Used 2001 Mercury Cougar Consumer Reviews
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This Cougar LOVES her Cougar!
I bought my Cougar in 2003 with 19,000 miles on it. 88,000 miles later, I have had to sink about $2,000 in her. But for me, she is worth it. I get compliments all the time about how cool looking this car is. I have replaced the computer, brakes, and most recently, the coil. I was having problems with surging, a gulping or missing action when I accelerated and my mechanic couldn't figure out what the problem was. I found that in 2004, the fuel module had been recalled and was effective to have it replaced until October, 2011. It was at that time the seviceman told me the coil is what was causing the "missing" affect. I had a friend replace it for $70.00. Runs like new again! I love this car!
A pretty AMAZING car!
It's a 2001 Mercury Cougar ZN. Its got close to 150,000 mi, and its a precision build machine! Like everyone says, it doesn't have a whole lot of power but the fact that it weighs close to 3500 lbs doesn't help either. It's amazing to drive. Corners like a beast, brakes like a beast, looks like a beast. It's a ZN, and it's had routine things go wrong with it (water pump, burnt out blinker bulbs, CD got stuck, transmission rebuilt) Its still amazing to drive though, on smooth pavement it rides like its on a cloud. 17" rims mean tires are CRAZY expensive, but they make the car look amazing though! This is the sportiest daily driver you can have. But never get over 3K rpm, because I get 15 MPG
- Base 2dr HatchbackMSRP: $1,9951,781 mi away
Driving it til' it dies
Bought my car 6 years ago for an awesome price from a friend. A couple car dealers, and mechanics told me that it was not a smart choice, had electrical problems, etc. I was hesitant and nervous I would be fixing it a lot, but I still couldn't pass up the price. Six years later, I have put nothing more than basic wear and tear money into it. It is by far the best car I have ever owned! Wouldn't trade it for the world! So glad now that I made the right choice!
Excellent Vehicle!!!
I got my custom V6 manual in Feb01. It's custom 'cause I got convenience package + ABS brks. It's very fun to drive (both the stick and auto). Transmsn is designed/made in Germany and it shows! A very european car, with a huge trunk. The biggest plus of this car is handling. It has a computer: "temperature outside", "average speed", "mpg", and best of all "miles before empty tank". I'd also say that chicks dig the car - one made me roll down my window on the hiway to say how cool my car was.
Don't buy it with big kids!
Bought it new and have had only two problems, the drivers seat belt wouldn't latch, dealer fixed it on warranty. I got some bad gas, three tanks of gas fixed it just like the owners manual said. I don't understand "the engine could use a little more oomph", my wife beat a Nissan 350 Z when she was going to the store. Awesome cornering capability. Keep the Firehawks on it, I got more than 80K miles out of the first set. Mileage exactly what the sticker said. Great value. Didn't get my son to sit in the back before I bought it. First drive in it, he hit his head on the hatchback window. At the time he was 14 and about 5'6". Now he will not sit in back.
Not A Smart Buy
We bought this Cougar with 80,000 miles on it and it has been in the garage almost every month we've owned it. Fuel Pump, Water Pump, Bearings and the list goes on. Looks like a nice little car, but it is a money pit. I have talked to other owners and they have said the same thing. Definitely a "Stay Away From" Car.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Mercery Cougar
I bought my Cougar brand new in 2001. Now in 2008 it only has 72,000 miles. In 04 I did start having small problems with the fuel pump. These problems came and went for a couple years. nothing to big until this year my fuel pump went out but I was happy to find when I took it in to the dealership it was under recall so it didn't cost me a dime to repair. Although now I have a problem with the oil pan leaking then burning to make small clouds of white smoke. I took it in to be fixed which is about 12 dollars for the oil pan but since the engine sits on top of the pan it would cost about 3000 to fix all together! Other than that I have had no problems with the car, I love it!
Great on gas but a MONEY PIT
Bought it with 79k for my wife in 98. Has 112k now. Car looks great outside, inside is a little small. I don't know what everyone is talking about with the gas, i average 35 mpg going 60, and about 32 mpg going 70. so far, replaced both rear shocks, fuel pump, both timing chains, water pump, plugs, wires, all 4 brakes. Now I have about 3 different noises coming from the car, in which all i can't find. I'm tired of dropping money into it. As soon as something is fixed, something else needs fixed. I don't recommend it to anyone that can't work on cars!!
