Faults:

Intake Manifold Runner Control Valve went at 70000. Had to Be special ordered from Ford at $500.

Trunk latch sticks.

Fan only works on high setting only. I replaced the fan switch, but it still only works on 4.

My hood latch broke and needed to be replaced at a cost of $150.

The is a design flaw in the fuel filler pipe which poses a filling problem.

This car eats tires and they are expensive.

The windows are sluggish and squeal.

Weatherstripping has started to leak and stripping in rear tail lamp has dry rotted.

Power steering squeals.

Sometimes starts and quickly dies.

Aside from these small problems there is one terrible problem. I must keep this car above a half a tank of fuel. If you let it fall under a half a tank and try to make a left turn the engine dies. This also occurs under heavy acceleration. I was almost killed last week when I went under a half a tank and turned left against oncoming traffic because of this problem. I have talked to both dealer and my private mechanic and the both have no clue what causes this problem. My mechanic suggested that the cougars fuel tank was poorly designed. However it could cost up to $2000 and that would be guessing on whats wrong.

General Comments:

I love this cars styling, handling, and interior design. The V6 engine is quick, but lags in the upper power band. The only problem is with its creator, Ford Motor Company. This car was sloppily design and with all its engine failures and electrical failures is probably to blame for most deaths caused by this vehicle. I would love to sell this car however I couldn't get I dime for it with all these problems. Funny thing is the car was fine when I bought it, other than previously having three safety recalls. Boy do I feel sorry for those who are having trouble at 30,000 miles.

Faults:

Right front ball joint has gone bad twice.

Control arm broke.

Metal wore out in rear hatch and needed to be replaced.

Crankshaft sensor malfunctioned at 42,000.

General Comments:

Very difficult to work on this car. Spark plugs cannot be changed without first removing the manifold. Simple items such as checking the oil requires more effort than necessary.

Handling is better than average despite my dismay with suspension breakdowns. Tire replacement has proven costly for a smallish car. Approximately 110.00 per tire.

Interior is holding up nicely although never, never trust your drink in the cup holder!! I read prior to buying that the seats were uncomfortable after extended driving periods and have found this to be very true. Radio could use a power boost.

Car gets pretty good mpg. I range from 21 city to 27 highway. Get up and go is nothing like my mustang, but suffices. I found you need to really stay up on general maintenance as the car shows signs of sluggishness quickly.