1990-1997 Mercury Cougar: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
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Our reliability study for this generation Mercury Cougar includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Mercury Cougar .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Automatic transmission:
The transmission may slip and the engine may flare when the transmission shifts into fourth gear, which can often be traced to a bad TR/MLP sensor. (1994-95)
Automatic transmission:
Automatic transmissions are notorious for shuddering or vibrating under light acceleration or when shifting between third and fourth gear. It requires that the transmission fluid (including fluid in the torque converter) be changed and that only Mercon fluid be used. (1994)
Blower motor:
Squeaking or chirping blower motors are the result of defective brush holders. (1993-94)
Coolant leak:
The intake manifold on 4.6L V8 engines is prone to breakage resulting in coolant loss and possible overheating. The manufacturer is reimbursing owners who paid for fixes up to $735 and extending the warranty for others (1996-97)
Heater core:
Installing a restrictor in the heater inlet hose may repair heater cores leaks. (1990-97)
Oil leak:
The oil filter balloons and leaks because the oil-pump relief valve sticks. Higher than recommended viscosity oils cause wear to the valve bore. (1992-94)
Vehicle noise:
A chattering noise coming from the rear during tight turns after highway driving is caused by a lack of friction modifier or over-shimming of the clutch packs in the Traction-Lok differential. (1990-96)
Water leak:
Water drips onto the floor when the air conditioner is operated and may be due to over a half-dozen potential leak sources including seals, bad seams in the evaporator case, the heater core cover seal, etc. (1990-96)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $375 |
| Alternator | $445 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $810 |
| Brakes | $275 |
| Exhaust System | $280 |
| Radiator | $405 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $430 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $340 |
| Universal Joints | $260 |
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