1987 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 1987 Mercury Cougar problems
The 1987 Mercury Cougar is known to have several common problems, primarily related to the engine and transmission.
- Battery Light Due to Damaged Alternator Wire Harness Connector: This issue is related to the electrical system of the car. The alternator wire harness connector can become damaged, leading to a battery light coming on and the car eventually stalling. This problem can be fixed by replacing the damaged connector.
- Transmission Problems: The 1987 Mercury Cougar is also known to have issues with the transmission. One common problem is that the car will not shift into second gear while driving, causing the engine to rev at a low RPM while driving at high speeds. This problem can be caused by a variety of issues, including a bad governor, dirty valves, or a clogged case. In some cases, the problem may be caused by a burned-out second gear drum or a stuck passing gear cable.
- Roofline Issues: Some owners have reported issues with the roofline on the 1987 Mercury Cougar. The biggest problem is that the roofline can make it difficult to see out of the back window, which can be a safety issue. This problem can be fixed by installing a rearview camera or replacing the rearview mirror with a larger one.
These are some of the most common problems reported by owners of the 1987 Mercury Cougar. It is important to note that not all cars of this model year will experience these issues, but they are known to be relatively common. If you are considering purchasing a 1987 Mercury Cougar, it is important to have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential issues before making a purchase.
What years of Mercury Cougar should I 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).
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 should I 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.
How long is a 1987 Mercury Cougar?
The Cougar has a wheelbase of 104.2 inches; length of 200.8 inches; height of 53.8 inches and width of 70.1 inches. The volume index is 107 cubic feet (92 passenger compartment and 15 trunk) which makes it a compact (100-110 cubic feet) but a large compact.
What engine is in a 1988 Mercury Cougar?
FEATURES UNIQUE TO 1988 COUGARS:
MPFI 3.8L V6 engine with internal balance shaft. Monochromatic XR-7 model (only year for this body style)
1987 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
- Seat belts problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Mercury Cougar vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1987 Mercury Cougar
The NHTSA has received 39 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1987 Mercury Cougar. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1987 Mercury Cougar vehicles.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-01
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1MEBM60F4HH
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Brake pads constantly keeps running out on front driver, passenger front brakes are still good but rotor keeps running out unevenly, no brake fluid leaks but needs refill every 3rd about 3/4 of a pints bottle, making a left turn it accelerated by itself brakes didn't react, instead of causing in a big accident, pulled the steering wheel, went through a fence and a brick wall stopped my car, checked all fuses replaced fuses if needed, confirmed fuses AMP Ganges with the vehicle own owners manual, dashboard backlights keeps going on and off on it's own, automatic transmission after complete stop it sets it self at neutral , a few taps on the gas pedal then it goes to 1st shift, only has 129,000 miles, 1987 Mercury Cougar LS 5.0l windsor engine, 20th Anniversary Edition
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD INOPERABLE. *YH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-12-01
- VIN: 1MEBM6031HH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING AND WITHOUT ANY INDICATION VEHICLE WOULD STALL.*AK THE VEHICLE STALLED NUMEROUS TIMES, BUT GOES SMOTH AGAIN. THE TECHNICIANS AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPT DISCOVERED THAT THE TFI IGNITION MODUELE FAILURE WAS THE CAUSE. *YH
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: UNAVAILABLE
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: A PENNY, NICKLE, AND A QUARTER FELL INTO THE FEMALE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY, PROBABLY OVER TIME FROM POCKETS AND/OR THE CONSOLE. THE TONGUE AND BUCKLE JAMMED AND WOULD NOT RELEASE. THE DRIVER CUT HERSELF OUT WITH A SISSORS AFTER BEING TRAPPED. THE TONGUE COULD BE RELEASED FROM THE BUCKLE BY SLIPPING A THIN SCREWDRIVER ALONG THE SIDE OF THE TONGUE INTO THE BUCKLE AND PUSHING DOWN. REINSERTING THE TONGUE INTO THE BUCKLE WITH THE COINS IN IT CAUSED THE SAME JAM WITH THE SAME PROCEDURE TO RE-RELEASE. NO EXPERIMENT WAS PERFORMED TO FIND OUT HOW MANY OR WHICH COIN WAS CAUSING THE JAM, ALL, ONE OR SOME. THE BUCKLE STICKS UP IN THE AIR LIKE A COIN SLOT. NO CHILDREN WOULD HAVE PUT COINS IN THE SLOT SO THEY MUST HAVE GOT IN INADVERTENTLY FROM POCKETS OR THE CONSOLE.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1MEBM6037HH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE KEEPS STALLING DUE TO A TFI MODULE THAT WAS PLACED TOO CLOSE TO ENGINE WHICH WILL OVERHEAT. CONSUMER IS AWARE OF NATIONAL CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT IN THE STATE OF ILLINOIS.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-18