Sweet!
I was initially hesistant to purchase this car but, all it took was one short test drive and I was sold! A little weak on power in the V6 but, the handling and other performance enhancements more than make up for that. Great ride, great handling and decent power, not too mention striking, "ahead of its time" looks!
EXCELLENT CAR FOR THE $$$
BETTER THAN THE FORD MUSTANG. YOU REALLY DON'T SEE THAT MANY OF THEM ON THE ROAD, SO WHEN YOU DO, PEOPLE STARE ALITTLE LONGER AT THE 2001 COUGAR.
Milage of a GeoMetro
I get the Gas milage of a metro but the look of a cougar. I get a amazing 38MPG on the highway and 35 in town. You cant beat it. Stock as a rock with a homebuilt cold air intake. Using a K&N filter off of a V8 Mustang. Works awesome. I only have 80K and it runs great. Absolutely no complaints about the dravability.
lemon law should apply
Overall I am displeased with this model. The mercury gods could have put a little more than 170hp under the hood, but what this car lacks in power, It sure makes up for in handling!! Semi- smooth ride, Has it's Corvette like qualities, Corners on rails! I once made a 80 deg. turn at 65 mph in a 4 wheel drift, She went right where I wanted her to just by hitting or letting off the gas. However, Things are not all well in the Cougar stable. The 99 Cougar allong with select 2001's are having PCM programing problems. Causing hesitation in 1st and 2nd gears. Replacement of the PCM chip will determine which gear this problem will show up in.
Never again
True this vehicle may be a blast to drive but the design quality of this car leaves tons to be desired. First off the fuel injectors are of poor quality having had one go out about a month after I had bought the car. The body molding especially on the front bumper was put together by 3yr olds, not to mention all the recalls that were involved. I would expect better quality and reliability from a new model.
Better than the Edmunds Review!
I have to disagree with the Edmunds review. I bought a fully loaded 2001 C2 Cougar and I couldn't be happier with it. The interior is extremely comfortable and very well laid out with each to use controls. No problems so far and I already have 10,000 miles on my Cat. Very comfortable car to drive long distances, handles great, and stops on a dime. I highly recommend the Cougar to anyone looking for a sporty car.
I'd buy it again.
First off this is not a drag car, a good number of the newer cars will stomp this one in the quarter. This car does however love carving the curves. Feels pretty solid on the road. Does well in the snow, sits a little low so watch the ice boulders in the road. Seat holds the passengers well. Back seat is made for small people.
Great car
This has been a great car. I have enjoyed everything about it. It has 56,000 miles and has never had to be worked on.
Its a Tank...
Just you all know this car was pass on to me after my mom passed on last year. So far the cougar has been great to me. Although its a gas guzzler and thats do to it being we 2 tons. To me its a girls car but it was my moms so i drive it and plus it only has 33,000 on it. Pretty good for a 2001. The cougar is my second ride and so far its been fun. I see so many cougar lately on the road but i never see the one like mine. My cougar has added features that was being put on the 2002.
worst car ive owned
will never buy another ford again. be ready to drop alot of money on repairs. everytime car hits the shop(which was often), be ready to spend at least $1000. tires are ridiculous, and mpg sucks (i got 15.6).
A well built vehicle
Bought my Cougar private in May 2002. The vehicle had only 15,000km and was like new. Accident free, and maintained excellent. I have had very few problems with this vehicle in the last 4 years. Although I feel I had to replace the tires quite early into it's life. My new tires are better than the originals. Not so fast when you take off, but the Cougar gains it momentum quickly into it's take off. But yes, it could have used a bit more power. Styling is great, adn more than enough interior space for the 2 front passengers. The car had huge potential, and it's a huge shame it's life has been ended. Overall, a great car.
I love my Cougar!
This is my second Cougar, ordered the 1999 sight unseen & was so happy with it that I leased the 2001. Then the lease expired & Mercury stopped making these so I BOUGHT it & have not been sorry a day. Excellent performance, have only had to replace tires, nothing else. Wish Ford would bring them back, so sporty & sharp looking!
