2001 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 2001 Mercury Cougar problems
The 2001 Mercury Cougar has been known to have several common problems that affect its performance and reliability. These issues have been reported by owners of this car and are worth considering before purchasing or maintaining a 2001 Mercury Cougar.
- Bad Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve: The IAC valve is responsible for controlling the amount of air that bypasses the throttle plate when the engine is idling. If the IAC valve is malfunctioning, it can cause the engine to stall or idle roughly, which is a common problem with the 2001 Mercury Cougar. The car may also have trouble starting or may die when coming to a stop.
- Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM): The ECM is the car's main computer, controlling various engine functions. If the ECM is faulty, it can cause various engine problems, including poor performance, stalling, and difficulty starting. The ECM may also cause the check engine light to illuminate, indicating a problem with the engine.
- Transmission Problems: The 2001 Mercury Cougar has been reported to have transmission problems, including slipping, jerking, and difficulty shifting. These issues can be caused by various factors, including low transmission fluid levels, worn-out clutch plates, or a faulty transmission control module.
- Electrical Issues: The 2001 Mercury Cougar has also been known to have electrical issues, including problems with the power windows, power locks, and interior lights. These issues can be caused by faulty wiring, blown fuses, or a malfunctioning relay.
In summary, the 2001 Mercury Cougar has several common problems that can affect its performance and reliability. These issues include bad MAF sensors, bad IAC valves, faulty ECMs, transmission problems, and electrical issues. It is essential to address these problems promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the car's longevity. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and prevent these issues from occurring, ensuring the car's safe and reliable operation.
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.”
What is the mpg on a Mercury Cougar 2001 v6?
Fuel Economy
| City | 18 mpg |
|---|---|
| Highway | 26 mpg |
| Combined | 21 mpg |
Who made the 2001 Mercury Cougar?
(Ford)
| Mercury Cougar | |
|---|---|
| 01-02 Cougar | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Mercury (Ford) |
| Model years | 1967–1997 1999–2002 |
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.
Who made the 2001 Mercury Cougar?
(Ford)
| Mercury Cougar | |
|---|---|
| 01-02 Cougar | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Mercury (Ford) |
| Model years | 1967–1997 1999–2002 |
Is the Mercury Cougar a muscle car?
One of the unsung muscle cars of the '60s and '70s that does not get enough credit is the Mercury Cougar. Even though it sold far better than the company could have ever hoped for, it had some big problems to contend with.
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.”
2001 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:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2001 Mercury Cougar vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2001 Mercury Cougar
The NHTSA has received 82 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Mercury Cougar. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2001 Mercury Cougar vehicles.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-01
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L415
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MERCURY COUGAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START-UP AFTER MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE WOULD SHUTOFF AS THE OIL WARNING LIGHT WOULD ILLUMINATE ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT HAD TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE FUEL SENSOR, RELAY SENSOR, FUEL INJECTION SENOR AND MULTIPLE OTHER PARTS WERE REPLACED. DESPITE MULTIPLE REPAIRS TO THE VEHICLE, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND THEY INFORMED HER THAT HER VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V421000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) WHICH WAS LINKED TO HER FAILURE. A DEALER HAD NOT BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD YET TO BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 116,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-01
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L915
