1983 Mercury Cougar problems
The Mercury Cougar is a series of automobiles that was sold by Mercury from 1967 to 2002. The model line is a diverse series of vehicles; though the Cougar nameplate is most commonly associated with two-door coupes, at various stages in its production, the model also was offered as a convertible and a hatchback. During its production as the mid-size Mercury line, the Cougar was also offered as a four-door sedan and five-door station wagon.
In production for 34 years across eight generations (skipping the 1998 model year), the Cougar is second only to the Grand Marquis (36 years) in the Mercury line for production longevity. 2,972,784 examples were produced, making it the highest-selling Mercury vehicle. During the 1970s and 1980s, the marketing of the Mercury division was closely associated with the Cougar, with promotional materials advertising Mercury dealers as "The Sign of the Cat" with big cats atop Lincoln-Mercury dealer signs. Cat-related nameplates were adopted by other Mercury lines, including the Bobcat and Lynx.
During its production, the Cougar was assembled at the Dearborn Assembly Plant (part of the Ford River Rouge Complex) in Dearborn, Michigan from 1967 until 1973, San Jose Assembly (Milpitas, California) from 1968 into early 1969, Lorain Assembly (Lorain, Ohio) from 1974 until 1997, and at Flat Rock Assembly (Flat Rock, Michigan) from 1999 through 2002.
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Common 1983 Mercury Cougar problems
The Mercury Cougar, produced from 1967 to 2002, had its fair share of issues throughout the years. The 1983 model, part of the sixth generation, was not immune to these problems. Here are some of the common problems reported by owners of the 1983 Mercury Cougar, based on complaints and troubleshooting guides.
- Emissions system failures: The 1983 Mercury Cougar, like other cars of its era, faced issues with the emissions system. These problems could lead to a decrease in fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Regular maintenance and inspections of the emissions system could help prevent or address these issues.
- Vacuum line leaks: Leaks in vacuum lines could lead to various problems, including issues with the engine's performance and fuel efficiency. Regular inspections and maintenance of the vacuum lines could help prevent or address these issues.
- Suspension problems: The 1983 Mercury Cougar's suspension system was another area where issues were reported. These problems could lead to a less comfortable ride and potential safety concerns. Regular inspections and maintenance of the suspension system could help prevent or address these issues.
- Carburetor problems: The carburetor, a crucial component of the engine, could cause issues in the 1983 Mercury Cougar. Problems with the carburetor could lead to starting issues and poor engine performance. Regular inspections and maintenance of the carburetor could help prevent or address these issues.
- Electrical system problems: Electrical issues were reported in the 1983 Mercury Cougar, particularly in the LS model. These problems could lead to various issues, including starting problems and malfunctions in the car's electrical systems. Regular inspections and maintenance of the electrical system could help prevent or address these issues.
- Poor fuel economy: The 1983 Mercury Cougar was reported to have poor fuel economy, which could lead to increased fuel costs for owners. Regular maintenance and inspections of the engine and fuel system could help improve fuel efficiency.
It's important to note that these are common issues reported by owners of the 1983 Mercury Cougar. Regular maintenance and inspections of the car's systems could help prevent or address these issues. If you're considering purchasing a 1983 Mercury Cougar, it's essential to have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase. This can help identify any potential issues and give you a better idea of the car's overall condition and potential repair costs.
What years of Mercury Cougar to avoid?
Using the same PainRank™ system we've determined that you're better off avoiding the 8th generation (1999–2002).
- 8th Generation Cougar. Years 1999–2002 Reliability 22nd out of 28 PainRank™ 4.77 Complaints 71.
- 7th Generation Cougar. Years 1989–1997 Reliability 3rd out of 28 PainRank™ 0.51 Complaints 17.
How many miles per gallon does a Mercury Cougar get?