I WOULD NEVER BUY ANOTHER MERCURY/ FORD
I HAVE A 2001 ZN. I LOVED THE CAR WHEN I FIRST GOT IT. I LOVE THE STYLE AND LOOK OF IT. THEN ALL THE PROBLEMS STARTED. MAJOR MOTOR TAP AT 20,000 MILES THEY REPLACED THE MOTOR AFTER ALL THE HASSEL THEY PUT ME THROUGH. 2 WEEKS LATER TRANSMISION WENT. 2 MONTHS LATER LOST 2ND GEAR AND THE TRANS WAS REBUILT. NOW AT 36,000 IT HESITATES THROUGH ALL THE GEARS. I CANT GO OVER 3000 RPM WITHOUT IT BUCKING AND HESITATING. I ACTUALLY CANT STAND THE CAR ANYMORE. PROBLEM AFTER PROBLEM IT'S REDICIULOUS!!!!!
sick car
i just bought my cougar and it's sickkkkk,,, i got it for $1800 at a auction and i paid $700 for repairs!! ive been driving for about 3 months and its purrfectt, love it
This Cat's a Dog, but I Love it Anyway
Some owners seem anxious to complain about their Cougar; maybe I've just had good luck. Other than the Duratec leaving something to be desired, I couldn't be much happier. After test driving a Celica, Eclipse, and other coupes, I decided on this domestic V6. I've been impressed by its handling, comfort, and interior design. The pick-up is tepid, however, and I felt compelled to replace the obviously fake scoop. I chose the Zn, but customized most of the special features anyway. I'm not sure I'd go with yellow again, but it's easy to spot in a parking lot. Until I have my midlife crisis, kids or both, I'm planning on enjoying this car for awhile.
Fun to drive
This car is loads of fun to drive. The pickup is lacking slightly but you can definitely get it cruising. The handling is excellent and the hatchback is key. I just hope that some of the horror stories I've read regarding reliability aren't true.
Tough little car
This car is very economical to drive. Not just the mileage, but also maintenance and repairs (which have been few) FYI it does have a recalled fuel pump, which I haven't taken care of bacause problems don't surface if you keep the tank over half full --- that's easier than keeping it in the dealership for an entire day;
What Happened?
I love my 2001 Cougar, shes beautiful! But please, be careful. Mine only had 70k miles on it, I took it for a 500 mile trip to Canada, and the engine blew up on the way home. Absolutely no warning signs, my warning lamps and gauges didnt show anything. The engine started making a knocking noise, we pulled over and the oil and belts were smoking, and the radiator fluid had boiled out. It was towed, and I was told I needed a new engine. I have found more and more people with the same problem. Due to an engine defect, the head gaskets leak, and allow water into the oil. A bearing in my engine literally disintegrated because of the heat and friction this condition caused.
Sweet Ride! Excellent Vehicle.
I have owned this car for almost six months now; and have enjoyed almost every minute of it. Pickup in first gear was a little slow, until I installed a short air intake, and new perfomance muffler; now this car has excellent acceleration. The 5 speed manual transmission is perfect, I love the shift. Exterior of the car is awesome, and interior is nice too. My only major problem has been my sunroof. It was supposed to have been replaced before I bought the car HA! It's not any better than the old one, it still leaks. Very aggravating to come out to your car after a rain, and get soaked as you drive down the road. Overall, I love the car to drive, but, being a Ford, it does have problems.
Rabs 2001 Cougar
This is an excellent car with good handling. Bit short on power but alot of fun to drive.
The Cougar Curse is here as well.
Loved my cougar when I got it.Parents wanted a good car that could handle LOTS of miles for when I left for college(I drive back and forth from Norman Oklahoma (Go Sooners!),sometimes twice a month, the car is a little over 2 years old, and has 87,000 on it)At 11k, brakes where bad, 34k new transmission put in, week later the drivers side window stopped.CD player skips like mad.Trunk pop still does not work.At 60k ,transmission replaced again. 6 months ago,the door handle on the pass side broke.I constantly find nuts and bolts on the floor of the car, from diffrent places in the dash.