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MERCURY COUGAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ONCE THE FUEL LEVEL REACHED A HALF TANK OF GASOLINE, THE VEHICLE HESITATED AND LOSS MOTIVE POWER WITH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRANS AXLE AND CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED. COLUMBIA FORD LINCOLN HYUNDAI (700 7TH AVE, LONGVIEW, WA 98632) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT SUBJECTED TO A RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 136,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-08
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L515
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WELL HEADLIGHT WIRING HARNESS IS DRY ROTTED LIKE CRAZY THE CAR LOOSES POWER WHILE EXCELERATING WHEN BELOW 3/4 OF A TANK BRAKE FLUID/CLUTCH FLUID IS LEAKING DON'T KNOW WHY AND THE BATTERY LIGHT IS ON
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-14
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L515
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: BATTERY LIGHT IS ON AND HAS FOR AWHILE. LIGHTS KEEP BLOWING FUSES. AND TODAY I HAD TO RIP OUT A HEADLIGHT OR THE CAR WOULD HAVE SET ON FIRE. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-15
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L815
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE SUNROOF JUST RELEASED FROM THE CAR IN THE MIDDLE OF I71 DOING 65MPH AND I AM NOT THE ONLY PERSON WHO HAS HAD THIS PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL OF COUGAR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-13
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L115
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MERCURY COUGAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START INTERMITTENTLY. IN ADDITION, WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE STALLED, THE BATTERY WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED, AND THE INSTRUMENT PANEL GAUGES FLICKERED. THE BATTERY WAS REPLACED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 129,000.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-10
- VIN: 1ZWFT61LX15
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MERCURY COUGAR. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE DECELERATED AND STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT, WITH THE HELP OF OTHER DRIVERS, HAD TO PHYSICALLY PUSH THE VEHICLE OUT OF TRAFFIC TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL PUMP MOTOR BURNED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 102,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-23
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L615
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: OVER PAST FEW WEEKS LOOSING ACCELERATION ESPECIALLY ON INCLINES AND HIGHWAY ENTRANCE RAMPS CAUSING NEAR COLLISSION AS I CAN'T SPEED UP TO HIGHWAY SPEED AND CAR BEHIND ME MUST BRAKE AT FAST SPEEDS. ENGINE LIGHT ON. MECHANIC SAYS CAN'T FIX AND CONTACT FORD. MY VIN # DOES NOT BRING UP RECALL BUT IT MATCHES RECALL NOTICE SUMMARY STATING CONTAMINATION OF FILTER IN FUEL DELIVERY MODULE (FDM) THI RECALL STATE 1999-2002 COUGARS.MINE IS 2001 BOUGHT NEW, UNDER 70,000 MI WITH NEW FUEL PUMP. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR WEEKS AND SCARED TO DRIVE MY ONLY CAR. PLEASE HELP.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-23
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L615
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MERCURY COUGAR. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE ENGINE CHECK WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL DELIVERY MODULE FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V421000(FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 59,800.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-01
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L115
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR STARTED HESITATING AND LOST POWER THEN STALLED OUT CAUSING TRAFFIC TO GET BACKED UP. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-01
- VIN: 1ZWFT603615
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MERCURY COUGAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY STARTED TO HESITATE AND STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V421000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 151,645.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-05
- VIN: 1ZWHT61L815
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: KEY STICKS IN IGNITION SWITCH. SOMETIMES HALFWAY IN OR OUT. AFRAID TO DRIVE AS IT WILL PROBABLY MAKE CAR UNABLE TO START OR TAKE OUT IGNITION KEY. I AM ALSO WONDERING IF THIS COULD HAPPEN WHILE DRIVING, SUCH AS SHUTTING ITSELF OFF. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-11-20
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L115
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: COOPER TRENDSETTER SE,P205/55/R16,INSIDE ONE TIRE IS A PILE OF POWDERED RUBBER/INSIDE WALL OF TIRE,RUBBER HAS CAME OFF AND YOU CAN SEE WHAT LOOKS LIKE BANDS. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-10-03
