Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe
Target Demographic:
Younger buyers, those seeking sporty styling and engaging driving dynamics.
Key Competitors:
Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Nissan 240SX.
Design:
Distinctive 'New Edge' design language, flowing lines, coupe profile.
Driving Dynamics:
Front-wheel drive, independent suspension, optional V6 engine provided spirited performance for its class.
Primary Coverage:
Repair and Service
Scope:
Single Year Specific
Excluded Information:
Owner's Manual content (e.g., basic operation, feature explanations)
Estimated Page Count:
Varies based on OEM specifications, typically extensive for full workshop manuals.
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Intended Audience:
Professional Auto Technicians and DIY Enthusiasts
Digital Delivery:
Single PDF file, no software installation required
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine control systems (ECM/PCM).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic Transmission (AX4N, AX4S), Manual Transmission (MTX-75), Clutch, Drive Shafts, CV Joints, Differential.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, standard), wheel alignment.
Electrical Electronics:
Starting system, charging system, lighting system, instrument cluster, power accessories, body control module (BCM), audio system, anti-theft system, airbags.
HVAC:
Air Conditioning (A/C) system, heating system, ventilation.
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, exterior trim, underbody components, crash structures.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, lubrication.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake component replacement, suspension overhaul, steering component replacement, electrical component troubleshooting and repair, HVAC system repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), circuit diagrams, wiring schematics, component testing procedures.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for fasteners, fluid capacities, clearances, diagnostic parameters.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic checks to full component rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with high-quality illustrations and diagrams.
Transmission Type I4:
5-speed Manual (MTX-75)
Transmission Type V6:
4-speed Automatic (AX4N or AX4S)
Drive Type:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mercon V or equivalent (refer to manual for specific fill)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mercon V or equivalent (refer to manual for specific fill)
Length:
Approx. 177.7 inches (4514 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.2 inches (1758 mm)
Height:
Approx. 53.4 inches (1356 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 102.9 inches (2614 mm)
Front Track:
Approx. 59.4 inches (1509 mm)
Rear Track:
Approx. 58.8 inches (1494 mm)
Curb Weight I4 Mtx:
Approx. 3050 lbs (1383 kg)
Curb Weight V6 Atx:
Approx. 3200 lbs (1451 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to VIN sticker/manual
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (2000 Model Year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (2000 Model Year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
4 Stars (2000 Model Year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
4 Stars (2000 Model Year)
ABS:
Available (Standard on V6 models, optional on I4)
Traction Control:
Available
Airbags Front:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags (Standard)
Airbags Side:
Available Side-Impact Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player and optional cassette player, speaker configurations vary by trim level.
Display:
Analog gauges in instrument cluster, basic digital display for odometer and trip computer.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Anti Lock Braking System:
Available.
Aftermarket Integration:
Basic wiring harnesses for aftermarket stereo upgrades, readily available.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for automatic, consult manual for manual transmission fluid interval. Dependent on usage.
Spark Plugs:
Iridium spark plugs: approx. 100,000 miles. Platinum: approx. 60,000 miles. Consult manual for exact type and interval.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable for V6 Duratec (uses timing chain). I4 Zetec-R may have a belt, consult manual for interval (typically ~100,000 miles if applicable).
Engine Oil Type:
5W-30 or 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic, depending on climate. Refer to manual.
Engine Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Yellow) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology).
Power Steering Fluid:
Mercon V or equivalent.
Ignition Coil Packs:
Premature failure of ignition coil packs, especially on V6 models, leading to misfires.
Automatic Transmission:
Potential for torque converter shudder or transmission slipping in higher mileage vehicles.
Window Regulators:
Window regulators can become weak or fail, causing windows to not operate correctly.
HVAC Blend Doors:
HVAC system blend door actuators can fail, resulting in improper air temperature control.
Suspension Components:
Wear in control arm bushings and ball joints, especially on vehicles driven in harsh conditions.
Ford Coupe Legacy:
Ford has a history of sporty coupes, including the Mustang and Probe. The Cougar aimed to blend sporty styling with practical coupe attributes.
Cougar Reintroduction:
The Cougar nameplate was revived for the 1999 model year, built on the new global CDW27 platform (shared with the Ford Contour and Mercury Mystique).
Second Generation Design:
This generation moved away from the convertible focus of its predecessor, embracing a more aggressive, sculpted design language characteristic of Ford's 'New Edge' styling.
Manufacturing Location:
Ford's Flat Rock, Michigan assembly plant.
Production Years:
1999-2002
Car And Driver 10 Best:
Not typically recognized on '10 Best' lists in this year, positioned as a more style-focused coupe rather than a performance benchmark.
IIHS Ratings:
Varies by specific test and model year. The 2000 model generally received 'Good' ratings in frontal offset and side impacts, but specific data should be verified.
Emission Standards:
Meets applicable EPA emission standards for the 2000 model year.