If it runs for a little while then dies it could be your alternator.. If it ticks or just does nothing its either your battery or starter.
1988 cougar will not crank over
safety starting switch
The cable/linkage between the shift lever and transmission is likely broken or disconnected
how do you remove the headliner from a 1999 mercury cougar
check the cables
relay R1 is for the fuel pump on a 1999 Mercury Cougar
probably the fuel pump?
can anyone tell me where to find the OBD2 plug in on a 1999 cougar?
Yes , the 1999 Mercury Cougar is FRONT wheel drive
It's a bit buried. Note that the 1999 Mercury Cougar has no user-servicable barts.
How low is your gas tank ?
No.