The radiator fluid is low or you parked the car at am angle.
You are low on coolant.
How do i find the instructions for changing out the fan switch assembly in a 2001 Mercury Cougar?
it's not an x. it's a picture of a fan. it's for your coolant. add some.
need wiring diagram for radiator fan control
most likely they did not reconnect the fan motor connector - or it cam loose when they replaced the starter - or your fan motor or relay burned out
Is it the fan behind the radiator, or the fan that blows air into the cabin?
The power for the radiator fan comes through the fuse, the sensor, and the relay. The location of lost power could be at any of these places.
Why are you replacing the switch? If the fan works only on high speed, replace the fan resistor. There was a TSB for this.
This symbol is your coolant level is low
facing the engine, look down on your left side. there is space to turn the plug. if you have an electric fan then it's real easy to see from the top. if you have a fan and shroud then raise the car and look underneath. it's easy to see. I've got a 1994 Cougar and learning stuff all the time.
Bad cooling fan or thermal relay. Bad water pump, clogged radiator.
Means you have an issue with the engine coolant level.