- VIN: 1ZWFT61LX15
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MERCURY COUGAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 04V421000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) AND TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE TECHNICIANS STATED THAT THEY COULD NOT COMPLETE THE REPAIR BECAUSE SHE HAD NOT EXPERIENCED THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FUEL SYSTEM FAILED AND SHE ATTEMPTED TO HAVE THE VEHICLE REPAIRED BUT THE PARTS NEEDED FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THAT SHE WOULD HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL THE PARTS HAD BECOME AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 111,000. UPDATED 12/06/12*LJ UPDATED 12/07/2012 *JS
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-16
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L915
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MERCURY COUGAR. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN THE RECALL UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 04V421000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) AND WAS REPAIRED. AFTER SOMETIME THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START OR WOULD STALL INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 250,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-01
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L115
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MERCURY COUGAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH. THE VEHICLE RESTARTED AFTER WAITING A FEW MOMENTS. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON AN INTERMITTENT BASIS AND OCCURRED MORE FREQUENTLY OVER TIME. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER AND WAS REPAIRED UNDER THE RECALL ASSOCIATED WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 04V421000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE FAILURE BEGAN TO RECUR APPROXIMATELY THREE MONTHS LATER. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN TAKEN BACK FOR ADDITIONAL REPAIRS. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT FUEL SYSTEM FAILURES LED TO AN ALTERNATOR FAILURE, WHICH DRAINED THE VEHICLE'S BATTERY. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUNROOF WAS JAMMED AND WOULD NOT LONGER OPEN. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-26
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L915
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MERCURY COUGAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER HAVING ROUTINE MAINTENANCE PERFORMED, THE MECHANIC ADVISED THAT THE FUEL TANK AND STRAPS WERE RUSTED AND CORRODED. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED WHO STATED THERE WERE NO RECALLS FOR THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-24
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L915
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MERCURY COUGAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING INSPECTED BY A LOCAL MECHANIC FOR A FUEL ODOR, THE MECHANIC FOUND THAT THE FUEL TANK AND BOTH FUEL STRAPS WERE CORRODED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 99,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-02-21
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L715
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MERCURY COUGAR. WHILE DRIVING, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, SHE NOTICED THAT A PIECE OF THE METAL BATTERY CONNECTOR HAD MELTED. THE METAL CONNECTOR WAS REPLACED. APPROXIMATELY ONE WEEK LATER, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY STALLED AGAIN WITHOUT WARNING CAUSING HER TO LOSE ALL POWER SIMILAR TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 01V031000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BATTERY:CABLES). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE BATTERY CABLE WAS BURNING AND SMOKING. THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT HER VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PREVIOUS RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED THE SECOND TIME. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DRIVING CAR TO CLASS LAST WEEK, RECENTLY BOUGHT IT WITHIN THE PAST YEAR. WAS PULLING INTO A PARKING SPOT IN A PARKING GARAGE GOING MAYBE 5 MPH. WAS CREEPING UP INTO THE SPOT AND THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED OUT OF NOWHERE, CRACKING MY WINDSHIELD AND GETTING SMOKE AND AN AWFUL SMELL INTO MY CAR. I ALSO WILL BE WEARING A WRIST BRACE FOR THE NEXT 6 WEEKS DUE TO AN INJURY THAT THE AIRBAGS CAUSED. *TR
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-15
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L615
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: VEHICLE QUITTING IN INTERSECTION AND CAR LOSING ALL POWER ENTERING GARAGE. VIBRATION AND PULLING TO RIGHT AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. EGR VALVE REPLACED TWICE. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-20
