Buy Mercury Cougar Suspension Strut Mount Kits

Mercury Cougar ran from 1967-1997 and then again 1999-2002. The 1999-2002 Cougar is a front-wheel-drive, sport-compact model on Ford's CDW27 platform (shared DNA with Contour/Mystique/Mondeo) and uses MacPherson struts up front. That's the generation most shoppers mean when they look for a "Cougar strut mount kit." Earlier, rear-wheel-drive Cougars used different front suspension designs, so their mounts and hardware are not the same. (Wikipedia, MotorTrend)

A MacPherson strut uses the top mount as the upper steering pivot. The mount "sandwich" has metal plates with a rubber insulator between them; many front mounts also include a bearing so the strut can rotate as you turn the wheel. This design saves space and reduces noise and vibration in the cabin. (Wikipedia, kyb.com)

Typical signs of a worn strut mount / bearing on a Cougar include:
• Clunks over bumps or when turning.
• Creaking or popping from the top of the strut.
• Steering that feels sticky or doesn't return to center ("memory steer").
• Extra vibration or new tire wear patterns. (, freeasestudyguides.com)

If the mount or bearing fails, steering can bind and tires can wear faster. Replacing tired mounts restores quiet ride quality and smooth steering feel. Mounts are often replaced when the strut itself is changed because the assembly must be taken apart to access the mount. (kyb.com)

Most strut mount kits include:
• The upper mount (with rubber insulator).
• A bearing or bearing plate on front applications (for steering).
• Related hardware such as nuts or washers, depending on design. Actual contents vary by model year and axle position (front vs. rear).

For 1999-2002 Cougars, the front uses MacPherson struts (with a turning top bearing in the mount). The rear uses an independent setup; the upper mount there supports the damper but does not steer. Knowing this helps you pick the right kit for each axle. (MotorTrend)

Confirm fit by model year, engine, and-best of all-by VIN. You can decode a VIN and check recalls on the official NHTSA sites. Helpful links: the VIN Decoder and the Recall Lookup. (NHTSA, NHTSA)

Any time you service struts or top mounts, plan on a wheel alignment afterward. Proper alignment helps the Cougar steer straight and protects your tires. The AAA and Car Care Council both recommend regular alignment checks, and alignment is especially important after suspension work. (exchange.aaa.com, Be Car Care Aware)

Strut assemblies are under spring force. Use a proper spring compressor and follow the tool's instructions, or consider having a professional handle the disassembly. If you're not using a complete pre-assembled strut, this safety step is essential. (For repair procedures and torque values, use Ford's official service information.) (motorcraft-service.com)

When replacing a strut mount kit, many techs also inspect or replace dust boots/bump stops, sway bar links, and upper spring isolators. These parts can cause similar noises and are easy to service while the strut is out. The Car Care Council's maintenance guide supports regular inspections of steering and suspension items. (Be Car Care Aware)

Many professionals replace mounts (and struts) in axle pairs on higher-mileage cars to keep handling even. Collision-repair guidance from I-CAR notes that pairs are often recommended when parts are aged or when a matching part can't be confirmed. (I-CAR Tech Support)

• Support the knuckle and brake hose during removal.
• Mark camber bolts (if present) before loosening.
• Torque fasteners with the car supported as the manual specifies.
• After the road test, get an alignment. (See AAA's alignment guidance.) (exchange.aaa.com)

If you want to understand how the system works, these plain-language explainers help: MacPherson strut overview and multi-link suspension basics. For platform background, see Ford's CDW27 platform page. (Wikipedia)

• For the 1999-2002 Mercury Cougar, focus on front strut mount kits with bearings; rear mounts are different.
• Always align after strut or mount work.
• Use VIN tools and factory service info for exact fit and procedures.
• If mileage is high, consider replacing in pairs and inspecting related parts while the strut is out. (MotorTrend, exchange.aaa.com, NHTSA, motorcraft-service.com, I-CAR Tech Support)

Learn more or verify details at the Mercury Cougar model page, the CDW27 platform overview, AAA's wheel alignment guide, Car Care Council maintenance resources, NHTSA VIN Decoder, and NHTSA Recall Lookup. (Wikipedia, exchange.aaa.com, Be Car Care Aware, NHTSA, NHTSA)