2000 Mercury Cougar Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 141

Starting PREPARING TO START THE VEHICLE Engine starting is controlled by the spark ignition system. This system meets all Canadian InterferenceĆ Causing Equipment standard requirements regulating the impulse electrical field strength of radio noise. When starting the engine, avoid pressing the accelerator pedal before or during starting. Only use the accelerator pedal when you have difficulty starting the engine. For more information on starting the vehicle, refer to Starting the engine in this chapter. Before starting the vehicle: 1. Make sure all vehicle occupants have buckled their safety belts. For more information on safety belts and their proper usage, refer to the Seating and safety restraints chapter. 2. Make sure the headlamps and vehicle accessories are off. 141