The 2002 Mercury Cougar represents the final year of the nameplate's revival as a sporty coupe. Originally a Ford Mustang variant, the later Cougars (1999-2002) adopted a front-wheel-drive configuration. Available in base and XR trims, it offered a stylish design and a more European driving experience compared to its muscle car predecessors. The price range when new was roughly $17,000-$23,000. Its distinctive styling and focus on handling made it popular with drivers seeking something different.
The Good
The 2002 Mercury Cougar offers a good balance of sporty handling and comfortable ride. Its unique design appeals to those seeking individuality. The V6 engine provides adequate performance. While not exceptionally reliable, it can be a good value for budget-conscious buyers looking for a stylish and relatively fuel-efficient coupe.
The Bad
Common weaknesses include potential issues with the automatic transmission, particularly in earlier model years. The suspension components can wear out, leading to handling problems. Interior plastics are prone to scratching and fading. Rust can also be a concern, especially in regions with harsh winters. Check for oil leaks.
2002 Mercury Cougar: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L Zetec Inline-4: Available in earlier years but not standard in 2002
- 2.5L Duratec V6
- Horsepower:
- 2.0L Zetec: Approximately 125 hp
- 2.5L Duratec V6: 170 hp
- Fuel Economy (2.5L V6):
- City: Approximately 18-20 mpg
- Highway: Approximately 25-27 mpg
- 0-60 Times (2.5L V6):
- Approximately 8.0-8.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- Not recommended or specified by the manufacturer. Generally not suitable for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic sound system, and cloth upholstery.
- XR: Upgraded features included alloy wheels, a premium sound system, leather upholstery (optional), and a sunroof (optional). Some XR models also featured a rear spoiler.
- Both trims typically offered options such as antilock brakes (ABS) and traction control. The 2002 model year saw some feature consolidation, so specific equipment levels could vary depending on the specific vehicle and its original configuration. Check the window sticker or vehicle history for exact details on a particular car.
2002 Mercury Cougar Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2002 |
| Make | Mercury |
| Model | Cougar |
| Trim | - |
| Style | V-6 |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | FLAT ROCK |
Dimensions
| Doors | 3-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3200 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 52.20 inches |
| Overall Length | 185.00 inches |
| Overall Width | 69.60 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 106.40 inches |
| Standard Seating | 4 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.5-L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Non-ABS 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $19,920 |
| Invoice Price | $18,273 |
| Delivery Charges | $475 |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2002 Mercury Cougar Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2002 Mercury Cougar, and spanning across its 1999-2002 run, include issues with the automatic transmission, particularly hard shifting or failure. This is a significant concern, and pre-purchase inspections should prioritize checking the transmission's condition. Suspension components, such as struts and bushings, are prone to wear, leading to a decline in handling and ride quality.
Another common issue is with the Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor, which can cause rough idling or poor engine performance. Owners have also reported problems with the cooling system, including radiator leaks and thermostat failures. Interior components, especially the plastic trim, are susceptible to scratching, fading, and cracking over time, impacting the vehicle's overall appearance. Rust can be a problem, particularly in areas with road salt; check around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage. Electrical issues, while less frequent, can occur, affecting features like power windows or locks.
Recalls for the Cougar were issued for problems like fuel leaks and potential airbag malfunctions. Reviewing the vehicle's VIN on the NHTSA website can provide specific recall information. Long-term reliability is generally considered average, and proper maintenance is critical to preventing or mitigating these issues. Newer Cougars may need extensive repair.
Another common issue is with the Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor, which can cause rough idling or poor engine performance. Owners have also reported problems with the cooling system, including radiator leaks and thermostat failures. Interior components, especially the plastic trim, are susceptible to scratching, fading, and cracking over time, impacting the vehicle's overall appearance. Rust can be a problem, particularly in areas with road salt; check around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage. Electrical issues, while less frequent, can occur, affecting features like power windows or locks.
Recalls for the Cougar were issued for problems like fuel leaks and potential airbag malfunctions. Reviewing the vehicle's VIN on the NHTSA website can provide specific recall information. Long-term reliability is generally considered average, and proper maintenance is critical to preventing or mitigating these issues. Newer Cougars may need extensive repair.
How long will the 2002 Mercury Cougar last?
Given its age, a 2002 Mercury Cougar is likely to have well over 150,000 miles, and many may exceed 200,000 miles if properly maintained. With regular servicing, including timely oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and cooling system maintenance, they can potentially last for 20+ years. However, long-term durability weaknesses include the aforementioned transmission issues, suspension wear, and rust. Neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten its lifespan. The condition of rubber components (hoses, belts) is also a major factor as these degrade over time.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2002 Mercury Cougar's built-in tech and entertainment features were relatively basic by modern standards. Standard equipment included an AM/FM radio with a cassette player. Optional upgrades included a CD player and a premium sound system, often branded as a Mach audio system. Driver-assistance features were limited; anti-lock brakes (ABS) were an available option, but features like traction control were not standard on all models.
Safety features included front airbags. Side airbags were not available. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) varied depending on the specific test. Generally, the Cougar received decent, but not exceptional, scores for frontal impacts. Rollover ratings were lower, typical for coupes of that era. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) may have conducted limited testing. It's important to consult official NHTSA and IIHS reports for specific crash-test data.