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L315
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MERCURY COUGAR. ON JUNE 20, 2009, A PIECE OF THE SUN ROOF FELL OFF TRACK AND CAUSED THE SUN ROOF TO BECOME INOPERABLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER TO HAVE THE PART REPLACED, BUT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENTIRE SUN ROOF NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. SHE FEELS THAT THIS IS A SAFETY RELATED DEFECT THAT SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 124,000.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-13
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L115
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WENT TO OPEN SUN ROOF DIDN'T WORK . I WENT TO FIND OUT HOW MUCH IT WOULD COST WAS TOLD OVER 1000.00 AND THIS A REALLY COMMON WITH THIS YEAR AND MODEL OF CAR EVEN WENT TO SALVAGE YARDS NO SUNROOFS THERE THEY EVEN SAID GOOD LUCK THAT FORD DID NOT MAKE THIS ANY GOOD THE HAVE SO MANY PEOPLE LOOKING FOR THE SAME THING THEY CANT GET ONE IN FAST ENOUGH AND WHEN THEY DO ITS GONE THAT QUICK IF IT IS ANY GOOD MOST AREN'T. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-09-08
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1ZWFT61L415
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I AM NOT SURE WHO TO CONTACT WITH THIS, BUT I HAVE ALREADY GONE THROUGH MY INSURANCE COMPANY, AND I AM STILL A LITTLE UPSET ABOUT WHAT HAPPENED. I OWNED A MERCURY COUGAR 2DR COUPE 2001. ONE NIGHT I WAS ALERTED BY A NEIGHBOR THAT MY CAR WAS ON FIRE. MY FATHER STARTED PUTTING WATER ON THE CAR, AND I USED A FIRE EXTINGUISHER TO PUT THE FIRE OUT. MY INSURANCE COMPANY HAD A CLAIMS REPRESENTATIVE COME OUT AND CHECK THE VEHICLE. THEY ALREADY SENT ME A CHECK FOR WHAT THEY SAY THE VEHICLE WAS WORTH, AND I AM JUST NOT HAPPY ABOUT IT. I KNOW THAT FORD HAD ISSUES WITH CARS CATCHING ON FIRE. I JUST DON'T SEE HOW THE INSURANCE COMPANY CAN CUT ME A CHECK FOR THE VEHICLE, AND DETERMINE A CAUSE, WITH ONLY PICTURES. MY CAR STILL SITS IN MY DRIVEWAY 2 WEEKS AFTER THE ACCIDENT. THE CAR WAS SITTING PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY FOR ROUGHLY 8 HOURS BEFORE IT CAUGHT ON FIRE. I JUST HATE THE FACT THAT I AM HAVING TO TAKE A CAR I SPENT 13,000$ FOR, AND NOW I GET TO BUY SOMETHING WORTH 6,700$. I WAS SEARCHING ONLINE TO FIND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE VEHICLE FIRES, AND ALSO SAW WHERE IT SHOULD BE REPORTED AND THAT WHY I DECIDED TO WRITE THIS. THANK YOU, SETH GOODOWENS *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-15
- VIN: 1ZWFT603215
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MERCURY COUGAR. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A TURN AND/OR WHEN DRIVING FORWARD, THE VEHICLE SHUTS OFF. THE FAILURE OCCURS INTERMITTENTLY AND AT VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE VEHICLE MUST BE RESTARTED AND OPERATES NORMALLY UNTIL THE NEXT OCCURRENCE. NO WARNING LIGHTS ARE ILLUMINATED PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE WAS INCLUDED IN A RECALL FOR THE FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, BUT THE CONTACT HAD THE RECALL REPAIR PERFORMED TWO YEARS AGO. THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED HER THAT SINCE THE REPAIRS WERE MADE UNDER THE RECALL, SHE WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COST OF THE NEW REPAIRS. THE RECALL NUMBER WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 102,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 109,000.
2001 Mercury Cougar recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2001 Mercury Cougar.
- Manufacturer: FEDERAL-MOGUL CHASSIS PRODUCTS
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: FEDERAL MOGUL IS RECALLING 6,903 AFTERMARKET BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES SHIPPED BETWEEN NOVEMBER 9, 2007 AND MARCH 26, 2008, WHICH MAY HAVE BEEN PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS. THE PART NUMBERS PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS ARE: K7147, K7329, K8683, AND 104353. THESE PARTS WERE MADE FOR USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE.
- Consequence: THE NUTS INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGING FOR THESE BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES ARE MISSING THE INTENDED PREVAILING TORQUE (SELF-LOCKING) FEATURE. IF THE INCORRECT NUT WAS TO BECOME LOOSE, THE JOINING MEMBERS MAY LOOSEN LEADING TO A SEPARATION OF THE BALL JOINT. THIS MAY RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: FEDERAL MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 22, 2008. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL MOGUL AT 877-489-6659.
