1986 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 1986 Mercury Cougar problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 1986 Mercury Cougar, several common problems have been identified:
- Battery Light Due to Damaged Alternator Wire Harness Connector:
Owners have reported issues with the battery light coming on due to a damaged alternator wire harness connector. This problem can lead to electrical issues and potential charging system failures, impacting the car's overall performance and reliability. - Ignition Switch Failure:
Another prevalent problem is the failure of the ignition switch. Owners have experienced issues where the car may not start or exhibit starting difficulties due to problems with the ignition switch. This can be a common issue that affects the car's functionality and requires replacement to ensure proper operation. - Manual Windows:
Surprisingly, some owners have noted that the 1986 Mercury Cougar came with manual windows. This feature, which may not align with the expectations of some drivers accustomed to power windows, could be considered a drawback by those looking for more convenience in their vehicle.
These issues highlight some of the key complaints and problems faced by owners of the 1986 Mercury Cougar. Addressing these issues promptly and effectively is crucial to maintaining the car's performance and ensuring a satisfactory driving experience.
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.
What year Cougar is the most desirable?
And you'll have a luxury sports car. . . . With all of the flair of the finest European sports touring machines, Cougar for 1971 is more desirable than ever. It's dramatically new from bumper to bumper — longer, lower, wider with an increased tread for road-gripping stability.”
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 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 much horsepower does a 1986 Mercury Cougar have?
1986 Mercury Cougar is 2 doors Coupe available in 1 variants MSRP ranges from $11744 to $13128. Mercury Cougar offers 120 horsepower with the 4-Speed Automatic transmission.
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.)
1986 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
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Seat belts problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Mercury Cougar vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1986 Mercury Cougar complaints
The NHTSA has received 18 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Mercury Cougar.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-11
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: HEAD GASKET ON 3.8 ENGINE HAS BLOWN TWO TIMES IN 8 MONTHS. CAR OVERHEATS AND HAS OIL IN RADIATOR. HEATER DOES NOT WORK. AND VERY DIM LIGHTING ON SPEEDOMETER.*AK
STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1986-03-10
- Components: STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE HOOD IS HELD UP WITH A THIN METAL ROD AND PLACED INTO A HOLE IN THE HOOD. THERE ARE SEVERAL HOLES TO PUT THE ROD INTO BUT ONLY ONE IS PROPER SIZE AND FIT. IF YOU ARE UNDER THE HOOD AND YOU OR SOMEONE ELSE ACCIDENTALLY BUMPS THE ROD, THEN YOU WILL HAVE YOUR HEAD OR HANDS LITERALLY CHOPPED OFF SINCE THE WEIGHT OF THE HOOD IS SO HEAVY DUE TO HEAVY METAL PLATES PLACED IN THERE FOR FRONT END CRASH PROTECTION. I COMPLAINED TO THE FORD COMPANY IN 1986 BUT THEY JUST LAUGHED AS WELL AS NHTSA. ALSO MY CAR HAD ONE OF THE RUNAWAY PROBLEMS WHEREBY THE CAR WOULD JUST TAKE OFF ON ITS OWN DOWN THE STREET AT 90 MPH WITH BOTH FEE ON THE BRAKES. THE DEALER LAUGHED AND SAID I WAS THE ONLY ONE THAT COMPLAINED. NHTSA HAD 500 COMPLAINTS ON FILE FOR THAT PROBLEM. I WROTE CERTIFIED LETTER TO PRES OF FORD AND TOLD HIM THAT OF MY CAR INJURED OR KILLED ANYONE THAT HE WOULD BE FOUND GUILTY OF CRIMINAL NEGLIGENCE. 2 WEEKS LATER I GOT A NEW COMPUTER THAT SOLVED THAT PROBLEM. MY CAR WAS KEPT IN SHOWROOM MINT CONDITION AND WAS STOLEN IN 1999. *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-10
- VIN: 1MEBP9230GH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE BRACKET THAT HOLD THE STRAPS FOR THE FUEL TANK RUSTED VERY BADLY, BROKE AND THE FEUL TANK DROPPED WHILE THE CAR WAS MOVING/DRAGGED AND RIPPED A HOLE IN THE GAS TANK THE SPARKS COULD HAVE LIT THE GAS ON FIRE AND POTENTAILY COULD HAVE KILLED MY WIFE AND SON IN THE CAR.THE REST OF THE CAR IS IN GOOD SHAPE VERY LITTLE RUST .WHY WAS THE BRACKETS THE FIRST THING TO GIVE WHEN IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN THE LAST THING TO RUST ?COULD THEY BE DEFECTIVE I WANT TO EMPHASIZE THAT THERE IS VERY LITTLE RUST ANY WHERE ELSE BUT WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN THE MOST DEADLY PROBLEM I COULD HAVE HAD WAS THE FIRST PROBLEM THAT I HAD WHITH RUST. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-10
