One problem related to timing tensioner has been reported for the 1996 Mercury Villager. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Engine noise, kind of loud. Also, engine light came on. Contacted dealer, and the dealer said they should replace tensioner. After the defective tensioner was replaced, the dealer indicated that the engine needed to be replaced as well. However check the engine light came on and stayed on after the engine was replaced. The air bag light was flashing continuously.