1993 Mercury Cougar XR-7 review from North America

Within one year of purchase the odometer quit working at 60,842 miles. This is NOT a rare case of odometer failure, as I have done quite a bit of looking for a used working odometer from salvage yards. I bought two used speedometer/odometers and installed them, only to find that they did NOT work. And yes, my VSS is OK, as the speedo still works, just no odo. I have examined many more units in "you-pull-it" yards and they all have had the fatally flawed PLASTIC drive gears. Ugh...

Thus, I don't know the true mileage of the car when I bought it (the odo had been replaced) or the current mileage.

The front suspension (ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings) were worn-out by an estimated 70,000 miles. Since a ball joint failed completely, I am sure the chassis had more than 50,000 miles on it when I bought it. I estimate 150,000 + miles currently.

The next thing to go was the head gaskets on the V-6.

As I personally know several people whom have had this

happen on their Ford/Merc 3.8L V-6, I consider this to be "par for the course".

As a frustrated mechanic (Ha, ha!) I replaced the engine instead of the gaskets!! Goodbye pesky V-6, Hello V-8!

Well, to be honest, the six got better fuel economy and

would have required less to fix, but my need 4 speed...

I like the general layout, ergonomics (it works for me)

and trunk space. Plenty of room to work under hood also.

I don't like the motorized shoulder belts!! Thank you FEDERAL GOVT! (FYI: the Feds required either airbags OR automatic belts)

No problem with OEM/stock parts availability, but the aftermaket is lacking. (certain parts are just not out there).

The PLASTIC headlamp lenses turn cloudy or yellow and reduce light output at night.

The four-wheel independent suspension handles well for a car of this size and weight.