1990 Mercury Cougar LS review from North America
What things have gone wrong with the car?
A/C Compressor stopped working at 98,000 and had to be replaced.
Distributor started making grinding noise at 110,000 Miles and needed replacement.
Fan Clutch went bad at 123,000 Miles. Was able to drive with heat on to get to my mechanic without overheating.
Water Pump started leaking badly and needed replacement at 127,000 Miles.
Bad Head Gasket caused erratic temp gage readings at 132,000 Miles and needed replacement.
Strut Arm bushings went bad at 147,000. Also, was told I will need upper and lower ball joints and struts.
Front brake rotors need frequent resurfacing for shudder when braking.
Had rear brake wheel cylinders and self adjusters replaced at about 88,000. They now need replacement again.
Drive shaft universal has a lag.
Driver door hinge was replaced just before I picked up the car at 71,000. Now the passenger is so bad I don't even use the door.
Just found out I need the Throttle Position Sensor) replaced. Causes car to not idle well until it warms up a bit.
General comments?
All in all I like the car a lot. It is very comfortable and drives very smooth.
Even with all the problems listed I was never left stranded with the car. I was always able to make it to my mechanic just in time. There were always signs of impending problems before they completely blew.
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| Probably was good when it was new |
|
| 1989 - Cougar LS 3.8 V6 standard It has been a reliable car, but fraught with nuisances and inept repair personnel |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1990 |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 71000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 148000 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Prelude |
| Date of Entry | 3rd June, 2003 |