1999 Mercury Cougar review from North America
"Maybe I've had bad luck, but overall I wouldn't recommend it unless it's a manual maybe"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The alternator went out while I was on a road trip 4 hours away from home.
The automatic transmission jerks the car when switching gears at semi high rpm. Also grinds when going from reverse to drive.
The heat takes forever to warm up, but when it does it's hot.
The vent cover along the windshield is always popping up which is annoying.
The brakes squeak unbelievably loud, even after replaced.
The check engine light has recently come on, and I've yet to get it fixed.
The headlights are not bright enough, especially on dark highways.
The car loses control unbelievably easy.
General comments?
Even with all these problems, I do have some fun driving my car.
The tight steering is really sweet!
I love the bucket seats, front and back!
The trunk is huge! And the seats fold down to allow you to carry big loads or even sleep in the back... oh yeah!!!
My cougar is an automatic, which I hate, and from what I read manual transmissions are really the way to go with this car. Better gas mileage, higher top speeds, more fun to drive. I would probably have a lot less problems if it was a manual, maybe I'll convert it! In fact, if anyone knows how much it might cost to put a manual transmission in, please email me at dabluesrok@hotmail.com. Thanks a lot!
Recommended reviews
  | It's a good car for a decent price |
| A great runabout with a sporty nature - just don't get the auto! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model Year | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5 liter V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 5/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Distance when acquired | 74000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 82000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 3rd May, 2005 |