Four problems related to ignition switch have been reported for the 1999 Mercury Cougar. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I have had multiple problems since I purchased the car in 10/99. I have had the sun roof replaced once and now needs it again for the same reason; the track broke ($1000 to fix, $2000 if I go to the dealer). The ignition switch has been changed twice because it sticks (it need to be changed again). In 2/00 it started: whenever the car got cold, the car would either not turn on or would just shut down while I was driving. The car was brought to the dealer multiple times for the same problem. He changed numerous parts but was unable to resolve the issue, until a 2004 recall for something to do with the fuel system. About three years ago the engine light came on at which time the dealer replaced the catalytic converter. A few weeks later the engine light came on again at which time the dealer told me it was the head gasket. That, I had replaced by an independent mechanic and then still had to bring it back to the dealer to have the catalytic converter done a second time, and to have the computer reset to have the engine light shut off. Anytime I have work done on the car, even just maintenance, the check coolant light or the engine light comes on and I have to bring it to the dealer to have it shut off. In 9/05 the coolant light illuminated and a day later the engine light came on, I brought the car to an independent mechanic who changed the overflow tank because he believed it to be a bad sensor. After fixing that, the engine light would not go off as well as one of my brake lights. He did multiple tests and determined that it is something electrical, unfortunately he could not pinpoint the exact cause of the electrical problem. For some reason those lights have gone off but I expect them come back on soon.
Linkage system between ignition switch and ignition cylinder broke. Dealer service department does not know why and has stressed that this is a very rare occurrence and that parts are not even stocked because manufacturer and dealerships never see this type of problem.
Ignition switch failed causing vehicle to shut off and smoke to come from the steering column. Mjs.
The air conditioner was turned on. It failed to cool inside of vehicle, not working properly. The trunk fails to lock when closed. The locking mechanism is not holding the latch . Would need to jiggle the ignition key in the switch before it starts. The passenger side seat slides back & forth without locking into place. While backing up vehicle, it would make loud noises from the front end near wheels.