1990 Ford Cougar

Introduction:

The 1990 Ford Cougar is a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The standard engine was a 3.8L V6 that produced 140 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. Optional engines included a 5.0L V8 that produced 225 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, and a supercharged 5.0L V8 that produced 230 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual transmission, a 4-speed automatic transmission, and a 5-speed automatic transmission.

The Cougar was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and responsive handling. However, it was also criticized for its lack of power from the standard V6 engine and its poor fuel economy.

Engine

3.8L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, engine overheating, reduced power
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the valve covers
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.0L V8

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, engine overheating, white smoke from the exhaust
  • Solution: Replace the head gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, engine overheating, reduced power
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.0L Supercharged V8

• Supercharger Intercooler Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, reduced power
  • Solution: Replace the intercooler
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Shift Fork Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises from the transmission
  • Solution: Replace the shift fork
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, shuddering, or stalling
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Filter Clog
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, delayed shifts, overheating
  • Solution: Replace the transmission filter and fluid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, harsh shifts, no reverse gear
  • Solution: Replace the solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise from the front suspension, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or grinding noises from the front suspension, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, dim headlights, electrical system failure
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t start, clicking noise from the starter
  • Solution: Replace the starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows won’t operate properly, window stuck in the down position
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the dashboard plastic
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not working, warm air blowing from the vents
  • Solution: Replace the air conditioning compressor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cruise Control Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Cruise control not working, cruise control light not illuminating
  • Solution: Replace the cruise control switch or module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1990 Ford Cougar is a stylish and sporty coupe that offers a variety of engine and transmission options. However, it is also known for its potential for mechanical issues, particularly with the 5.0L V8 engine and 4-speed automatic transmission. The cost of repairs for these issues can range from minor to major, and some may require specialized knowledge or tools.