Used 2002 Mercury Cougar Consumer Reviews
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Lemonade?
Jen, 08/07/2006
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
One year in, and this car needed the fuel pump replaced while still under warranty. CD player 6 cd in dash also ATE cd's and got stuck even after repairs to it. Needed to do the brakes sooner than would be expected. I was told that this was due to the front wheel drive or something.. Not only the brake pads, but also the rotors usually need to be replaced every time on this type of brake system. They don't tell you that when you buy it. Next came the dead battery.. at about 25,000 miles. Just as it fell outside of warranty in terms of years, not miles, it needed the alternator replaced. This was at 32,000 miles. This is when I dumped the car, ate the negative equity, leased a Mazda
2002 Mercury Cougar V6 Ultimate A4
Steve, 08/09/2006
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used with 80k miles. It hasn't been a bad car, though it hasn't been the best. The styling is sharp and the interior isn't bad. I find it to be rather low on power, but I am used to cars with much more power (had to buy something for gas mileage). Speaking of mileage, I'm getting appx 22mpg combined city/hwy. I've had some electrical issues, but other than that, it seems rather reliable *knock on wood*. It's also not too boring to drive (sure, it's no Corvette, but it's more enjoyable than a Civic). The styling has worn well considering the trends to edgier designs (and especially since the car was discontinued 4 years ago).
2002 Mercury Cougar for sale near you
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- Base 2dr HatchbackMSRP: $5,995411 mi away
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- Base 2dr HatchbackMSRP: N/A624 mi away
'02 cougar V6
rjohnson319, 06/04/2004
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had this car for a little over six months now and haven't had any problems. I feel that it is pretty sporty, and its a lot of fun to drive. Its light weight combined with the V6, really gives it some oomph!
Love and hate relationship
C Rush, 08/04/2004
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love driving the car and the look, but the car has a major fuel pump problem which is common in these Cougars. It had to be replaced twice on mine, and I also had a sensor go out very early on. The features are all great, but I hate having a problem every couple of months.
Vrrrroooooom!!!
babybrowneyes, 07/03/2005
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has, by far, been the best car that I have ever driven! I have previously owned a Probe as well as a 98 Escort and the ride is a lot better than either of those. This car takes corners and turns like nothin else! I don't even feel the turn. It's a beautiful car, I've washed it every other day since I've had it. The only thing I've noticed on it is the paint chips VERY easily. I almost want to avoid the express way with this baby because of it. I see a paint job in the future.....
truemixed1
truemixed1, 01/30/2006
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I got my car just the other day and I love it already its better than the truck that I had before and way better on gas.
Put some work into it and its way better
BS, 10/20/2006
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car with stock (V6) features a bit under a year ago with 30,000 miles on it and it was ok i guess, performance wise. It could beat a V6 mustang anyway (yea woo-hoo). Since then I've spent maybe $1500 on performance parts off ebay and installing them myself and it's made a world of difference. The Dual Exhaust with a couple of flowmasters and the cold air intake (about $500 for both) really add a lot of power, and a decent suspension that went for about $450 made this thing handle turns easily at 45+ mph (although it doesn't balance well). A few other small mods and this car's performance can keep up with its fast looks. Keeps up with a friend's souped-up RSX easily!
LOVE it
Robin, 12/08/2006
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Had my 2002 V6 Cougar for 4 years now. I love it...love to drive it, love to look at it. Shocked to read the bad reviews. I've had no problem what so ever with my girl. (Course, now I hope I didn't "just" look a gift horse in the mouth. I average about 32 MPG. I live in the mountains and love her get up and go! I broke her in hard though, I did not baby her I stomped on the gas peddle at every light just to break her in the way I wanted her to go. She jumps at the lights now. She's perrrrfect.
bad Cat!
BAD CAT!, 05/29/2007
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This has to be the worst car I have ever purchased. I have only had it for 10 months. It is parked now with a $2000 transmission bill! It has cut off in the middle of the expressway!. Trunk leaks, engine lights comes on, open door light stays on. CD player jams, terrible on tires/alighnment, "rattles" in the rear, and the list goes on. Would rather ride a bicycle! Would never own another one unless someone gave it to me, then I'd still be leary!
