Three problems related to anti-theft controller have been reported for the 1999 Mercury Cougar. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Mechanical problems with 1999 Mercury Cougar. The vehicle died in the middle of traffic on three occasions. There were alternator and fuel problems. The consumer requested a credited amount of funds and reimbursement for the battery, brakes and additional expenses. Other problem are as followed: the new wheels were defective (corroded and frozen), the brake sensor snapped off of the wheel, the cd player was skipping, the hatch would not release properly, the steering wheel would shake, the keyless entry with anti-theft was inoperative, there was rough idle, the transmission shifter would stick, the cup holder did not shut, the hood would not open, and the lights would dim and or brighten while the vehicle was in motion.
Repeated issues on various dates. Problem 1: the vehicle alarm will randomly activate itself. It will go through it's 5 minute alarm process and then shuts itself down. Then anywhere from 3 to 10 minutes latter it will set itself off again. It does not matter the location of the vehicle so that could rule out interference. Problem 2: battery lamp illuminates in the higher rpm range and battery and alternator have been checked to be functioning properly. Problem 3: there is a loud popping sound from the front driver's side when the car shifts to 2nd gear at full throttle.
I first thought the problem was with the anti-theft disabling system. I soon found out that was not the case. The car does not start at least once a day. It makes a loud grinding noise when trying to start it. After a few minutes it finally starts. We took the car into the dealership to have it fixed. After stating that other cars had been in with the same problem the dealership proceeding to go out to the car to get more information. Once they seen that it had 38000 miles they refused to fix it under warranty. That is so ridiculous. Other cars have had the same problem, it is not a consumer caused problem. Obviously the car has a defect and I would like to have it fixed free of charge.