Is the Ford Cougar reliable?

The short answer is that there is no current Ford Cougar in production, so there is no up-to-date reliability rating for a new model. The name most closely associated with Ford historically is the Mercury Cougar, a long-running line that ended when the Mercury brand was discontinued in 2010. If you’re evaluating a used Cougar-branded vehicle or want to compare to a contemporary Ford model, this article explains what reliability means in those contexts and how to check before buying.

Current status of the Cougar name

There is no new Ford vehicle on sale today bearing the name Cougar. The Mercury Cougar, introduced in the 1960s as a counterpart to the Ford Mustang, was produced through several generations but was discontinued along with the Mercury brand in 2010. Ford has not revived a model called Cougar since, and the closest modern Ford vehicles in spirit are popular performance or sporty models like the Mustang. Because no new Cougar exists, there is no official reliability data for a contemporary Ford Cougar to reference.

For reliability perspectives, buyers today typically look to Ford’s current lineup (such as the Mustang, Focus, Escape, Explorer, and Maverick) and to independent reliability surveys. Those sources track how well a model holds up over time, but they do not apply to a non-existent new Cougar model.

Mercury Cougar: reliability in context

If you are dealing with a historical Mercury Cougar or a used example that carries the Cougar name, reliability varies by generation and maintenance history. Classic and late-90s/early-2000s examples can be rewarding to own but require careful inspection for age-related issues. Below is a high-level, era-spanning look at what influences reliability for Cougar-branded cars from their production history.

Before examining the general reliability patterns, note that maintenance history, rust condition, and parts availability are decisive factors for any Cougar-branded vehicle today. The following points provide a broad sense of what typically affects reliability across generations.

• Early muscle-car years (1967–1973): These vehicles are now decades old; reliability hinges on how well the car has been maintained, with rust, drivetrain wear, and aging electrical systems commonly influencing condition.


• Declining-era models (1974–1978): Emission controls and aging components can complicate upkeep; parts availability varies by specific year and engine option, affecting overall reliability and repair costs.


• Late-generation trends (1980s–1990s, including the later Mercury Cougar): These eras benefited from newer engineering and technology, offering more reliable performance when the car has been properly maintained, but age-related wear, electrical gremlins, and transmission/ cooling-system issues can appear as miles accumulate.

In short, reliability for Mercury Cougars depends heavily on how well the specific car was cared for over its life and whether the necessary restoration or replacement parts are available. As with any classic car, thorough inspection and documentation are essential before purchase.

What to check if you’re evaluating a used Cougar-branded vehicle

For buyers considering a used Mercury Cougar or any car that uses the Cougar name, these are practical checks to perform or request from a seller:

• Documentation of service history, including timing belt/chain (if applicable), cooling system work, and recent major replacements.


• Evidence of rust or frame damage, particularly in older models, with a close look at undercarriage and wheel wells.


• Condition of the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components; listen for unusual noises, leaks, or rough shifting.


• Electrical system reliability, including lights, dashboard gauges, and any ABS/airbag-related electronics.


• Recalls and service campaigns; verify whether any required recalls have been completed with official records.


• Availability of spare parts and qualified technicians familiar with the model’s era and design.

These checks help frame whether a used Cougar-branded vehicle is a sound purchase or a project with potentially high maintenance costs ahead.

Summary

There is no current Ford Cougar on offer, so there is no new-model reliability data to cite. The name most associated with Ford in the past is Mercury Cougar, whose reliability varied by generation and maintenance history. For those seeking a trustworthy modern alternative, consider Ford’s current lineup and consult independent reliability ratings for specific models. If you do pursue a used Cougar, approach with a thorough inspection, clear maintenance records, and realistic expectations about age- and wear-related needs.

Bottom line: what to take away

The Cougar name now functions primarily as a historical reference rather than a present-day product. Reliability assessments, therefore, hinge on the specific vehicle you’re considering—whether a classic Mercury Cougar or a newer Ford model used for comparison. Always verify the vehicle’s history and have a trusted mechanic inspect any used model before purchase.

What Ford engine to stay away from?

Ford engines to avoid include the 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesels, which had numerous issues like EGR cooler failures and injector problems, and the 5.4L Triton V8 known for spark plug and timing chain problems. Other engines to be cautious of are the 3.8L V6 due to head gasket failures and certain EcoBoost engines, especially early 1.0L and 1.6L models, which have faced issues like premature timing belt wear and overheating. 
You can watch this video to learn about some of the worst Ford engines ever made: 59sCar WisdomsYouTube · May 2, 2025
Engines with high failure rates 

• 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesel engines: These engines (2003-2007 and 2008-2010, respectively) are notorious for expensive problems, including head gasket failures, injector issues, and turbocharger failures. 
• 5.4L Triton V8: This engine (1997-2010) is infamous for spark plugs breaking during removal and cam phaser/timing chain issues. 
• 3.8L SX V6: From 1982 to 2008, this engine had issues with weak head bolts causing head gasket failures, and early versions were prone to coolant leaks. 

This video discusses the 5.4L Triton V8 in detail: 53sSeats & WheelsYouTube · Aug 10, 2025
Problematic EcoBoost engines

• 1.0L EcoBoost (early versions): Early models used a rubber timing belt in hot engine oil, which could degrade and clog the oil pickup, leading to oil starvation and engine damage. 
• 1.6L EcoBoost: This engine has been associated with overheating and coolant leaks. 
• 3.5L EcoBoost: Problems can include carbon buildup, premature timing chain wear, and water pump failures. 
• 2.7L EcoBoost: Early models (around 2016-2017) experienced issues with defective valve guides, excessive oil consumption, and leaking plastic oil pans. 

You can watch this video for more information about EcoBoost engine issues: 1mExoticCar PlayPlaceYouTube · Nov 15, 2025

Is the Ford Cougar a reliable car?

Ford Cougar's have a average reliability rating of 496/999. The score was a mathematical result of the average score of every Ford Cougar that has had a registered MOT. Ford Cougar's reliability reviews are reflected in the score.

How many miles will a Ford Kuga last?

The estimated lifespan of a Ford Kuga is 131,000 miles, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit.

What is the most common problem with Ford Kuga?

Turbocharger Trouble
Turbocharger issues are one of the more common complaints among Ford Kuga owners. The turbocharger enhances engine performance, but problems can arise, often due to oil contamination or blockages.