I Love It!
Lauren, 06/28/2007
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had my car for a year and a half and I absolutely love it! I haven't had any problems at all. I love the design and everything about it. Nice big trunk, a lot bigger than a lot of people think. Gas mileage isn't the best, but it is a V6, so what do you expect? We have previously had Honda's and Toyota's and this car is so much better than any Honda or Toyota we have had. The seats are incredibly comfortable and we actually take this car on long trips rather than our CRV. It handles really well and the cruise is right on. Very smooth ride and you can't even feel it shift. I would recommend this car to anyone!
Love that Cougar
shelkatt, 04/25/2003
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Absolutely love my car!! It is an XR and bright red. It is very fun to drive and in my opinion it is the sharpest looking car around the small town I live in.It is too bad that they are no longer made.
Lemon any one?
nichole57, 05/30/2007
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the worst car ever! Ive had it four months and it's a death trap. Ive already replaced the fuel line and pumps,spark plugs, cat. converter, starter, pumps and hoses that were fried by exhaust. I got into a bad accident due to the brakes,power steering and emergency brake failing. This car was a terrible buy. It's very comfy and sleek and OK on gas mileage. When not in the shop it is actually very fun to drive because of its pick up and go.
So far so good
mandanstan, 06/27/2007
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just bought the car from an individual a few days ago, and enjoy it so far. It handles very well, but, just like everyone else says, it doesn't have the most get up and go. It's definitely a reliable A to B car, but don't go racing anybody. The seller said it was his daughter's car and she had never had any problems the 2 years that she had it.
2002 Mercury Cougar V6 Sport - Thumbs Up
Caladan, 04/26/2003
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
For what it is, a 2 door (plus hatch) sport coupe, I am very pleased with the 2002 Mercury Cougar. It's not a car for everyone, but I like it. A sporty look inside and out, but is still fairly economical and reliable. Handles well around town or on the Interstate. The car is so smooth it hardly seems like you're going fast when the speedo reaches the higher numbers. Fold down split rear seats make for ample cargo room in the rear of the vehicle. No mechanical problems in 10,000 miles and the dealer has treated me very well during routine maintenance. This car is a real bargain if you want something fun, reliable and economical.
Love it!
brittany, 11/24/2007
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had my Cougar for 2yrs now and I'm at 85000 miles. I love this car. I love the way it looks and the way it drives. I've put a few performance things on it such as a cold air intake and a muffler and am hoping to get it tuned very soon because it is running lean. I've had not problems as far a reliability and performance. I get what I expect from my care everytime I step on the gas. I think it is the best car I've ever owned and wish they would make another one with maybe a bigger engine. I don't think I'll be getting another car until this one is completely gone. I will do anything to keep it as long as possible.
2001 Mercury Cougar
RFarrell, 03/08/2002
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Had a 1999 Cougar. Bought the 2001. Large improvement in interior styling and feel(driveability). Could use some more power, but then again can't every car? I am very happy with my car. Handles well. Firm but not harsh ride. Nice styling. Good quality interior materials. A good value.
Bought a Cougar Again
Katherine, 02/07/2003
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my second cougar - many little annoyances in the 1999 model year were fixed in the 2002 (coin slots added, cup holder upgraded, no more plastic grate on front w/ pieces that pop out, CD changer in dash instead of trunk). It's a peppy car, a perfect fit, and has an eye-catching look. Not meant for big/tall people and the back seats are more useful folded down for more trunk space than as seats. Great for people who can't see over the steering wheels in typical mid-sized cars and for those who haul more stuff than people. Can roll down the windows, open the sunroof, and not get blown to bits.
Be glad it's gone!
Big John, 01/19/2003
2002 Mercury Cougar Sport Ultimate 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I thought I'd give Ford one more chance, but I should have bought Japanese car. Rough engine performance, tires vibrate, no low-end torque, squeaks, hood needed to be painted, and now CD player giving me trouble. Looks are deceiving and you get what you pay for. A lot of car for money, but want to trade out now and get a quality vehicle with some performance. Way down on horsepower compared to other V6 sport coupes.
good car, good value
me12, 05/21/2003
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
so sad to see you go
Killer Coupe
owee, 03/13/2002
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
If cars like GM could have as beautiful as Mercury cougar, I'd buy one. Look how the car stand exterior and interior and tell me your car is better looking than this one. No one even come close... Poor marketing made this wonderfull car suffer.