1999 Mercury Cougar
| EPA MPG | Owner MPG Estimates |
|---|---|
| 1999 Mercury Cougar 4 cyl, 2.0 L, Automatic 4-spd | |
| 23 combined city/highway MPG 20 city 28 highway 4.3 gals/ 100 miles | View Estimates How can I share my MPG? |
| 1999 Mercury Cougar 4 cyl, 2.0 L, Manual 5-spd | |
| Regular Gasoline | View Estimates How can I share my MPG? |
Was the Mercury Cougar a muscle car?
For its first two generations, the Cougar was derived from the Ford Mustang. Initially serving as a pony car, the popularity of the Cougar led it to replace the Cyclone muscle car in the Mercury model line. The second generation moved its market position closer to the personal luxury car segment.
What engine did the Mercury Cougar have?
The 67 cougar shared most of its engine lineup with the Mustang. However Mercury solely offered V8 engines. Standard was the 200 horsepower 289 cubic inch two barrel carbureted V8 options included a
What years of Mercury Cougar to avoid?
The Cougar has 2 generations, each with their own issues. Using the same PainRank™ system we've determined that you're better off avoiding the 8th generation (1999–2002).
Was the Mercury Cougar a muscle car?
For its first two generations, the Cougar was derived from the Ford Mustang. Initially serving as a pony car, the popularity of the Cougar led it to replace the Cyclone muscle car in the Mercury model line. The second generation moved its market position closer to the personal luxury car segment.
Is a Mercury Cougar the same as a Mustang?
The Mercury Cougar was based on the Mustang, but it took a different approach than General Motors did with its Camaro and Firebird siblings by giving the Cougar entirely different sheet metal and a longer wheelbase. (Chrysler adopted the same method with the E-body Challenger and Barracuda in 1970.)
What engine did the Mercury Cougar have?
The 67 cougar shared most of its engine lineup with the Mustang. However Mercury solely offered V8 engines. Standard was the 200 horsepower 289 cubic inch two barrel carbureted V8 options included a
1983 Mercury Cougar car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mercury Cougar problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1983 Mercury Cougar vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1983 Mercury Cougar complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1983 Mercury Cougar.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1988-08-08
- VIN: 1MEBP92FXDH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR QUITS RUNNING WHEN YOUR MOVING OR DOESNT START. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-03-09
- VIN: 1NEBP9234DH
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DRIVERS SEAT UNDERNEATH THE CHASSIS IS COMING LOOSE. RESULTING IN SEAT FALL THROUGH THE FLOOR BOARD. TT
1983 Mercury Cougar recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1983 Mercury Cougar.
- Manufacturer: FEDERAL-MOGUL CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMPS SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF CARTER, ACCUFLOW, NAPA, TRUFLOW, PARTS DEPO, AND PARTS MASTER, SHIPPED BETWEEN AUGUST 2006 AND JULY 2007 FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM IN CERTAIN PRODUCTION RUNS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED OR INADEQUATELY TESTED WHICH MAY CAUSE THE FUEL PUMP TO LEAK.
- Consequence: A LEAKING FUEL PUMP COULD CREATE A VEHICLE FIRE HAZARD.
- Remedy: FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 15, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL AT 248-354-7700.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: THE PARKING GEAR MAY NOT ENGAGE, EVEN THOUGH THE GEAR SHIFT LEVER IS PLACED IN THE "PARK" POSITION. THIS OCCURS IF THE LINKAGE INSIDE THE TRANSMISSION THAT ACTUATES THE PARK GEAR WAS IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED. A PIN THAT RETAINS COMPONENTS ON A LINKAGE (ACTUATING) ROD COULD BREAK AND THE LINKAGE MAY NOT ENGAGE THE PARKING GEAR.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE PARKING PAWL ACTUATING ROD ASSEMBLY.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: SOME OF THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH FUEL TANKS THAT HAVE INADEQUATELY WELDED FRONT SEAMS THAT CAN LEAK.
- Remedy: THE DEALER WILL DETERMINE IF THE VEHICLE WAS CORRECTED AT THE FACTORY; IF NOT, THE FUEL TANK WILL BE REPLACED AT NO CHARGE TO THE OWNER.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1983 Mercury Cougar problems:
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