lot of electronics on these cars and replacing some are very expensive. I've purchased extended warranties on both new & used vehicles and they have proved worth it. Can you imagine being faced with an $1,800.00+ repair bill for a transmissin rebuild? Under the extended warranty it was a deductable of $50.00 and I even got a free rental car for the duration of the repair. Shop around.

3. Wheel locks. Eventhough some are easy to take off if you have the right tools. The main thing is to make stealing your wheels unattractive to a thief. If it slows them down, they'll look else where. It's a cheap investment.

4. I'd install the spoiler. If it's unpainted find a reputable body shop, have them paint and install it, should only be a few bucks extra for the installation. If its painted and not dinged up (Ray "The Dealer" will only sell them unpainted since the finish gets damaged in shipping) I'd very very carefully follow the directions and install it myself. It all depends on how handy and confident you are using tools. Remember... measure twice, cut / drill once.

5. I lived in S. Fla. and I tinted the windows on all my cars. Cuts down on the heat in the interior, makes it harder to see in and on a black car looks really cool. Just go with the darkest legal tint available. I also put DashMats in all my cars, cuts down on sun-damage to the dash and elimates glare when driving.

Welcome to the site.... you'll find / get more info on your MM than you even imagined!

[Shora]

<SPAN style="COLOR: black">Thanks for the great advice. I can already tell that I will become a regular at this cool site. After reading the advice you guys gave me I will defiantly tint my windows by next week. As for the spoiler, still cannot see myself drilling into the trunk (yet). By the way, what do you guys think about tire pressures? The 03's (like mine) recommend 32 psi but the 04's recommend 35 psi. Did something change in the car between the two model years or did Ford have a change of heart about the recommended psi?<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com /><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P><P style=Thanks again,<o:p></o:p>

Ben<o:p></o:p>

[Shora]

LOL...nahh they kept the Jacket because they also ride motorcycles. Wouldn't have fit me anyway because the seller wears an XL and I wear a Medium. They did give me the customer copy of the certificate for the jacket.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com<o:p></o:p>

[DEFYANT]

He bud, welcome aboard. I agree with most of the above. Check out my car andsee the aftermarket goodies.

Try calling the jacket people (search and you'll find the contact info) because I believe they are selling them now as surplus.

[fastblackmerc]

<SPAN style="COLOR: black">Thanks for the great advice. I can already tell that I will become a regular at this cool site. After reading the advice you guys gave me I will defiantly tint my windows by next week. As for the spoiler, still cannot see myself drilling into the trunk (yet). By the way, what do you guys think about tire pressures? The 03's (like mine) recommend 32 psi but the 04's recommend 35 psi. Did something change in the car between the two model years or did Ford have a change of heart about the recommended psi?<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com /><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P><P style=Thanks again,<o:p></o:p>

Ben<o:p></o:p>
lotsa debate on tire pressures... search the site...

[the_pack_rat]

Tint :

I was never really into window tint & decided I had wanted it when I bought my MM.

I went with a more mild percentage(38%) & I can't be happier. I liked the way it came out on the MM so much ... I did my Town Car in the same & plan on doing both my Oldsmobiles the same as well. The stuff really helps in knocking down those interior temps ... I find myself adjusting the a/c way more(can set it warmer) than I ever did in the past in most cars.

I went with Formula Ones Ultimate 38 in charcoal.

http://www.formulaone.com/

Lifetime warranty ... & you can go to a Formula One dealer anywhere in the country ... you need not go to the place it was purchased/installed.

Spoiler :

GO FOR IT !.

I think the Ford spoiler is sharp. More of like a "tail" or "extension" of the trunk if you will IMHO.

The initial thought of drilling into the car can be intimidating no doubt & admittedly justified ... but the Ford instructions & included cut-out templates were pretty much right on.

I had one of the other members here do most of the install on mine ... I didn't do much more than stand-by moral support really - lol.

You can see both the tint & spoiler(as well as a fresh Zaino job) on mine in these pics(beware a photographer I am NOT).

[Bradley G]

Are you sure it's not because we live in a police state that allows no tint on the driver/passenger side windows? (QUote)I have never had a car that had the windows tinted,I probably never will!Even if it was legal!:o

Bradley G

[jgc61sr2002]

Shora - Welcome to the MM site. :D Enjoy your new ride. Now the fun begins.

[ckadiddle]

Welcome , Shora! I live in Orlando. My feelings about transmission fluid is to change at least once a year regardless of mileage, at the beginning of spring/summer so you go into the hot weather season with fresh fluid. I bought my blue 03 with 17000 or so mile on it, she was already tinted pretty dark. My wife and I both have eyesight issues, so I paid a reputable shop to untint the windows. Tinting was causing noticeable difficulty seeing at night or in inclement weather. Driving it untinted for a while. Huge difference in the interior temp when it sits in the sun for any time. Will most likely end up retinting it with a lighter tint. Tinting the windows gives the car a menacing, intimidating look from the exterior.:cool: With clear glass, it looks much more like a stock Grand Marquis/Crown vic. Kinda takes the Bad outta it's azz. :(

P.S. Start saving up for your next set of rear tires NOW. heehee

[Marsha]

I looked into extended warranty today as my 2003 runs out this July. It was $1200 for up to 36k miles or 4 more years or $1500 or 48k miles for 4 more years with a $100 deductible. I asked for the warranty info to be sent to me, so should receive it soon. I haven't had any problems with the car, but I only have almost 10k miles on it! I am wondering what to do myself!
This car still snaps heads - as even though I am female - I keep it looking awesome with Zaino!!