Don't buy this car!
Kenichiro Suga, 06/25/2003
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'd driven this car before so when it came time to buy I didn't waste any time comparing or looking on Edmunds.com I found the hard way that you should always research what you buy, even if you (think you) know what you are getting. Here's what I found: 1) the I4 engine is not powerful enough to run the airconditioning while driving up hill 2) You get no acceleration with this engine. Maybe I have high expectations since I am in Germany and I'm rolling down the Autobahn next to BMWs and Audis but when you get the Autobahn you have to keep up!
Love it!
spcn, 06/27/2003
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my 2002 Cougar. It's so fun to drive and the V6 really has kick for the amount of $$ spent. It really is too bad that they've discontinued it. I would recommend it to anyone that doesn't want to haul people around. I used to play chauffer for everyone with my 4 door family car, but no more!
Not your Daddy's Cougar
purpix1, 03/14/2002
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The short, round the block test drive I took with the new 2002 Mercury Cougar (2.5 v6), did not do this car justice. I bought the car however, based on other factors as well (price, fuel economy, options etc). After a few days of really getting the feel for this car on the open road, I began to realize the true sports car nature of this vehicle. Crisp, sure-handling, power and performance make for an effortless, yet exciting driving experience. You can really feel the sports car lurking within the Cougar on the curves. Smooth and sure-footed. The engine and transmission are smooth and responsive as well, with plenty passing power on the freeways.
2002 Merc Cougar - <3
mielejam, 12/15/2010
2002 Mercury Cougar Sport 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I LOVE my car. It is, for the most part, reliable. It has had its share of repairs, including alternator, rear wiper wiring, and is currently in the shop to have the transmission resealed. My moon roof stopped working while the alternator was going, but works just fine now. This car is in great shape for going on 9 years old, and is fun to drive. It gets decent gas mileage and has had no significant breaks until now. :)
Overall, a great car.
Oneandonlywayne, 03/20/2002
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Since their release in 1998, I've lusted for a Mercury Cougar. I finally got my chance when I traded in my Grand Marquis in January of 2002. This car is amazing. It still turns heads as I go down the road. The car seems to be moving, even when it's parked. Interior styling is done fantastically, although some plastics have a cheap feel to them.
AWESOME CAR
COUGARGUY, 03/21/2002
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I now have over 3,000 miles on my 2002 cougar V6 and have had no problems. Took it into the mountains and averaged 25 mpg, and I was passing alot of cars in the slow lane that could not keep up to the speed limit going up the mountain. I love my Cougar!!
Great car
Pogi, 04/22/2008
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just bought it 4 months ago with 60,000 miles. I have not had any problems with this vehicle. I just hit 81,000 miles. I will be parting with it shortly because my wife is pregnant and we need a 4dr car. It is a great car.
UHadMe@TestDrive
LVTASC, 03/31/2002
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had been looking at getting a Firebird for about 2 months when I saw a review on cars comparable to the Pontiac. I then discovered I had a Mercury dealer 3 blocks from work and, on a whim, took a test drive during my lunch hour. That's all it took. I did 3 laps around the block and bought it the next morning. This car is fun to drive and has the look and feel of a very-well crafted machine. I have the Sports model C2 package and could not be happier. One caveat.. Keep your eye on the speedometer, you can easily be going 90-95 while it feels like 50mph.
I Love It!
Lynn, 05/28/2008
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased my car out of the showroom. I have not had any problems with it at all. It still looks great, love the leather interior and the style and 6 CD changer. It gives good mileage, is comfortable, handles well and has good pickup. I've had my car now for 6 years and aside from regular oil changes and taking good care of it, I have no complaints.
