While I've had this car there have only been a few minor things go wrong.
The annoying trunk latch sticking that the dealer claims is normal.
It's equipped with the factory CD player with semi-detachable faceplate. When I change a station the connectors will sometimes come apart and temporarily turn the stereo off. I've found that is very common with that particular model of factory stereos.
That very annoying little wrench light that appears every so often reminding you that you need maintenance is on again. (I thought only GM did asinine things like that.) If anyone knows of a way to turn it off other than having the dealership do it (for a fee of course), please let me know.
Other than that the car has been fantastic.
I have only one complaint on this car's performance; it's a slush box. (This car was originally purchased for my EX-wife who refused to learn how to drive 5 speed) My advice to anyone that enjoys performance cars is to get the manual transmission.
The car's handling is impressively superb. I once passed a Cavalier Z24 on an expressway cloverleaf on ramp doing 65mph, on his outside no less! (He cut me off a half mile before, so he deserved it)
Smiles take over my face whenever I come to a corner. With body roll is at a minimum it seems I can go around them as fast as my nerve will allow.
I can stop on a dime while still having excellent on center feel.
Acceleration is good, however, it would be much faster if I had control of the gears.
Interior appointments are on the plastic side and look a bit cheap. Though they are laid out well always within reach. With its six-way power seat I can always find a comfortable driving position.
Ultimately I am very impressed with the car given the price I paid, so if you are looking for a sports car and you have limited funds, don't overlook the Cougar. I couldn't be happier with mine (again, unless it was a manual).
You shut the little wrench off by pressing the select and units buttons at the same time. After about 4 seconds it will shut off and reset, then after 4000 miles it will come on again. It should have been in your owners manual how to shut it off, that's where I found out how to shut mine off!
Other than that trunk problem and the compact disc player's faceplate, I too have had a pleasure with this car. I would also like to add that underestimating this car is to our benefit, I live in New York State and this car has been one of the least expensive cars I've had to insure with collision and comprehensive. Its 5 speed 6 cylinder by far outperforms my previous acura integra which was a manual 4 cylinder and about twice the insurance rate as my cougar.
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