1989 Mercury Cougar Service and Repair Manual

This factory service and repair manual for the 1989 Mercury Cougar covers a year in which both engines share a displacement and part company on induction: a 3.8L OHV V6 of 232 cubic inches naturally aspirated, and the same 3.8L OHV V6 supercharged. One two-door sedan body carries them, in LS and XR-7 trim. Sharing a displacement does not make the two the same engine to service, and the specifications, torque values and diagnostic routines here are kept apart so that the figures for one are never applied to the other.

Engines covered

• 3.8L V6 (232 cu in) — OHV, naturally aspirated, gasoline
• 3.8L V6 (232 cu in) — OHV, supercharged, gasoline

Body styles covered

• 2-door sedan

Trims covered

• LS
• XR-7

Known issues on the 1989 Cougar. Four recall actions are recorded federally for this year. Rear suspension knuckles that were not heat treated properly can develop fatigue cracks at high mileage and finally fracture, costing control of the car at that wheel. A front brake caliper that contacts the stabilizer bar leaves extra pedal travel after slow turns and weaker braking with it. An ignition switch can short inside and smoke or burn in the column, and a rollover valve mounting plate sealed poorly to the plastic tank can let fuel or vapor escape. Complaints total 99, on speed control, seat belts and electrical.