What are the most common Mercury Cougar problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1997 Mercury Cougar has 1 documented issue. The documented issue is: Rapid Front Suspension Wear - Ball Joints, Strut Rod Bushings, Control Arms (MN12). None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.

Is the Mercury Cougar reliable?

The 1997 Mercury Cougar has 1 known issue compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. No issues are rated critical, suggesting generally good reliability. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Mercury Cougar problems?

Repair costs for known Mercury Cougar issues range from $800 to $1,800, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 1989-1997 Mercury Cougar Rapid Front Suspension Wear - Ball Joints, Strut Rod Bushings, Control Arms (MN12)?

The MN12 platform's front end is its best-documented chassis weakness: the heavy body and suspension geometry chew through lower and upper ball joints, strut rod bushings, control arm bushings and sway bar end links, often regardless of mileage as the rubber ages. The TCCoA commu… Repairs typically run $800-$1,800. Severity: medium.

Mercury · Known Issues

1997 Mercury Cougar Problems: 1 Issue Every Owner Should Know

1997 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated June 2026

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According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1997 Mercury Cougar has 1 documented issue. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $800 to $1,800. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

1997 Mercury Cougar Problems: 1 Issue Every Owner Should Know

All 1 Known Issue

1989-1997 Mercury Cougar: Rapid Front Suspension Wear - Ball Joints, Strut Rod Bushings, Control Arms (MN12)#

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Mercury Cougar problems?

Is the Mercury Cougar reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Mercury Cougar problems?

What is the 1989-1997 Mercury Cougar Rapid Front Suspension Wear - Ball Joints, Strut Rod Bushings, Control Arms (MN12)?