2000 Mercury Cougar Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 155

Driving Manual transaxle (if equipped) Vehicles equipped with a manual transaxle have a starter interlock that prevents cranking the engine unless the clutch pedal is fully depressed. Using the clutch When starting a vehicle with a manual transaxle: 1. Hold down the brake pedal. 2. Depress the clutch pedal. 3. Put the gearshift lever in neutral. 4. Start the vehicle. 5. Put the gearshift in 1 (First) or R (Reverse). 6. Release the clutch slowly while pressing gradually down on the accelerator pedal. Do not drive with your foot resting on the clutch pedal. Do not use the clutch to hold your vehicle at a standstill while waiting on a hill. These actions may reduce the clutch life. 155