2002 Mercury Cougar Project Car
Robert, 10/12/2022
2002 Mercury Cougar Sport 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought my '02 Cougar for $900 in Katy, Tx. Since then, installed new wiper motor, a/c compressor, brakes, transmission mounts, wheels, tires, and had a leaking hose repaired on the return line for the power steering. Tuned it up after all that. Next up is a complete re-wiring, as having trouble with tail lights and head lights. Spoiler is cracked at both bases and will need to be repaired. After that is paint job and then total refurb of interior. Sound system wants to eat the CD's, so will need to install new. Aiming for mint/showroom condition when all is said and done. Great little car that hugs curves; doesn't exhibit any 'quit' once 80mph is reached; easy to control and was a bargain at $900 drive off. She is presently sitting at the 240k mileage mark, and the finishing touch will be her christening as "Baby Cat" in stylish script on the back glass. Will never be for sale unless it's that or homelessness. LOL. Really do like this car.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Fun Ride, Reasonable Price, Enuff luxury
AnarchusTheElder, 04/24/2002
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
At 51 years old, I needed a fun car that wouldn't make it impossible to send my kids to college. I did a lot of research and the Merc Cougar came out on top. Not the fastest or most prestigious, but, to me, the best toy for the $$. V6, 24 valves, full power, perfect fit for my 5'7" frame. All this with 30mpg on the open road. It corners better than any of my other cars, and makes me feel like I am in control.
Worst car I ever owned
dannj1, 08/15/2013
2002 Mercury Cougar Sport Ultimate 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 4 people found this review helpful
From the start, I had all sorts of issues with my car. Maybe I got a lemon, but I took care if it and followed the regular maintenance schedule, still had all sorts of costly issues. Radio, interior peeling despite armoral on a regular basis, This car is the one car that made me turn from Ford made products and buy a Toyota, and I'm a buy American type of person!
Pure Sweetness
Hazza, 04/15/2002
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have a 1999 cougar. I love it. Three reasons why. It's duribility is great. I have had no problems with it at all. Two, style is manditory! This ride takes the Mustang, Integra, and Civic, and tosses it to the curb. A car can not look any better (stock) then this. Number three, Affordibility. I'm a seventeen year- old and I don't exactly make millions. This car fits perfectly in the wallat of anyone.
2002 mercury cougar v6 35th anv edt
angela, 04/23/2010
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
well i bought this used just 5 months ago its a 2002 sport 35th sp ed of the cougar it only had 32000 miles when i got it in the 5 months i had it i have no 42000 miles on it and it already needed a new transmission!!! thank god i got a warrenty on it which paid for it but wasnt easy 4000.00 it was before that new tires and the car sits very low and feels EVERY bump pot holes not so good it is fun for me to drive goes fast i love it!
I HATE my Cougar
Lyssa, 07/08/2010
2002 Mercury Cougar Sport Premium 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought my Cougar with 62k miles on it. Ive had nothing but issues since I got the vehicle and have spent thousands fixing it. Now at 84k miles on it me engine is knocking and ready to go. Nothing but Engine problems since Ive had it and other misc. things. The gas mileage is horrible. Everyone I've known that has owned a Cougar has had issues with the engine or transmission. Take my advice, buy a Honda.
Love the car...too many repairs!
P schwedler, 05/28/2005
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my type of car. I love the unique look, the V6 power, the roomy hatchback. This is the 1st new car I've purchased, and I've taken great care of it. I've failed the Mass. emmissions test due to a broken sensor. The fuel pump was recalled. The alternator cracked and my car died in rush hour traffic. This all happened in the last few months on a 3 year old car. Glad I got the extended warrenty! The steering is very heavy, but I can deal with that. My friend's Jeep Cherokee has a tighter turning radius than my cougar. I love the car, but hate the hassle.
Bad Car
Bpkr103, 03/17/2007
2002 Mercury Cougar 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've had nothing but problems with this car since I purchased it. Had 40,000 miles when purchased and bought extended warranty ( thank God ) Had new transmission 2 months after I bought it and now the engine is blown. Dealer asked for receipts for oil changes after the car sat for 3 weeks. Poor services, so glad I got that extended warranty now i'll see if they honor it !