1999 Mercury Cougar V6 2.5L V6

Summary:

Talk about a sex kitten!

Faults:

When I first purchased the car, the rear windshield wiper did not work. Also the cruise control didn't work and the 5-disc CD changer was jammed with broken pieces of the previous owner's CD's.

My boyfriend and I successfully removed all of the broken CD shards from the disc changer, but it still doesn't work.

Recently, I've been experiencing electrical problems. When it's hot out, the windows go up very slowly and the radio refuses to work. I've also had instances when I've been driving that the radio will just shut off out of nowhere and will take a few minutes to turn back on.

The 'check engine' and 'battery' warning lights occasionally illuminate when I'm driving. I haven't had the time or the funds to take the car to my mechanic, but I guarantee that it's overdue for a check-up. However, that's my fault and not the car's.

The rear seats are somewhat loose and they squeak when I drive the car.

General Comments:

Over all, I love my Cougar very much. It's my second car -- my first was an '89 Grand Marquis -- and it has been nothing, but wonderful to me. It's a joy to drive and handles perfectly; it's very peppy and has a great sound when accelerating.

I've gotten countless comments on my Cougar; people always tell me how much they like my car and how good looking she is. Whenever someone asks me what car in the parking lot is mine, they have a difficult time believing me when I point to the Cougar, especially given the not-so-aesthetically-pleasing exterior of my old Marquis.

I have, but one real complaint: the front cup holder sucks. Only certain sizes of beverage containers fit securely in it, and I've had issues with the cup holder folding in on itself when I'm going around corners, resulting in soda spilling all over my lap and leather seats.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 28th June, 2005

1999 Mercury Cougar V6

Summary:

I cannot pass emissions for the life of me

Faults:

- Check Engine light always on

- O2 sensor replaced 3 times

- Engine replaced under warranty at 14k

- Mass Air Flow Sensor Replaced

- 3 Sets of tires

- 2 Sets of Brakes (including calipers and rotors)

- Will NOT pass emissions

- Radiator leaking

- Coolant light always goes on for no reason

- 2 Alternators and 1 battery replaced

- Not worth the money or the time

I have been so patient with this car, but it has been nothing but drama. Its trade in value is ridiculous and I've spent over $6k in repairs and it's STILL not fixed or up to code. I am using my boyfriend's old tabs to get by legally because no one can figure out what the problem is.

General Comments:

- Great acceleration

- Nice styling

- Good handling

- Semi good gas mileage.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 27th June, 2005

1999 Mercury Cougar 2.5 liter V6

Summary:

Maybe I've had bad luck, but overall I wouldn't recommend it unless it's a manual maybe

Faults:

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!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 3rd May, 2005

26th Nov 2005, 15:19

Automatics are really frustrating in the coug. If it loses control easy, stop driving like an idiot. If you don't, then replace your tires.

16th Sep 2007, 12:52

My best bet is to ditch the automatic and get a cougar with a manual tranny. 10 times better, believe me!

26th Feb 2010, 09:54

I love my Cougar! It's got the manual and V6; a total blast. I have also had similar problems with the sunroof and hatch hydraulics.