2002 Mercury Cougar Owner's Manual - Page 145

Roadside Emergencies 4. Insert the tapered end of the jack handle beneath the hub cover (if equipped) and push in. Twist off to remove the cover. Loosen each wheel lug nut one-half turn counterclockwise but do not remove them until the wheel is raised off the ground. 5. Place the jack under vehicle in location indicated by arrows (closest to the tire requiring changing), then jack up the vehicle until the tire is clear of the ground. 6. Remove the lug nuts with the lug wrench. 7. Replace the flat tire with the spare tire, making sure the valve stem is facing outward. Reinstall the lug nuts until the wheel is snug against the hub. Do not fully tighten the lug nuts until the wheel has been lowered. 8. Lower the wheel by turning the jack handle counterclockwise. 9. Remove the jack and fully tighten the lug nuts in the order shown. 10. Put flat tire, jack and lug wrench away. Make sure the jack is fastened so it does not rattle when you drive. Unblock the wheels. JUMP STARTING YOUR VEHICLE The gases around the battery can explode if exposed to flames, sparks, or lit cigarettes. An explosion could result in injury or vehicle damage. Batteries contain sulfuric acid which can burn skin, eyes and clothing, if contacted. Do not attempt to push-start your vehicle. Automatic transmissions do not have push-start capability; also, the catalytic converter may become damaged. 145