Despite problems, I love this car
I rolled this car off the lot with 22 miles on it and nearly 7 years and 139,000 miles later I am still driving it. The transmission did go out around 64,00 and the fuel pump was replaced (both under warranty). Other than normal wear and tear, this car is great. People still compliment me on it, and I love to drive it. However I hate how small the backseat is. I now have two kids and it's way too small, but we deal with it. I wish it took off faster and the mileage isn't real great - in my opinion. However it does the job and looks great and gets me from point A to point B. I hate buying tires because they are expensive with the 17 inch rims. But I still love the car, regardless.
I Love It
he I4 is awesome, plenty of power, and easy to upgrade, same engine as ZX2 and SVT. Lots of aftermarket parts available. I bought it with 74K miles on it, and it still gets an impressive 27mpg in the city and around 30mpg on the highway. I upgraded the rims & tires, and added a Cold Air Intake, Aftermaket exhaust, throttebody spacer, and new plugs with NoLogy spark plug wires. Previous owner had already put Koni Gas Shocks on it. It now Dyno's out at 235whp, and 220tq at the wheels.
Good & Bad
Bought as my first NEW car right out of college - within a year lost the master cylinder while driving - NO BRAKES!! Lots of problems with 6 CD changer/radio too - replaced twice. Depending on terrain, mileage ranges from 15-26 mpg. Overall - satisfied 1st car. Wouldn't do it again if I had to do over.
The Car I LOVE & HATE
I bought my Cougar brand spanking new and I thought it was the best thing I had ever done. For about 10,000 miles I loved my car and then my car became a regular at the Mercury dealer's repair shop. I have had many many problems including bad breaks, a faulty gas gage, a malfunctioning fuel pump, alternator, leaking windows (which have yet to be fixed after 4 trips to the dealer), and lately my power windows have refused to go up or down. I will never recommend this car to anyone and I personally will never buy a car in the Ford/Mercury line ever again. Although my car is beautiful to look at, beauty doesn't keep this car running and/or out of the shop.
Transmission Trouble
I had to review my car after reading all of these reviews. I love my car's styling, but it's NOT the most reliable car Ford ever made. My transmission went out at 92,000 mi. Looks like there's more people with the same trouble. I've replaced tires several times and a rim that was dented from the low ride. I'm buying a Focus next time.
coolest car
overall its a brill car and so fun to live with!! :-)
Great starter car.
Bought this car new to ride in college and have enjoyed it quite a bit in the 6 years I have owned it. I had a problem with the exhaust within the first year and the part was recalled I think. Since Ford payed for the replacement and I have had no problems since, I am quite satisfied. I find the car to be one of the most comfortable I have ever driven but I am a bit short at 5'7" 170 pounds. It's definitly not meant for bigger people. The steering radius leaves a little to be desired and if you stick to the factory recomended tires, they can be quite expensive to replace. Those aside, I am very happy with the purchase and recomend it to anyone who isn't under 5'10" 250 pounds.
Great First Time Car
I am still young and this car was purchased as my first car. it has done very well drives nice and very reliable. on the downside the "sports car" look and the fact that my car is red attracts the police attention.
What Is The Mileage Expectancy?
I've enjoyed my Cougar. I replaced the transmission at about 60,000 miles but it was my fault it messed up. I'm more interested in the mileage expectancy of a 2001 Mercury Cougar? Mine has 96,500 and Im having to drive from Tennessee to Ohio about once a month and wonder how long that will last?
