2002 Mercury Cougar

Introduction:

The 2002 Mercury Cougar is a sporty coupe that was available with two engine and transmission options: a 2.5L V6 engine paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, and a 3.0L V6 engine paired with a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. The 2.5L engine produces 170 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.0L engine produces 220 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. The Cougar is praised for its stylish design, responsive handling, and comfortable interior. However, it has received some criticism for its lackluster fuel economy and limited rear seat space.

Engine

• 2.5L V6 Engine
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the top of the engine, reduced engine power, and engine overheating
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 3.0L V6 Engine
  • Exhaust Manifold Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Exhaust leak, rattling noise from the engine compartment
    • Solution: Replace exhaust manifold
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Reverse Gear Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging reverse gear, grinding noise when shifting into reverse
    • Solution: Replace reverse gear synchronizer
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Slipping Gears
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping out of gears, hesitation during acceleration
    • Solution: Overhaul or replace transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 5-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace torque converter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mounts
  • Premature Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises over bumps, reduced ride quality
    • Solution: Replace strut mounts
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, flickering lights, electrical system problems
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Hood Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust or corrosion on the underside of the hood
  • Solution: Rust repair or hood replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Gauge Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working properly or flickering
  • Solution: Replace gauge cluster
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, slow window operation
  • Solution: Repair or replace window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

Overall, the 2002 Mercury Cougar has some potential issues with its engine, transmission, and electrical system. However, many of these issues can be addressed with relatively inexpensive repairs. The severity of the issues varies, with some being minor annoyances and others potentially leading to more serious problems. The estimated cost to fix these issues ranges from a few hundred dollars to over $2000 in some cases. Despite these potential issues, the Cougar remains a popular choice for those who appreciate its stylish design, sporty handling, and comfortable interior.