Mercury 1996 Cougar Owner's Manual page 228

Working with the engine on:
1. Set the parking brake fully and make sure
that the gearshift is securely latched in
P (Park).
2. Block the wheels. This will prevent your
vehicle from moving unexpectedly.
Do not start your engine with the air
cleaner removed and do not remove it
while the engine is running.
Opening the Hood
1. Inside the vehicle, pull the hood release
located under the lower left corner of the
instrument panel.
2. Go around to the front of the vehicle, and
release the auxiliary catch that is located
under the front edge of the hood at the
center of the vehicle.
The auxiliary catch under the front edge of the hood
3. Lift the hood until the counterbalanced
hinges hold it open.
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