Compared to contemporary vehicles, the Cougar lacked advanced tech. It had no navigation systems, Bluetooth connectivity, or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking. Its safety features were limited to basic airbags and optional ABS. The focus was more on sporty styling and handling than cutting-edge technology.
Safety features included front airbags. Side airbags were not available. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) varied depending on the specific test. Generally, the Cougar received decent, but not exceptional, scores for frontal impacts. Rollover ratings were lower, typical for coupes of that era. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) may have conducted limited testing. It's important to consult official NHTSA and IIHS reports for specific crash-test data.
Compared to contemporary vehicles, the Cougar lacked advanced tech. It had no navigation systems, Bluetooth connectivity, or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking. Its safety features were limited to basic airbags and optional ABS. The focus was more on sporty styling and handling than cutting-edge technology.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Vibrant White Clearcoat
Black Clearcoat
French Blue Clearcoat Metallic
Liquid Silver Clearcoat Metallic
Dark Toreador Red Clearcoat Metallic
Arizona Beige Clearcoat Metallic
Interior Colors
Medium Graphite
Prairie Tan
2002 Mercury Cougar Prices and Market Value
The 2002 Mercury Cougar had a starting price of around $17,000-$23,000 when new, depending on the trim and options. Today, used market prices are significantly lower, typically ranging from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Cougar has depreciated considerably due to its age, perceived reliability issues, and the general decline in demand for coupes. Factors affecting resale value include the car's overall condition, mileage, service history, and whether it has desirable options like leather seats or a sunroof. Cars with a clean title and documented maintenance will command higher prices.
2002 Mercury Cougar Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for a 2002 Mercury Cougar are typically low due to its age and modest value. Fuel costs are average, given its V6 engine. Maintenance and repair costs can be moderate to high, depending on the car's condition and the need for repairs to common problem areas like the transmission or suspension. Long-term ownership costs can be unpredictable, as unexpected repairs can arise. Overall, it's not the most economical car to own, but it's also not excessively expensive if you're prepared for potential maintenance needs.
2002 Mercury Cougar Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
15.50 gallons
City Mileage
20 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
29 miles/gallon
2002 Mercury Cougar Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2002 Mercury Cougar Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2002 Mercury Cougar Insurance
Insurance for a 2002 Mercury Cougar is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2002 Mercury Cougar Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2002 Mercury Cougar competed with coupes like the Honda Civic Coupe, Toyota Celica, and Mitsubishi Eclipse. In terms of performance, the Cougar's V6 offered adequate power but wasn't as sporty as the Celica GT-S or Eclipse GS-T. The Civic Coupe, while less powerful, provided better fuel economy and reliability. Feature-wise, the Cougar was comparable, offering similar amenities for the time.
Reliability is where the Cougar lagged behind its Japanese rivals, with more frequent reports of transmission and suspension issues. Price-wise, the Cougar was often more affordable than a comparable Celica or Eclipse, making it an attractive option for budget-minded buyers.
Alternatives to the Cougar include the Acura RSX (for a more refined driving experience and better reliability), the Mazda MX-5 Miata (for pure sporty fun), or a newer, more reliable compact sedan or hatchback. If reliability is a priority, a used Honda Civic Coupe or Toyota Corolla would be a better choice. If sporty performance is key, the Celica GT-S or a later-model Acura RSX Type-S are superior alternatives. For someone simply wanting a stylish and affordable coupe and is willing to handle potential repairs, the Cougar might suffice, but there are better options available overall.
Reliability is where the Cougar lagged behind its Japanese rivals, with more frequent reports of transmission and suspension issues. Price-wise, the Cougar was often more affordable than a comparable Celica or Eclipse, making it an attractive option for budget-minded buyers.
Alternatives to the Cougar include the Acura RSX (for a more refined driving experience and better reliability), the Mazda MX-5 Miata (for pure sporty fun), or a newer, more reliable compact sedan or hatchback. If reliability is a priority, a used Honda Civic Coupe or Toyota Corolla would be a better choice. If sporty performance is key, the Celica GT-S or a later-model Acura RSX Type-S are superior alternatives. For someone simply wanting a stylish and affordable coupe and is willing to handle potential repairs, the Cougar might suffice, but there are better options available overall.
Ranks #19 Hatchback
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Corolla Hatchback | (0.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Civic Type R | (1.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 BMW i4 | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2016 Ford Focus Electric | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Audi A7 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan LEAF | (0.0★) |
| 8 | 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV | (4.0★) |
| 9 | 2022 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Jaguar I-PACE | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Tesla Model S | (5.0★) |
| 12 | 2022 Porsche Panamera | (0.0★) |
| 19 | 2002 Mercury Cougar | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2002 Mercury Cougar a Good Sedan?
The 2002 Mercury Cougar is ideal for someone seeking an affordable and stylish coupe with a unique design. It's best suited for budget-conscious buyers who are prepared to handle potential maintenance and repairs. It's generally not worth buying if you prioritize reliability or are unwilling to perform regular maintenance. It is only available as a used vehicle now. The XR trim offers slightly more features, but condition and maintenance history are more important than the specific trim level. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is essential to assess its overall condition and identify any potential problems before buying. It might be a good project car for a mechanically inclined person.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.