1999 Mercury Cougar Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 133

Driving The brakeĆshift interlock feature is designed to further enhance the safety of vehicle occupants when the vehicle is placed into gear. To preserve the benefits of this feature, have any repairs completed promptly. The consoleĆmounted gearshift will lock when you turn the key to the lock position. When the gearshift is in any position except P (Park), the ignition key cannot be turned to lock or removed from the steering column. To remove the key, the gearshift lever must be in P (Park). Once the gearshift is secure in the desired position, release the brake pedal and use the accelerator as necessary. Driving Hold the brake pedal down while you move the gearshift lever from P (Park) to another position. If you do not hold the brake pedal down, your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone. P = Park ...R = Reverse ...N = Neutral ...D = Drive: Gear 1 to 4 with overdrive Gear 1 to 3 with overdrive cancelled ...2 = Gear 2 ...1 = Gear 1 ... P (Park) Always come to a complete stop before shifting into or out of P (Park). Make sure the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park). This locks the transaxle and prevents the front wheels from rotating. 133