1997 Mercury Cougar

Programming Guide for 1997 Mercury Cougar Keyless Entry Remote Fob

Importance: This guide allows you to program keyless entry remote fobs for your 1997 Mercury Cougar. The vehicle uses a two-pin programming connector located in the left rear quarter panel. Follow each step carefully to enter programming mode and register your remotes properly.

Programming Instructions:

  • Step 1: Ensure the vehicle is in park with the engine off and all doors closed.
  • Step 2: Sit inside the vehicle and insert the key into the ignition.
  • Step 3: Turn the ignition switch to the RUN or ACC position, but do not start the engine.
  • Step 4: Locate the programming connector in the left rear quarter panel area. This is typically accessed through the trunk or rear interior panel. The connector should not be plugged into anything and will contain two terminals. Warning: If the connector is already connected to something, you have located the wrong one—do not unplug anything.
  • Step 5: Using a jumper wire or paperclip, briefly connect the two terminals inside the connector for about 1–2 seconds.
  • Step 6: The door locks will automatically lock and then unlock to indicate that the vehicle is now in programming mode. If no response is observed, wait 30 seconds and try again from Step 3.
  • Step 7: Within 20 seconds, press any button on the first remote fob. The door locks should cycle again to confirm the remote has been successfully programmed.
  • Step 8: If programming a second remote, press any button on the second remote within 20 seconds of programming the first. The locks will again cycle to confirm that the second remote has been accepted.
  • Step 9: Repeat Step 8 for up to four total remotes, pressing a button on each within 20 seconds of the previous one.
  • Step 10: Once all remotes have been programmed, turn the ignition to OFF.
  • Step 11: The door locks will cycle once more to signal that the vehicle has exited programming mode.
  • Step 12: Test all remotes outside the vehicle to confirm that each one properly locks and unlocks the doors.