- VIN: 1MEBP9230GH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE BRACKET THAT HOLD THE STRAPS FOR THE FUEL TANK RUSTED VERY BADLY, BROKE AND THE FEUL TANK DROPPED WHILE THE CAR WAS MOVING/ DRAGGED AND RIPPED A HOLE IN THE GAS TANK THE SPARKS COULD HAVE LIT THE GAS ON FIRE AND POTENTAILY COULD HAVE KILLED MY WIFE AND SON IN THE CAR.THE REST OF THE CAR IS IN GOOD SHAPE VERY LITTLE RUST .WHY WAS THE BRACKETS THE FIRST THING TO GIVE WHEN IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN THE LAST THING TO RUST ?COULD THEY BE DEFECTIVE I WANT TO EMPHESIZE THAT THERE IS VERY LITTLE RUST ANY WHERE ELSE BUT WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN THE MOST DEADLY PROBLEM I COULD HAVE HAD WAS THE FIRST PROBLEM THAT I HAD WHITH RUST. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-10
- VIN: 1MEBP9230GH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE BRACKET THAT HOLD THE STRAPS FOR THE FUEL TANK RUSTED VERY BADLY, BROKE AND THE FEUL TANK DROPPED WHILE THE CAR WAS MOVING/DRAGGED AND RIPPED A HOLE IN THE GAS TANK THE SPARKS COULD HAVE LIT THE GAS ON FIRE AND POTENTAILY COULD HAVE KILLED MY WIFE AND SON IN THE CAR.THE REST OF THE CAR IS IN GOOD SHAPE VERY LITTLE RUST .WHY WAS THE BRACKETS THE FIRST THING TO GIVE WHEN IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN THE LAST THING TO RUST ?COULD THEY BE DEFECTIVE I WANT TO EMPHASIZE THAT THERE IS VERY LITTLE RUST ANY WHERE ELSE BUT WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN THE MOST DEADLY PROBLEM I COULD HAVE HAD WAS THE FIRST PROBLEM THAT I HAD WHITH RUST. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-10
- VIN: 1MEBP9230GH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE BRACKET THAT HOLD THE STRAPS FOR THE FUEL TANK RUSTED VERY BADLY, BROKE AND THE FEUL TANK DROPPED WHILE THE CAR WAS MOVING/ DRAGGED AND RIPPED A HOLE IN THE GAS TANK THE SPARKS COULD HAVE LIT THE GAS ON FIRE AND POTENTAILY COULD HAVE KILLED MY WIFE AND SON IN THE CAR.THE REST OF THE CAR IS IN GOOD SHAPE VERY LITTLE RUST .WHY WAS THE BRACKETS THE FIRST THING TO GIVE WHEN IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN THE LAST THING TO RUST ?COULD THEY BE DEFECTIVE I WANT TO EMPHESIZE THAT THERE IS VERY LITTLE RUST ANY WHERE ELSE BUT WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN THE MOST DEADLY PROBLEM I COULD HAVE HAD WAS THE FIRST PROBLEM THAT I HAD WHITH RUST. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-01
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVER SIDE SEAT TRACK AND ANCHORS MAKE CLICKING NOISE WHEN IN INCLINE POSTION AND FALLS BACK. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: VEHICLE DOES NOT CONTAIN SAFETY GLASS ON SIDE WINDOWS, VEHICLE COLLISION RESULTING IN CUTS TO FACE DUE TO GLASS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING CAR STALLS. PLEASE DESCRIBE . *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-12
- VIN: 1MEBP9231GH
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTON BROKE. *SD
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-11-15
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: IGNITION SWITCH HAS BURNING SMELL COMING FROM UNDER DASH; KILLS BATTERY. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-03
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1MEBP9233GH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE FROM THE IGNITION AREA WHILE DRIVING. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-03
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1MEBP9233GH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE FROM THE IGNITION AREA WHILE DRIVING. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-15
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE LIGHT FOR SPEEDOMETER IS OUT, CANNOT READ SPEED DAY OR NIGHT, CREATES POTENTIAL FOR ACCIDENT. TT
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1MEBP9230GH
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER'S SHOULDER/LAP BELT BUCKLES INOPERATIVE, MALE WON'T STAY LATCHED INTO FEMALE PORTION. TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-04-26
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: FRONT BRAKES FAILED TWICE, BACK BRAKES FELL OFF. TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-04-26
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: FRONT BRAKES FAILED TWICE, BACK BRAKES FELL OFF. TT
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-04-01
- VIN: 1MEBP9232GH
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE SEATBELT DOES NOT CLASP. TT
1986 Mercury Cougar recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1986 Mercury Cougar.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: SPRING LOCK FUEL LINE COUPLING MAY NOT BE PROPERLY ENGAGED.
- Consequence: COUPLING COULD DISENGAGE DUE TO FUEL PRESSURE,VIBRATION, AND ENGINE MOVEMENTS; THIS WOULD CAUSE LOSS OF FUEL WHICH, INPRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CREATES A FIRE RISK.
- Remedy: INSTALL RETAINER CLIPS OVER THE COUPLINGS TO PREVENT COUPLING SEPARATION AND FUEL LEAKAGE.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: HEADLAMP COVERS WERE INSTALLED ON VEHICLES IN ERROR. CAUSING THE CARS NOT TO COMPLY WITH FMVSS 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: THE HEADLAMP COVERS MAY HINDER THE SAFE OPERATION OF THE CAR IN DARKNESS AND OTHER CONDITIONS OF REDUCED VISIBILITY.
- Remedy: REMOVE HEADLAMP COVERS.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1986 Mercury Cougar problems:
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