🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Cougar

Year:

2001

Country Of Origin:

USA

Vin Decoder Prefix:

1FATP

Engine Code Examples:

2.5L V6 (Duratec 25)

Generation Designation:

Second Generation (MK II)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

A sporty, front-wheel-drive coupe positioned as a more affordable alternative to European and Japanese competitors, targeting buyers seeking style and performance.

Key Competitors:

Dodge Avenger, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Toyota Camry Coupe, Honda Accord Coupe

Design:

Unique, somewhat polarizing 'New Edge' design language with sharp creases and curves, distinctive floating center console.

Performance Variants:

Offered with a potent 2.5L Duratec V6, providing spirited acceleration.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Workshop Service and Repair

Specific Components:

Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical, Body, HVAC, Fuel System

Estimated Page Count:

Varies (based on OEM specifications, typically 1000+ pages for complete factory manual)

Type:

OEM Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (2.5L V6 Duratec 25), Supercharger Cooling, Fuel Charging & Control, Accessory Drive, Starting System, Ignition System, Emission Control, Intake Air, Evaporative Emissions, Electronic Engine Controls, Automatic & Manual Transaxle/Transmission, Exhaust System, Fuel System (Tank, Lines, Control)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires, Driveline, Brake System (Disc Front/Rear, Parking, Hydraulic, Power, Vehicle Dynamics), Steering System (Power Steering, Gear, Pump, Column)

Electrical:

Climate Control, Instrument Cluster, Charging System, Entertainment System, Lighting, Module Communications Network, Anti-Theft System

Body:

Body Panels (Front End), Closures, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Mirrors, Seating, Glass & Mechanisms, Instrument Panel, Console, Handles, Locks, Latches, Entry System, Wipers & Washers, Convertible Top, Bumpers, Safety Belts, Supplemental Restraint System (Airbag)

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive diagrams for Audio, Navigation, Charging, Climate Control, Seats, Instrument Cluster, Convertible Top, Cooling Fan, Engine Controls, Headlamps, Autolamps, Heated Window, Horn, Cigar Lighter, Interior Lamps, Luggage Compartment, Module Communications, Overhead Console, Parking/Rear/License Lamps, Anti-Theft, Power Distribution, Door Locks, Mirrors, Windows, Remote Keyless Entry, Reversing Lamps, Seating Shift Interlock, Speed Control, Splice Locations, Starting System, Supplemental Restraint System

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, belt inspections, lubrication points

Repair And Rebuild:

Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, steering system rebuild, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair, convertible top mechanism repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine, transmission, ABS, and other systems, electrical system diagnostics, HVAC system diagnostics

Installation And Adjustment:

Component replacement procedures, alignment specifications, brake adjustment, seat adjustment, convertible top adjustment

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians, covering basic maintenance to complex diagnostics and repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text with bookmarks

Printability:

Printable sections for on-site use

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

File Size:

Approximately 100 MB

Software Requirement:

None (no software installation required)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V6

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2544 cc)

Engine Code:

Duratec 25

Bore X Stroke:

3.50 in x 3.43 in (89.0 mm x 87.0 mm)

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Valve Train:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

170 hp @ 6250 rpm

Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (Sequential)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual

Automatic Control Mode:

SelectShift (on some models/years, though less common for 2001 Cougar)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

187.4 inches (4760 mm)

Width:

70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Height:

53.3 inches (1354 mm)

Wheelbase:

102.9 inches (2614 mm)

Seating Capacity:

4

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3000-3200 lbs (1361-1451 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not comprehensively rated by NHTSA for this specific model year as per modern standards, but generally considered adequate for its time.

ABS:

Standard on most models, Antilock Braking System

Traction Control:

Optional on some trims

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, Optional side airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts, Pretensioners for front seats

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio system with amplifier and subwoofer.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control system.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Optional

Anti Theft System:

Factory immobilizer and optional alarm system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months

Engine Air Filter:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions

Spark Plugs:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium plugs (if equipped), otherwise consult manual for specific type.

Transmission Fluid:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on usage and fluid type (Mercon V recommended for automatic).

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30, API SG or higher (Consult manual for specific viscosity and API rating).

Coolant:

Ford Premium Antifreeze/Coolant (Green), or equivalent HOAT coolant.

Power Steering Fluid:

Mercon ATF or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Interior Quality:

Some reports of premature wear on interior plastics and materials.

Electrical Gremlins:

Occasional issues with power windows, locks, and instrument cluster illumination.

Suspension Wear:

Front suspension components, particularly ball joints and bushings, can experience wear over time.

Exhaust Leaks:

Flex pipe or catalytic converter gaskets can sometimes develop leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford Coupe Legacy:

Ford has a long history of producing popular coupes, including the Mustang, Capri, and Probe. The Cougar aimed to blend European styling influences with American muscle car heritage.

Cougar Generations:

The 2001 model represents the second generation (MK II), a redesign of the original Mercury Cougar introduced in 1999, based on the Contour/Mondeo platform. Distinctive styling was a hallmark.

Manufacturing Location:

Flat Rock, Michigan, USA

Production Years:

1999-2002

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Awards:

While not a recipient of major automotive awards for performance or reliability, the Cougar's unique styling was often a talking point and subject of debate.