1999 Mercury Cougar 2.5, V6 from North America
Summary:
Awesome driving, semi-reliable
Faults:
After one week, my rear brakes made a terrible noise like someone was dragging their hand down a wet window. The dealership said it was normal because so much of the rotors were exposed to the elements. OK. I guess I can buy that one. They refused to fix it; however, it was perfectly fine for me to purchase the best brakes made through them and pay for their labor to correct the deficiency. Four years later, they still make noise. Nice...
I had the front brakes replaced at 20,000 miles. I was on a road trip and a tight schedule when they started dragging. Unfortunately, it cost me two new rotors and two new sets of brake pads at 20,000 miles. The kicker is, the day before I started the road trip, the dealer changed the oil and performed my 20,000 mile check-up. (I only assumed that included the brakes.)
The fan motor for the air conditioner inside the car squeaks when it's on low. It's not too loud, just annoying.
The trunk won't stay unlocked long enough for you to press the button in the front and walk to the back to open it. You have to be right there when you use the remote or the button inside.
The lights constantly go from bright to dim when you're driving it. It's steadily getting worse over time, and I hate to fix it if it isn't broke. Yet, I'm almost scared to take it on a trip for fear that it may leave me stranded. It only has 40,000 miles. I shouldn't have to worry about a car practically brand new. Right?
I have followed the maintenance plan precisely. It's had 17 oil changes in 40,000 miles and 4.5 years. Now it's leaking something on my garage floor. Yikes!
Yet, I believe the most painful discrepancy is the paint that's been pitting and chipping since day one. There is no way that rocks have caused these pits. If it were rocks, I would have replaced the windshield by now with all the pits and chips on the hood.
I absolutely love my car. I think it's gorgeous. Nevertheless, reflecting back, I believe I have had way too much mechanical worry for an automobile that I have taken care of "as advertised" by the dealer. This car has been sheltered in the garage away from the elements most of the time. It gets used on average once a week.
I'm very disappointed with some of the quality that I was counting on when I purchased it.
General Comments:
I enjoy driving my car. I feel completely in control. It responds quick with both the accelerator and steering wheel. It corners like no other vehicle I've ever owned.
The transmission shifts effortlessly, with precision and smoothness.
The interior is classy, sharp, and very high quality.
After I wash my car, I just want to drive around town to see how many people notice it. There's hardly a time that goes by that someone doesn't comment on it.
It's great for short trips; however, it's not very comfortable on long runs.
I'm pleased with the gas mileage as well. Especially with the price of "go-juice" these days.
Would I buy from this company again? I seriously doubt it.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 21st April, 2004
21st May 2004, 14:34
The looks and comments are the only thing that keep me from trading in my beautiful red baby. However driving my dads mini van most the time since mine is always in the shop isn't very fun! Opening the trunk really bothers me, I have spilt every liquid imaginable in my lap because of the faulty cup holder, and the interior wears very quickly!