1999 Mercury Cougar V6 2.5 Duratec V6 from North America
Summary:
Everything I expect a 1999 to be
Faults:
Idle air control valve, left rear strut, oil pan gasket leak, rear hatch struts, sunroof doesn't go back all the way.
General Comments:
So the 99 Cougar is my girlfriend's car, we bought it last summer for very cheap.
The car has a leaky oil pan gasket, but not enough to warrant replacement.
The left rear strut started to "bobble" and had to be replaced.
The sunroof will work, but doesn't go back all the way. I don't really care, nor does she, so I don't bother fixing it.
The rear hatch struts are worn out, and only hold the hatch up in warm weather.
Aside from these small things, the car runs great, handles decently, rides like a sports car, brakes well, etc.
As far as the winter driving deal. I think maybe if you're putting your car in the ditch, you should either slow down or take some driving lessons. I put Firestone Winterforce tires all 4 studded on the Cougar, and it does incredibly well actually.
One thing though about this car that does irritate me is that now the right rear strut is starting to "bobble" also. I am a technician and do all my own work obviously, and this car is very easy to work on anything, except in the engine compartment.
For everyone that complains about the problems. Take better care of your cars, do some maintenance, take your car to a competent tech if the one you go to is in fact incompetent, or you can't figure it out. All cars have issues. The more things you let add up, the more frustrating it will become.
All in all, this car has been great.
Oh yeah, gas mileage is around 23-24 in the city, and around 29-32 highway, that's actually dividing the gallons and miles.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 9th January, 2010