1999 V6 Cougar Hesitation - Ford Forums

jkongs · 03-23-2008, 08:18

I have a 1999 Mercury Cougar (V6), which after driving for about an hour, begins to mis-fire/hesitate, losing power. After a few moments at side of the road (cool down?), it will run OK for a while, but then starts the problem again. Have installed new fuel and air filters and plugs. Any suggestions?

**360ci** · 04-04-2008, 19:10

Is there an engine code showing up? New plug wires may help. Do you notice the coolant temp gauge getting hotter than normal at times?

jkongs · 04-25-2008, 12:50

Thanks 360ci... Used to live in Waterloo...

After doing some research, I found a recall 04N02 (fuel module replacement), and had the work done by a Mercury dealership. After they finished, they reported a CEL light (code P0420), which was not on before their work. Checked out with another shop, applied a TSB to reprogram the PCM. Still no help, so I bit the bullet for a new Bank 1 catalytic converter. Dealer wanted $2100 to replace, but my had it done at the other shop for $800 (using Mercury parts).... nice markup/robbery by Mercury dealer!! Jury still out, but CEL not on, and no hesitation. Here's hoping for the best......

**360ci** · 04-25-2008, 12:55

Glad you got it sorted out. OEM parts aren't cheap! Before the import manufacturers were able to lower the cost of their parts to compete with the domestic brands, domestic manufacturers raised their part prices to the same levels! $97-102/hr for shop labour rates at dealers too - insane! Canadian Tire is even around $80/hr.