1999 Mercury Cougar V6 2.5 liter 24 valve Dual Over Head Cam from North America

Summary:

You get what you pay for

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.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 14th June, 2003

15th Jun 2003, 18:05

Check your fuel filter/ fuel lines not to be clogged and the delivery pressure of your fuel pump.

25th Nov 2003, 22:36

Well well where to start, I own a 2000 mercury cougar and I too have nothing, but problems. First off I replaced 3 alternators, fuelpump, both outertye rods witch caused my brand new tires I just, but on ruined, the welds on the power window motor broke witch caused window to slam down and shatter, hood latch and trunk latch broke both broke, and last, but not least after 50 000 km transmission went. I also think there was more, but after something goes wrong every week or so you kind of forget everything.

1999 Mercury Cougar V6 from North America

Summary:

An average buy, but you get what you pay for

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.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 3rd May, 2003