One problem related to engine clicking and tapping noises has been reported for the 1997 Mercury Mystique. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
The wiring harness and the blower resistor was fixed which were on recall. On 4-22-05 and on 5-06-05 while the car was being driven on the highway, the car gave a ticking noise. Then the car gave a puff of blue and black smoke and the car stopped. After the mechanic looked at the car, the mechanic said the engine was gone. The car underwent regular check ups and oil changes. There were no indications that the engine was having any problems or malfunctions. The engine has not been repaired. The cost for replacing was more than the consumer can afford.