Two problems related to differential unit have been reported for the 2003 Mercury Marauder. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
When driving between 40-60 mph consumer heard a thumping sound coming from the rear floor boards of the vehicle. Also there was vibration in the gas pedal. Dealer examined the vehicle, and found that the differential needed to be replaced.
On my 2003 vehicle, there was apparenetly a spare axle pin contained in the rear differential from the factory. While I was driving in town, this pin was thrust against the pumpkin (differential cover), punctured the rear differential cover and caused the differential to leak fluid. The dealership found the "spare pin" when they repaired the differential cover. Had I been on the interstate, and had the pin become suddently caught in the ring (instead of thrown againsted the cover), this condiciton could have caused the vehicle to suddenly lock up (the rear differntial). This could have easily caused the vehicle to roll over. I am a police officer in the navy and am very concerned about this issue.