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS PARKED INSIDE THE GARAGE AND IT CAUGHT ON FIRE DUE TO ELECTRICAL WIRING SHORT.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-07-16
- VIN: 1MEDM60334H
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE WIRE PIPE MADE A LOUD NOISE. WHEN PRESSING THE BRAKES THE VEHICLE MADE A POPPING NOISE. DEALER CONTACTED AND ATTEMPTED TO REPAIR. ALSO, TOOK THE HEATER CORE APART, AND THERE IS NOW NO HEAT IN THE VEHICLE, THE PROBLEM STILL EXISTS. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-07-04
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1MEBMCS2AH7
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: AFTER VEHICLE HAD BEEN DRIVEN IT CAUGHT ON FIRE WHILE PARKED. FIRE OCCURRED IN RIGHT FRONT SIDE OF VEHICLE. CAUSE UNKNOWN. POSSIBLE FUEL RELATED FIRE. *AK
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1MEBM6038HH
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: UNSPECIFIED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE IGNITION SWITCH SNAPPED AND A FIRE STARTED WHILE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1ME8M6034HH
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLE STUCK.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1MEBM6036HH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: AN ELECTRICAL SHORT IN THE WIRING, CAUSING THE WIRING IN THE INSTRUMENT PANEL TO BURN OUT. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-01
- VIN: 1MEBM6030HH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: RIGHT FRONT BRAKE ROTOR RUSTED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: AFTER PARKING, MOMENTS LATER FOUND FLAMES SHOOTING FROM UNDER HOOD, ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE FOR NO APPARENT REASON. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-21
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE WHILE PARKED DUE TO DEFECTIVE IGNITION SWITCH, THE CAR IS A TOTAL LOSS. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: IMEBM60F2HH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM STEERING COLUMN, IGNITION SWITCH BURNT, NO FLAMES. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-20
- VIN: 1NEBM6039HH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM IN THE CAR HAS GONE HAYWIRE DUE TO THE IGNITON SWITCH. THE INSTRUMENT PANEL GOES OUT AND THE CAR JUST SHUTS OFF. *AK VEHICLE WOULD GO ON FINE, WOULD PULL OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY AND THE RADIO WOULD TURN OFF TURN THE CORNER AND THE VEHICLE WOULD SHUT, VEHICLE WOULD START BACK UP AND MAYBE THE RADIO WOULD COME BACK ON.*JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Fire: 1
- VIN: IMEBM6037HH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: AFTER PARKING MOMENT LATER NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Fire: 1
- VIN: IMEBM6037HH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: AFTER PARKING MOMENT LATER NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-04-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVER'S SEATBACK BROKE AFTER BEING HITTING IN THE REAR AT 35MPH, WHILE SITTING STILL IN STOPPED TRAFFIC. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-14
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: BUCKLE DOES NOT LATCH PROPERLY. EXPLAIN IN MORE DETAIL. TT
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-01
- VIN: 1MEBM60F7HH
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: EA95-021 ACTIVE, SEAT BELT BUCKLE ON DRIVERS WILL NOT STAY LATCHED, WHILE DRIVING, IT COMES UNLATCHED. TT *SLC
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-20
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1MEBM6039HH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: GAS PEDAL STUCK, BRAKES DID NOT STOP VEHICLE ENDED UP HITTING A TREE. TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-20
- Crash: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: GAS PEDAL STUCK, BRAKES DID NOT STOP VEHICLE ENDED UP HITTING A TREE. TT
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-10
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER SEAT BELT BUCKLE BUTTON BROKE OFF, NOW THE SEATBELT IS INOPERATIVE. TT
1987 Mercury Cougar recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1987 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.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1987 Mercury Cougar problems:
Q&A: 1993 Mercury Cougar - Intermittent Issues | JustAnswer
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1987 Mercury Cougar Reviews - Carsurvey.org
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Oct 3, 2011 ... Solution: Electric Fan Conversion using cooling fans from 99-02 Ford Contour/Mercury Mystique or Mercury Cougar. ... It is a common problem and ...
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