Why does the check engine light in my Cougar turn on when I start my car?

It's okay if your check engine light comes on when you first start your vehicle. This is just your Cougar testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.

Why does my Mercury engine sound different?

Unusual noises can signal a problem with your Mercury Cougar engine. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.

What could damage a Mercury engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Mercury Cougar engine?

Some driving habits are not so great for your engine. These include driving on a near-empty gas tank, revving the engine while still in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.

Can I put water in my Mercury Cougar radiator?

Only in emergencies. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water (or a pre-mixed) coolant is recommended. However, if you must keep driving when you're out of coolant, it's better to drive with water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.

What could cause my Cougar engine to suddenly stop?

If your Cougar car engine suddenly stops, it could be due to overheating, low fuel, a faulty ignition system, sensor problems, electrical system trouble, or mechanical issues.

Who can repair my Mercury Cougar engine?

Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care has you covered with expert Cougar engine repair. Schedule an appointment today and see us at one of our thousands of locations.

Reliable Repairs for 1996 Mercury Cougar Engines

Learn about

1996 Mercury Cougar Trim Options

Select your Mercury Cougar trim level to learn more about Mercury-recommended engine repair. Even Mercury Cougar parts will get older and change.

V6/3.8L

V8/4.6L

Repairs for Your 1996 Mercury Cougar

Nothing lasts forever. Even your Mercury Cougar's many parts and pieces. We’re here to help when something stops working. Select a repair or category to learn more about 1996 Mercury Cougar services.

We Care for Mercury Cougar Engines

The Mercury Cougar is respected for its reliability. That might be why you bought it in the first place. However, the wear-proof engine has yet to be invented! Sometimes plans go sideways. If they do, you’ll have to find a dependable 1996 Mercury service center — quick! That’s where Firestone Complete Auto Care comes in. We've serviced millions of vehicles since 1926, and our professional technicians are trained to service Mercury Cougar engines. Schedule an appointment if you're experiencing problems that could require engine repair. After all, Firestone Complete Auto Care is one of the most popular picks for professional engine repairs thanks to its service and affordability.

Check Engine Light on 1996 Mercury Cougar

If your Cougar check engine light is on, it’s time to get it looked at. A check engine light that’s on or flashing could be a symptom of a serious problem in your or emission system, and it won’t go away by ignoring it. Possible causes can include a failing oxygen sensor, bad spark plug, a clogged catalytic converter, or a leak in the engine vacuum, but that's only a few of the possible causes. Stop by your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to get your Cougar issues diagnosed and we'll determine exactly why your check engine light is on. Other signs your Mercury Cougar engine needs some TLC are burning smells, or misfiring.

Engine Repairs for Your 1996 Cougar

When your Mercury Cougar engine needs repairs, our expert techs will let you know what needs to be done and why before they get started. We never do any work without your sign-off. If a repair can wait, we'll let you know. But if immediate repairs are necessary for your safety, we’ll make sure that's clear, too. We want to give you all the details you need to make an informed decision about your engine repairs. Choose Firestone Complete Auto Care for Mercury Cougar engine repairs and you can feel good knowing that we only use Mercury-compliant replacement parts such as the cambelt, motor oil seal, sensors, or another part.

Questions About 1996 Mercury Cougar Engines

Why does the check engine light in my Cougar turn on when I start my car? It's okay if your check engine light comes on when you first start your vehicle. This is just your Cougar testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
Why does my Mercury engine sound different? Unusual noises can signal a problem with your Mercury Cougar engine. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.
What could damage a Mercury engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Mercury Cougar engine? Some driving habits are not so great for your engine. These include driving on a near-empty gas tank, revving the engine while still in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.
Can I put water in my Mercury Cougar radiator? Only in emergencies. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water (or a pre-mixed) coolant is recommended. However, if you must keep driving when you're out of coolant, it's better to drive with water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.
What could cause my Cougar engine to suddenly stop? If your Cougar car engine suddenly stops, it could be due to overheating, low fuel, a faulty ignition system, sensor problems, electrical system trouble, or mechanical issues.
Who can repair my Mercury Cougar engine? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care has you covered with expert Cougar engine repair. Schedule an appointment today and see us at one of our thousands of locations.