2002 Mercury Cougar

The 2002 Mercury Cougar is a sporty, front-wheel-drive coupe known for its sleek styling and relatively affordable price point. Engine options included a 2.0L inline-4 and a 2.5L V6. The 2.5L V6 produced 170 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque. Owners generally appreciate the Cougar’s distinctive design and handling, but common complaints revolve around reliability issues, particularly with the engine and electrical system. Dislikes include a cramped rear seat and some cheap interior materials.

Engine

2.5L Duratec V6

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks often originate from the thermostat housing or intake manifold gaskets. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant puddles under the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the thermostat housing and gasket or intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, misfires, check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Zetec Inline-4

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Automatic Transmission

• Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all.
  • Solution: May require a transmission rebuild or replacement. A fluid flush and filter change may temporarily alleviate the issue but is often not a long-term fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the rear suspension, especially over bumps. Can also cause vague handling or rear end instability.
  • Solution: Replace the rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not functioning correctly (speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge), warning lights illuminated or flickering erratically.
  • Solution: Sometimes can be repaired, but often requires replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock properly, or not responding to the key fob or interior switches.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof sticking, failing to open or close completely, or leaking.
  • Solution: Sunroof track cleaning and lubrication, repair or replacement of the sunroof motor or components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, moving slowly, or making grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Mercury Cougar, while stylish, is prone to a number of reliability issues, particularly relating to the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. Engine coolant leaks and ignition coil failures are common on the V6 engine. Transmission issues are known, specifically regarding erratic shifting. Suspension and electrical faults, such as rear trailing arm bushing and instrument cluster failures, add to the maintenance burden. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can be costly, potentially making ownership of a 2002 Cougar an expensive proposition if these issues arise.