- Manufacturer: BRAKE PARTS, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CERTAIN AFTERMARKET BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT BRAKE CYLINDERS FOR CERTAIN FORD, DAIMLERCHRYSLER, AND JEEP PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE BRAKE CYLINDERS WERE SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF NAPA, RAYBESTOS, AIMCO, AC DELCO, CARQUEST, BENDIX, AND WAGNER. ONLY PRODUCTS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 27, 2005 THROUGH JANUARY 17, 2006 (DATE CODES 0529 THROUGH 0602) ARE SUBJECT TO THIS RECALL. WHEN SUBJECT TO VERY COLD TEMPERATURES, AN INTERNAL SEAL IN THE MASTER CYLINDER COULD LOSE FLEXIBILITY AND MAY CAUSE BRAKE FLUID TO LEAK.
- Consequence: LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN LEAD TO A DECREASE IN BRAKE LINE PRESSURE AND AN INCREASE IN STOPPING DISTANCE, WHICH CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: AFFINIA (BRAKE PARTS, INC.) WILL REPLACE THE SUBJECT BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 20, 2006. OWNERS CAN CONTACT AFFINA GROUP CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-323-0354.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, CONTAMINATION OF THE FILTER IN THE FUEL DELIVERY MODULE (FDM) CAN REDUCE, AND EVENTUALLY BLOCK, THE FLOW OF FUEL TO THE ENGINE.
- Consequence: THIS MAY CAUSE ENGINE HESITATION, LOSS OF POWER, SURGING, AND OTHER SIMILAR SYMPTOMS. OVER TIME, THE FILTER MAY BECOME SUFFICIENTLY BLOCKED TO CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STALL, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: THIS ACTION IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN AND IS NOT BEING CONDUCTED UNDER THE SAFETY ACT. ALL OWNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FDM WITH A NEW DESIGN AT NO CHARGE IF THE OWNER REPORTS THAT THE VEHICLE EXHIBITS ANY OF THE IDENTIFIED SYMPTOMS. THE FREE REPLACEMENT WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR A PERIOD OF 10 YEARS FOLLOWING THE ORIGINAL PURCHASE OF THE VEHICLE, WITH NO MILEAGE LIMIT. THE CAMPAIGN BEGAN ON APRIL 16, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Negative 2001 Mercury Cougar car reviews
Positive 2001 Mercury Cougar car reviews
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This car is so much fun to drive! While the pickup could be a bit better, it definitely gets cruising. The handling is excellent and the hatchback is a great feature. I do have some concerns about reliability though, as I've read some horror stories.
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We've owned this car since 2001 and it's been trouble-free. Regular maintenance has taken care of minor issues. It's not ideal for someone over 5'6
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You will feel proud owning this pretty car. It was built with safety features to ensure the driver's comfort and safety. The double lock brakes on all 4 tires make it stop on a dime. It will get you where you need to go on time. I have owned mine since 2009 and paid it off in 2012. I love it! Even after being wrecked, it is still beautiful and durable. Although it has some dents, it still runs well. I hope to put it in a body shop one day. It needs shocks and the seats recushioned, but with shocks, the ride is awesome. It has been a lifesaver for me, getting me to the doctor and hospital when I needed it the most. Unfortunately, it seems to have a problem with the fuel filter or fuel module, and possibly needing a coil. I am thankful for the awakening knowledge and will try to fix it. If I had been notified of the recall, the Ford place of Florence SC would have helped me. I also have a problem with a broken key and no alarm key, and the blinker bulb is out, leaving me with no flashers or signal lights. This is annoying and has left me stranded. My car is a 2001 Mercury Cougar V-6 hatchback racecar engine, loaded with a speedometer that goes up to 160. It is beautiful inside and out. I love my Betsy Boop.
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... the Cougar V6 performed quite well over the pass (zero to 4500 ft) from Palm Springs to Idlewild to Highway 15 up to Hemet. I had driven the Celica GT, Mitsubishi Eclipse GT and Lexus SC300 as well on this route. Fuel economy was impressive the whole trip. Overall, it seems like a great value for a domestic sports coupe.
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I love it! It's safe on the road and great for speeding.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2001 Mercury Cougar problems:
2001 Mercury Cougar Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Top 2001 Mercury Cougar Problems · Battery Light Due to Damaged Alternator Wire Harness Connector · Check Engine Light on Due to Clogged EGR Passage in Intake ...
