How to Unlock the Steering Column in a Mercury Cougar

Mercury Cougars come equipped with an anti-theft device in the steering column that locks the steering wheel, preventing anyone from turning the wheels should they steal the Cougar. As Murphy's Law would have it, this device stumps more Cougar owners than thieves, even though it's been standard equipment since the mid-1970s. However, take heart from the fact that with a small amount of upper body strength and know-how, you can unlock the steering column in your Mercury Cougar in a matter of seconds.

Things You'll Need

• Ignition key

Instructions

1. Sit in the Cougar's driver's seat. Insert the ignition key into the ignition tumbler.

2. Grab the steering wheel near the top with your left hand while keeping your right hand on the ignition key.

3. Pull the steering wheel to the left while turning the ignition key. If the column doesn't unlock, push the wheel to the right while turning the ignition key. You may need to repeat this step more than once to unlock the column.

References

• "Ford Thunderbird and Mercury Cougar 1975 to 1982: Haynes Manual"; Ken Freund; 1988
• "Ford Thunderbird and Mercury Cougar 1983 to 1988: Haynes Manual"; Ken Freund; 1988
• "Ford Thunderbird and Mercury Cougar 1989 thru 1997: Haynes Manual"; Ken Freund; 1997