Marsha

[tmac1337]

Legal tint in FL is 28% front, 15% rears. I would put around 20% on front, 15% rears., still be able to see out the windows at night. A tint ticket is non-moving, I think the new rate $77.00. Why chance it.

[RVT04]

Hi everybody,

<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p> </o:p>

I’m new to both this site and as an MM owner. I have been saving for an MM since I first read about them in one of my car magazine subscriptions in 2002. I come from a lower middle class family so my last car was 12 yrs. old. Having just graduated college, I used all of my savings and took a loan to purchase a beautiful black 2003 Marauder with only 14,500 miles from a very nice couple (no kids). They gave me every single paper that the car came with and documents off all service records (oil changes). I promise that the car still has the brand new smell and I don’t think that the back seats were ever used. Anyway, as you can tell, this car is way out league for a poor young man like me but life is short and I LOVE this car. I plan on keeping it even when I start my career and earn enough money for a newer car. I plan on keeping this black beauty as a second car for as long as possible. I have changed the oil, filters, and even brakes/ rotors on my last car but that is about as far as I can do on my own. I am asking for all of your help in maintaining my dream car.

<o:p> </o:p>

1) Oil: I change it every 3,000 miles/ 3 months period. However, how often do you guys recommend that I change the transmission fluid? Should I follow the recommendation (30,000 miles) or do it before? The car has only 15,000 miles on it now but it is still over 2 years old. Should I change the fluid? Fluid and filter? Flush? Leave it alone until the recommended 30,000 mile mark?

<o:p> </o:p>

2) Warranty: About to expire in June (low miles but the car was one of the first ones sold). Should I pay the large amount of money (was quoted to over $3,000 for premium package) for it or just hope for the best?

<o:p> </o:p>

3) Wheel locks: Which is the best brand? Where can I get them?

<o:p> </o:p>

4) Spoiler: As a gift, I received a brand new factory spoiler for my MM. However, I found out that drilling is required for installation so I haven’t even opened the box. Drilling into this beautiful machine is worse than going to the dentist. Should I install it? What do you guys think?

<o:p> </o:p>

5) Tints: Since car is 100% stock it doesn’t have tints. To be honest, I could live without them but I really want to protect the interior and leather from the “<?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" /><st1:City><st1:place>Miami</st1:place></st1:City> Sun” here in <st1:place>South Florida</st1:place>. Will tints even help to protect the interior? If so, what percentage should I get without going too dark?

<o:p> </o:p>

If you all could answer as many of the questions above I would be very grateful.

<o:p> </o:p>

Thanks in advance,

Ben

change the tranny fluid
let the dealer flush the whole system
also i suggest the warranty i bought mine used @ the dealer and got the certified preowned deal still about $1100 but was glad i did when the driver window motor went north on me
plus other small items that would have been unexpected out of pocket
just do it and sleep better at nite
tint for sure but keep it legal looks better runs cooler saves the interior i know bradleyg and he is a fine upstanding gentleman but he don't live in the south
let the bodyshop put the spoiler on if you don't feel comfortable puttin holes in your baby, if they do it it will look great to you but if you do it you will always know its just a hair off on the left
lol
also might i suggest a 180 degree thermostat and coolant system flush
since you live in fla.

[sailsmen]

Premium care seem real high, I and others have paid about 40-55% less, see
http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?p=245454#post24 5454

[Thomas C Potter]

I did not read all replies, so may be repeated info. Use syn oil !! I strongly recommend an electric preluber. Are you aware of the wire harness rubbing at rear of cyl heads?? Spoiler is ugly.

TP

[Shora]

Thanks for the welcome. I have taken the advice given to me and I tinted the windows at 28% all the way around. That is the darkest legal tint allowed here in FL. By the way, I have been reading up on previous post and visiting the site almost every day.

I still have not bought the wheel locks. Which do you guys feel are best: McGaurd or those offered by the Mercury dealer? How much should they cost me?

[RF Overlord]

I still have not bought the wheel locks. Which do you guys feel are best: McGaurd or those offered by the Mercury dealer?

Shora, the wheel locks the dealer sells are re-badged McGards...I got mine from the local Ford dealer...I forget what they cost...

[jgc61sr2002]

Thanks for the welcome. I have taken the advice given to me and I tinted the windows at 28% all the way around. That is the darkest legal tint allowed here in FL. By the way, I have been reading up on previous post and visiting the site almost every day.

I still have not bought the wheel locks. Which do you guys feel are best: McGaurd or those offered by the Mercury dealer? How much should they cost me?


They are around $25.00.