Betty Boop has few Oops
This is a car of pride you will feel so Proud owning this pretty car. On the average it was built to comfort the driver in with safety features to the end mine has double lock brakes on all 4 tires marking me stop on a dime if you know what I mean, she will get you where you gotta go in time. I've had mine since 2009 pd. Off in 2012 lived it!! Wrecked her she's so beautiful and durable she took that and bent up she's still kicking and still beautiful. Dents and all. I Pray to one day to put her in a body shop. She needs shocks and the seats recushioned riding hurts my disabled behind now but with shocks the ride is awesomeness. Love it I am just poor and that car has stood by me getting me to the Dr. Hospital it just saved my life last August as my lung collapsed and my boyfriend got me to my hospital an hour 1/2 away for I am a lupus-Neprithis patient. Now's she is down it seems to be the fuel filter or the fuel module others are talking about possibly needing a coil! For the problem is upon beginning acceleration it don't want to its like a snail then sputtering upon high speed fine low speed definitely accident prone and seriously prayers are needed. Hopefully the coil will help this is awakening knowledge to me I am much thankful for and will try. If I would have been notified of the recall the ford place of Florence SC would of help me. I also have a problem of broken key and no alarm key and blinker bulb bowed upon emergency during flashers leaving me no flashers or signal lights for no one can find bulb or fuse!! Leaving my steering wheel cover off! Annoying me. Along with stranding me currently. My car is the 2001 Mercury Cougar V-6 hatchback racecar engine its loaded 160 on speedodometer. Beautiful blue inside & out. I love my Betsy Boop
- Technology
- Performance
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Wife's Car!
We have had this car since 2001 and it has had no problems. Minor things that regular maint takes care of. It is not for a person over 5'6" to drive and don't think of putting avg size people in the back seats. Other than that we love the V-6 and the power it gives on the highway. I'd buy another one.
The Good, Bad and Ugly
I bought my car on October 31 2001. I loved this car until the engine, in 2003, decided to blow up on me going down the freeway. I had the oil changed every 500 miles and it still blew up. Now $5500.00 later, they took the cougar off the market to put in a mustang engine to replace the old one. The steering column came apart, the back seat is not meant for taller people. The trunk doesn't open unless you lift up on it, as you turn the key or push the button.There was a recall on a fuel pump part, which causes the hesitation in the get up in go! NOT A GOOD CAR IF YOU HAVE A BABY!!!
Bought Used
I love my new car, I know its a bit early and I've only driven her about 50 miles... I can say it can hold up over a few years unlike other Ford products. If the car is well kept it always looks modern and sporty, I armor all every 200 miles, so far it drives great although sometimes the open door buzz goes a little too long, build quality is very solid and the steering wheel is awsome compared to most cars,because it has a heavy "meaty" feel to it, I am a teen and I can say the little features along with over all quality is a perfect match. The car is cheep in terms of its type, its out of production but has ons of parts so it will always look good. gas mileage is about 25 mpg highway.
Gorgeous car
Bought my cougar just over a year ago and have had not a single problem. I have the ZN package and everyone takes a second look at this car. Excellent cornering and braking with the 17" tires. Interior is great looking for a car of this price.
almost purrrrfect
love to drive. could do without bucking when sensors need replaced, which seems to often. would like to have better gas mileage.
Transmission Blowout
I own a Mercury Cougar and it has 58,000 miles on it. I always got the car serviced at the dealer, and the transmission went out on me with no signs. It just went out at 58,000 miles.
2001 Mercury Cougar 2.5L V-6
I bought this car used with 71,000 miles in summer of 07. Looks really sleek. Has a fun look to it. Gas mileage is decent. I average around 24mpg city/highway. The transmission rotted through at around 80000 miles costing me $1,300. The sunroof failed to operate at around 82,000 miles. This car is a looker. Many compliments recieved. I wash and wax every weekend if possible.
Great fun and sporty Car
I got my 2001 Cougar ZN just over a year ago and I got 20K mile salready on my car. Its a great car that makes driving fun. HP could be at least 200HP but 170HP is not bad at all in it. I have the following options: 5-speed, ZN Package, ABS, 6-disc indash cd changer, power drivers seat, 17" rims. My friends have driven my Cougar and all love it. Car also gets 30mph on the Interstate if your not at 140mph and actually do the speed limit ;-)
Palm Springs to Highway 15 Drive
... 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 good value domestic sports coupe.
middle of the road
Although performance doesn 't close to match the looks of the car, its been very dependable. A little over 60k and no problems, however ergonomics leave much to desire (why can't I shift if my passenger is fiddling with the radio?) and the steering is soooooo stiff. I'm not sure who this car is made for since I find the dash too high and seat too low and my husband doesn't have enough head room. In general, the seats are really uncomfortable.
MY CAT
I LOVE IT IT IS SAFE ON ROAD,AND GOOD FOR SPEEDING.