Common Problems with 2001 Mercury Cougar: Bucking and ...
Mar 8, 2008 ... It will show the fuel trim readings,whether the engine is running rich or lean .If it only happened at idle I would have suggested checking for ...
Mercury Cougar Problems and Complaints - 13 Issues
Top Mercury Cougar Problems · Battery Light Due to Damaged Alternator Wire Harness Connector · Blown/Cracked Head Gasket Can Cause White Smoke From Exhaust · Check ...
Common 2001 Mercury Cougar Problems: Q&A on Miss Issues
Aug 7, 2010 ... Its either the EGR is stuck open (unlikely) or the DPFE sensor thats mounted to the side of the cylinder head right beneath the throttle body is ...
Problems FAQ - Please check here first! Thanks! | New Cougar Forum
Aug 4, 2005 ... New Edge Mercury Cougar Discussions ... What is listed are common problems among cougars, but not all problems ... Good luck. 2001 Cougar - 2.5L V-6 ...
Other years of Mercury Cougar
Are you having problems with your 2001 Mercury Cougar?
Ezekiel Greenfelder 2024-10-29
Hi there! I'm happy to hear that my car has been very dependable with a little over 60k and no problems. However, I have noticed that the ergonomics leave much to be desired. For example, I can't shift if my passenger is fiddling with the radio, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the steering is quite stiff. I'm not sure who this car is made for since I find the dash too high and the seat too low, while my husband doesn't have enough headroom. In general, I find the seats to be really uncomfortable.
Cleo Parisian 2024-09-19
I absolutely adore my cougar! When I was getting ready to leave for college, my parents wanted to make sure I had a reliable car that could handle lots of miles. I drive back and forth from Norman Oklahoma (Go Sooners!) about twice a month, and even though my car is a little over 2 years old and has 87,000 miles on it, it still runs great. Of course, there have been a few minor issues along the way, like bad brakes at 11k and a new transmission at 34k, but those were taken care of quickly. The CD player does skip a bit, and the trunk pop still doesn't work, but those are just minor inconveniences. At 60k, the transmission needed to be replaced again, but since then, everything has been running smoothly. The only other issue I've had was when the door handle on the passenger side broke 6 months ago. Overall, I'm really happy with my car and I always feel safe and comfortable driving it.
Jose Spinka 2024-09-11
I bought my Cougar brand new and initially, I was thrilled with my purchase. However, after driving it for about 10,000 miles, I started experiencing some issues and had to take it to the Mercury dealer's repair shop multiple times. Unfortunately, I have had many problems with my car, including bad brakes, a faulty gas gauge, a malfunctioning fuel pump, alternator, and leaking windows. Despite taking it to the dealer four times, the windows are still not fixed, and lately, my power windows have stopped working altogether. While the car is beautiful, it has been a frustrating experience. I would not recommend this car to anyone, and I personally will not be purchasing a car from the Ford/Mercury line again.
Johnathon Hartmann 2024-08-20
I purchased my car on October 31, 2001. Although I initially loved it, the engine unexpectedly blew up on me while driving down the freeway in 2003. Despite regularly changing the oil every 500 miles, the car still experienced issues. After spending $5500.00, the cougar was taken off the market and replaced with a mustang engine. Additionally, the steering column came apart, the back seat was not ideal for taller individuals, and the trunk required some extra effort to open. There was also a recall on a fuel pump part that caused some hesitation in acceleration. Overall, this car may not be the best choice for those with young children.
Bradley Robel 2024-07-26
Bought as my first NEW car right out of college. Unfortunately, within a year, I lost the master cylinder while driving, which resulted in NO BRAKES!! Additionally, I experienced lots of problems with the 6 CD changer/radio, which had to be replaced twice. Depending on terrain, mileage ranges from 15-26 mpg. Overall, I am satisfied with my first car. However, if I had to do it over again, I wouldn't make the same choice.