Trouble code P1235 means: Fuel Pump Control out Of Range (Fuel Pump Driver Module/VLCM)
The 1996 Mercury Sable the OBD 2 connector is under drivers dash next to kick panel
Not sure how old this question is but yes, they are OBD 2 complaint.
plug a obd 2 code reader into your car and activate it.
The 2000 Mercury Cougar OBD 2 port is under driver side dash next to kick panel
The 1999 Mercury Cougar OBD 2 port is under driver side dash left of steering column
The 1999 Mercury Mystique OBD 2 port is under driver side dash next to hood release
The 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis OBD 2 port is on under driver side dash next to center console
The 2000 Mercury Cougar OBD 2 port is under driver side dash next to kick panel
The 2000 Mercury Cougar OBD 2 port is under driver side dash next to kick panel
That should be OBD 2
1993 is OBD I and the connector is in the engine compartment above the transmission on the driver's side. I suggest using a code reader rather than trying to short wires.
The OBD-2 code reader plug on a 1997 Mercury Cougar is typically located underneath the dashboard on the driver's side. It is usually positioned near the steering column for easy access. You may need to remove a cover or panel to reveal the diagnostic port. It is a standardized 16-pin connector that allows the code reader to communicate with the vehicle's onboard computer system.